In Lucknow, a city renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, the historic Newal Kishore Press has been thoughtfully transformed into Le Press Galleria—an inspiring exemplar of sustainable urban development. This ambitious adaptive reuse project preserves the rich historical narrative of the site while significantly minimizing environmental impact through detailed, eco-conscious planning and responsible construction practices.
Le Press Galleria meticulously redeveloped the entire 110,000 sqft of site with historical structures which were built in 1858, creatively and carefully repurposing all 30,000 sqft of existing built-up spaces. This conscientious approach avoided demolition processes that would have otherwise consumed approximately 5 million MJ of energy. Additionally, if the new construction for an equivalent area for a new mall would have been built over the current construction footprint (50,000 sqft) then another 7.5 million MJ of energy would have been consumed, equating to roughly 1,500 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Architect Gaurav Vatsa emphasizes, “The most sustainable building is the one already built. Our intentional design fosters a biophilic environment where history, culture, and commerce harmoniously coexist, showcasing genuine sustainability and carbon positivity.”
The Role of Pre-Energy Modelling in Master Planning
Pre-energy modelling is a critical tool in sustainable urban planning and architectural design, enabling architects and planners to make informed decisions that optimize energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental impact. At Le Press Galleria, pre-engineering simulations played a pivotal role in shaping the master plan by addressing key factors such as building orientation, shading strategies, and microclimate enhancements.
Optimal Building Orientation
Architects utilized pre-engineering models to analyse solar exposure throughout the year. This allowed them to strategically add shading devices or opening in order to:
- Minimize excessive solar heat gain in summer while maximizing passive heating in winter.
- Enhance natural daylighting to reduce artificial lighting needs, improving both energy efficiency and occupant well-being.
- Optimize wind flow for natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
Shading and Passive Cooling Strategies
Using simulations helped architects identify high-exposure zones and develop shading strategies, which included:
- Passive cooling elements such as deep overhangs, trellises, and perforated facades to reduce indoor temperatures.
- Green roofs and vertical gardens that provide insulation and absorb heat, mitigating the urban heat island effect.
- Courtyards and shaded plazas that foster air circulation while creating comfortable outdoor spaces.
- Dynamic facades and responsive shading systems that adjust based on real-time climate data to enhance energy efficiency.
Energy Demand Forecasting
By integrating energy simulation tools early in the design process, the project team could forecast energy demand patterns and make proactive decisions, including:
- Selecting high-performance building materials that improve thermal insulation and reduce heat transfer.
- Designing low-energy HVAC systems that work in tandem with passive strategies.
- Daylighting, heat purge systems, natural ventilation strategies.
- Assessing future climate adaptability, ensuring that the structures remain efficient as environmental conditions evolve.
Preservation and Microclimate Enhancement
Pre-energy modeling also played a vital role in integrating heritage preservation with modern sustainability principles by:
- Retrofitting existing structures with energy-efficient upgrades, such as shading elements, insulation on roof, high SRI paint of roofs and walls.
- Retaining historical courtyards and traditional ventilation techniques to enhance natural cooling.
- Integrating rainwater harvesting by creating recharge wells, adding bio-septic tanks and recycling grey water for irrigation systems to support a sustainable water cycle and reduce urban runoff.
- Employing permeable surfaces and landscaped buffers to maintain humidity levels and prevent excessive heat buildup.
Passive Systems as the Foundation for Sustainable Architecture
While redesigning Le Press Galleria, thanks to pre-energy modelling, all passive design elements were duly considered, making it a green, energy-saving building throughout its lifecycle. The Behling Diagram, depicted below, illustrates the evolution of architectural approaches from past to future. Traditional architecture prioritized architectural form and passive systems, while contemporary buildings often depend on active climate control systems that increase energy consumption.
Le Press Galleria reverses this trend by reinstating passive design principles, reducing energy demands, and ensuring a sustainable, low-carbon footprint.
The Role of Biophilia in Sustainability
Biophilic design plays a transformative role in fostering environmental sustainability by enhancing microclimate regulation, energy efficiency, and thermal comfort. At Le Press Galleria, the strategic integration of nature-based solutions—such as landscaped courtyards, shaded pedestrian pathways, and passive ventilation strategies—creates a self-regulating thermal environment, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
Microclimate Regulation Through Biophilic Design
Scientific studies affirm that urban greenery and architectural form significantly influence localized temperature patterns. Empirical on-site measurements at Le Press Galleria reveal that indoor temperatures remain consistently 5°C lower than the surrounding urban heat island due to the following integrated mechanisms:
- Extensive Green Cover and Tree Canopy:
A dense network of trees and green spaces reduces heat absorption, enhances shading, and lowers the overall thermal footprint of the development. Scientific research demonstrates that urban tree canopies can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20°C, leading to an overall ambient temperature drop of 2-5°C. - Courtyards as Thermal Regulators:
The presence of multiple courtyards with dense tree cover induces convective air movement. During the day, the hot air rises, creating a low-pressure zone, while cooler, denser air settles down, facilitating passive cooling. This dynamic contributes to a stack effect, ensuring continuous ventilation and maintaining thermal equilibrium. - Transpiration and Evaporative Cooling:
Vegetation contributes to latent heat exchange by releasing moisture into the air through transpiration. Studies indicate that this process alone can lower ambient temperatures by up to 5°C, making it a highly effective climate-adaptive strategy. - In addition there are evaporative coolers and waterbodies is courtyards further cooling the surroundings.
- Shaded Walkways and Trellises:
Pergolas and green trellises minimize solar radiation exposure, preventing the heat buildup characteristic of hard urban surfaces. This intervention reduces localized heat gain and enhances pedestrian thermal comfort. - Passive Cooling and Thermal Stratification:
The high ceilings (20–22 feet) in multiple areas leverage thermal stratification, wherein warm air naturally rises towards the ceiling, allowing cooler air to remain at occupant level. The hot air is purged through strategically placed roof openings, while cool air is drawn from the surrounding courtyards, ensuring continuous cross-ventilation. - Traditional Thermal Insulation Techniques:
Thick masonry walls constructed using vernacular insulation techniques—such as lime plaster, rammed earth, and terracotta tiles—exhibit high thermal mass, delaying heat penetration and stabilizing internal temperatures. - High-Albedo and Reflective Surfaces:
The deployment of high-albedo coatings and reflective materials prevents excessive heat absorption, reducing roof surface temperatures by up to 30°C, thereby mitigating the urban heat island effect.
Advancing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Beyond climate adaptation, biophilic design significantly curtails energy demand for cooling. Computational simulations reveal that the integration of vegetation and passive cooling mechanisms can reduce energy consumption for air conditioning by up to 30-40%, aligning with net-zero energy building targets.
Towards a Resilient and Regenerative Built Environment
By fostering a symbiotic relationship between nature and architecture, Le Press Galleria exemplifies a low-carbon, high-resilience development model. The biophilic interventions not only enhance human comfort and well-being but also position the project as a benchmark for climate-responsive urban design. This holistic approach underscores the potential of nature-based solutions to drive long-term ecological and economic sustainability, making Microclimatic Zone 5
Innovation and Excellence in Sustainability
Le Press Galleria exemplifies innovation in sustainability through:
- Adaptive Reuse of a Historic Site: Avoiding new construction and reducing embodied carbon footprint.
- Integration of Passive Cooling Strategies: Trellises, shaded courtyards, and reflective surfaces to reduce cooling loads.
- Biophilic Urban Spaces: Over 100 mature trees and 60,000 sqft of open green space for climate conditioning.
Digitization for Sustainability
Le Press Galleria has installed smart WiFi-enabled IoT-based energy meters which provide real time energy consumption. Study of this data can help in smart load balancing and further optimize energy consumption. Key digitization strategies and their sustainability benefits include:
- Real-time energy monitoring, optimizing consumption across different zones. This system is already installed at Le press Galleria.
- Automated micro irrigation, The treated waste water shall be reused by an automated an efficient irrigation system which shall get inputs from weather station and plant and solenoid vales signalling soil moisture.
- Intelligent climate control, Retail partners have installed intelligent convertible HVAC systems dynamically adjusting cooling systems based on occupancy and external weather conditions. Also Le Press encourages the partners to set indoor air temperature at 24 degrees plus minus 1 degree optimizing the energy consumption.
- Enhanced air quality monitoring, ensuring a healthier indoor environment. IAQ sensors shall be installed in all courtyard and closed spaces. All retail partners are encouraged to installed IAQs to show the IAQs in there premises so that timely filters can be changed and healthy air can be maintained.
- On roof Solar power plant with smart inverter integration. This shall be installed in phase 2 soon to cater to exterior lighting loads.
Innovation and Excellence in Sustainability
Le Press Galleria exemplifies innovation in sustainability through:
1. Water Conservation & Management
- 50% reduction in water consumption compared to conventional malls.
- 22 million liters of rainwater harvested annually, surpassing the total annual water demand (9.13–13.51 million liters).
- 75% of wastewater recycled for reuse in landscaping and sanitation.
- Smart irrigation systems optimize water use for green spaces.
- Water-efficient fixtures and dishwashing systems implemented in restaurants.
Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy
- Achieved 100 W/sqft energy intensity, reducing consumption by 30-40%.
- Passive cooling strategies such as shaded plazas, high ceilings, and green roofs reduce HVAC reliance.
- Building orientation & sciography(shadow) studies optimized shading and natural ventilation.
- Rooftop solar panels planned to meet 30% of energy needs.
- IoT-based energy meters for real-time consumption monitoring and optimization.
Waste Reduction & Circular Economy
- Waste oil from restaurants collected and disposed responsively.
- Food waste is composted or donated, minimizing landfill impact.
- Strict waste segregation policies ensure high recycling rates.
- Zero-plastic policy for all retail and restaurant partners.
- By recycling existing buildings, 90% of construction waste was not generated. The balance 10% was recycled within the site itself leading it to be a zero waste generating project.
Sustainable Architecture & Adaptive Reuse
- 30,000 sqft of built-up heritage structures preserved, saving 5 million MJ of energy required for Demolition of these structures.
- 7.5 million MJ of energy was required for reconstruction of a 50000 sqft new mall to replace the demolished structures, which was avoided.
- Traditional courtyards and thick masonry walls enhance natural cooling.
- Permeable paving and urban greenery reduce the urban heat island effect.
- Microclimate regulation with tree canopies, water bodies, and wet soil lowers ambient temperatures by 5°C.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
- 5,150 tonnes of CO₂ offset, equivalent to planting 200,000 mature trees.
- Pedestrian-friendly pathways & proximity to metro and mass transport promote green mobility.
Engineer Pragalbha Khare states, “Innovation in sustainability is about challenging conventional practices. The presence of a tangible microclimate within the premises proves that built environments can work with nature rather than against it.”
Sustainability Policy for Retail Partners
Le Press Galleria has a comprehensive sustainability policy applicable to all retail partners. This policy ensures that all businesses operating within the premises adhere to the highest environmental standards. The sustainability policy is reviewed and updated quarterly to align with evolving green building practices and environmental regulations. Key aspects of the policy include:
- Energy Efficiency Measures: Retailers must integrate energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and automated power management solutions to reduce energy consumption.
- Waste Reduction & Recycling: Strict compliance with the mall’s zero-waste initiative, ensuring proper waste segregation, composting, and recycling.
- Water Conservation Standards: Implementation of water-saving fixtures, responsible water management, and participation in the mall’s rainwater harvesting initiatives.
- Sustainable Procurement: Retailers are encouraged to use biodegradable packaging, locally sourced sustainable materials, and environmentally friendly interior finishes.
- Indoor Air Quality Compliance: No use of high-VOC materials, adherence to ventilation standards, and maintenance of healthy indoor air quality. Installation of IAQs and regular changing of air filters.
- Baseline Energy Consumption for Conventional Malls: 120-150 W/sqm
- Achieved Energy Intensity: 90-100 W/sqm
- Energy Savings Calculation: Reduction of 45-55 W/sqm across 30,000 sqft
- Operational Energy Reduction: Estimated 40% decrease in grid energy demand
- Low VOC Materials Usage: 100% compliance across all interiors
- Natural Ventilation Optimization: 60% of regularly occupied spaces meet passive ventilation requirements
- Daylighting Utilization: 90% internal spaces use natural light for most operational hours
Sustainability Measures for Restaurants
- Food Waste Management: Restaurants follow a structured food waste segregation policy, ensuring that kitchen leftovers are composted or donated to minimize landfill waste.
- Waste Oil Recycling: Used cooking oil is collected and sent for biofuel production, reducing hazardous waste and promoting circular economy practices.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Restaurant tenants are encouraged to source ingredients locally, reducing transportation emissions and supporting regional farmers.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: All kitchens are equipped with energy-efficient stoves, refrigerators, and ventilation systems to lower operational energy consumption.
- Water Conservation in Kitchens: Low-flow faucets and water-efficient dishwashing systems are mandatory, significantly reducing overall water consumption.
- Zero Plastic Policy: Restaurants use biodegradable or reusable cutlery and packaging, reducing single-use plastic waste across the facility.
Sustainable Landscaping and Biodiversity Conservation
A key component of the project’s sustainability was the thoughtful landscaping led by Aprajita Dube, the landscape designer. Her vision was to create an urban oasis that not only complemented the architectural design but also preserved and enhanced the local ecosystem.
Preservation of Existing Trees and Topsoil
- Not a single tree was felled during the reconstruction. Instead, existing trees were carefully preserved, and designs were adapted to integrate them within courtyards, pathways, and green spaces.
- Topsoil preservation was prioritized, with fertile layers carefully removed, stored, and later reintegrated into the landscape to maintain soil health and biodiversity.
- The use of permeable paving and segregated stormwater drainage was designed with a focus on prevent soil erosion. Trapping moisture in soil and composting has resulted in colonies of earthworms nourishing the soil given a great boost to the lust landscape. The galleria has policy of no chemical insecticide or fertilizers.
Use of Local and Resilient Plants
- The landscape design prioritized native and also localized species which would naturally thrive in this environment. Fast growing green covers like bamboo and bougainvillea were used and they are drought-resistant plant species as well reducing the need for extensive irrigation while supporting local pollinators.
- Seasonal and perennial plant varieties were chosen to ensure year-round greenery and colourful flowers to provide food sources for birds and insects.
- Medicinal and aromatic plants are being included to enhance biodiversity and promote wellness within the urban environment.
Creating a Thriving Habitat for Flora and Fauna
- The green spaces were designed to serve as micro-habitats for local wildlife, fostering ecological balance.
- A diverse selection of flowering plants attracted hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, transforming the central business district (CBD) into a rare urban garden where one can experience nature up close.
- Small water bodies and bird-friendly features were incorporated to support avian populations, making the space a serene and biodiverse refuge in the city.
The Need for Sustainable Design Approaches
Climate change, urbanization, and energy crises have reinforced the urgent need for sustainable design in contemporary architecture. Developments like Le Press Galleria serve as catalysts for change, demonstrating how adaptive reuse and passive design strategies can create low-carbon, energy-efficient, and climate-resilient buildings.
Key advantages of this approach include:
- Reduction of Embodied Carbon: Adaptive reuse eliminates the need for new materials, preventing carbon-intensive production processes.
- Lower Operational Energy Demand: Passive cooling, natural ventilation, and solar shading significantly cut HVAC loads.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Green spaces and sustainable landscaping create a self-balancing ecosystem, improving air quality and urban microclimates.
Cultural revival through Sustainability, a Le Press Galleria’s sustainable vision, is also extended to the Press Museum, sustainably designed with daylighting and taking advantage of thick walls, trees and reduced heat load, the air-conditioning is kept to minimal level. The use of environmentally sustainable materials for interiors is a good choice for safeguarding Lucknow’s cherished literary heritage.
An open-air amphitheatre, powered by renewable energy, enriches cultural engagement without ecological compromise. Encouraging environmentally responsible transportation, Le Press Galleria actively promotes pedestrian access, public transport, and shared mobility. A planned e-rickshaw shuttle service shall conveniently connect visitors to the Hazratganj Metro Station, less than one kilometer away, further emphasizing sustainable mobility practices.
Gaurav Vatsa, Head of Design @ Noida International Airport | M.Arch
