A peripheral strategy positions active uses such as courts, outdoor gyms, and vending zones along the edges, creating a protective buffer. This allows the centre to function as a flexible green heart that can host cultural events, leisure, and everyday gatherings. Inclusive loop pathways connect these elements, while native planting, bioswales, and dune stabilisation ensure ecological resilience.
The framework supports livelihoods through organised markets and plazas, while embedding stewardship through joint governance by the University of Madras, Chennai Corporation, and community groups. More than a park, the proposal demonstrates how public realm-focused design can regenerate Chennai’s coastline with equity, resilience, and civic identity.
A coastal commons for Chennai
Category
Public Realm
Scope
Spatial Strategies, Urban Framework, Concept Masterplan & Illustrations
Location
Chennai, India
Size
394,882 Sqft.
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Conceived in a 72-hour design hackathon, the project transforms a neglected coastal ground into a civic commons where sports, ecology, and community come together.
The Palavakkam Beach Ground, situated along Chennai’s East Coast Road, has long been underutilized despite its coastal setting and cultural significance. Lacking lighting, sanitation, safe pedestrian routes, and organised public amenities, the site is fragmented shaped mostly by informal vending and unstructured activity.
Developed in a 72-hour design hackathon, our proposal titled Palavakkam Pulse & Peace Park reimagines the site as a shared coastal commons where movement, culture, ecology, and everyday life converge. Guided by six principles of inclusivity, health, stewardship, connectivity, resilience, and safety, the master plan is structured around four pillars: sports, restoration, community, and ecology.