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SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE
ARULMIGU MEENAKSHI AMMAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING,Vadamavandal, Near kanchipuram, Thiruvanamalai (District) 604410
The SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, AMACE offers a full time Bachelor Degree in Architecture (B.Arch) which is a five year course. Throughout the course the students work on design projects starting from Residence to Urban Design. Student’s progress is monitored through a combination of continuous assessment in design studio, written examination and juries for each project. The college of education in the School of Architecture, AMACE is governed in an impact and interactive instruction provided by dedicated, highly qualified and experienced faculty members and guest lecturers from practicing architects and various consultants in the allied field whose educational backgrounds, practical experience and diverse scholarly by interests in various subjects ensure comprehensive preparation for practicing ‘Real life’ architecture. Most of the Faculties are Post graduate Degree holders who are specialized in various fields of Architecture.
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VISION
OUR SCHOOL VISION & MISSION To motivate the students to respond to the social concerns with commitment and vision, not only with respect to quality Architectural standards in built up spaces and created ambience, but also to the natural environment and its sustainable ethos. The vision of the school is also to increase quality Architectural man power.
MISSION
To see and to achieve heights in Architectural education and not to compromise on quality education. To develop excellence through symbolic efforts, innovative practices of management and diverse community of teachers, students and practicing architects to provide ambient academic environment for benefit of the students and the community at large.
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1. Excellence in teaching and delivery of instruction with state-of-the-art teaching aids, 2. Exploration and dissemination of Knowledge through scholarly research and exemplary artistic production and 3. The advancement and application of professional knowledge and expertise through service to the industry, the local community and society at large.
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MANAGING TRUSTEE M eena kashi A mma l Tr ust
MESSAGE
It gives me immense pleasure to pen down a few words
as prologue to the student magazine, ARCHOPOLIS’16. Today education means much more than merely acquiring knowledge. Apart from academic activities, the co-curricular activities, sports, cultural and social-service activities, form important part of the life of students. It is acquisition of knowledge and skills, building character and improving employability of the young and creative minds, the future leaders. Such occasions play an important role in building up the students socially, alongside their academics.
My very best wishes and regards goes to the SOA family
of Arulmigu Meenakshi Amman College of Engineering, for conducting PROCESS 2k16.
Thiru. A. N. RADHAKRISHNAN, M.A., D. Com., 09
PRINCIPAL Warm and Happy greeting to all. I am immensely happy to say that School of Architecture, AMACE is organizing a two days National Conference Process 2k16, “Impact & Influence of special / additional services in Architectural design” on 16th Sep 2016 & 17th Sep 2016 and it has various technical papers presentation, product design, poster design, photographic context and design competition etc., Under the able guidance of our Management AMACE continues to march on the way of success with confidence. I hope that this conference would certainly induce innovative ideas among the participants paving way for new inventions and new technologies in Architecture. The conference is a meeting and information exchange between the end user, the development and the research communities. The purpose of this conference is to bring together, researchers, experts from industry, academics and other interested organizations to meet, exchange information and ideas in developments in the field of Architecture. I also congratulate the Director, HOD, faculty members, students of School of Architecture participants from our college and from various colleges for their efforts in organizing and participating in this conference and I wish the conference all the success. “Success will never lower its standards to accommodate someone. One has to raise one’s standard to achieve it”
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DR. P. PALANISAMY
Principal, AMACE
THE DIRECTOR
It’s been a year since PROCESS 2k15! And I take great pride in knowing
that our SOA, AMACE is continuing the celebration, PROCESS 2k16.
It is overwhelming to see the willing contributions of the whole school
and the enthusiastic participation of my dear students in the making of this PROCESS 2k16. It’s true, “When all the constituents come together and work in unison, the expected results are bound to flow.”.
I am proud of being the Director of such a wonderful school. Also, I
congratulate the editorial board and all the contributors for successfully bringing out ARCHOPOLIS’16, a student magazine.
S.RAJAPPA, B.ARCH., M.E., F.I.I.A., F.I.V., Director, SOA AMACE
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DEAN It’s my immense pleasure to be part of PROCESS 2K16, National Conference organized by our SOA, Arulmigu Meenakshi Amman College of Engineering, Vadamavandal during 16th -17th Sept 2016. In this era of iPhone technologies, the architects must equip themselves to communicate multiple drawings, images, graphics all in most productive method, effective methodology for clear and concise communication between the designer and observer, usage of software tools etc., I am sure, that the Budding Architects need to participate in many such conferences to learn knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic and changing world. I commend all the participants for their interest shown to acquire more ideas and innovations, apart from their regular classroom study. I also appreciate all the organizers for investing their time, energy, resources for this conference enabling the participants to update the developments, increase their potential and to meet exciting challenges ahead in the field of architecture and others. I congratulate one and all for the success of this PROCESS 2K16 and wish them success in all their endeavors.
DR.R.HARIPRAKASH, M.E, Ph.D, MBA.
(Formerly Asst.Director, AICTE, NewDelhi) 12
Artist M. Deivasigamani Assistant. Prof.
Assistant Prof. Artist.M.Deivasigamani.
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PROCESS
2K16
AB OU T
And the director of our institution called up the symposium coordinator onto the stage for the felicitation. The restless crowd swayed and danced from the tiredness, celebrating the day as the starry skies darkened the environment. ‘Thank you everyone, for making this event a monumental success’ exclaimed the coordinator as the director hugged one of his best students and the sea went chaotic with screams and shouts of the students tearing up the skies, leaving everyone thunderstruck at the decrescendo of the day.
‘As that evening faded into the dark abyss of the evening, A new year was born with new challenges and celebrations ahead of us’ Process 2016 – Influence, is set to explore the various influences that affect the architecture and its course. The intention of finding the influences and learning from it and not to arrive at a conclusion of ‘Influ-Hence’. Process 2016- The national level conference cum symposium explores the extreme levels of insanity in knowledge and celebration among the nocturnals.The amalgamation of knowledge and celebration combined to give the most innate and glorious experience ever – Now, That’s something you should know about ‘Influence 16’ 18
FROM US “ In the end, what makes a book valuable is not the paper it’s printed on, but the thousands of hours of work by dozens of people who are dedicated to creating the best possible reading experience for you.” – John Green After the long and winding road, we knew that the forthcoming challenges will never be a learning experience but the correct implementation of the learned knowledge – ‘Collective knowledge’ to be precise. The Editorial desk was led by our agile and adroit faculty alongside the alpha ‘Final years’. Time spent together irrespective of age, brainstorming ideas with laughter. Creating something from nothing is something that everyone hesitates to proceed. The Desk went on to make a bunch of white sheets into a nicely bound magazine with the relevant content. It was never an easy task but not the impossible. Also, we appreciate all the contributors and sponsors. Welcome to another edition of Archopolis 2k16!
I D E
S ’ R TO
E T NO 19
OUR FACULTY 1. First day - knows nothing about arch. Last day - wah! How thrilling it is. 2. No time to spare, no time to spend with family happy enjoyable thrilling. 3. Bark like a dog. 4. B.Sc. chem. (researcher in chemistry) 5. Spending more time with my kids + grandchildren. 6. Aravind Swamy 7. Attend all classes; follow instructions; but hard work. 8. Yes, they are. 9. “panni paaru da theriyum”.
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QUESTIONS
1. How would you recall your first day and last day of college? 2. Describe your work life and college life. 3. What was your first ragging experience? 4. If you weren’t an Architect, what else would you have been? 5. What is happiness to you? 6. If you were the director of a movie, which actor would you choose to play the role of an Architect? 7. How can I get an S in your class? 8. Would you encourage your child to study Architecture? 9. Process: Dubsmash.
.S.RAJAPPA
Ar.Prof
DIRECTOR
1. Things end; but memories last forever. 2. Deadlines were the deadlines in both. 3. Nothing interesting. 4. Only Architect. 5. Doing what I am passionate of and love what I am doing. 6. Rajinikanth. 7. Work hard. Be humble. Love what you do. 8. Yeah. I will encourage for sure. 9. It’s just a beginning...
Ar.Prof. R.VINOD
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E.L.HARISH
Asstistant. Prof., H.O.D
1. A bit nervous. Came out fully confident that I can survive in society. 2. I never felt anything while executing on site with whatever I’ve studied 3. Just interaction 4. I exist by chance 5. Accepting recognition by karma 6. Kamal Hassan 7. Criteria - Realize their responsibility, Discipline themselves, Scheduling and working accordingly, Work smartness, Content of the work. 8. No 9. Mathavangala patti enaku theriyadhunga namuku epovumae nama symposium nalla pani than pazhakam.
1. Entering a new world! Missed my classmates at the same time. 2. Both mismatched. 3. No ragging, was asked to sing “Jana gana…”. 4. Scientist (Chem) 5. Spending time with family & profession. 6. Sivakarthikeyan / Samantha 7. Follow faculty’s instructions. 8. 100% 9. Ennama ipdi panrigalae ma! Ar. N. Jayaraman Professor
Ar.R. Raghavendran
Ar.T. Priya Prakash Associate.Prof. 1. How exciting was the first day, same was the last day. 2. Job life was more progressive than college life. 3. I was avoiding seniors to escape from ragging. I was caught, they made me cry. Believe me. 4. I would have been a “DOCTOR” as my family’s wish. 5. Get in touch with my old friends. 6. Arya 7. By hard work and self-interest. 8. It depends on his interest 9. i am very happy.
Associate.Prof.
Ar.C. Nandalal Viswanath, Asstistant. Prof.
Ar. S. Aravind Associate.Prof.
1. Nervous & Sad 2. College life- wandering Work life- No choice 3. Physical assault, ended up with a scrumptious meal 4. Farmer with 50 buffaloes 5. Seeing people around me happy 6. Prasanna (Sneha’s husband) 7. By not getting an A grade 8. No, wouldn’t encourage. 9. Senjiduvan da! Ar.S. Hariharan Asstistant. Prof.
1. First day - fear, tense and a little happy moments Last day - had so many emotions for an ending and a beginning 2. College life - free bird Work life - answerable to others 3. Seniors asked me to write A - Z in Tamil on the black board in 2 minutes... 4. May be a Vet, since my father is a Veterinarian. 5. Of course, my family, more particularly kids 6. Arya / Prithviraj and Nayanthara / Sai pallavi 7. Be sincere in your studies 8. No, I will leave this to my sons choice 9. I’m waiting... 1. strange experience & last day I realized that these moments will never come back. 2. College life was liberal and work life was very routine. 3. They asked me to swim without water which is still funny. 4. Might be an “Engineer”. 5. Plan a vacation to rejuvenate myself. 6. Naveen Chandra. 7. Having good friends circle, will motivate us. 8. Yes. It would be helpful for me. 9.“ magilchi ”
1. 1st day without knowing about architecture and last day missing my close friends. 2. Work life inside the well and college life measuring the depth of the well. 3. Nothing interesting. 4. IT Person. 5. Spending time and upgrading mobiles. 6. Actor Jiiva. 7. If u r sincere. 8. S I will encourage my child to do architecture. 9. Ada MLA va lae mudiyalaiyam pa enna panna sol21 dranga.
Ar.S. Tamilarasan Asstistant. Prof.
Artist. M. Deivasigamani Asstistant. Prof.
Ar. K. Vinodhini
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1. Surprising! With a little bit of fear factor. Also, something was missing. 2. College: No responsibility. Enjoying with father’s money. Work: More responsibility for the future. 3. Propose a Chem. Department. girl. 4. Marine Engineering. 5. Making others happy. 6. Hrithik Roshan or Priyanka Chopra 7. (for Design) Good communication & hard work 8. No. 9. Petro max light yae thaan venuma. 1. First time in Chennai- Fear Happy! Finished successfully. No fear. 2. Had friends & fun. Now commitments. 3. I had to go to a senior and pick up a fight or flirt with senior girls. 4. Cinematography or catering 5. My own space for work- sitting there with my son and painting. 6. Madhavan, Aamir Khan, Tom Hanks, Salma Hayek 7. Neatness and presentation- Respect for sheet 8. Won’t force 9. Kalla kanda naye kanum naye kanda kalla kanum. 1. First day with lots of smile and last the day with drops of tears. 2. College life went on a glimpse, rather work life was on slow motion. 3. Bull dance. 4. Actress 5. Finding something you love and finding people 6. Vijay 7. Being an attentive student in the class. 8. No, because I am on the same line. 9. “athukum mela”.
Ar. R.Suresh Asstistant. Prof.
Ar.I. Ramya Asstistant. Prof.
Ar.K. Prithviraj Asstistant. Prof.
1. Fear and very much afraid & Enjoyed my college. 2. Work Life : Full of Tension. College Life : Enjoyed a lot in both academic and other works. 3. I was asked to count alphabets in reverse order. 4. Engineer. 5. Happiness is considered as being happy what whatever i have. 6. Rajinikanth. 7. Regular interaction with me in studies 8. No 9. “yenna vazhaka da ithu” 1. It was a new rhythm of life which ended up with medley. 2. College life studious and work life was tedious. 3. Made me laugh, seeing the tube light which was embarrassing. 4. I would have been and “airhostress”. 5. Visualize having a good day. 6. Dulquer Salmaan. 7. Being regular at your works. 8. It is of their own interest. 9. “andha bayam irukattum”.
1. Unforgettable days. 2. Both college life and work life paved me a way to make new friends and more contacts. 3. To write bio-data 20 times. 4. I would have been a “pilot”. 5. My happiness is buying experience instead of things. 6. Sathya 7. Make use of faculties and get plenty of guidance from them. 8. I will leave them in their own way. 9. “therikka vidalaama”.
Ar.G.S. Janani Asstistant. Prof.
R. Kotteswari Librarian
1. The two most important days of my life which I can’t forget and is still emotional when I think of it. 2. I was forced to learn at college which helped me to learn on my own at work. 3. Sing a song. 4. Journalist. 5. Eat and sleep which makes me cool and calm. 6. Simbu 7. Work while you work; play while you play. This will make you to get S. 8. No. I want her to do medicine. 9. “Evvalavo pannitom.. idha panna maatoma”.
1. Fear & happiness Sad. 2. Free minded Independent. 3. No. 4. Teacher. 5. Alone. 6. Trisha. 7. I will let them do what they want. 8. Yes. 9. AMACE da symposium aruma da.
Ar.M. Hemalatha, Assitant.Prof.
S. Saravanan System Admin
1. Watching films & coming with expectations. Goanna miss a lot, PG in SAP. 2. Having been a student and now working as a professor, can understand both sides better. 3. My friend and me had the same name “Hema”. Once while at the library, a senior asked our names and on replying the same name, he thought we were making fun of him. 4. Musician / Guitarist 5.Responsibility fulfilled after entering the profession 6. New face, you or Jeyam Ravi 7.Behavior , listening skills 8. No. 9. Idhuku dhan ooru kula oru ala na azhaaraja iruknum indrudhu. 1. Excited! Emotional 2. College life- Youngster’s life/ fun/ playing cricket/ touring Kodaikanal, Ooty. Work life- Mission life 3. Seniors asked to dance on a Hindi song 4. Start my own business 5. Throwback to cultural during UG 6. Vikram 7. Practice many things, learn something. 8. No. 9. Vaazhu! Vaazha Vachi Vaazhu!
OUR FACULTY
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INTERVIEW WITH
Ar.PROF.A.MOHAMMED HARIS his Footprints.…
November 7, 1964 his journey in education field started. His contribution towards architectural education are immense. He has put in five decades of service in the field of architecture. His experience in the field of architecture, in profession also was growing side-by-side. He worked in Madras University later joined SAP. He was the first Dean, School of Architecture and Planning, Anna University, Guindy, Chennai. He is currently the advisor, Mohamed Sathak A.J.Academy of architecture, Chennai. He always preferred teaching + practice. One of his belief was “a teacher got to be a good architect and also a teacher”. He is known for his for his honesty and hard work. He a l w a y s encouragesstudents to be all rounder, i.e., good at all the fields. His growth was through his effort and skill. He strongly followed sustainability in all his projects. Could you tell us about your growth in architecture? What advice would you give to young designers starting out today? What changes would you like to see in the architectural education in the country? At this stage am not a growing architect. My growth started in 1964, when I completed my B.Arch. and then I got employed for a brief period before I joined teaching profession. There was a misgiving that people who cannot have good practice who can’t design properly joined teaching profession. I contest that misgiving. In fact, you should see global example are there. Global architects like F.L.Wright, le Corbusier all these people are also in teaching and they have done wonderful works, which are given respect even today. But within a very very short period I completely changed the impression that “a teacher got to be a good architect and also a teacher”. Then only he can pass on whatever he learnt into the students. This is something which is very essential. But unfortunately in today’s context in many institutions the teachers are not on the field. They are not gaining the field experience. Unless they have experience they cannot pass on the experience.
my Philosophy…
When you get a footing in the field of architectural profession you should not neglect teaching side. It can passed on to the students while interacting, or while criting. If someone asks an architect to design a building solely by himself, do you think it is possible? How do you approach your projects? The students must become a person who is knowledgeable in all the areas, not experts in all the areas. For example, myself as an architect, I’m getting a project like may be five star hotel, I alone can’t bring up any international hotel with real standards. You may boast I can do. What you can do is bring a concept, beyond that when the project gets totally executed then only it becomes a good project. For the execution of the project you need lot of other expertise in. we are also taught structural engineering but can you design a five star hotel structurally? We are not expert in that, so I must bring in experts in a project. But as an architect you can have a peripheral knowledge not the in-depth knowledge. For in-depth knowledge, you have to call an expert. 30
my Project.. my Style..
As an architect I consult all these people, and this is what I call a GROUP CULTURE. Group culture is bringing all specialists and then interacting with them to get the best results
You have definitely done many projects, quote us some projects among your favourites.
I’ve done many industrial, religious, health, educational buildings. Each building built with its discipline, has its own beauty. While comparing my own buildings, I’ll name a few KH leather exports, Arind glove factory, Mohammed Sathak college, Apollo KH hospital, Arabic university campus, mosque at Melvisharam are my favourite. Would you say your outlook on design has changed since when you started out and now? Very much, it has. The advent of computers in today’s context has changed the entire outlook of our profession. The water coloured perspective and drawings has its own beauty. Nowadays the technology has been advanced which made the works easier.
my very own Experience…
My very first project I did for Umarabad campus I designed a residential house. The main person of the Umarabad campus came in there. He was so pleased with the house. He asked me “would you be my architect?” that was the big project coming in way for the first time. The very next day he came to my house. He wanted all the drawings to be ready within 3days. In today’s context you can put all these in computers. That time me the only one, drawing board, rotring pen, no computer, these are the difficulties I’d to face that time. The whole day I was in the drawing. He comes at 4’o clock. I gave him all the drawings. This is the main difference.
What has been your professional disappointment? What have you learnt from your mistakes?
Absolutely I should say there was no disappointments, neither in the teaching nor in the profession. One disappointment when I was a student, all the new researches done abroad came here late. When we get it, by the time those people would have gone further ahead, but we were lagging behind.
Sustainability has suddenly become the flavour of the season. Most of your buildings are concerned about environmental and social sustainability. Could you tell us about it?
my Professional Ethics...
Sustainability is the good architecture. If it is not sustainable, it is not good architecture.
INTERVIEWED
BY
In my opinion, every building designed by architect should be sustainable. Even the smallest building also can be made sustainable. It helps poor people. For instance, the orientation of the building in a proper way that it does not get heated up enormously, that is sustainability. We must also concentrate on the material chosen that it saves lot of energy. There are lot of methodologies that have been brought out by research institutions. You as an architect should very cleverly take out all those things and put it in your building to make it sustainable.
S. Namrutha Batch : 2014-19
K. Neya Nivetha Batch : 2014-19 31
INTERVIEW WITH
Ar. OSCAR AND PONNI CONCESSAO How did you feel when you won the William van Allen international design competition for the university in Africa at the age of 23?
I was doing my masters at university of Oklahoma at my final year this competition and I have only 3 days as a dead line for this and I did this design day and night for almost 72 hours at a stretch and finally the design came good according to my satisfaction. The courier to be sent to New York was of A0 size and the courier company refused to take it. I was in almost in tears at that moment. Then one of my senior a Pakistani guy helped me he took me there to New York and finally heard we won the design competition. It was a great moment.
What would you like to say to the younger generations about the design field today?
Younger generation works hard, sleeplessly and get motivated. They have that drive till the very end to keep on going with determination. Architecture is fun but sometimes it’s Archi-torture! In India, they don’t teach how to survive in business after studies but in America they even tell you the pits in business aspects. They teach students how to handle business. We graduate and then we realize - Oh my god there is something called business and it’s not so easy. We both didn’t come from business background we have learnt in the US only. Keep in mind you all are competing with international architects you don’t want them to come and grab your projects, Indian building should be designed by Indian architects. If Indian architects be bold and creative, the sky is the limit. And remember we are better designers than the foreign architect what the thing is Indian students lack international exposure and I wish every school of architecture does joint venture with foreign schools so that at the student’s level the students will learn and feel western architecture.
Both of you have studied your bachelor degree at NIT Tiruchirappalli say a line about your life at that time?
I was the first women graduate in NIT, Trichy at that time nobody was willing to encourage women students. Women were supposed to only married of, but I don’t want to be that way, I was the only girl among 3000 men and it was not so easy I have struggled a lot as a women at that point and it was a great challenge. Undergraduate life in India is very different than from the US, in the US it’s very free atmosphere and you can be any way you want and express your thoughts very freely. There is no boundaries for women but NIT Trichy in spite of little restriction I received a lot of encouragement from the professors in NIT especially Mr. Ramanan a very famous mountaineer today, they encouraged me a lot and removed the fear from my mind that in spite of being a women you can get yourself a degree and you can go around the world.
Ma’am, you topped the thesis research on human ecology, some words on that?
It was a tough thesis proposal in America and we had to present them a million times to clear it to the committee. This was a different type of proposal, on historic preservation or conservation in India and I was very successful and I answered all the question and I was also awarded. This was definitely a great moment. 32
Some words on your first project, ma’am?
The first project I worked on was for a southern investment, it’s a builder company. It is definitely the best and foremost group of builders in Chennai at that point. And I worked with Thomas Abraham he is a great guy he was willing to see all my presentations. The first project I did with all my American knowledge in an Indian situation, can’t forget it.
Your buildings were always influenced with eco-friendly materials and natural lighting, could you tell why?
It’s very important to use local materials because first you are reducing the cost, you give employment to the local levels of indigenous people and our own Indian communities actually make and executed these things. Secondly, we are all the creature of habitat, man is a product of the environment. And one major thing in green buildings is that you have to go for local materials and elements. It’s good in business ways and in creating architecture. And it also helps the local artisans’ have a livelihood, if we don’t use their skills and these materials, how is he going to survive. The next generation has a reason to go for local architecture, local style using local artisans’ for our buildings. As architects we can save the livelihood, as architects we are game designers. Working among the best in the world, that was really a great experience.
Lastly can you share your thoughts on our theme ‘Influence’?
50-50
practice we struggle equally!
INTERVIEWED
We have
BY
I’m influenced in architecture from many like F.L. Wright, organic architecture, we try to inculcate organic architecture as much as possible in our design and also fascinated about technology and I try to take inspiration from it. I try to take as much as possible from the Indian context. In a personal level I have drawn more influence from Dr. Abdul Kalam, his simplicity, his honesty! I think influence is very important in architecture in terms of understanding other’s ideas. And Zaha Hadid’s works were also greatly influential, 20 years ago because she came in with different ideas and she fought male chauvinism, even though she lived and worked in UK, most of her buildings were build outside of United Kingdom. My experience, Oscar will also agree with me that undergraduate experience in India is the best ever in the world no country can beat it. However once you get your basics, you should go and see the world. You should experience other cultures that’s when your ideas about architecture changes. That’s why it’s very important to do a degree abroad whether you do immediately after undergraduate or work for a few year and then go that’s the student’s choice but international exposure for a student is very important. If you want to beat international business people then it’s really important to see how the other side of the world operates.
G. Harish Batch : 2014-19
Jithin Batch : 2015-20 33
INTERVIEW WITH
Ar. M. MURALI MURUGAN As a student, you were selected as the best student of Architecture and awarded ‘Sesha Shankar award’ for performance in UG level. On what basis were you selected for the award?
Actually (I tell you) it’s very simple. Those days we had only 25 students in our class in Anna University. Architecture course was only in Anna University. While I was in fourth year, one day while I was washing my clothes in hostel around 2:30-3 O’ clock, a fine gentleman came looking for me. He said, “We calculated all the 4 years’ marks and your total is the highest.” He then invited me for the award function and those days’ competition spirit was not there. Today I see it among everyone. Well I love architecture so I don’t prepare anything every day is like a drill.
In 2015, ‘Excellence in Residential Architectural Design’ award was presented to you and also shortlisted in 2014 by Trends Magazine among ‘Top 20 houses in India’ for Mrs. & Mr. Shanti Priya Mohan’s project. What is it that makes your designs this unique?
See three of you are here but do you have the same taste in clothing, food or family background? No? So that’s how I go about my design. When a client comes I make sure that I know each and everything about them, likes and dislikes. Only if you know about them your ideas will open up. Interaction with the client also includes the children of the family especially. So once there was a kid who said, “Uncle I want to rock climb within the room!” Hearing this, her parents were surprised and mentioned that they were unaware of this. So we spend 25 man hours before we touch our pen. Only by meeting and talking to them over and over again can we understand them better. I had a client who came in from Dubai and wanted to meet at 5 O’ clock and this spread over three days along with their parents and children for more than 22 hours. We also have a Whatsapp group with our client over which, they can share anything they forgot, but share before we start the work. At first when you meet formally you cannot know what they actually want. It is not my architecture it is their architecture! We call it a 250-page brief which we make through these discussions and in all these every junior architect must also participate. If you look at the great architects they work 17 hours a day, we cannot change the world working 9 to 5.
As a student what do we approach our design the right way?
Students always think it’s his/her imagination. When we’re designing a hospital for example, they browse a few books or the internet and then start designing, but then I’d like to ask a question to the students. What time does a surgery happen? Or what time will the doctor be fresh to start an operation? The students would be unaware of all these things. Early morning the doctor would be fresh, fully charged to do a successful operation. Now what about the nurse? She would have to come by 4 O’ clock to get the patient ready for an operation. Behavioural study is extremely important to understand from the user’s point of view. If you think about a nursery school, the Ayamma takes care of the child. So no matter how much creativity we put into the design, we forget to put a place for them to sit near the class. 34
The design will fail if it hasn’t been designed thinking of all this. While I was working in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, for a project after we presented it to the Britishers and were asked if we spoke to the users about this and by this he meant the 4 and 5-year-old kids. So we spent the next day interacting with the children and thinking of concepts from their sketches. So in the student level we don’t go into the design properly thinking about the daily activities and appreciate students who do individual research.
“Behavioural study is extremely important to understand from the user’s point of view.” You have guided several Thesis students to being toppers. What would you advice the students to during this time?
For me any topic is fine. The mind has to work for 20 different compartments working in their mind when they come for a review. When you plan on buying a cell phone or to watch a movie, we talk to several people and research a lot about it, then why can’t you do the same research for your design? The thesis will not really be successful with no proper research. The first handshake should not become the wrong handshake. Anything you believe in, if you take it seriously it will take you to great heights. Try to fulfill your passion rather than concentrating on getting a gold medal. Life is full of giving. Being the architect of Chennai’s CMBT what is your view on that? I gave up government projects 15 years back. I changed into more of a craftsman. After finishing the previous bus stand I told my wife that I’m tired of all large projects. I feel like I need to send a message our civilisation in terms of housing. So I closed my previous office and started from scratch with just one or two people. So we choose projects where the client and I are both passionate about the project.
Your advice for students who wants to pursue for their masters?
It depends on what masters you want to do. So when you die how would you want to be remembered? Was I a specialist in planning or sculpting or landscape architecture or project management and work backwards on this! Don’t do this for anyone else, do it for who you want to be. I quit teaching so I could practice as a business. Only if you are confident, go for it. PG is very expensive but it is life changing. Would you like your daughter to choose architecture? No, never. For a girl to succeed in Chennai is extremely difficult. I gave her the liberty to choose whatever she wants to. Although she literally lived in my office, we decided it’s not the field. She accepted it and went for medicine as my wife in an ENT surgeon.
What would you say is your signature style?
I
“It is not my architecture it is their architecture!”
– It was a pleasure talking to someone with so much passion and humility.
INTERVIEWED
BY
Earlier years I was very particular about the contemporary style, but now I’m somehow bored with that. feel we have to reflect the true nature of the family through architecture. Every house will represent it’s own qualities. The house has to be liked by them first then it can be appreciated by others. The architecture of each client will vary; it won’t represent my own style.
Reba Maria Alex Batch : 2012-17
R. Thirumurugan Batch : 2012-1735
INTERVIEW WITH
Ar. Prof. K. RAJAGOPALAN What is your opinion about the education system in Architecture today?
About architecture, any technology needs to be advanced or upgraded, you can put it anyway you want, according to the time with a total syllabus change. As technology improves and enhances, updates should also be there particularly with any education program, as far as architecture is concerned from time in memorial. Some way or the other architecture was being practiced by so many people; you may call it modern days Oscar Nambiar or present day living legends like Dr. B. V. Doshi, so architecture has been there right from time in memorial. We do not know as long as we people need shelter, there needs to be architects.
Sir what is the one thing that you could say that you are proud about yourself?
Proud of serving the society of architects that is the pride both on professional fund as well as academics fund. I’m always proud about it. Though I was not recognized well, for the services I have done, some people have really appreciated me; some of the senior people have really appreciated me for what I have done for the society as well as for the profession.
Architecture is a course now on demand among students. What is your opinion on that?
As long as the number of schools are more there are bound to be the increase in number of architectural students but increase in number without quality is not a sustainable solution. Anybody can call himself/herself an architect the moment he/she graduates and registers with the council of architecture, it doesn’t mean they are good in practice. In present days, the situation is the number of schools coming up all over the country has increased, from the year 2004, prior to that in Tamil Nadu alone in 2003 we had only 14 schools. If I am right, today we have altogether 80 plus schools, no infrastructural facilities like lecturers or professors.
How was your experience being elected as the President of IIA in 1998?
At the moment, I am a council nominee for the selection of teachers. I was the Jt. Secretary of Tamil Nadu chapter of IIA in 1979. From that day onwards, I was very active in the activities of IIA which is the only recognized professional body. You can interact with eminent architects also. Now to the question you had asked, I enjoyed my association with IIA by moving all over the country not only in this country other part of Asia also and I was able to make lot of friends all over the country. I’m proud to say that I’m the first president from Tamil Nadu and second president from south India. IIA is also mother of council of architecture. Next year on 12th may, we will be celebrating IIA’s centenary year. In 1972, the council act was introduced, I was the Jt. Hon. Secretary of TN chapter and then became the Secretary cum Treasurer and then in 1990 became the Vice Chairman. I then moved on to become to the Chairman after which I directly moved to the headquarters and became Secretary on all India basis and then elected Vice President. In 1998, I was elected President. Its 18 years of involvement since then is well known.
Could you share you college life experience?
In college also I was a jovial person, I was a sportsman and athlete. I was a state basketball player, represented the college both in athletics as well as in basketball. I used to get along with everyone from seniors, unlike these days those days there were only limited number of architects so we used to mingle well.
36
Among all the projects you’ve worked for, which is very near to your heart? I enjoyed working with clients, I was the architect of Dalmia cements for about thirty to thirty five years, I was
appointed as a practitioner, one among the retainer architect for this company. I enjoyed working with them till the time till I moved out of the company.
What is your advice for the thesis students?
Students shouldn’t think that thesis is very tough subject and students should think that they have been given an opportunity. The students should know that it is a project that you are given to handle. How you handle this is the question for which you’re answer has to convince the jury or to the members of the committee. So you should always be bold enough to talk about your own project. You must think that it is a project which you’re doing for a client. They will be you guiding you on how you can mould your ideas but that still doesn’t mean that you cannot stick on to your concept. Your design is not wrong because someone doesn’t like it, you should be able to mark it well, you should be able to convince the jury, you should be able to talk more. We cannot be weak in the subject particularly in English wherein you have to converse.
What is your advice for students who are confused whether or not to do their masters?
Yes Masters is definitely important, but never do your Masters as soon as you finish your Under Graduation. Work for a year; that has more weightage. Write GATE and you can be anywhere in India, don’t stay in the same place like Chennai, that will not give you any sort of exposure. My son is an Architect and my daughter in law is also an Architect, she’s from Bangalore, she worked with me for one year. My son before doing his Masters in the US he worked with me for one year. For him he knew he wanted to do Architecture since I was an Architect right from his childhood days. So he passed out with a first class and he’s now a lead Accredited professional rather expertise in sustainability, he’s now a sustainable consultant in Chennai.
“As long as people need shelter, there needs to be architects.”
INTERVIEWED
BY
“As long as the number of schools are more there are bound to be the increase in number of architectural students but increase in number without quality is not a sustainable solution.”
Reba Maria Alex Batch : 2012-17
Harish Batch : 2015-20 37
INTERIOR DESIGN – THE PROCESS
BY Ar. Prof. S. RAJAPPA & Ar. Prof. PRIYA RAVICHANDRAN
Interior design is a multifaceted profession in which creative and tech-
1. START-UP AND RESEARCH.
nical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built environment.
The parameters of a project must be established first. This usually takes place
The designs are created in coordination with the building shell, acknowledg-
as part of the sales and negotiation process between the firm and client. But
ing the physical location and social context of the project. The interior design
when a designer is brought into an ongoing project it is useful to review the
process follows a systematic, co-ordinate methodology, including research,
following points:
analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process whereby the
- What is the scope and expected outcome of the project?
needs of the client are satisfied. The process of interior design defines the
- What is the schedule and budget?
client and user requirements, develops conceptual approaches, and creates
- Is there a need for specialized consultants?
and documents solutions.
- What is the contractual relationship between the design firm and the client?
Interior design services are integrated into projects in many different
After project parameters have been determined, research is performed on
ways. Sometimes they are part of a larger service. For instance, an interi-
theclient or client’s business, the project type, and sometimes on the archi-
or designer may work with the architect to develop a building footprint and
tectural style, particularly if a project is highly specialized.
shell, including program development with the client. On the other hand, in-
2. PROGRAMMING
terior design services may be introduced later in the process of designing a
During programming for the interiors, the client’s interior needs and objec-
new building to address specific areas of concern that require a higher level of
tives for the building interior are defined.
attention to design.
- What specific functions take place in the space?
- What are the space allocation needs?
Sometimes a client seeks stand-alone interiors services for the rede-
sign of existing space or to tailor new space to suit potential buyers or ten-
- Which areas have been assigned to which functions?
ants. For smaller projects a single designer may handle all aspects of interior
- What equipment and furniture must be accommodated in the space?
design, perhaps drawing on one or two brief sessions with a consultant. Larg-
- What are the problem areas?
er projects may require an interior design team, which might include a project
Steps involved in programming often include a space survey; interviews with
manager who would handle much of the conceptual and technical design and
clients and users; Data collection, such as work flow information inventory of
detail work; and assistants who can perform support tasks.
equipment, followed by development of a preliminary program and adjacen-
The generic steps in a work plan for interior design projects are
cy charts, review of the preliminary program with the client, preparation of a
1. Start up and research, 2. Programming, 3. Preliminary diagramming and
final program, and program approval by the client. An interior programming
space planning, 4. Schematic design, 5. Design development, 6. Construc-
study report that includes preliminary diagrams is usually the first deliver-
tion document and material procurement 7. Construction contract adminis-
able in an interior design project.
38 tration, 8. Post occupancy services
3. PRELIMINARY DIAGRAMMING AND SPACE PLANNING
6. CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENT AND MATERIAL PROCUREMENT
Once programming for the interior spaces is complete, diagrams of space
Colour scheme
allocations and adjacencies are developed. Area assignment involves esti-
Colour is the most communicative of the elements of design. In interior de-
mating the approximate square footage needed for each function or room.
sign we use the colour wheel and particular colour harmonies to change the
Block diagrams visually depict relationships among the sizes of the areas.
visual effects of space. Much psychological research has explored the way
Adjacency studies result in charts and diagrams that show the desired levels
colour influences human behaviour. Certain human perceptions related to
of closeness among the spaces. In a multistoried project, stacking plans show
colour affect the way people feel about a room, space, or object. Each colour,
which functions are placed on which floor. Adjacency Matrix is an in-depth
in its pure form, has a certain meaning and a certain psychological effect.
look into how each space relates to the other within the building. The purpose
a. Client’s preference, b. Use of the space, c. Dirt factor, d. Room orientation
of the matrix is to organize and link different activity areas together. A bubble
e. Shape and size of the room, f. Lighting in the room, g. Adjoining spaces,
draws information from the adjacency matrix. The bubble diagram can create
h. Architectural style, i. Availability of colour
a rough sense of flow, which is used to develop a more refined plan.
Lighting fixture
4. SCHEMATIC DESIGN.
Both lighting and accessories add sparkle to the design of any room. Lighting
In schematic or preliminary design, sketches for floor plans, sections, eleva-
performs an important function – to allow people to see and conduct activi-
tions, and perspectives are developed. The first sketches are often bubble
ties within a certain space. Lighting also enhances the style of an interior. For
diagrams prepared during space planning to arrange space blocks in adja-
example, a chandelier is formal and traditional while a coloured neon custom
cency relationships. Circulation patterns within and between the spaces are
designed pendant light is contemporary There are two basic categories of
also considered. The process is iterative and continues until a plan emerges
light fixtures: structural lighting and non structural lighting.
that resolves all or as many of the design parameters as possible. Preliminary
Structural lighting is part of the built-in design of the home. The lights are
finishes and furniture ideas are also developed during this phase. The prelim-
built into the ceiling or wall structure. There are many types of structural
inary design is then presented to the client for review, possible revision, and
lighting.
final approval.
1. Valance lighting, 2.
5. DESIGN DEVELOPMENT.
down lights, 5. Surface mounted down lights
During design development, the designer develops plans, elevations, sec-
Wall washers, 8. Soffit lighting, 9. Track lighting, 10. Ceiling or wall lights ,
tions, and other related details to a high level of finish; He refines the co-
11. Ceiling or wall lights , 12. Luminous ceilings
lours and finishes; selects the furniture, fixtures, and equipment; prepares a
The second basic category of light fixtures is non-structural lighting or porta-
cost estimate and budget for construction and Furniture Fittings &Equipment
ble lamps. This type of lighting can be moved, changed, or easily replaced. It
items. The resulting design is presented to the client for review, revision, and
can be functional or decorative.
final approval.
Cornice lighting, 3. Cove lighting, 4.
Recessed
, 6. Wall bracket lighting, 7.
39
Walls, ceilings, and floors provide a background for the use and Furniture
placement of furniture, lamps, and accessories. The background and fur- Selecting furniture pieces and placing them to create a pleasing interior is central to the nishings in a room should be coordinated to achieve harmony and unity, design process. Drawing up a plan of a room complete with windows, doors, and electrical outlets character, or theme. Background treatments can be used to enhance a may help you in the selection and placement of furniture. Determining both the function and the design or to minimize irregularities. Walls and floors are important deco- aesthetic value of the furniture intended for the space may also help you choose the type and rating elements in any room because of their extensive area and high visi- style of furnishings. Home furnishings are selected for their functional use and for their aesthetic bility. value. Furniture provides more than convenience and comfort. Whether furniture is for sleeping, Floor finishes
sitting, eating, working, or playing, we require furniture for many reasons Examining the user’s lifestyle and the activities that will take place in a The factors to be considered while selecting furniture room the floor coverings.are selected. a) Location, b) Type – whether stationary or mobile, for a single purpose or multipurpose, There are three different categories of floor coverings. c) Style – whether traditional, d) Materials modern or contemporary, e) Structural quality, f) Cost a. Hard floor coverings like wood, laminate, ceramic, marble, concrete Basically there are three types of furniture: 1.Built-in, 2. Individual pieces, and 3.Modular units b. Resilient floor coverings like linoleum, vinyl, cork 7. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION c. Soft floor coverings like carpets, rugs The first step in this phase includes the preparation of construction documents (including floor Many factors need to be considered when choosing a particular type of plans, elevations, sections, and construction details), the FF&E package, and the architectural floor covering. specifications package. In the next step of construction procurement, bids are obtained, contraca) Durability, b) Cost, c) Type of care required, d) Safety , e) Installation f) tors selected, and contracts or purchase orders are issued.Concurrently the designer prepares Area of use, g) Resistance to moisture furniture plans and specifications, which are then bid with furniture dealers.Finally a contract is Wall finishes awarded. There are hard surface wall treatments that make use of the material from During construction the role of a designer responsible for interiors is to advise whether the work which they are made and may not require added finishing. These include conforms with the construction drawings and specifications. This may be achieved by visiting the wood, masonry, plastic, glass, or plaster.Wall finishes are added to the sursite on a regular basis. Often the designer will want to be on site during FF&E installation and faces of walls. Wall finishes are applied to hard wall surfaces. Paint, wallcompletion to check for any defects and errors and to ensure they are corrected. The construction paper, vinyl wall coverings, and wall fabrics come in many varieties and, when used properly, greatly add to the aesthetic value of interior design. process is complete when the designer has completed a punch list for the project and the items Most inexpensive and easily maintained ceilings are surfaced with plaster on the list have been corrected. or some type of painted gypsum board. Some very old character homes 8. POST OCCUPANCY SERVICES
may have decorative metal ceilings. More modern homes have acoustical Post occupancy evaluation is a way to identify potential problem areas and determine user satplaster that is sprayed on and creates a rough surface. Today, there is a isfaction. Members of the project team responsible for completion of both the building core and return to plaster ceilings embellished with carved forms and moldings.
40 64
shell and the interior design can participate in this separate servic
VALID SERVICES - Ar. Prof. R. Vinod & J. Sasidharan (Alumni) The fusion of function, firmness and aesthetics at right proportion from constant application of men and materials give rise to Architecture. One may think why these three factors should contribute good quality in architecture. I think the answer to the above question is very simple – Comfort level! Talking about cultural factor, is there any relationship between comfort and culture? Well, my answer is Yes! To put it in simple term, Function and Culture together depends on time period, to frame comfort level as design. During early stages, the basic function of a shelter is to provide protection from external conditions. Later, the necessity to provide stable structure to withstand against odds lead to firmness. These two factors contributed to physical comfort of the occupants. Further as provoking thoughts arouse, people felt the urge to seek ‘beauty’ in everything, ‘aesthetics’ came into picture. Thus, aesthetics contributed to visual comfort. As time progressed, there came a new term ‘technology’ that had worldwide impact on the whole lifestyle, construction and comfort. With the emergence and development of technology, sophistication level of people started increasing. Technology also ventured into the field of architecture, giving a whole new experience to the occupants. Allied services like electricity, plumbing, HVAC, fire-fighting etc., came into picture, which saw ratifications as technology progressed. We are in a century, where these allied professions are required to complete and complement the necessary services for a building project. Services are one which supports and enhances the user experience and comfort. These services play a special role depending upon the function of building. For example, in hospital buildings – operation theatre, where supply of 100% fresh air is mandatory, HVAC system plays a crucial role and application of the same is different from other building typologies’. For a theatre building special attention to acoustics is obligatory. From these examples it can be noted that, the allied services varies and seeks special attention according to functions. Also, it can be noted that, the main purpose of the function is to seek and satisfy services, which completes the building’s intent. I feel that these services are not allied- they are part of architecture; it completes architecture!I think that, a common man can easily relate to comfort he get from these services rather than function, firmness and aesthetics. It is not that he cannot respond to last three factors, he obviously does. But he can relate to services easily. If there is any defect in one of those three factors, it takes time for an occupant to realize where the actual problem persists. But when it comes to services, he can easily relate and find out the problem causing area.
When there is any lag that directly affects our comfort, for instance say power cut, we can easily feel uneasiness. From the common man’s point of view, function does affect the occupant, but it can be experienced till a point of time. Stability depends upon the construction techniques and materials, which also can exist up to a particular time. Aesthetics changes gradually as time fades. But till the end of his life time, one factor that he responds immediately and feels real comfort is ‘Service’. It can influence the life time functioning of a building. I think that, nowadays even if a building has fulfilled function, strength and aesthetics aspects and lacks proper service concentrations, it cannot provide comfort zone to its occupants. As discussed early, along with contributing factors for physical and visual comfort, I feel that services involves in emotional comfort for occupants. In case of any failure or defect in function, firmness or aesthetics, it can be compensated by means of appropriate services. We can also recreate or adjust the comfort level of a space according to individual by the application of services. Passive technologies can be uncontrollable, when it does not go with context. Still, comfort level in those areas can be reframed by right application of services. Applications of active systems (application of equipment) on other hand are controllable. It can be adjusted according to prevailing conditions. This doesn’t mean that services can be achieved only through active measures. It can also be enhanced through passive applications. One might rise following questions: Does it mean that the services should consume more energy? Why should the usage of services have negative impact on environment? When it comes to high cost or services, do we have to compromise on services for high cost? Following is the key answer to the questions above - ‘sustainability’. While incorporating sustainability practices in architecture and construction of building, it not only covers the implementation of design strategies and measures to be taken during construction process. It also extends itself to the after construction – functioning of the building. I feel that, sustainability, is not only the implementation of existing or old vernacular practices, but also use of extensive use technologies in an innovative and environmental friendly ways. In a nutshell, the totality in functioning of a building or comfort of its occupant not only lies in the well-planned spaces, but it also includes the apt incorporation of allied professions. It is vital for budding architects to realize that designing is not their only job and services will be looked after by respective professionals. Contrary might lead to concentrating only on design part, excluding services (which balance the totality of a building) and simply introducing services areas that may not go with design. This might deteriorate the quality of space designed. Services design must be integrated into the overall building design from a very early stage, particularly on complex buildings. To conclude, I cannot point them out as allied services, they are value added and valid services. I feel that there are four qualities that shapes architecture - function, firmness, services and aesthetics. 41
65
Introduction
ARCHITECTURE, NEW URBANISM & ITS DESIGN APPROACH
The world is facing a historic change that is unparalleled in scope and depth of impact. Areas / Cities are considered nowadays as storage units for past lives. It is an international movement to reform the design of the built environment, and is about raising our quality of life and standard of living by creating better places to live.
New Concept of Urbanism
New concept of urbanism is an urban design movement whose popularity increased from the beginning of the 1980s onwards. The goal of new urbanists is to reform all aspects of real estate development and urban planning. New urbanists support regional planning for open space, appropriate architecture and planning, and the balanced development of jobs and housing. The new urbanism is a reaction to sprawl development. For a growing movement of architects, planners, and developers, new urbanism is based on principles of planning and architecture that work together to create human-scale, walkable communities. Early in the 1960s, Jane Jacobs authored The Death and Life of Great American Cities, which set the precedent for the new urbanist trend by condemning the accepted planning theories of the time; calling for an increased effort by planners to reconsider the failing single-use housing projects, large car-dependent thoroughfares, and segregated commercial centers that had become the “norm” of civic planning and zoning thought. New concept promotes the creation and restoration of diverse, walkable, compact, vibrant, mixed-use communities composed of the same components as conventional development, but assembled in a more integrated fashion, in the form of complete communities. New Urbanism promotes the increased use of trains and light rail, instead of more highways and roads.
The Principles and Benefits of New Urbanism
The principles of new urbanism mainly concerned with Walkability, Connectivity, Mixed-Use & Diversity, Mixed Housing, Quality Architecture & Urban Design, Traditional Neighborhood Structure, Increased Density, Smart Transportation, Sustainability, Quality of Life, etc…and the benefits of new urbanism is planned to residents, businesses, developers, local bodies / municipalities / corporations, etc…
Ways to Implement New Urbanism
The most effective way to implement New Urbanism is to plan for it, and write it into zoning and development codes. Increasingly, regional planning techniques are being used to control and shape growth into compact, high-density, mixed-use neighborhoods, villages, towns, and cities. Planning new train systems (instead of more roads) delivers the best results when designed in harmony with regional land planning - known as Transit Oriented Development (TOD).
Role of Urban Design
Urban design initially evolved at the end of 1960s as a critique of the built environment produced by modernist architects, urban planners, landscape architects and the other related professionals involved in the making of public realm. Urban design is important to deals with the quality of built environment (ecological significance), effective tool that advances the quality of the urban environment (economic significance) and also needs to have the “image of the local community” is becoming more significant to attract investors and tourist to that area (social and cultural significance).
Sources of Urban Design
Many current initiatives in urban regeneration and urban design take their inspiration from Jacobs’ work. Calthorpe developed a manifesto for sustainable urban living at medium densities and a design manual for building new settlements with his concept of Transit Oriented Development (TOD). 42
Urban Design versus Urban Planning
Urban design is the term between the disciplines that shape the built environment. “Urban design is the generally accepted name for the process of giving physical design direction to urban growth, conservation, and change.” “The elements of a city’s architecture are its buildings, urban landscape, and service infrastructure just as form, structure, and internal space are elements of a building”. The basis for a framework defining urban design can be grouped under six main headings according to The Institute for Urban Design (IUD)’s criteria are Historic preservation and urban conservation, Design for pedestrians, Vitality and variety of use, The cultural environment, Environmental context & Architectural values The jargon-free qualities, goals and principles describing urban design can be grouped under eight major headings like Place & Density, Mixed and compatible uses, Pedestrianization and human scale, Human culture & Public realm, Built & Natural Environment. However in all these definitions we see that there is a strong emphasis on livability, historic preservation, environmental quality associated with aesthetic values, and positive urban space correspondence to basic human needs which are also the major themes of postmodern urbanism. Urban Design Scale: Threshold of urban design scale involves implications from individual land parcel to neighborhood, an entire city to the region in which a city lies. In broader sense, urban design can be seen as “the art of creating possibilities for the use, management, and form of settlements or their significant parts” In micro scale, urban design is conceived as the design of small urban places which carries aesthetic and spatial concerns of arts and architecture.
Sustainability & Successful Approach to New Urbanism
Successful new urbanism performs a difficult balancing act by maintaining the integrity of a walkable, human-scale neighborhood while offering modern residential and commercial “product” to compete with conventional suburban development. To the extent that many new urbanist developments rely on automobile transport and serve the detached single family housing market, critics claim they fall short of being truly sustainable.
Conclusion
There are some obstacles to overcome the restrictive and incorrect zoning codes currently in force in most local bodies / municipalities / corporations. Adopting a system of ‘Smart Codes’ idea will be successful because the design philosophy is to value the best of the past yet be unafraid of changes and to add the features necessary to give the buildings a new lease on life and thus we can create or give people many choices for living an urban lifestyle in sustainable, convenient and enjoyable places, while providing the solutions to peak oil and climate change.
References
• Brooke, Steven (1995). Seaside. Gretna, La.: Pelican Publishing Company. • Duany, Andres; Plater-Zyberk, Elizabeth; & Alminana, Robert (2003). The New Civic Art: Elements of Town Planning. New York: Rizzoli Publications. • http://www.aecstore.com/CDA/Books/Sustainable_Design • The Death and Life of Great American Cities: The Failure of Town Planning” published in 1961 • Kevin Lynch of “The Image of the City” of 1961
- Prof. N. Jayaraman
SOA AMACE 43
CAN A SUCCESSFUL WOMAN ARCHITECT BE A PERFECT MOTHER? “I see women the world over as a smart, gifted and strong – with the talent and commitment to transform lives” - Zaha Hadid Since many centuries the debate on whether women can effectively balance motherhood and a successful career continues on. While men built skyscrapers and monuments, some of our most intimate buildings - the homes we live in - have been shaped by women. For example, in 19th century America, it wasn’t unusual for women to design and publish building plans for their homes and barns. A young working mom, her eyes misty and tired from little sleep, quietly shares a striking message that a successful balance between maternal and work concerns can be one of the most difficult juggling acts a woman faces in her life. Balancing one’s responsibility to one’s community and to one’s family is no easy task, and for each woman this juggling act will look differently. Be it taking care of your children or an aging parent, you have taken on the responsibilities of essentially two jobs. Banish the mean girl sitting on your shoulder, whispering you should have done this or you should have done that. Yes, you could have, but something else was more important on that day, or that week. There is no one right answer on how to do career and motherhood—on how to “have it all.” But you can do both, and you can do both well. How you do it depends on unique factors: what you want, your situation, your home life and the kind of job you have. The 10 ways which a women architect can follow to balance their career and motherhood more efficiently, creatively and with less guilt are 1. Stop comparing yourself to other moms 2. Develop Your Own Style 3. Ask your kids how they feel and let that be your compass 4. Keep your priorities straight 5. Treat important family events like client meetings 6. Take time with your partner 7. Consider a Flexible Work Schedule 8. Get out of a situation that doesn’t fit your definition of success. 9. Make “me” time 10. Ask for Help When You Need It Hopefully, a few of these tips will help dial down the stress, too. Postgraduate education and motherhood are increasingly going hand-in-hand; this trend is likely the result of changes in demographics and society. An increasing share of professional women are confronting the inevitable push and pull of work-family balance. “Women can and should be able to have it all, though the world definitely makes it harder for them to do so,” says Alexandra Williams, a rising sophomore and Rutgers University student. “Without the proper protection, benefits from your job, or a supportive and equal partner, it could be pretty hard to be both a good mother and be successful at your job”. 44
Despite the obstacles, some women have established highly successful careers in architecture and related professions. Practice of architecture lies beyond divisions of gender or age. One such inspiring soul is Dalia, famously known as Didi Contractor. Didi Contractor, an architect practicing in Himachal Pradesh, is one such lady who is inspiring many of us with her zeal and enthusiasm even now at the ripe age of 84. Didi came from US to India in 1950s, where she met her husband, to be a Gujarati architect and builder Ramji Narayan. She did some interior designing and some building and most importantly brought up four children. It was only after her children grew up that she was able to shift to Kangra where, after some years, she started building in adobe. So, her serious architecture career began at 60 years of age. In contrary, the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, Zaha Hadid has never married nor had children. I feel if she had all of it, she would have reached still more heights as she believed and quoted “I see women the world over as a smart, gifted and strong – with the talent and commitment to transform lives”. Many have done it with help from society, and others have battled endless odds to prove the same. In today’s world it is both desirable and incumbent upon mothers to be working, like their spouses. We, in the developing world, and still in the throes of a culture and tradition of a male-oriented society, should acknowledge that, contrary to traditional belief that an architect mother is not a good mother, an architect mother can, in fact, be a better mother. Motherhood confers upon a woman the responsibility of raising a child. This process also changes the way in which she is perceived in society and at her workplace. Significant social and personal adjustments are necessary to cope with such a situation. An architect mother, especially one who has the good fortune to be able to balance her home and work, enjoys the stimulation that an architecture career provides. She develops the ability of raising a useful member of society and at the same time gains financial independence. Along with motherhood, work adds to the completeness of being a woman. She not only feels better about herself but is also forced to take better care of herself in order to make an impression. Along with motherhood, a successful career adds to the completeness of being a woman. The major stresses of being a working mother remain lack of time, and a feeling of guilt, due to perceived neglect of the parenting role. The rewards are many, including personal benefits, financial rewards, and improved family life. To enable this, considerable adjustments are necessary at the individual level and at the workplace, which help the mother to fulfill the dual responsibilities of career and motherhood. The working mother epitomizes modern womanhood. The modern work environment needs to consider the special needs of this working population, changing its orientation from male dominance to gender neutrality and parenting friendly behavior. The joint family and the nuclear family unit both need to adjust to the needs of the working mother so as to allow a healthier family to develop. Today, like Zaha and Didi, women are important in the workforce, prominent in politics and even visible in the clergy. Women are everywhere, including at home raising children. In short, it is possible to be a woman, a mother, and an achiever. References: Kendall-Tackett, Kathleen A. Ph.D. “The Hidden Feelings of Motherhood Second Edition.” Pharmasoft Publishing. 2005
- Associate Prof. T. Priya Prakash.
SOA AMACE
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GREEN BUILDING: GOING GREEN CONCEPT ON RISE IN INDIA In India Green buildings construction, products and systems are gaining tremendous importance. They are in compliance with highest standards of norms set out for green buildings. For creating a comfortable, safe, aesthetic and sustainable environment. Major emphasis in green building is given on saving energy costs through proper selection of energy efficient products in Lighting system, Insulating system, Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning, glazing and cladding etc. The Green building movement has gained tremendous impetus during the past several years and it is projected by the Indian Green Building Council that the market for LEED-rated green buildings in India will be $5 billion by 2012 and the total market for green building materials and products is estimated to be over 10 times (around $45-50 billion) the size of the LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) rated green building market in India. Green Building is described as a structure that ensures efficient use of materials, water, energy and other resources without depletion of nature and minimal generation of non-degradable waste. The term Green Building is often used in combination with ‘high-performance building,’ ‘sustainable design’ and ‘preserving precious resources.’ The Green Building Movement in the country is pioneered by the Indian Green Building Council (part of CII) and currently, India boasts of 1239 registered buildings, 187 certified buildings with 855.96 million sqft Green building foot print.
What makes a Building Green
?
The use of green building materials and products represents one important strategy in the design of a building. Using green building materials and products promotes conservation of non-renewable resources and helps in reducing the environmental impacts associated with the installation, reuse, recycling, and disposal etc of the building materials. Most importantly energy efficient products and systems used in construction of sustainable building reduce maintenance and operating costs to large extant and it is noted that green buildings generally use 50% to 75% less energy than conventional construction. Green building materials are composed of renewable, rather than nonrenewable resources. A building is called green when it has tremendous benefits, both tangible and intangible. The immediate and most tangible benefit is in the reduction in water and operating energy costs right from day one, during the entire life cycle of the building. The savings could range from 25 to 40 % depending on the extent of green specifications (Energy savings: 20 - 30 % and Water savings: 30 - 50%). The intangible benefits include enhanced air quality, excellent day lighting, health & well being of the occupants, conservation of scarce national resources and enhance marketability for the project. As the green building revolution is growing very fast in India, so there is a significant demand of green building materials and products including high-efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; low-emission window and day lighting technologies; affordable green building materials with consideration for the life cycle perspective of building costs; water saving, water efficiency and non mechanical treatment systems; fire and safety systems and other intelligent building systems, and materials that help to score points under the various IGBC(Indian Green Building Council) and GRIHA(Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) green building rating system.
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Lighting Systems
Lighting is one of the important aspects in residential or commercial decor. And about one-quarter of the electricity budget is spent on lighting so by specifying a high quality energy efficient lighting system that utilizes both natural and electric sources as well as lighting controls can provide a comfortable yet visually interesting environment for the occupants of a space. Havells, the manufacturer of lighting equipment, seeing the rising number of green buildings and demand of the energy efficient lighting equipment introduces LED (Light-emitting-Diodes) an energy saving lighting lamp that consumes 50% less energy than traditional sources and is four times more energy efficient than regular incandescent lamps, since a larger part of the energy is converted into light than is lost as heat. There is no use of glass or filament in these kinds of lights as compared to normal lights; hence it has a phenomenally longer lifespan with average life of 50,000 to 80,000 hours. LED light not only reduces the electricity bills but also improves the quality of working conditions at commercial establishments and offices. Havells Light-emitting-Diodes (LED) range ‘Endura Lite’ consists of consumer lighting, street lighting and lamps. These lamps are easy to install and do not emit UV radiation. It is smaller in size and lighter in weight. Endura Lite is suitable to fit in standard MR16 fixtures and has been tested for its high shock resistance and durability. These new age lighting innovations are designed to give higher efficiency and consume low power and has environment-friendly luminous source which make it the best in LED lighting category.
Glazing
Glass can have a tremendous impact on the energy performance of buildings besides enhancing the visual and acoustic effects. Building energy consumption can significantly be lowered by opting the right kind of glass and the right kind of glazing. Saint Gobain, Glass today can be called as an intelligent building material. From being seen as a material to protect from environment, Glass is known as a material for creating a comfortable, safe, aesthetic and sustainable environment. On functionality of glass he said that glass cladding or facades optimize the use of natural light to illuminate the interior, thereby not only making it more comfortable for occupants but also reducing the use of electricity-or fuel-powered light. In tropical countries like India, a major requirement is air-conditioning of the building. Proper usage of glass can ensure that the air-conditioning loads (and therefore the air-conditioning expenses) can be reduced by controlling the heat coming into the buildings. This is done by careful usage of glass with appropriate solar control (so as to reduce the heating up of the building due to direct solar radiation) and U value (so as to reduce the heating up of the inside of a building due to high ambient temperature outside). In cold countries or parts of India where winter temperatures are low, there is a requirement for heating the interiors. One can reduce the heating loads (and the heating expenses) by reducing the heat loss from the inside to the outside. This is done by using heat insulating glass which reflects the far off Infra red radiation or thermal radiation which is the means by which the heat loss happens from inside to outside. For this, one would have to choose glass of the appropriate U value. Glass is gaining wide acceptance due to the increasing regulation. This is where ECBC comes in. ECBC is Energy Conservation Building Code. The Code specifics use of energy efficient glass combinations to maximize daylight and minimize cooling loads. Glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled indefinite number of times. This implies zero generation of waste. The moment we say that a material is fully recyclable; it automatically leads to conservation of natural resources. All this makes glass a ‘green’ building material and contributes to its rising popularity as an integral part of sustainable architecture. - R.Suresh Asst. Professor. SOA AMACE 47
IS GREEN THE NEW BLACK? Green is the most happening and selling language in town. Based on the commodities, services and verticals the terms differ like Natural, Bio, Organic, Green, Sustainability and so on. This term has held up close our architecture field as well. The moment you introduce a building on a green field we cannot call it a green building anymore as we have disturbed the ecosystem already with respect to that micro site. We cannot repair the damage done. As per the data, 80% was the wetlands in Chennai in 1980s not just three decades completed we are standing at 20% wetlands and we are moving up ahead in wanting more and more. Our city has seen buildings since centuries and centuries, though the styles have been influenced and changed over the years, the core concept for any buildings did not change since the humble beginnings and that is to WORK WITH NATURE. After the Industrial revolution, where the mass production and the concept of standardization happened and in the name of innovation we introduced new materials which are industrially produced and can have the ability to reuse and as most of the materials are inorganic and act as a stagnating waste that does not disintegrate with nature’s cycle, they remain as a residue that cannot be consumed. In all the Green certification programs, there are many points oriented positively towards the common practices in our vernacular architecture over centuries. In Vernacular Architecture, we did have good openings to allow natural lighting and ventilation, we did use locally available materials, we did use organic materials and less chemical products, we did roof design according to the weather and climate, The landscaping area and the surroundings were focused as equal to the habitable space, now we talk about visitors parking that needs to be accommodated with the design, where we now use vehicles, In our past, we already had the concept of ‘Thinnai’ where the travelers, wanderers, visitors used to stay at night and it was also used for the public meetings and common space for interactions. Water systems were neatly planned with a lot of manmade lakes to store rain water and use it for the community and again recycled back to the plants after usage, which is reiterated in the green certification. But the current scenario is such that so many lakes have disappeared in the city under the name of development and where would the water run which once used to be the catchment area during rainy seasons. We blame Nature for our mistakes without understanding where the mistake has been committed. We talk about choosing the site as one of the major pointers in the certification process, now if that particular point is taken seriously, we would not have manmade disasters which we find often in our media with respect to housing. We have to be vigilant in choosing the site not just with the connectivity and the depleting resources like water but not to disturb the existing ecosystem, whether it is land, Forest or Marine life. The concept of joint family is no more available in our system; most of the families are nuclear. This change in the system has also majorly affected our housing pattern. We are ready to adjust with the strangers in a flats system but not with our relatives. 48
I propose a suggestion of a term just like “Industrial Revolution”, a “Space Revolution” where we shall standardize the area just like the materials and design for a usage space according to the number of users so the actual right area for the requirement is predetermined than just to have the enormous spaces wasted for the minimum number of people in the name of luxury. If this is added into the certification process for an extra mile, am sure most of the builders and other developers shall adhere to it by process and we can avoid those extra spaces predominantly. If we compare to all the living things on our planet, it is just our human race that needs more space than required just to proclaim their presence. Even the King of the Jungle, does not go for a bigger space than required. We find cattle blocking the roads as a disturbance, if we closely watch it, it would have been its grazing field once upon a time and we have built the roads through that and they find it a common practice to have visiting its place as a habit. We find elephants coming into the village and tigers, panther and cheetah attacking the kids and is published in the media on red alert. Again there was no concept called the village, it was the forest once where we encroach and keep deforesting and reduce the play area for the animals in their surroundings and we complain. It is never their intention to attack unless it is threatened and just like we humans have a lifestyle, they do have their own and they have their own path to travel and if we as humans just think we own the world and bother everything around us, we cannot complaint that they are disturbing our life style but we are indeed unsettling them. We see the demands for the houses rising exponentially year after year, whereas on the other hand mega size townships and residential condominiums are planned lavishly. From 24.7 million housing demand in 2011 to 40 million needs as of now is expect to hit 60 million by 2020. Where we still find sold out boards outside the biggest of the biggest settlements in Chennai. If we give a deeper insight, we find those buildings sold out but unoccupied. We also have around 30,000 ready to move in units unoccupied in OMR stretch. Where is the gap? Why such gap when there is so much of demand for the basic need like housing? This does not mean we take a green site and start pouring concrete and deforest the existing vegetation in the name of meeting the demands. It is ideal to leave the Green for the nature and not to attach the term ‘Green’ to the buildings anymore. we must start working on redesigning and modifying the already existing unused vacant buildings and dilapidated sites in the city or the Brownfield sites with better treatment than to disturb the wetlands site, natural resources and green sites. It is high time we start working on the infrastructure to support vertically high structures with more FSI. We must stop disturbing the existing ecosystem in our city and try to build more useful plantations than just for the aesthetic appeal. All the necessary certifications, if oriented towards the above view points, I guess should make a positive change. We Humans if we think we Own the world, then it is our equal responsibility to GIVE EQUALLY AND PROTECT WHAT YOU OWN…!!! - Ar. K. RAJESH, SOA, MCE
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art by -Saurav Batch 2015-2020
WELCOME TO OUR WORLD OF ORIGINALITY WELCOME TO OUR WORLD OF ORIGINALITY Welcome to our world of originality! Adding quality to your creativity, Oh, we are the stars ruling the sun! It’s not just about the construction, It’s about how strong its stands under destruction! Enriched by our imagination, We are the stars ruling the sun! When your creation passes on to memory, Your building rises and reminisce you with praises! Oh, we are the stars ruling the sun! You perceive that it wasn’t just stupidity, But an idea which transcends creativity! It might crumple you with hardships and pain, Alas! Glorification comes later, surely for you to gain. Oh, we are the stars ruling the sun! As life without art is like a story without your part.
AN ARCHITECTURAL LOVE PROPOSAL
- JEEVITHESH BATCH 2015 - 2020
Architecture! My love, Yes, with due respect I bow. I want to cuddle up in my bed at night, as darkness sweeps in and engulfs the light. But my mind is full of thoughts, because I know I have to complete my submission, no matter what. My designs should seem like paradise! My models are all I can see when I close my eyes. My sheets are by my side, and about them, I dream with pride! For you, my sleep and social life I surrender. And, I work with all my soul and wonder. - V.NIVEDHITHA BATCH 2014 - 2019
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A PERSPECTIVE OF ARCHITECTURE Every aspect in the world will have a basic function and a special function. For example, basic function of a furniture is to seat a person or to place things over. Basic function of architecture is to provide shelter and its special function are the aesthetics and good ambience. Yeah! Craze towards architecture is increasing with time… New forms and new perspective of the architects keeps going on, exploring the mysteries and logics of nature. This craze associated with the knowledge from our ancestors and ancient monuments is something worthwhile cherishing. Think about it! Rhythm and uniqueness tend to put together something new. Ha-ha. Just as couples have issues and silly fights because of the late replies in chat, architects struggle with their ideas and designs while working practically. Couples get used to their silly fights and end up having a closer relationship, likewise the architects will keep growing with new ideas and designs every day. Isn’t it? ARCHITECTS?!
- KANMANI KAMAKSHI BATCH 2015 - 2020
CREATIVITY IS A DRUG I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT
Creativity
comes from a conflict of ideas and it is just connecting things. Creativity is more than just being different. Anybody can plan something unusual, that’s easy. What’s hard is to create something simple. Something so simple yet awesome enough- that’s creativity. On this basis, creativity is related to architecture. Architects have the ability to generalize from particular things and to separate the significant from the unimportant. - DIVYA DHARSHINI BATCH 2015 - 2020
FRIENDSHIP In some or other circumstances, we all have realized what friendship means. Friendship is a beautiful thing that stays with
“FRIEND”
“END”
us till our last breath. The word which has the word in the end of it, will never end. We share all our thoughts and actions done by us to our friends, inch by inch. Only after that, we share it with our parents if needed be. Friendship is the most beautiful thing in the world, which will not let you down, even when you’re in a bad situation. So, it’s nice to have lots of friends and enjoy life. - MAYEELAH USMANI BATCH 2015 - 2020
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GOAL & DESTINATION Hi friends, I’m writing a few lines on “goal and destination”, what it actually means and the ways to reach it. Relationship between goal and destination- the goal that we reach in our life is the destination of our life. To attain a goal, one needs to take up that goal. Make that goal your life- think of it, dream of it, live on that goal. This is the way to success. Friends, make your goal proper and lead a positive way, in order to succeed the DESTINATION – the success.
“Arise! Awake! and stop not until the goal is reached!”
- Swami Vivekananda - JAISHREE
BATCH 2015 - 2020
INSPIRING ZAHA HADID As a student of architecture, I admire Zaha hadid who believed in the “unbuildable”. she was a hero for the students, a celebrity for the design world. Zaha hadid always said, “keep it simple when you don’t know what you are doing “. everyone always had in their mind how did she imagine the unimaginable! how did she own slanted lines and curved shapes! she has been described as a diva by many. She was playful, funny and incredibly intelligent. she was a very down to earth person. her studio was a place you aspire and to be a part of her design for a leisure club in Hong Kong and never saw the light of the day, but still it won the international design competition. when I heard the news of Zaha Hadid’s passing. it felt like a giant tree has fallen. chances of a hadid in today’s world are slimmer than ever. everyone admires her for her courage and conviction in her vision. she always said that “the role of an architect is to question and re-imagine the built environment”.
- KAVYA
BATCH 2015 - 2020
UPCYCLING Reuse the discarded materials or waste products in such a way as to create a product of higher quality than the original. The creative reuse of waste materials is more useful for poor ones Upcycling is a creating method to reproduce a new product. They are used to give aesthetic look to the buildings. This method helps us to think innovative. This steps leads towards a regenerative design culture. The upcycling is environmentally friendly practice upcycling is the next level of designing. Were the upcycled products are healthier and usually have a better value than the material inputs.
- C. VALLIKANNU BATCH 2015 - 2020
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UFFF…. NEED A COFFEE...!!! Morning 8’o clock….waking up alarmingly. Thought of waking up by 4’. Running late to the college. On the way remembering about the assignment which was given few days before. Shit! Corridor, Running…shhh!! Seniors. Running again, Casual! casual!! Juniors. 8.58am. thank god! Entering the class-everybody in hurry. Structures class?? Omg! Forgot my calculator. ‘Hide me! Hide me’. Staff didn’t notice…Escape! Sleepy class… managing to be attentive. Break at last. Remembering the submission. Hurry!! In search of Pencils, Erasers, Scales, etc. n etc. At last started designing. Twist again. Surprise test! Assignment!! Lunch time. Very hungry! No time to go canteen. Sitting ideally in Dressing table, pretending to be working seriously. Toughest job! Surprise pin-up presentation. Hurry! Need-a-concept!!think buddy…Click! Got it!! Presenting…’my concept is blah. blah. blah...!! faculty asks, ‘but why did choose this concept??’. ‘hmmm…because I liked it’- Phew! Finished.” redooooooo...!!” Task accomplished. Coffee time! Back with energy… music! WhatsApp! Facebook! Phone calls!! Sleepy…design at 4’o clock!! Zzzzzzz…. Alas ‘Its 8’ again!!’ “Architecture is a Frozen Music! Music is a liquid Architecture. And here C-O-F-F-E-E is an edible architecture… need a Coffee…right now!!
- NEYA NIVETHA
SARCASTICALLY I’M AN ARCHITECT
BATCH 2014 - 2019
Architecture is a visual art and a building is a model architecture. If the phrase “Art fuses with Architecture’’ means to say that architecture is a fusion of arts is not so that art is sarcastically an architecture. A life of an architect is so sarcastically in daily basis, hourly basis, minutely basis, secondly basis. To imprint every architect within a society of people is not so easy as to emphasise them among themselves. There are many difficulties to be faced by an architect not after becoming an architect, it is even so early at the time of learning period. At the very first class we had got introduced to know about the art studio and basic design. we had got lots of works to do with it which was time consuming. we were provided with all necessary materials to come up with the required works given. in spite of everything we used to do late submissions or last time submissions. Lots of scolding’s from our faculty, loss of sleep, less food, late attendance –lead to proxy, lovely seniors, lustrous faculty, leisure hours, live sight hostel; all of these were epic of our first year. As it passes by we got hell a lot of things to be learnt and also many things we have learned. Then we are the seniors with our own juniors. With few responsibilities and with few lethargies. With the same ramp of scolding’s travelled yet. Same set of submissions but nowhere our materials. Making our eating plate as palette and borrowing paints from juniors; OMG! where is my old brush? in search of everything not yet started my work. Next hour BC submission- blush up with last minute work – no cello tape, no t-scale, no set square but a roll and draw makes everything easier. Next hour design – starring at the butter sheet with lots of ideas inside not in a stage to express it externally. Staff enters- CRIT! CRIT! CRIT! lots of scratches on my sheet out of what I made. Still with smile on my face if any obstacles to be faced I’m proud to be an architect because SARCASTICALLY I’’M AN ARCHITECT.
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- BAGYALAKSHMI
BATCH 2014 - 2019
ZAHA MOHAMMAD HADID “There are
360
degree but why stick to one?� -Zaha Hadid
She was a woman, born magnificent, who made a revolution in architecture. Overall, her works are remarkable. She was one among the first women who worked out her dreams into reality. She was the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize, in 2004. She influenced architecture through her thoughts and ideas. No straight lines in her world, curves were her language that led her imagination through. She was a true feminist and a fashionista. Her endless thoughts in design were mind-boggling. Her contributions to architecture was vast and splendid. This woman was none other than Zaha Hadid. - Bagya Lakshmi.B Batch : 2014 -19
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LIGHTS! CAMERA! ARCHITECTURE! Waking up. Waking up to Champagne Supernova at 3 in the morning – Complete loss of the ability to distinguish reality and dream because of the melting vocals, just to finish my unfinished article, was never a usual thing I would do. Architecture design? Yeah. I can take that. Heavy dosage. But an article sounded a bit different from what I usually do. So, Chop Chop! I got myself out of the bed and went in sat in front of my 14” inch surface full of pixels with a big cuppa coffee to get the article completed. The bright orange light from the street lamp shined through the balcony, and there I sat in the swing writing my article. The balcony made me the bridge between my place and what’s outside. The biggest difference in one of the above instance is the failure to express the details of the surrounding through literature, which doesn’t actually set the mood of the narrative/story. A literature or any form of narration demands the expression of the protagonist’s/a person’s surrounding for the better understanding of the reader/viewer etc. The later instance gives the description about the protagonist’s surroundings which makes the reader to actually feel the scene being portrayed. It might seem like a small thing in the background, but it is not. ‘…. As Bruce Wayne watches his legacy, WAYNE enterprises, a huge monumental tower gets ripped apart by the General Zod and Superman’ – The opening credits of BVS: Dawn of Justice This scene just makes Bruce Wayne, the millionaire and an outlaw feel so powerless or the realisation of presence of more superior people than him. This is conveyed by the destruction of the huge monumental towers, Wayne enterprises. The expression of feelings is even achieved by the description of the spaces and structures around the protagonist with the ample display of lighting. Architecture in literature keeps a low profile but does the background dog work of any literature, be it Shakespeare or Dan Brown. The expression is surroundings in literature is very good. But when you experience what is being expressed through your visual senses, That’s a whole new ball game! The magnificent structures to peaceful meadows, the mad raving crowd in a disco to the Mad hatter’s tea party – Everything’s architecture. The beauty of architecture is that, you just can’t define some things to it and conclude the rest out of the business. Everything is a part of the design. Every human being is a key element of the Design. When you consider the movie as the whole design, the setting of your view points from a third person’s perspective will obviously set the mood and feel of the scene. The surrounding and the actors blend together to form a single beautiful entity, The scene. The real deal behind the club. Undoubtedly a classical masterpiece of David Fincher, The Fight club explores the most brutal of freeing yourself. The surroundings shown along with characters have a strong scent of raw, most brutal, uncensored way of letting oneself go. The initial fight sequence takes place outside rusty, hard-core, whack job of a place outside the motel bar. When the protagonist and Tyler Durden beat the hell out of each other’s rear, the viewer is tempted more for a nut crushing, adrenaline pumping sequences that are yet to come.
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The introduction sequence of Edward Nortan getting introduced to his personas, Tyler Durden where the talk of illusion of safety just sparks out of nowhere and they realise they are in middle of a flight trip. It could’ve been anywhere but why in the middle of a flight trip? Just to imply the fact that one’s way of freeing himself is through the anarchist’s way. The further fight club scenes take place in a rusty old basement where the yellow and orange lights fill up the scene. All those exposed pipelines and wires, yellow and orange lights filling up the void, people laughing and fighting with their blood smeared faces, Happily. What a sight! The best part is where Tyler Durden and the protagonist discuss on how they both wanted to fight Gandhi and Lincoln in the fight club. This takes place in a rusty old bathroom with no lid for the closet, broken tiling on the walls and two candles for the needed lighting. With this surrounding and the talk about the fight they wanted was just the pure display of Anarchy. The tale ends at a high floor in a building with glass façade giving a stunning view of the corporate buildings of the city, and the next instant everything comes crushing to ground. Every single corporate building wiped out, so that people can start again from the beginning. There’s no better scene to explain the concept of freeing oneself by the means of anarchy and the anti-social behaviour of the protagonist. “…You met me at a very strange time of my life said Durden as the buildings became one with the ground.” Another masterpiece of a film is ‘Enter the void’ by Caspar Noe explores the psychedelic visions and mentality of a drug dealer. The movie widely explores the visual and spiritual trip experienced by the protagonist. The home of the protagonist resembles a messy apartment at a high floor giving the user the necessary view of the city that is required for the trip. The trip is a drug induced state where the user will be experiencing hallucinations and out of the body experience. The movie has the necessary architectural elements ranging from space to furniture that complete the film. The scene where the protagonist gets killed by the police in a raid, takes place in a local pub in Tokyo. The pub has all the trippy paintings to dark corners and limited lighting. These surroundings create a sense of total confusion and lack of the ability to think and make a decision(trip). In another instance, The Tomorrowland which gives us an insight into the bright future which may lie ahead of us. The movie has the tall buildings that scratch the skies and a touch of greenery amidst the future dwellings create a feeling of safety and a feel good factor. Viewers visually perceive the scene by the setting of scene’s surrounding along with the lighting factor. These factors play a major role in narrating or making the users understand the feel of the scene that is being portrayed. Architecture is not limited to designing buildings, as many of us think it is. To put it very bluntly, architecture is the design of everything ranging from a space to a simple spoon.
- T. KARTHIKEYAN BATCH 2014 - 2019
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“HACKS” IN ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL Forget about Winning or Losing Architecture is undoubtedly subjective and therefore your tutors will tend to find value (or lack of) in things that you don’t (or others don’t) and vice versa. When you stop focusing on what other people do (or think) then you will become more capable of focusing on your individual design value and agenda. Ultimately, by ruling out the process of comparison you begin to define your own standards and measures of success which, in my case, is greater than the perceived expectations that someone else will place upon me. You therefore create your own benchmark for success. Your tutor is your client Similar to a client, your tutor needs to see, understand and be convinced by your design process and resolution. You need to be able to convince your tutor that your design is well-considered; at minimum, addressing the requirements of the brief. In a design competition the firm that best communicates their idea through various mediums will often win the job, and in the same way, the student who best communicates their idea in architecture school will likely get the highest mark. It is also important to be professional, your tutors are likely to have many responsibilities outside being a teacher and mentor so show them that you respect their time by considering their advice seriously and by working hard. Play the Momentum Many great leaders in business talk about the importance of establishing and maintaining momentum. With momentum it is difficult to stop, while without momentum, it is difficult to start. Tutors hope to see progress every single week and if you start developing your design from day one without stopping, it is unlikely you will feel the need to pull an all-nighter before submission time. The most successful projects are unlikely to be developed in just 1 night and design tutors are well aware of the students who haven’t slept based on the thoroughness of their project. Without momentum, students are not able to achieve the same kind of thought processes with consideration. Maintaining this will also eliminate the need for major last-minute design changes that often do more harm than good. Last-minute changes are usually less resolved and less likely to be communicated successfully. Break the Rules It is important to think of the design brief as your minimum expectation; tutors establish the brief to ensure students address particular challenges and important considerations relating to the design subject. There will be a number of rules which are outlined in the brief; ‘the house must be 2 stories high’ or ‘you must have 6m setback from the road.’ However, if you have a better solution, break or negotiate the rules – but always understand why. Curiosity will lead to discovery, which in turn will lead to questioning: so why does the house need to be 2 stories? There is never only one answer rather university is about speculating many and asking the right questions. When it comes to the design brief, rules are made to be broken and when done so successfully you will stand out from your peers, as well as generate a more valuable discussion for learning.
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Have broad influences and mentors When studying Architecture, it is quite easy to isolate all of your influences and mentors to people who directly work in the industry. While it is important to have these people available to guide you, it is important to have many influences and mentors from outside the industry. This allowed me learn from people with vastly different perspectives and considerations and to then apply this thinking back into architecture, creating a broader and more interesting forum for discussion and negotiation. Have cause and conviction Be passionate about something to motivate you through university and into your career. Admittedly, at one point or another, every architecture student finds him or herself dragging their heels. As soon as you feel that you do not love what you’re doing, it’s time to stop, question why and re-evaluate. Redirect your process or motivation and don’t let anything get in the way of your love affair. Don’t feel like you are doing the work because you have to, rather you should do it because you want to and allow your energetic attitude to inspire and lift your peers. Why bother trying to drudge through any part of the process? Up-skill Your tools, techniques, software’s and methods of communication will significantly affect your ability to communicate architecture. You need to develop strong visual, verbal and written communication skills. Through concise yet relaxed storytelling – communicating. Your capacity to communicate ideas is your hammer and chisel. Something as simple as mastering Google search, CAD programs, or getting models laser cut can save hours. Build meaningful relationships The relationships you build, both in and out of school, represent the beginning of defining your views and finding your own path in architecture. Many successful architecture partnerships are formed between people who met in school. Seek out events and happenings that will expose you to other people in the field. Having conversations with as many people in the industry as possible will open up the most opportunities for you to grow and form new professional friendships and partnerships, taking you places not possible without. Don’t expect the outcome Students often limit their projects by anticipating certain aspects or the design outcome far too early on in the process. If you are too focused on a fixed result, then you are denying yourself the opportunity to discover what you could not have expected. When you anticipate a given outcome, your research, equipment, processes and focus will naturally be managed in a way to best meet the anticipated solution. By contrast, if you try to set yourself up for the act of discovery, embracing what serendipitous events come up along the way, you will begin to tap into the tacit and often highly subjective insights, intuitions and hunches of individual thought and expression. I can tell you now that to be surprised by your own, idiosyncratic work is far more satisfying than any mark.
- AVISEHK GUPTHA BATCH 2012 - 2017
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NASA WORKS
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BEAUTY OF MY NATION
WHO AM I
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G.T. JITHIN RAJ - BATCH 2015 - 2020
TANVEER - BATCH 2013 - 2018
LIGHT ART
MY NATURE
VISHNU - 3RD YEAR
YUVARAJ - BATCH 2013 - 2018
GATE WAY OF INDIA
THE ENTRY
AVISHEK GUPTA BATCH 2012 - 2017
ANAND KUMAR. S - BATCH 2012 - 2017
LIGHT CHIMES
AVISHEK GUPTA - BATCH 2012 - 2017
LIGHT & SHADOW
ANAND KUMAR. S - BATCH 2012 - 2017
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R.I.P TANVEER . G.S Batch : 2013-18
நண்பா , உன்னன நினனக்கும் பபாதெல் லாம் உள் ளம் குமுறுகிறது காரணம் , நீ எம் னம விட்டு பிரிந்ெெற் கு அல் ல, நாங் கள் ஒரு நல் ல நண்பனன இழந்துவிட்படாம் என் பெற் காக… உன் பிரிவின் வலி அதிகமாயினும் உம் முடன் பழகிய அந்நாட்களின் நினனவுகள் , மனதிற் கு மகிழ் சசி ் னய ெருகிறது… புதுபுதிொய் பல உறவுகள் நினனவுகள் வந்ெ பபாதிலும் , மின் னலின் ஒளியாய் சில தநாடி வந்து தசல் லாமல் , சூரியனின் ஒளியாய் பல பநரம் நின் று நினனவுகனள பகார்ெ்து தநஞ் சில் நிற் கிறது...... என்றும் உன் நினனவுடன் , உன் நண்பர்கள் ..
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SAND
SCULPTURE RVS CARVING CAUVERY
WINNER
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NORTH INDIA TOUR
Now that the tour is over, there’s so much to recall. Starting from the excited faces, waiting in the Chennai Central platform no.2, to the exhausted bodies whose minds only craved for undisturbed sleep. The continuous tiresome but filled with laughter train rides from one city to another was sure to never be forgotten. Throughout the tour, we were carried away with mixed feelings by every new place we moved to. We were mesmerized on seeing the beauty of the different historic buildings and places we stopped by: The beautifully sculpted Elephanta Caves, the magnificent Gateway of India, Isckon temple, Juhu beach, the Queen’s Necklace- Marine drive, Haj Ali Darga and Mahalakshmi temple in Mumbai; NID, the majestic building of IIM, Teen Darwaza, Jammi Masjid, Sardar Vallabbhai Patel Museum, the magnificent Indo-Islam fusion architecture work- Adalaj Step well, Calico Museum, Sabarmati Ashram (so serene!) in Ahmedabad; In Amritsar, the legendary Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border (Seeing the Indian Army walk the parade gave us some real feels of patriotism.); Nek Chand’s creative world of fantasy- Rock garden, Le Corbusier’s most spectacular work- the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh; The tallest brick minaret in the world- Qutub Minar, the majestic Akshardham temple, Parliament complex, India Gate, Red Fort in New Delhi; Akbar’s tomb in Sikandara, the breathtaking Taj! (No wonder it is one of the wonders of the world.), Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri in Agra. With a feeling of excitement, we started (as though we’ve been waiting for this the whole time) and ended as if we’ve accomplished a mission, all tired and drained, also with a feeling of nostalgia even before we’ve actually ended the trip. Soon enough we were on our way back to where we started, Chennai. 82
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CAPITOL COMPLEX
H P E EL
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LOT US
TA J
TE A G A I IND
IKRI FATEHPUR S
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STEP WELL
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BATCH 2016- 21
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BATCH 2015- 20
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BATCH 2014- 19
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BATCH 2013- 18
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BATCH 2012 - 17
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MEMORY
ZONE
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ALUMNI MEET
2014 - 2015
2015 - 2016
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WITH BEST COMPLIMENTS FROM A. Palanivelu
Landscape Studio Landscape Architects,Horticulturist,Ecologist Surya-Rathna Avenue, 51/25, Richmond Road, Bangalore-560025, India Ph: 080 25584898, 080 25584819 Email: pstudio77@yahoo.co.in
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SPONSOR
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Art by -M. Harish Batch 2015-2020
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