The Urban Kund

Faculty of Architecture AR3017 Monsoon 2021

Gummadavelly Hamsika

Realising Nolli’s Dream: Embedding Architecture in the City Sachin Soni

Jury Citation The project explores how an infrastructural project like a metro station can be deeply integrated in the city fabric. It asks if such an infrastructure can become something more than just a functional amenity. The proposal takes the form of a kund, an attractor, and a powerful signifier, a form simultaneously both modern and ancient, resonating with memories…. In this kund people and trains flow at its base. The spatial qualities of the sectional strategy are evocative and of particular note.

Design Description The project aims to extend access from the private to public realm by creating a conducive environment both in terms of physically, physiologically and by removing barriers like safety and lesser opportunities. Thus encouraging all age groups to be a part of the the public realm.

Inspired from Nolli’s Map of Rome, the design intervention looked at how infrastructure like a metro station be deeply embedded in the city fabric. Can infrastructure become something more than just a functional amenity? Can it break the gender barriers existing in the city? The upcoming metro station in the city is seen as an opportunity and a way to un-gender Gheekanta’s prescient and create a diverse neighborhood. The project aims to extend access from the private to public realm by creating a conducive environment both in terms of physically, physiologically and by removing barriers like safety and lesser opportunities.Metro becoming a gateway for one to fulfill their dreams, gain confidence and be a part in the society.

Fig.2 Sectional Isometric— Showing leisure happening at various scales in the project

Fig.3 Sections— Cascading effect brings more visual connectivity and enhances the idea of eyes on the street through volumetric connections

Fig.5 Wall Section— Details developed enhancing the idea of active edge and safety for everyone.