" JEWEL OF WEST INDIA"
AREAGUJARAT
ARCHITECTURE OF GUJARAT - BLEND OF CULTURAL HERITAGE + ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTATION
Gujarat draws its name from the Gurjara (supposedly a subtribe of the Huns)
LOCATION -
Gujarat is a picturesque region located in the west part of the Indian subcontinent.
Area of 196,024 square km. . The topography of Gujarat is mostly Flat and undulating.
CLIMATE -
Gujarat's climate encompasses an arid to semi-arid landscape. Cyclones occasionally affect the coast in April and October.
.
PEOPLE AND TRIBES -
The Gujarat region is home to numerous large tribes, including the 1. Siddis 2. Rabari 3.
8. Warlis 9. Kukanas 10. Garasia
Team members:
ACHAL.K DRISHTI.A FARIA.S NIDHI.G SAMIKSHA.T SEJAL.M SHRUTI.A YASHASHWI.T
Bhils 4. Ahir 5. Bharwad 6. Bamcha 7. Dangi
GUJRAT
Team Members
ACHALKOHALE DRISHTIASWANI
Introduction
VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE
Gujarat's vernacular architecture is a blend of cultural heritage and environmental adaptation.
Rooted in the state's diverse traditions and shaped by its arid climate. the architecture reflects ingenious solutions to the challenges of water scarcity and extreme temperatures.
From step-wells to intricately designed havelis and pol houses, these structures
OCCUPATION
The state has a strong industrial base, including sectors like textiles, chemicals, petrochemicals, engineering, and pharmaceuticals.
Agriculture is a significant occupation, with crops like cotton, groundnuts, and
CULTURE AND TRADITION
WHY GUJARAT IS KNOWN AS "JEWEL OF THE WEST"?
Gujarat is often dubbed the "Jewel of the West" in terms of cultural heritage, economic significance, and geographical diversity. Gujarat's coastal beauty along the Arabian Sea and its significant role in trade and commerce make it a jewel in western India. The state's vibrant festivals, intricate architecture, and thriving industries contribute to its sparkling reputation as a captivating and dynamic destination.
CULTURE AND TRADITION INFLUENCE
POL HOUSE
chabutras for bird feeding
otla for community gatherings
weddings can be held in the havelis of Surat
mythological stories on the walls of havelis is seen here
Havelis were not just places of residence, but also centers of culture and commerce.
Havelis were often decorated with valuable artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, and carpets.
The havelis were often used to host weddings, festivals, and other important events.
Iranian influence is seen in these type of houses privacy given to women in the bohra house
Stepwells serve as communal meeting points where people gather, engage in conversations and celebrate all the festivities
HAVELI
BOHRA HOUSE
RELIGIOUS INFLUENCE
HINDU INFLUENCE: Design might feature elements such as sacred motifs, sculpture of hindi deities and depiction of mythological stories on the walls & facades of the havelis.
ISLAMIC AESTHETICS: The Islamic architectural elements are visible in many Havelis, particularly in regions with historical Muslim communities.
THE COURTYARD: A primary element for social gathering.
IN Hindu houses religious activities take place in oatlas.
PARASAL: The space around the verandah where swings are hung in the Hindu houses as the swing represents the presence of Lord Krishna in the house as the Gujarati are WELL-KNOWN devotees of Lord Krishna.
STEPWELLS: In Gujarat have been influenced by a variety of religious traditions, reflecting the region's rich cultural diversity and history.
JAIN INFLUENCE: Jain havelis often include intricate carvings of Jain Tirthankaras, temples, and symbols.
CHABUTRA: bird feeder of stone or wooden Tower with an aesthetic canopy feeding BIRDS, known as the greatest religious aspect of the Hindu religion.
SETTLEMENT PATTERN OF THE GUJARAT
NORTH GUJARAT
RARE WINDOWSLINEAR ARRANGEMENT OF ROW HOUSES THICK WALL
MAIN ENTRANCE- GATE COMMON OPEN SPACE ARRANGEMENT OF DWELLING CALLED KHADKI STREET WITH GATE CALLED POL.
360 POLS IN GUJARAT.
OPEN SPACES TERMED AS STREET REAR WALL.
COMMON PARTY WALL
ROW HOUSE CONNECTED TO REAR WALL.
TYPES OF HOUSES CLUSTER
HAVELIS -URBAM POL HOUSES - RURAL
as family grows, new house in khadki.
otlo- verandah
parsal- central space ordo- privacy with doorsi, hearthspace.
chowk- courtyard khadki- stranger to sit.
osari/ reveshi- rear verandah PLAN OF
SETTLEMENT PATTERN OF THE GUJARAT
SAURASHTRA SOUTH GUJARAT
CLUSTER PLANNING
SCHEMATIC
Modification in houses termed a Traditional vohra houses are sim
Extremely deep plots WITH BAC
Deep khadki rooms in the reaar
The main room for the visitors w
Separate staircase for women t
Front hall has its own staircase.
Entrance of house called portic level.
Baharni parsal known as extern Adarni known as internal portic
Ordo means family room which life.
SETTLEMENT PATTERN
LARGEST ETHICS GROUP OF KOLIS. AGRICULTURISTS.
DWELLINGS ARE JOINT TOGETHER. FORM- DEEP RECTANGLE, SUITABLE FOR ROW HOUSING.
PARALLEL PLACING OF HOUSES.
STRUCTURAL VIEW
WOODEN COLUMS, EXTERNAL WALL MADE UP OF WATTLE AND PALM.LOFT USED AS ASTORAGE.
ISOMETRIC VIEW
OFF CENTERED ENTRANCE DOOR
CATTLE STABLE AT THE CENTRE OF HOUSE PLAN.
URBAN- HOUSE PLAN
RURAL - HOUSE PLAN
TRIBES
BHARWAD HOUSES/HUTS
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A TRIBAL MUSEUM IN GUJARAT?
LIMITATION: This museum will mainly focus on tribal freedom fighters of the nation and culture of the state tribes.
Gujarat has over a twenty different tribal community, in order that display houses prototype like tribal habitat of the site surrounding major tribal groups. 1.7 METHODOLOGY1
THESE TRIBES HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE RICH TAPESTRY OF GUJARAT'S
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH THEIR TRADITIONAL DWELLINGS, CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND ARTISTIC EXPRESSIONS.
Bharwad: The Bharwad community is known for their animal husbandry practices, particularly sheep and goats. Their architecture reflects their pastoral lifestyle, with dwellings often made from locally available materials such as mud and thatch. Circular huts are common among the Bharwads, providing an efficient use of space and materials.
Garasia: primarily resides in the districts of Sabarkantha and Panchmahal. Their architectural style is characterized by unique thatched-roof huts with conical roofs. These huts are often made using bamboo, wood, and thatch, providing thermal insulation and protection from the elements. The Garasias are also known for their skill in creating intricate bamboo and cane craft.
Koli: primarily engaged in fishing, has influenced the coastal architecture of Gujarat. Their houses are often built on stilts to protect against flooding during monsoons and to store boats beneath. The use of wood, bamboo, and palm leaves is prevalent in Koli architecture, which is designed to withstand the coastal climate.
GARASIA HANDMADE TORAN
KOLI HOUSES /HUTS
KOLI TRIBE
Bhils: largest tribal communities. known for their intricate craftsmanship and use of natural materials in their architecture. Their houses are typically made from locally available materials like wood, bamboo, thatch, and mud. These traditional dwellings are designed to withstand the region's climate and are often adapted to hilly terrains. Bhil architecture emphasizes functionality, simplicity, and harmony with nature.
Rabari: known for its nomadic lifestyle and distinctive architecture. Rabari dwellings are often circular or rectangular huts made from materials like mud, thatch, and wood. Their architecture reflects their need for mobility, and their settlements are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled as they move with their herds.
Siddi: descended from African migrants and has a distinct cultural identity. While not indigenous to Gujarat, the Siddis have lived in the state for centuries and have influenced local culture. Their architecture may incorporate African and Indian elements, creating a fusion style. They have their own unique dwellings, often using stone, wood, and thatch, reflecting their adaptation to the coastal environment.
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
three earth-based construction methods were being practiced in different regions in Gujarat.
Cob construction
Adobe construction
Wattle-and-daub construction
COB CONSTRUCTION
PRACTICED BY OAD-A-NOMADIC COMMUNITY IN NORTH GUJARAT REGION
Earthquake resistant Use of wood in reinforcement, Large flat bricks, wall orientation, stone base for doors and several materials Features of structural integrity
Cob construction which uses only earth is most common in those areas that had soil suitable for construction.
it is increasingly becoming a non-practiced method of construction.
Cob houses usually have tiled sloping roof with a wooden under structure.
small- single room houses as well as large houses with courtyards some of which were even two to three storeys high
structural integrity HELPS to distribute load among the structural elements and transmit force to the foundation in a simple and effective way.
ADOBE CONSTRUCTION, WHICH IS VERY SIMILAR TO BRICK OR STONE CONSTRUCTION , WAS TRADITIONALLY BEING PRACTICED IN AREAS WHERE THE
ADOBE CONSTRUCTION
seen in a few areas near Nal Sarovar in Bhal and in Kutch
The advantage of using adobe blocks over other earthen construction is that the water source need not be very close to the construction site; hence, adobe construction was used in the areas where sweet water was scarcely available.
The presence of mann and biladuwooden elements for conical roofs
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
WATTLE-AND-DAUB CONSTRUCTION
Wattle and Daub construction is most commonly seen in regions where in addition to suitable oil, timber or bamboo for construction is easily available
Many houses in tribal areas of east and south Gujarat have been utilising wattle and daub construction
Use of local trees like teak, mango, neem as well as bamboo is very common in construction
Wattle and daub is easier to construct and does not require much specialised skills. Also, a greater flexibility is possible due to the frame structure. Moreover, a variety in size, position of openings as well as type of spaces can be produced with ease
MATERIALS
1.STONES
Foundations:
Stones are used for building foundations, ensuring that structures are stable and durable.
Columns: Stone pillars and columns support the structural integrity of buildings and often feature intricate carvings.
Walls and Facades: Stone is used for constructing the exterior and interior walls of buildings, providing stability and endurance.
Decorative Carvings: Intricate carvings of religious motifs, mythological scenes, and geometric patterns adorn walls and surfaces.
Steps and Staircases: In dwellings, stepwells and other structures, stone is used for creating steps and staircases.
Platforms and Landings: Stone platforms and landings provide resting places in step windows and courtyards.
C g y used for flooring, walls, and roofs, acting as an insulating and antimicrobial material.
mixed with mortar is used for waterproofing and strengthening walls. JAGGERY particularly in step-wells and water-related structures.
2. COW DUNG:
3. JAGGERY AND LIME:
Adobe Bricks:
bricks MADE UP OF CLAY, used for constructing walls. These bricks are often sun-dried and provide natural insulation.
Plastering:
MIXTURE OF WATER AND CLAY applied to walls and surfaces. This plaster offers protection against moisture, regulates temperature.
Roofing:
Clay tiles or thatch are used for roofing.
These materials help keep interiors cool and provi from the sun and rain.
Decorative decorative MADE OF CL adding a tra touch to do windows, a architectur features.
CLIMATE
Gujarat's climate encompasses an id t i id l d
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
Hot and dry summers reaching over 40°C
AVERAGE PRECIPITATION
Monsoon season from June to September
Low annual rainfall
Coastal areas- higher humidity
4. Ventilation:
well-placed openings, jalis, and courtyards encourage natural airflow, allowing cool air to circulate within buildings.
7. EARTHQUAKE RESILIENCE: GUJARAT'S SEISMIC ACTIVITY HAS INFLUENCED ARCHITECTURE TO INCORPORATE EARTHQUAKE-RESISTANT FEATURES, SUCH AS FLEXIBLE STRUCTURES AND TECHNIQUES THAT REDUCE DAMAGE DURING TREMORS.
CIRCULAR SHAPE
The circular shape prevents against lateral forces of earthquakes. also, shape does not obstruct the wind movements which helps in cyclones and sandstorms
8. CLIMATE-RESPONSIVE ELEMENTS: ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES LIKE JAALIS AND CHAJJAS HELP CONTROL THE AMOUNT OF SUNLIGHT ENTERING BUILDINGS, PREVENTING OVERHEATING AND GLARE.
SYMBOLISM
Intricate carvings, motifs and layout designs often convey cultural, religious and historical aspects.
The use of local materials and sustainable design reflects the connection to the environment.
LOTUS MOTIFS Purity and Enlightenment
VIBRANT COLORS Diverse Traditions and Influences
SCULPTURALS REPRESENTATIONS OF SUN TEMPLE
SHIVALANGA FOR MAKING HOUSE PAVITRA
ORNATE INTERIORS OF BOHRA HOUSES
STEPWELLS SHOWCASE GEOMETRICAL PATTERNS, HARMONY AND IMPORTANCE OF WATER
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS
POL HOUSES (AHMEDABAD)
Spatial efficiency: (fficient land use and minimises ecological footprint
Green spaces: absorbS rainwater, reduce heat, improve air quality.
Passive cooling and ventilation: allows cross ventilation, helps cooling down interior spaces naturally.
natural light optimization: central central courtyard and strategically placed windows
Thermal mass: Wood,Brick,stone(absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, helping to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption).
Rainwater harvesting: roof and courtyard direct rainwater to storage tanks
Shades and privacy: narrow streets and closely spaced building provide shade to reduce urban heat island effect and creating comfortable outdoor spaces for residents.
MATERIAL SELECTION
SIDHPUR GUJARAT
Water management: storage tanks are used to collect and store rainwater during monsoon season.
Local material: reduces carbon footprint associated with transportation and promotes sustainable resource use.
Adapting to modern needs: incorporating energy-efficient technologies like solar panels and improved insulations.
climate adaptation: Features like:
Thick walls
Shaded courtyard
Ventilation techniques
Regulate indoor temperatures.
THUS ENERGY EFFICIENCY: GOOD INSULATION, EFFICIENT LIGHTING, AND USE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES .
HAVELIS
Passive Cooling: courtyards, intricate jali (lattice) screens, and shaded verandas that promote natural
STEP WELLS
Water Conservation: efficient water harvesting and storage systems, recharge groundwater . cooling Effect
Community Spaces: providing spaces for social interaction, religious activities, and cultural events. These spaces reduced the need for constructing separate community centers, saving resources and space.
architectural Adaptation: intricate carvings, perforated screens, and other architectural elements in stepwells allowed for proper ventilation and the diffusion of natural light. This reduced the reliance on artificial lighting and ventilation systems.
Local Materials: stone and wood. This reduced the ecological impact associated with THE transportation of materials and contributed to the sustainability of THE construction
KUTCH
JUNAGADH
PALANPUR
PORBANDAR AHEMDABAD