'Beyond the walls' city- Urban insert master plan

PORTFOLIO

Disclaimer

The information presented in this portfolio has been studied and collected by author as a part of Master Plan Studio, Faculty of Planning, CEPT University.

Acknowledgment

I would like to thank my faculty members, Brijesh Bhata and Vipuja parmar who encouraged me to do better work week by week. A special thanks to all my friends and fellow students who always motivated and helped me through their valuable discussions.

Studio Brief

Studio: UD4001 Master Plan Studio – Unit 1

Studio Mentor: Brijesh Bhatha

Studio Tutor : Vanishree Herlerkar

Teaching Associate: Jugal Bhatt

The studio focuses on the master planning and design of single-ownership large Greenfield developments/ cleared brown-field development with a key emphasis on the design of livable neighborhoods.

In the past few years, there has been increasing attention to redeveloping vacant and inefficiently used public land within cities to add muchneeded housing, amenities, and an accessible and inclusive public realm.

The Ministry of Defense is the largest landowning public authority in the country, with 17.3 Lakh acres of land under its ownership. The studio unit makes a case for opening up part of the under-utilized defense land along the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad for redevelopment. This is aligned to the new National Defense Land Policy currently under consideration that encourages the development of surplus defense lands outside Cantonments for public infrastructure and improvements.

The strategic location of the Ahmedabad Cantonment site close to the airport and abutting the riverfront phase 2 provides a unique opportunity to imagine future waterfront developments and to trigger further investments in the area.

Studio Brief

1 3 4 5 6

Introduction

1.1 Background

1.2 Site contextualization

1.3 Existing site condition

1.4 Key takeaways

2

Case study

2.1 Background

2.2 Master plan

2.3 Design strategies

2.4 Key learnings

Master plan development

3.1 what do people want?

3.2 Master plan

3.3 Objectives & strategies

Master plan framework

4.1 Evolution of master plan

4.2 Movement pattern

4.3 Delineating develop-able parcel and open space 4.4Curating public open space along districts

4.5 Delayering the master plan

4.6 Integrated master plan

Deciphering the urban block

5.1Central Business Hub

5.2 Residential Block

Conclusion

6.1 Is this project feasible?

6.2 Phasing of the project

Summary

This chapter provides information about the chosen site and project. It establishes the premise before delving into the specifics of the projects. This section describes current policy, site conditions, and project assumptions.

In India ‘Ministry of Defence’ is a largest landowner in the entire country. There are 62 notified cantonment all over the country which owns up a total of 17.57 lakh acres of land. Out of the total defence land, only 1.63 lakh acres is utilized by cantonment while the rest of 15.95 lakh acres land lies outside the cantonment. Defence cantonments when planned, were on the outskirts of cities, but with growing urbanization, these areas have now become part of the cities.

The Ministry of Defence also owns land around und these cantonments not used for military uses. This underutilized land in midst of the city offers an opportunity for development and cater to the rising housing demand along with providing much needed social and recreational public amenities for the city.

Notified Cantonment

Defense land is not being efficiently utilized for cantonment purpose

Sq km

Defense land (Ahmedabad)

2.2Sq km

Outside Cantonment area (Ahmedabad)

The case of Ahmedabad is also similar. Earlier, defence land was located outside cities; however, with growth in urbanization and expanding of city areas, defense land is now part of city administrative boundaries. But still marked as void in the development plan of ahmedabad. This restricts the opportunities of development on defense land.

Despite the locational advantage and higher land values, Defense land is a void in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad

New defense Land Policy creates opportunity to open up land for redevelopment

In 2021, Government of India approved a new defense land policy -almost after 250 years - that will significantly change the way defense land is managed at present. This policy will significantly change the way defence land is managed till now. The new policy encourages development and use of defence-owned land and cantonment zones as opposed to the earlier restrictions. Many states have started taking initiatives like amc signs an Mou with cant board. This policy will create equal value infrastructure (EVI) in exchange for allowing the use of properties for public projects or other non-military purposes. It will help in setting up key public amenities in accessible locations and benefit citizens at large.

Ahmedabad cantonment serves as a military base and residential establishment. It has its own infrastructure and self-sustained development. The total area 4.0sqkm which is divided into various zones where A is reserved exclusively for army while the B1, B2 & B3 zones are free land for development. However, after the introduction of defence policy this underutilized land offers an opportunity to create new housing stock and provide the social and recreational public amenities for the city.

Land other than Restricted zone (A1) is Available for redevelopment

Delayering Defence land

Site Contextualization

The Proximity of the site to significant city-level infrastructure makes the land highly accessible and valuable.

The site is located within a 5-kilometer radius of city centers. It is a 0.95 sq km linear site that shares one edge with the Sabarmati River and the other with the Cantonment A1 zone. The Airport Road, which connects the city to the airport, runs through the site. A 1.65km long promenade, which is a city level public asset, runs along the riverfront road. This edge is a stepped section of the riverfront phase 2 development.

Within a 1km radius, there are major transit hubs such as Sabarmati railway station, AEC metro station, Airport, and the upcoming Bullet train and multi-modal hub. This makes it an ideal location for development. Due to airport’s proximity, there is a 42m height restriction (14floors).

It is close to major national-level public assets such as Motera Stadium and Sabarmati Ashram, which draw a large number of visitors to the city, as well as city-level public assets such as Camp Hanuman Temple and Riverfront Promenade.

Existing Site Condition

Physical features provide cues for site development indicating the need for resilient design approach.

As the site is along river, the land is sloping towards west. Northern part is the lowest area (+42m) while south part is highest point (+61) with level difference of 19m.

The site is lower in compare to nearby land with major water streams passing throughout it and merging into river. Hence, it caters to large water catchments with major water stream on north part of the site.

Wild vegetation is need not to be preserved

Wild vegetation

The site will abut the Sabarmati Riverfront Phase 2 which is currently under development. 1.6 KM length of the site will be integrated with the riverfront.

The riverfront phase II development is integrated with site. Phase II emphasizes on Greener development having stepped green multi layered Promenades, excellent Road network, active green Parks, Children’s Play area, Food Plaza, Amphitheaters etc. There is a vehicular bridge proposed in phase II, to connect west ahmedabad to east ahmedabad which passes through the site.

The entire development of the Project is towards Urban Regeneration and Environmental Improvement which will transform the River as a focal point of Leisure and Recreation.The promenade is followed by 30m wide riverfront road then defence land(site). The phase 2 proposal suggests that the level of riverfront road will be same as airport road, hence the site will be artificially leveled.

Unrestricted vacant land is leased out to government or private institutions to generate revenue. But these existing housing and settlements are in dilapidated condition which requires the need of redevelopment in near future. This will provide better living condition for 918 residents. Also, due to negligence of some parcel they have been encroached thereby not utilizing the potential of the site.

Site offers opportunity to redevelop older housing and informal settlements currently present on site

Key Takeaways

In a nutshell we can say that the site has all the favorable parameters for development. It lies within the urban limits of the city, well connected with current and upcoming transit network, strategically located along the riverfront etc adding to high valuation of land. Now, with the introduction of defence policy these type of land parcels will witness development all over the country. Ahmedabad being a heritage city with futuristic planning vision as an edge to make it a model for similar development. This project have the potential to act as a catalyst for more brown-field development of Ahmedabad.

Opportunities

• Longer side of the site is along the riverfront edge

• Proposed bridge connecting east-west passes through the site

• Airport road and riverfront road are major thoroughfares

• Underutilized defense land is unlocked for development

Constraints

• Linear site

• Height restrictions due to proximity to the airport

• Cantonment land acting as a barrier due to continuous compound wall

The site can act as a catalyst for future developments thereby refreshing the image of East Ahmedabad

This chapter contains information about the case study . This case study is being studied as a resource to better understand the scope, scale, and design strategies. The case has a similar context, making it appropriate for study.

A Vibrant and Diversity neighborhood: ZiL south redevelopment master plan

Site Location: Moscow, Russia

Zil South is a redevelopment project of the Zil automobile factory, which closed in 2012. The site is in Moscow, along the Moskva River, near the third ring road. This leaves a large 450-hectare site in central Moscow for redevelopment. The 450 hec site is then given to the etalon Developers group to be developed in stages. One of these parts is 113hec ‘Zil south.’ Global open competitions were held to redevelop the defunct brown-field former car factory site into a high-density mix-use residential district. KCAP created one of the winning entries for the ‘Zil South’ master plan.

It is currently an ongoing project that focuses heavily on the concept of active community participation. For this, KCAP collaborated with the Moscow-based company City makers, which launched the media platform ‘generation Zil,’ which enabled participatory design as an early stage of the project. This platform is a public publication for people at all stages of development. The entire project will be implemented in nine phases over a period of 15 years. The first phase of the project is currently under construction and was designed by the Russian architectural firm Buromoscow.

South port

The land is developed in phases- In this case, study is focused on zil south.

Zil South

Zil Art Zil East I land

Transformation of Moscow’s largest brownfield area into a varied urban district

Project Area : 1.13 sq km

Design Teams : KCAP, Citymakers, Buromoscow

Year of Completion : 2020-Ongoing

Built up Area: 1.5 sqkm of Mix use program

Built density/ F.S.I. : 1.5

Target Population : 25,000 inhabitants

Project Type: High-density mix use residential district

The master plan is based on the concept of a 15-minute walkable city, with major commercial, residential, and business spaces all within a 15-minute walk. Two major pedestrian arteries that run east-west and north-south, as well as a network of routes, combine to create an intuitively comprehensive and highly comfortable walking environment. Within 800 meters of the accommodation, there is pedestrian access to shops and other services.

Master plan of ZiL south prepared by KCAP

Source: Kcap website

To promote sustainable mobility, public transportation takes priority over automobiles. Only public transportation is served by a diagonal spine connecting two major highways. The neighborhood’s transportation system is based on the concept of multi modality, with all users having easy access to public transportation from their quarters, resulting in mostly car-free quarters. This creates more active links and alternate modes of transportation, reducing the use of cars and increasing reliance on public transportation systems. To keep the internal roads carfree and to create a pedestrian-friendly environment, the utilitarian road is kept on the outskirts. Finally, there are two bicycle parking spaces and only 0.7 car parking spaces provided for each residential unit to reduce the use of cars.

Active mobility system with 80% dependency on public transport Active

Walking Cycling E-mobility Metro Bus Water Transport Car

Pedestrian Bus

More alternate mode of transport More links Car Metro

Four diverse quarters with unique character and built experience

The built form is divided into four quarters. Each has its own urban typology and distinct areas of interest. The River Quarters are mid-rise, terraced buildings with views of the water on one side and high-rise buildings on the other. They are accessible and linked to the riverfront. The perimeter block formed by mid-rise buildings with vibrant urban villas is known as the Urban Garden. The park quarter is on a more human scale, with plenty of interactive green spaces. The Business Quarters are closed and semi-closed quarters with high-rise buildings near metro stations and transportation links. Each quarter has a distinct spatial and atmospheric environment that is designed to respond to its context, providing users with a diverse built character and a variety of living experiences.

The mix of uses, different typologies, and retrofitted industrial buildings create an urban environment that honors the glorious past while keeping in mind the new dynamic of the modern world and creating a new urban vocabulary in Moscow. By retaining and re imagining some old building structures, the design is inspired by the area’s pre-industrial past. Various iconic buildings and architectural landmarks are strategically placed to enhance the legibility of the urban structure.

Active and accessible public open space that enhances mobility

The site has a population of 25000 people. Various scale public space systems are designed to make it an active, interactive, and healthy environment to cater to their daily recreational and everyday needs. Instead of designing and building shopping malls, a central shopping street is being planned for the area. The ground floor is activated by retail fronts to create an active functional open space that is accessible to all. It houses grocery stores, pharmacies, bakeries, banks, post offices, insurance company offices, cafes, and restaurants. This approach will draw a diverse range of people to these spaces, resulting in a flexible multi functional space that appeals to everyone — young families, students, IT startups, artists, active citizens, retirees, nearby residents, and tourists.

XL. Parks

L. Boulevards & squares

M. Informal green routes

Varied open space character along different districts

Key Learnings

The new ZIL-South neighborhood stands out for its thoughtfully considered balance of residential and public areas, as well as the close proximity of various development and housing styles based on the 15-minute walking rule. Instead of creating an entirely new structure, the concept reinterprets existing spatial patterns to incorporate them into the current framework. It is a situation in which the old industrial zones serve as the primary testing ground for new technologies and standards for urban design, allowing for a new perspective on the city’s growth. Due to its nearly total freedom of action and daring approach, it also transforms the city’s skyline from a townscape to a skyline of skyscrapers. The plan also considers the site’s advantageous location along the banks of the Moskva River and Nagatinsky Zaton, so that any solutions discovered there can be applied to other parts of the city

Population Density

Per capita Open space

22,124 people/sq km-Zil south 28 sqm- Zil South 20,480 people/sq km- Mumbai 1.24 sqkm- Mumbai 4.5 sqkm- Ahmedabad 9,900 people/sq km-Ahmedabad

This chapter discusses the development of the master plan. It contains information about the entire process that led to the master plan. It provides the reader with the logic behind the design decision as well as strategies that aid in the creation of the scheme.

Life is Confined

Need of active open space as part of everyday life

Home

High Density

We have all experienced that our lifestyle is confined within the four walls of home and workplace. These high density urban housing has now become the reality of mordern india, leaving no space for community engagement and recreational. There is no comfortable public space for people to come out of these four walls to interact and play.

Workplace

Disconnect

Respite From Urban hustle

This is the similar case of east ahmedabad where there highly dense urban fabric with very less everyday open space. Although there are celebrated city-level open spaces but they are fragmented and require conscious effort to visit the space as they are not part of everyday life. It requires more travel time to reach and experience these spaces. On the other hand neighborhood parks are less in number and are mostly inaccessible and have time restriction Hence, there is a clear disconnect between people and open spaces this raises the question...

What do people actually want?

They want respite from this urban hustle. An urban environment which is safe, sustainable and healthy.

Mere active everyday open space in the city

Project Intent

To envision an urban environment that promotes ‘Outdoor Living’ as an integral part of everyday life. It aims to refresh the image of East Ahmedabad by creating

High-density

along the green spaces and a new destination for the city

The idea is to create an unrestricted urban environment where people can access the green with ease and as a part daily. These green spaces will serve to the major interaction space for the community. This will provide the opportunity to explore interactive indoor-outdoor spaces and extending the life beyond four walls by blurring the boundaries.

‘Beyond the walls’ City

Design Objectives

How do we achieve it ?

A B

Integrating Ecology to create a climate-responsive and resilient physical environment that is comfortable for users.

Creating Destination for the ahmedabad by leveraging the existing

the city that refresh the image of east existing riverfront.

Connecting East-West transit network at the city level to promote pedestrian and NMT mobility.

Globalization is causing a change in Ahmedabad’s climate. During the monsoon season, there are frequently reports of extremely heavy rainfall in the city, which causes significant water clogging problems. An ecologically integrated greenblue network will offer a comprehensive and systematic approach to the issue of water clogging in and around the

site during the monsoon season. This will be a long-term sustainable strategy for resiliency in the area, and it will serve as the foundation for the design of green spaces both inside and outside the site.

1. Natural slopes and watershed patterns are studied. The main flow passes through the north and center part of site.

2. Around the cantonment area, a number of low lying water holding areas are identified to hold water at each level. To accommodate the heavy water flow around the monsoon, the largest water holding area is proposed in the north.

ATo integrate existing ecological framework in the planning of green spaces.

3. A connected green-blue network is made to take cues from the natural topography. This will enable the distribution of water throughout the site by connecting various water holding areas.

4. Ultimately, the water holding areas are connected to city level mechanized system that runs along riverfront and designed as part of infrastructure in riverfront phase II development.

Ahmedabad

city.

The site is situated on prime riverfront land in east Ahmedabad. There is an airport and a multi-modal hub within a one-kilometer radius of the site. The site is the first point of contact for anyone arriving from the airport. This provides an opportunity to change the skyline and re brand the city’s image.

BTo refresh the image of east

by creating a new destination for

The site is strategically located, with land ready for redevelopment on both sides of the river. The Naroda road, which connects the city to the industrial area, runs through the east of the site. While the 132-foot road is located on the opposite west side of the site. A vehicular bridge has been proposed as part of the phase II riverfront project. As a result, the site offers the opportunity to design a network that can connect these two major roads.

There are also major national and city-level public spaces nearby, such as Narendra Modi Stadium, Camp Hanuman Temple, Sabarmati Ashram, and others, which draw a large number of visitors. With the development of riverfront phase II, both riverfront edges will be developed as stepped promenades that will serve as everyday public open space. The site’s proximity to these public assets provides an opportunity to leverage them. Because these public spaces are not connected, there is a possibility of a pedestrian and NMT circuit connecting them.

The location is 5 kilometers from the old city core, which is known for its diverse culture, food, and markets. The old city, on the other hand, gives the impression of dense urban clutter. It has a high density of residents who live in densely packed midrise buildings. Because this scale of development

will be the first of its kind in east Ahmedabad, it will have the opportunity to celebrate traditional culture by imbibing its core and creating a fusion of modern and traditional urban spaces and experiences.

All of this adds up to make this a prime piece of land with the potential to become the new central business district of east Ahmedabad, revitalizing its image away from urban sprawl. The CBD can be planned in the center of the site, at the intersection of public open space and the transit network, due to its strategic location.

This district will serve as a magnet for both visitors and city residents. The CBD can serve as the “gateway to the city,” giving visitors their first impression of modern Ahmedabad. This will be the primary focus of the development, serving as a catalyst for future development in Ahmadabad’s east.

CTo connect east-west transit network by promoting pedestrian and NMT mobility.

The site is located on east bank of river as a part of defence land which is ready for redevelopment while on the west bank of river, torrent power plant is located. As the city expands the plant has now become the part of city but due to its hazardous impact on inhabitants living nearby, it has will be shifted to the outskirts in near future. This opens up the possibility of redevelopment on the opposite bank and provides opportunity to connect east city to west city. Also, there is an upcoming multi-modal hub on west side.

Hence, There is an opportunity to promote pedestrian movement across river, connecting multi-modal hub to airport and cantonment to riverfront. Also, creating a public realm that extends from hanuman temple to east riverfront through site and further connecting it to the west riverfront and the city. In order to achieve it, two strategies are adapted. The first is creating an airport underpass to connect cantonment land site, and second is to propose a pedestrian bridge connecting site to torrent site in west ahmedabad.

the opportunity to create a pedestrian-friendly realm connecting the cantonment land to the site and east riverfront.

Further to extend the pedestrian movement across river, a pedestrian bridge is proposed that will connect people across west and east. It will act as a major link between city- level transit network, connecting sabarmati railway station, bullet train and metro to the Ahmedabad airport. This bridge is proposed 1km away from proposed vehicular bridge (phase II riverfront) which will divide traffic and provide shortcut for commuters. It will be integrated as a part of metro multi-modal integration. Future residents of this new community will directly be able to connect to AEC metro station located on north- south metro corridor.

Hence, These strategies will promote pedestrian movement by providing priority to pedestrians thus, reducing the vehicular traffic.

The airport road is a major thoroughfare that runs through the east side of the site, dividing the cantonment land into two sections. Since it is the only city-level connection to the airport, it is prone to accidents and is unfriendly to pedestrians. Hence, an underpass is proposed to carry vehicular traffic at a lower grade while also providing

Airport Road Underpass

Airport road is a high-speed, accident-prone thoroughfare.

Separate grade for pedestrian and vehicular movement

Pedestrian Bridge

Pedestrian bridge to connect site with west ahmedabad.

Airport Road Under-pass

This chapter describes the master plan in detail. It includes information on how this master plan evolved. It significantly delayers the site’s development through network, districts, built type, and massing, eventually leading to the developed plan details.

Evolution of Master Plan

These goals and strategies serve as the framework for the master plan.

Combining all these three strategies serves as the basis to formulate the framework for master plan. The central business district(CBD) is designed at the center of the site connecting Camp hanuman to multi-modal hub through pedestrian. A connected green-blue network is planned on either side of the site extending beyond the site onto defence land. The network accommodate artificial perennial lake, and seasonal wetlands at multiple locations.

Stage 1

Integrating ecology

Creating destination

Connecting east-west

Stage 2 Stage 3

Integrating street network

The road network then leads to these greens, which not only creates a robust network but also allows the water to drain into the greens.

Delineating Blocks

Development parcels are identified and built fabric then responding to the system of open space and infrastructure.

Stage 4

Curating open spaces

Strategically planning green-blue network to accommodate neighborhood requirement engulfing the water bodies.

Movement pattern

The street network is integrated with the existing network via a green-blue corridor.

The main airport road, as a major thoroughfare, serves as a connector to a larger context that supports commercial activities. The riverfront road is a pedestrian-friendly street. The secondary 18m central spine street supports a green-blue network that incorporates the community’s public amenities. The local streets are calmer and have slower traffic. Residents and visitors are encouraged to use the integrated NMT network and pedestrian while commuting across blocks.

30m wide Airport road being major thoroughfare acts as a connector to larger context supporting commercial activities.

30m wide Riverfront road is slow traffic moving street catering as prime street to access the site.

Linking the arterial roads with sub arterial road to connect to regional network.

Local roads leading the traffic from sub-arterial to each parcel.

Pedestrian street branches from Green corridor to provide access to riverfront promenade.

A hierarchy of internal street network is laid to break down blocks into walkable sizes of 150m X 200m and to provide vehicular access to each parcel. The green blue network binds together majority of the shared public spaces which are soft scape in nature. The hard paved plaza are mostly placed along the central spine road catering to the active and everyday neighborhood amenities. The parcels are fragmented along variety of open spaces imparting varied character and value to the parcel.

Curating Public Open Space along Districts

Out of the total 65 percent open space, 31 percent is part of a robust network and private circulation. The remaining 34% is designated open space that can be used for a variety of activities. 15% of open space is in the public domain. It is well integrated with a develop-able parcel, with pedestrian bridges connecting it to city level open space, i.e. the riverfront. The open spaces have a distinct personality that responds with the adjacent built form.

The plan is divided into three sections: the Central Business District, the Residential District, and the Lake District. The central business district surrounds the central square, which houses high-end commercial, restaurants, and offices. It is a city-level plaza with modern amenities and serves as a cultural hub. The residential district extended from the riverfront road to the cantonment area. The biodiversity park in the center is a more tranquil area with neighborhood amenities and green-scape. The central business district and existing schools are paralleled by sports facilities and an entertainment park. Green lawns with water bodies provide neighborhood-scale open space for relaxation and meditation. Lake district is located along an artificial lake and includes a public plaza and a club house.

Districts

Central business district Residential District Lake district

Active and Engaging public open space with integration of NMT network interconnecting districts

Artificial lake with public plaza and club house

Biodiversity park with neighborhood amenities

Sports facilities with open gym and park

Entertainment park with food Kiosks

Green lawns for relaxing and meditation

Getting Around the Streets- Delayering

the master plan

Along Airport Road

High-rise buildings along major arterial streets give the development a distinctive edge. It has an active commercial edge with service or residential apartments. The central section caters to low-rise urban quarters with a calmer and living-along-greens experience. Riverfront Road has an active pedestrian edge, with a promenade catering to pop-up kiosks and other people-engaged activities.

The response to the central spine road varies depending on the type of open space present. The lake district has high rise service apartments at the edge and calmer residential societies along the lake due to its proximity to the city and access to airport. The residential district includes a highrise podium tower with an active ground floor along the airport, as well as apartments overlooking the river. The affordable housing is kept in the rear, close to the green spine and riverfront. As a result, the built character along the street has distinct districts that provide distinct and unique character.

High rise podium typology with commercial at podium level and service apartments in towers forming the block’s edge. For commuters passing through the underpass, the iconic towers provide cues of the central business district. The landmark structures serves as the development’s entry/exit point.

Affordable housing is planned for the rear end, with a G+13 high-rise tower overlooking the center’s private open space. An existing school has been redeveloped and linked to the NMT route for easier block access.

Built character along each street offers diverse and unique experiences.

Mix use Towers (G+13)

Iconic Towers (G+13)

Residential Towers (G+13)

Affordable Housing (G+13)

Redeveloped school

Along Riverfront Road

Along Central Spine Road

Iconic towers at the ends announce entry/exit for commuters, while the central business district, with its architecturally unique high-rise podium structure, serves as a pause point for commuters.

Premium apartments along an artificial lake and green lawns connect to the riverfront. These are high-rise apartments that form the edge of open space.

River quarters consists of G+9 towers overlooking the river and G+4 low-rise buildings with terrace gardens. Pedestrian streets branch off the green spine to connect to the riverfront.

Low-rise urban quarters overlooking an ecological corridor, with a variety of scale and activity types and a connected NMT network. High-rise apartments between the river quarter and the ecological corridor have views of the river as well as the greens.

Central Business District (G+13)

Iconic Towers (G+13)

Iconic Towers (G+13)

River quarters (G+9: 4)

Access to riverfront

Lake District (G+13; 9)

Green Quarters (G+13)

Urban Quarters (G+9 ; 4)

Outdoor Living Community

Integrated Master Plan

ACentral Business Hub: Destination hub serving as a major economic generator. It contains retail, restaurants, and offices along central plaza catering to various public gathering spaces.

Residential District: It has layers from river to the cantonment edge having distinct quarters along the transect.

River quarters- Premium residential block with high rise towers at rear side and mid rise towers in front, facing the river with overlooking terrace garden. Urban quarters- Low rise apartment along ecological corridor and recreational areas Mix use towers- high rise residential towers with active podium along airport road.

Affordable quarters- High rise apartments with private open in center.

Lake District: : An artificial lake serving as a major water hold for the development. Residential buildings surround the lake and public plaza. Mix use towers forms the edge of the block.

DIntegrated ecological corridor: The site is a water catchment area for the surrounding area hence, an integrated green-blue network is proposed. This corridor is a prime public open space with its proximity to social infrastructure and public amenities.

Legend

Water body

Private open space

Public open space

Plaza

Paved area

Shared Street

Walkway trails

NMT/ Pedestrian routes

This chapter contains detailed information about two urban blocks: the Central Business District and the Residential District. Delayer it in terms of built-in use, form, built-in open interface, guidelines, and distinct view.

Central Business District

Evolution of central district

Access and Delineation

The block is located at the prime location near hanuman temple and opposite to multi-modal hub. Due to underpass the we are able to get unhindered public realm that has the potential to be developed as central business district. It is a major anchor point of the site inviting the city to east ahmedabad. The idea is to uplift the image of east ahmedabad by planning a high end commercial block having market streets and cultural activities. The central square is developed as public open space whose amenities and spaces are shared by users.

The block also has common basement to take care of the users and visitors parking making the mix street around more pedestrian friendly. The pedestrian access to the block is either from mix street or riverfront. Vehicular access is directly yo basement either from airport underpass or mix street. This ensure that plaza is fully pedestrianized with no vehicular access.

Podium typology towers separate the active public realm with office towers. The connected podium facilitate movement within the block and further connecting it bridge and across the river. The direct connectivity of multi-modal hub to podium level will promote the use of public transport for commuting to workspace.

AirportRoad

RiverfrontRoad

1. The block extends from riverfront promenade to camp hanuman temple. It can be accessed from airport road and riverfront road.

2. Access from all four sides with ramp to basement parking from side streets. Parcels are delineated leaving the access and central square.

Camp Hanuman Temple

Riverfront Promenade

Plaza entry

Hierarchy of open space Edge and Massing

3. The edge of the block is formed by mix use street followed by porous edge of residential apartments allowing then movement all around the community.

5. Central plaza is designed as interactive public open space catering to multiple activities.

4. Built to edge podium typology tower with G+3 as retail, restaurants and entertainment use while the tower has offices and non retail commercial.

6. Connected podium level with sky walk allow people to freely move around the district. It also create a separate public and semi public realm.

Built form guidelines:

• Build to edge building with active commercial front opening onto plaza or mix street.

• The maximum height allowed is 42m with G+3 Build to edge podium.

• There has to be minimum step back of 6m if given.

• All the podium level needs to connected with 4m wide sky-walk way.

• Permissible build use is retail commercial up to podium; office and non retail commercial above G+3

• The podium can be used for dining, sit outs or any other recreational purpose.

Street guidelines:

The 18m mix street around the district is intended to act as a public space. Hence, the street is at same level with 5m wide walkway along commercial edge and 2m wide dedicated walkway on residential edge. Rest 12m wide street is treated as shared space with both pedestrian and vehicular movement. In the center there is a 3m wide multi-utility zone that can cater to seating, kiosks, drop off points and cycle stands.

30m

Builttoedge

12m (G+3) >6m

18m Wide sheared street section Typical built form guidelines

A space for architects for creative design and change the skyline of ahmedabad

Central business hub acting as a new destination for the city

Central business hub is a special district that serves as a catalyst for development. It is a major anchor with active retail ground floor along public plaza, podium level connected with sky-walks extending to pedestrian bridge. The podium level serves as an open space for office users, with cafe and restaurant seating.

The central district will be the first and one of its kind in ahmedabad. Hence, it provides an opportunity for architects to design unique symbolic building. This will mark the district on the map of ahmedabad and becoming a go to destination place. The central square is a also ahmedabad first large scale public realm with mix of commercial and leisure activities.

Active podium level having Public plaza, Office recreational space and overlooking deck.

Active retail front with pedestrian walkway and green buffer

Side entrance to the plaza

Central square have space to accommodate multiple activities

Sky-walks connecting podium level public realm

Foot wet water trail runs through the plaza with pedestrian crossover

Residential District

Delineating of urban block from residential districts

The district size of 300m X 400m is divided by streets into develop-able parcel of 250m perimeter block. The green-blue corridor is delineated as a desperate parcel to developed by developer. These parcels can either be developed as one or can be further divided into sale-able plots.

The residential district extends from 30m wide riverfront road to 30m wide airport road. Airport is the major thoroughfare while riverfront road less traffic. 18m wide central spine running along ecological corridor passes through the center of the block connecting it to other parts. Green blue corridor has continuous NMT lane which shared street branching to connect the riverfront.

100m 80m 120m

300m 400m 200m 200m 120m 120m 120m

Urban quarter

Mix use Tower Green-blue corridor

River quarter

The residential transect is divided into three categories: River quarter, urban quarter and mix use towers. The river quarter is situated between riverfront promenade and green-blue network. Hence leveraging the potential of both public open space. The block has vehicular access from two sides and pedestrian accessibility to NMT loop. Urban quarter is situated adjacent to central spine road overlooking the green-blue network. The quarter has vehicular access from three sides but main entry from central spine road. Mix use towers are located adjacent to airport road which is its only vehicular entry . The bus transit stops are located on airport road while the local bus or taxi stands are located along central spine road.

Walkable residential urban block with its proximity to riverfront and ecological corridor

The combination of built form and urban environment immersed in nature creates unique living experience for users.

Mix use towers along airport road are of podium typology residential tower with active front as retail commercial till podium. The front setback of 9m is mandated to be used as active public space with landscaping or spillover activities. These high rise towers forms the edge to the airport road. The podium level can be used as open space by residents above.

Low rise urban quarters are organized along green-blue corridor having scenic view and access to neighborhood amenities. Neighborhood market is proposed at the intersection of central spine and local road making it a major node. Auto and cycle stands are provided at intersection.

River quarter has access and views to both green-blue corridor and riverfront. The rear apartment are high rise with calmer environment along greens while the front facing the river has mesmerizing view of river. Low heighted building with rooftop gardens are also proposed to extend the view inside the block.

Airport Road

Central spine Road

Riverfront Road

Diverse built and open space interface along various streets

Airport Road | 30m

30m wide airport road is intended to act major thoroughfare and hence 3 vehicular lane are provided on both sides with the median of 2m. The road also has a 5m pedestrian walkway having 2m dedicated space for parking and street furniture while 3m for footpath. The road hosts an AMTS route hence, bus stops and cycle stands are also integrated. The street edge is active due to commercial at ground floor, hence the 9m setback is mandated to be used as public plaza to cater to spillover activities.

Central Spine Road | 18m Riverfront Road | 30m

Central spine road is a neighborhood street with 18 m wide ROW. The street is undivided having 7m wide vehicular lane. The street is unequally distributed with 7m wide space along green-blue corridor which is divided further. 2.5m is alloted to accommodate parking and street furniture, then 3m dedicated footpath along 1.5m green buffer. Edge of the residential parcel is designed with 1.5m green buffer followed by 2.5m wide walkway along street. The NMT lane is 5m wide with 1m green buffer from residences.

The riverfront road is proposed to be 30m wide. It is intended to act as leisure road catering to the riverfront visitors. Motor carriageway is restricted to 12m with 2m median in the center to encourage pedestrian and NMT movement. A dedicated 3m cycle track is proposed along riverfront followed by 2m buffer and 5m wide pedestrian walkway. Residential edge has 9m elevated green with 1.5 buffer along 2m footpath followed by 2.5m for parking and street furniture.

Guidelines

Certain guidelines are defined to be able to achieve the desired built form in the residential block. The primary intent is to be able to maintain desired street character, and promote active green edge and regulate the type of built form.

Access to Plot Setback

For rear block the plot entries are from airport road or central spine. There is no entry from side streets. While for the front block have its access from the side roads only.

For plots along 18m and above the road, a 9m setback must be maintained. Setback of 6m on plots along roads width less than 18m. Minimum 12m gap has to be maintained between two adjacent buildings.

Permissible height

42m (14floors) ht is permitted along airport road. For residential use 18m (6floors) height is permitted along central spine road. Maximum of 18m ht(9 floors) is permitted along riverfront. 42m ht(14floors) is permitted along NMT loop to promote high density along it.

Green terraces and open space

Green terraces are permitted along riverfront road with the permissible use as common open space for recreation and leisure purposes. Private open space has to be provided in each plot catering to the social gatherings.

G+13 residential apartment with stilt parking

G+8 residential apartment with stilt parking

G+3 residential apartment with 2.5m raised plinth And green terrace

9m setback used a green mound

Built form

River facing apartment must have minimum 2.5m high plinth with no access from riverfront. The plinth area can be used for stilt parking with access from rear side. The 9m setback in front of raised plinth can be used for landscaping purpose.

Experience of living along greens.

This is a view of the NMT street along the green-blue corridor and shared plaza. In the background, there are separate neighborhood market activities and a children’s play area. Residents can easily access these from the loop for essential amenities. The well-shaded NMT corridor is pleasant to walk or cycle along. Residents living along the edge can enjoy a scenic view of the plaza and corridor from their balcony or room.

People enjoying the scenic view from adjacent apartments’ balcony and rooms.

A well-shaded interconnected NMT loop provides commuters with comfort and ensures its use.

Seasonal water channel with biodiversity park provides space for relaxing and mediation.

Active Neighborhood market catering to everyday needs of residential area.

Characteristic view of people strolling on riverfront promenade and enjoying the public realm. Along with view of river quarters overlooking the public realm and river from balcony and rooftop garden.

This chapter gives the summary of the report highlighting key points of the master plan.

Is this Project Feasible?

The master plan can accommodate not only higher density but also twice the amount of per capita open space than current east Ahmedabad.

The plan has a total of 65 percent open space. Out of which 62 percent is in public domain. This 62 percent is a combination parks, plaza, water bodies , setbacks and streets. Hence, an effective of 44% open space is achieved This gives higher per capita open space than current east ahmedabad.

With these residential typology and densities, the project is able to achieve a density of 2.25 with the 20790 dwelling units per sq km, which is higher than the current east ahmedabad density which is 18000 unit per sq km.

Phasing of project

The development of the Central Business Hub as the first phase will act as a catalyst, attracting large investments and making a big announcement about the project.

Phase 1

Development of Central Business District It will act as catalyst for overall development

Phase 2

Affordable housing

To rehabilitate the current residents within township

Phase 3

Residential District I

Existing lease gets over and land can be handed over.

Phase 4

Residential District II

Existing lease gets over and land can be handed over.

Phase 5

Lake District Defence releases rest of the area for development

The master plan promotes outdoor living as an essential component of daily life. The site had enormous potential to improve east Ahmadabad’s real estate trends. Furthermore, the initiative to develop a parcel of defense land will open up numerous development opportunities on the rest of the land. The integrated blue green network is a step toward the city’s resilience. By providing last-mile connectivity, pedestrian bridge proposals encourage the use of public transportation. Finally, the plan includes a Variety of living experiences options from which people can choose.

The learning outcome of the studio will be able to :

1. Prepare a large scale urban design master plan integrating the concepts of urban blocks with considerations to the overall urban form, building types, legibility, identity, street and public place designs.

2. Prepare detailed urban design guidelines and other form control mechanisms.

3. Prepare an appropriate development model

4. Prepare adequate graphic material to communicate the master plan to the stack holders illustrative master plan, detailed public realm design along with photo real rendering of the proposal capturing the overall character and some key areas of the plan.

SummaryThe master plan demonstrates a feasible and environmentally sensitive way to accommodate High density while maintaining a balance of open space.