This research study explores the house not as a finished product but as a framework that allows people to shape the space accordingly to their fundamental needs, cultures and lifestyles. The idea also allows the house to grow subjectively, influencing human connectivity and adaptability, private and public buffers, indoor and outdoor relationships, and these spaces’ flow.
ARANYA HOUSING BALKRISHNA DOSHI LOCATION: INDORE, INDIA COMPLETED: 1989
The layout of the residential scheme is planned so that the use of the road and car is separate from the pathway and the person. It highlights how cities today are designed for cars and traffic and not people and their needs. It heavies traffic and instigates informal public activities and interactions.
AREA: 100 000m2 SOURCE: Information and Images. [VSC Vastu Shilpa Consultants, 1989]
Doshi has a relentless vision to have the user be part of the design process; this gives back a sense of belonging and ownership to the residents. The spaces allow the users to grow and move more organically, as opposed to the rigid cities have designed over the last few centuries. By having users decide most of the vital parts of the structures, can identify a very pleasing and aesthetic form. The project promotes flow, movement and hierarchy. This was achieved by connecting all primary nodes with secondary nodes and spaces throughout the area and never breaking that flow of interconnected spaces. Sectors are connected with shared courtyards, green spaces and one more prominent space for the entire community to use and gather in. Figure 27: Aranya low-cost housing and the relation beten streets and entrances [VSC Vastu Shilpa Consultants, 1989]
“‘Here, there is the heartbreaking feeling that the architectural profession is deeply irrelevant, incapable of addressing human beings’ basic right to shelter.’”
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-Balkrishna Doshi
This precedent study explores the research question posed: What are the existing literature or precedence on lowincome urban housing that benefits from urban farming, and how can they be applied to the housing in Pretoria?
