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Nehal Vora
Design Portfolio
CONTENTS Curriculum Vitae .................................................................................................2 PROFESSIONAL PROJECTS Sabarmati Riverfront Development ................................................................3-8 Reuniting Ahmedabad city with its river | Ongoing project
Ahmedabad University Master Plan..............................................................9-12 Envisioning a holistic design framework for campus precinct | Ongoing project
Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar...............................................13-16 Master planning proposal for a new campus | Competition project
Rajkot Race Course Redevelopment...........................................................17-20 Reviving scattered elements into a unified park | Proposal
Bhuj Lake Precinct Redevelopment.............................................................21-24 Revitalizing the historic glory of the lake cluster | Proposal
ACADEMIC PROJECTS The Second Renaissance.............................................................................25-28 Reinterpreting vernacular architecture in contemporary terms | Academic Project
Gandhisagar Lake Fringe Development......................................................29-34 Resolving urban issues | Graduate thesis project
PERSONAL ARTWORK Rangoli and Photography.............................................................................35-36
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NEHAL VORA
1341 Johnson Dr., Apt.1521 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 Phone : +1 (224) 409- 0456 E-mail : nehal.kalyani@gmail.com
Education
Administrative Experience
July 2006 - June ‘11: Bachelors of Architecture (B.Arch) - First Class with Distinction S.M.M.C.A, Nagpur University, India
2007 -‘10 : Elected as Secretary, Vice President and President of Student’s Council for three consecutive terms
Professional Experience
Awards/ Academic Achievements
July 2011 - Nov. ‘13 : HCP Design Planning and Management Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, IN (2 yrs 5 months) Position: Architect Responsible for design, detail and execution drawings, co-ordination with clients and consultants, project management for various urban design and architectural projects; contributed to numerous competition projects and presentations. Projects: Sabarmati Riverfront Development, Ahmedabad Ahmedabad University Master plan, Ahmedabad Race Course Redevelopment, Rajkot Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar and IIT, Jodhpur Hamirsar Lake Redevelopment, Bhuj Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad- Masterplanning
2012 : Published research paper titled “Regaining the placeness of lost spaces; Case : Use of space below flyovers” in Time, Space & Architecture journal 2011 : Won Pidilite Award of Excellence in Architectural Studies 2010 : Participated in Architectural Journalism Awards, by Build Today 2009 : Secured 1st position in Prof. Shireesh A. Deshpande Design Studio Competition, organised by Indian Institute of Architects, Nagpur 2009 : Participated in Workshop on Earthquake Resistant Practices and finalist for School Designing competition, at Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 2009 : Attended Training in Field Practices, by Central Indian Construction Industry Training Institute, Nagpur 2007 : Participated in Zonal and Annual NASA Conventions at IPSA,Indore and MANIT, Bhopal
June 2010 - Oct. ‘10 :Apurva Amin Architects, Ahmedabad, IN (5 months) Position: Design Intern Worked on designs and details for various residential, commercial and institutional projects. Projects: Twin Bungalow Scheme, Udaipur Residence of Mr. Amitbhai Maniar, Ahmedabad Adani Vidya Mandir, Ahmedabad Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad
Manual and Technical Proficiency
May 2009 - June ‘09: Sarju Construction Pvt. Ltd., Nagpur, IN (2 months) Position: Apprentice Assisted in design and execution of architecture projects. Projects: Sarju Township, Nagpur Boys Hostel, BAPS Swaminarayan Temple campus, Nagpur Sadhashiv Enclave Township, Nagpur
Manual: Technical writing, Hand drafting, Freehand sketching, Model-making Technical: Autodesk - AutoCAD 2-D, 3-D; Revit Graphisoft - ArchiCAD Adobe - Indesign, Illustrator, Photoshop Google - SketchUp Microsoft Office- Word, Powerpoint, Excel
Community Work 2013 : Volunteer at Manav Sadhna, an NGO in Ahmedabad. Taught children from slums at a community centre, arranged social activities and assisted in administrative work.
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SABARMATI RIVERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
Ahmedabad, India July 2011- Ongoing Site Area: 500 acres Team project Sabarmati Riverfront, in the heart of Ahmedabad city, has provided space for people to reside and generate income since 1411 AD. However, by the end of twentieth century, the river had become polluted and inaccessible due to constant neglect. The potential of the river lied untapped due to many surrounding problems like waste contamination, floods, disunited banks and limited accessibility. To alleviate these issues and create a focal point for the city to match the river’s history and growth, the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project was initiated. The project is an environmental improvement, social upliftment and urban rejuvenation project. It is structured to provide benefits to all strata of the society. This multidimensionalproject aims to reclaim the river edge as a public asset and create a thriving people-centric network of parks, waterside promenades, markets, cultural and recreational facilities in the heart of Ahmedabad. The project has won Prime Minister’s National Award for Excellence in Urban Planning and Design in the year of 2003.
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Master Plan
Lower Promenade
Underpass
Riverfront Park
Public Utilities
SRFD Streets
Heritage Park
Riverfront Market
Events Ground
Paldi Sports Complex
Laundry Campus
Project boundary
Master plan enlisting various projects handled by the author
Planning Framework
The project creates a public edge on eastern and western river edge. By channelling the river to a constant width of 863 ft., riverbed land has been reclaimed to create 6.2 miles of public riverfront on both the banks. Make riverfront accessible to the public
City turned its back to river
Accessible public riverfront
Develop cultural, trade and social amenities The project replaces a largely private riverfront with an expansive public realm with a network of parks, waterside promenades, markets, cultural institutions, recreational facilities and commercial developments for the city’s five million residents. For better access to riverfront a number of streets leading up to the river are strengthened and long pedestrian promenades are provided along the water’s edge on both banks of the river. Lower-level promenade is built just above the water level to serve pedestrians and cyclists, and to provide access to the water. Upper level promenade shall host a variety of public features at city level.
Stop flow of sewage for a clean, pollution-free river
Resettle the slum dwellers living on riverbed
Eliminate risk of erosion and flood in low lying areas
Sewage spewed in river
Slums on the river bank
Sabarmati during 2006 flood
Interceptor lines on site
Streets and Underpass provide uninterrupted connection
Rehabilitation site
Continuous lower level promenade
Channelled river
Parks strengthening the city’s green network
RIVERFRONT MARKET SRFD
January 2012- Ongoing Site area: 2.5 acres Riverfront market stretches between Ellis and Sardar bridge on eastern bank of the river. It has been designed to dedicate organized spaces to vendors and eliminate clutter caused on the main roads by an informal Sunday Market, which was held under Ellis Bridge since years. Providing plazas near Sardar bridge has enhanced livability in neighbourhoods and offered places for social gatherings. The author has worked on and managed this sub-project of SRFD right from inception to implementation.
Sunday market
Slums
Heritage fort wall
Lower promenade Slums
Key Plan
ge ar brid
Identifying constraints on the Riverfront Market site before development
Sard
Sunday market occurred in a very haphazard manner. Vendors located their temporary shops on vehicular roadside, posing danger for and from the heavy traffic. Also, illegal activities in slum areas discouraged people from using the promenades. Heritage structures along the length of the stretch needed to be restored.
Route for Jal Yatra Ellis bridge
Historic Context
Jagannath temple
Design Intentions
The market needs to be shifted to a newer setting, freeing up the city space. Slum dwellers have to be resettled in sites interspersed within the city. Plazas for informal activities all year round for the visitors and neighbourhoods are desirable. Continuous link for procession taken out from Jagannath temple up to river’s edge through a tunnel every year is important.
Original Sunday Market
Jal Yatra procession on the banks of the river
Development sequence over the years
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Master Plan
Ellis bridge
Bus parking
SRFD street
Car parking
Two-wheeler parking Heritage gate
Pedestrian walkway
Design Methodology
Entrance plaza
Parking Area
Fort wall
Service road
Vendor platform cluster
Pedestrian subway
Public washroom
Entrance plaza
Riverfront Market Area
Lari cluster
Site for Exhibition Centre
Lower promenade
Plaza Area
Food court
Khan Jahan Plaza
Parking area
Ghat
Jal Yatra Plaza
Pedestrian subway for Jal Yatra
Sardar bridge
Design Response
Concepts translated into more tangible forms through 3-D visualizations. Basic details about the design worked out to finalize the feel and form of the place and structures
The market is tree-shaded public market that accommodates the ‘Ravivari’ on Sundays and other seasonal markets throughout the week. It is designed as an open air market with functional arrangement of 1200 platforms and zones for vendors to display and sell their goods. Market has been provided with amenities like seating areas for visitors, public washrooms, multi- functional plazas, vehicular access and parking facilities. A special tunnel provides uninterrupted connection from temple to the river.
DETAIL DESIGN
Existing trees preserved Existing heritage wall preserved Lari cluster Vendor platform Walkway Parking
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Brain storming of ideas done through sketches and models to conceptualize design of vendor platform clusters, parking facilities and plazas
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
Schematic design thoroughly scrutinized and detailed to resolve all technical specifications with various service agencies. After careful analysis of services and details, execution drawings released to commence work on site
EXECUTION ON SITE
Regular supervision and site visits to ensure the desired workmanship quality and achievement of the design goals set for the project
Typical vendor platform cluster
LAUNDRY CAMPUS SRFD
November 2012- November 2013 Site area: 2.2 acres Laundry campus has been designed to provide state-of-the-art facilities for the washing community that traditionally used the river banks for laundering. The recently constructed facility on the eastern bank has vehicular access, parking and lighting within the site. Seven blocks on the campus have been provided with wet areas on ground level and terraces are equipped for drying clothes. These have also been provided with water and electrical supply with meters and drainage system.
Key Plan
Visualisation of the campus
Design Description
Washing space
Water tank
Cut-out for pulleys
Terrace used for drying
The campus has seven well-equipped blocks. The ground level provides discrete washing areas with metered water and electrical supply with proper drainage. The wet laundry can be easily transferred to the terrace for drying. The terraces of the seven blocks are well-equipped for drying wet linen and clothes. Physical model of typical laundry unit
Actual site photograph
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PUBLIC UTILITIES SRFD
January 2012- Ongoing Total Number of units: 12 A number of public washrooms are being provided along the River Promenade and within the facilities designed on the upper promenade to cater to the needs of the visitors, vendors and general public. With the provisions of these utilities, the site development of the upper promenade walkway is done alongside.
Schematic Design
Site Development Plan Site development plan for upper promenade walkway cohesively incorporates elements of seatings, lights, trees and flooring pattern around each unit.
Key Plan
Some locations have only washroom
Execution drawing for site development
Some locations have both washroom and lift
Site development visualisation
Conceptual Design Alternatives
Design of units had to be dynamic, adapting to varying site restrictions throughout the length of the project and still maintain a visual homogeneity.
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AHMEDABAD UNIVERSITY MASTER PLAN
Ahmedabad, India July 2011- Ongoing Site Area: 247,105,381 Acres Team Project Ahmedabad has a rich heritage of educational and research institutions. HCPDPM prepared a ten-year master plan and implementation strategy for Ahmedabad University (AU). The master plan provides comprehensive landuse, circulation, open-space, and infrastructure frameworks for the AU campuses. AU expects to grow exponentially over the coming decade. With the establishment of new schools, sports facilities, housing for students and faculty, and infrastructure to support total population of students, faculty and supporting staff have been planned. Other public buildings such as knowledge centres, convention centres and libraries also have been planned . HCP identified a three-phase growth for the academic campuses of AU, and special projects that can be initiated immediately, commencing with the Phase-1 campus.
9-10 Ahmedabad University envisions an education corridor, the AU Knowledge Precinct as an integral part of the city. To develop strategies for a potential development, a detailed analysis of the potentials and constraints of the site was carried out, landholdings were assessed and a holistic design framework for future development decisions and how it can be implemented over time was provided in these reports. The inferences were compiled in these comprehensive master plan reports. The author assisted throughout the process.
Master plan Reports
Development Strategy for Ahmedabad University
Long term development strategy for the Knowledge precinct
Master plan Principles for Phase-1 Campus
Site boundaries and entrance
Built-form to open space relation
Urban blocks
Major facilities along main corridors
Vehicular and pedestrian circulation network
Master planning principles for Phase-1 campus: 1) Establish site boundaries & entrance to phase 1 campus 2) Bridge urban blocks to create a permeable fabric for the campus 3) Establish a legible pedestrian and vehicular circulation framework for the campus 4) Establish a framework of buildable and open areas 5) Align major facilities along desired circulation corridors
HCP envisages a Knowledge Precinct with Ahmedabad University (AU) as an integrated urban campus within it. The university buildings are laid out as integral parts of the urban fabric, with no defined campus boundary, and without being disruptive to the wider flow of movement and exchange within the city. The campus is not contiguous, and its buildings spread across the various land holdings based on land use suitability and accessibility. A vision-level proposal is provided for the Knowledge Precinct, identifying potential gateways, landmarks, transport and leisure nodes, and legible pedestrian and vehicular circulation patterns for the precinct.
Phase-1 Master Plan
Institute of Information & Knowledge Centre for AU Avenue Communication Technology Centre Performing Arts
AU Sports Complex
Key Plan
PHASE-1 CAMPUS Ahmedabad University November 2012- Ongoing Site area: 62 acres
In keeping with the concept of an urban campus, a modular layout of academic buildings is preferred to enable flexibility in phasing and expansion. The Phase-1 campus is envisioned to be pedestrianfriendly and hence, the vehicular circulation is restricted to the periphery of the campus. Dedicated bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways form the main circulation network of the campus. The master plan proposal combines both highrise and low-rise buildings to house academic programs. High-rise buildings form the street edge while low-rise buildings are located around inner courtyards. The AU plaza is envisioned as a landmark public space for informal and formal gatherings. Nodes and landmarks impart a distinct identity to the campus. Activity at street level creates visibility of the university within the city. Hence, the common facilities and public buildings of campus form the street edge. The author single-handedly managed this project.
AES Complex
Academic buildings
Cricket ground
AU Entrance building AU Plaza
AU Administration Complex
Academic buildings
Master Plan Layers Master plan evolves constantly to accommodate changing programs, development constraints etc. Availability of detailed survey of location, quality and quantity of on-site vegetation prompted the evolution of final master plan.
AU Phase-1 campus: Illustrative Master plan
Tree survey map
Campus open spaces
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Illustrative view of the internal pedestrian street
Illustrative Street Sections
Section 2: Section through internal vehicular street and courtyard
Tree retention/transplantation plan
Section 1: Section showing correlation between open space and vehicular street
Vehicular circulation framework
Pedestrian circulation framework
Study model of the campus
Campus building typologies
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INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Gandhinagar, India Master plan Competition October 2011 Site Area: 402 acres Team Project IIT Gandhinagar invited entries for master planning of a new campus located on the banks of River Sabarmati in Gandhinagar. The master plan proposal aims at creating a special place that will stand the test of time. The proposed campus and the landscape will be intertwined inseparably, as if the buildings had always stood there. The two forces will mature harmoniously with the need and growth of generations that will flock to this institution for the nurturing it provides. HCPDPM’s design explores a modular layout which allows for organised campus development and most flexibility for future expansion. A self-sustained campus on the opposite bank from the city, while preserving the rural character of the land and allowing focused studies for students and faculties.
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Site Orientation and Analysis
The site lies to the east of the Sabarmati River and is surrounded by a mix of protected forest and agricultural land. Its location on the riparian bank of a seasonal river brings with it a unique set of micro-climate such as strong wind and heavy precipitation. Water is a predominant feature of the site and its surroundings.
Much of the site is levelled, agricultural land. There is a prominent presence of mature shade trees, forming almost perfect avenues, and two fairly large-sized ponds that show potential to become campus amenities. There is a thickly forested area growing a large variety of medicinal plant species which can possibly be conserved as a campus arboretum. Ravines or ‘kotars’ acting as natural drainage channels for the surrounding areas, penetrate deep into the site. It is possible to capture run-off into the retention ponds and to recharge ground water. Ponds can simultaneously become passive recreational areas for campus.
Site Development Strategies
Majority of the site is flat and can hold intense building programs. The ‘kotars’ give a jagged edge to the land and are vital to site drainage. They need to be preserved, and hence only minimum intensity activities can be permitted within them. Proposed campus streets can respect existing tree lines, that will provide fully mature shade coverage. Water ponds on the site can be integrated into the ecological infrastructure of the campus. These strategies to retain and enhance the presence of water on site will regulate the site’s microclimate and help generate a lush campus environment.
Campus Growth Projections Phase 1 program is derived from details provided by IIT-GN. Program for Phase 2 and 3 is derived from projected campus population
Multi- Nodal Campus
Site’s natural features play a dominant role in determining the layout of campus programs. Common amenities are distributed between two hubs centred around the ponds on site. Academic clusters span the area between these two hubs. Student housing forms its own hub around the largest ridge on site. Faculty housing forms its own quiet hub around a smaller ridge at the edge of the site. The Incubation Park creates its own hub at the entrance to the site.
Master plan Layers
Land Use framework
Landscape Structure
Concentric Campus
Programs are arranged concentric to a central quadrangle. Common amenities are placed within the nucleus, academic clusters within the middle ring, and housing at its perimeter. Student housing is distributed at two ends of the nucleus’ perimeter, ensuring activity in all areas of the campus. Faculty housing is retained as in Alternative 1. The Incubation Park is integrated with the rest of the campus by situating it close to the main entrance to the campus.
Pedestrian movement & connectivity
Master Plan Design Proposals Given a set of site analysis and design principles, multiple design alternatives can be explored to formulate an optimum plan layout. Each master plan alternative while following a common set of design principles, provides a unique vision for the proposed campus. A form and feature-based layout may be diluted in its spatial essence and organisation in attempts to adapt varying site changes. The future flexibility for expansion being the predominant consideration of this campus master plan, a grid-based modular spatial framework makes the most rational choice, while being most integrated with Gandhinagar’s sector urban layout. For these reasons, the modular campus with its inherent flexibility best suits the needs of a growing campus.
Vehicular movement & connectivity
Modular Campus (Preferred)
A large central plaza separates the academic and residential programs of the campus. Common amenities are lined along this central plaza making it the public heart of the campus. Student housing is located close to academic clusters. Faculty housing is located to the far north of the campus, ensuring a peaceful living environment for families. The Incubation Park is located independent of the rest of the campus.
Phasing
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Concept Master Plan
Incubation Park
Amphitheatre
Sports field
Academic Courtyard
Activity Spine
River-view trail
Central Landmark Central Concourse Sculpture Library
Campus Main Entrance Entrance Gateway Building
Student Housing
Activity Centre
Campus Arboretum
Connection for Palaj Village
Primary Vehicular Road
Primary School Healthcare
Faculty club
Promenade
Neighbourhood Park
Faculty Housing
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RAJKOT RACE COURSE REDEVELOPMENT
Rajkot, India
Master plan proposal for Rajkot Municipal Corporation July- October 2012 Site Area: 100 acres Team Project Race Course is a well-known landmark in the heart of the city of Rajkot, Gujarat that was originally developed as an arena for horse races, hence the name. Over the last century, the arena has been parcelled and new facilities were introduced that were representative of the prevalent needs. Gradually, Race Course evolved from an arena into a collage of disparate campuses for - sports, children’s activities, a science centre, an energy park, an art gallery, a library, gardens, amusement rides, exhibitions and periodic fairs. Over the last decade, the place has fallen short of people’s expectations. Though this area continues to offer space for a variety of activities and events in the heart of the city, its full potential remains untapped. The project is a significant step towards the transformation of Race Course into an integrated, enhanced and unified ‘Race Course Park’. HCPDPM was appointed as the master planning consultants to prepare a comprehensive master plan reports for the project.
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Existing Satellite Image
Existing Master plan
Public Consultation and Survey
Public Consultation was done with few visitors to Race Course to provide much-needed clues about their perception of the place and their aspirations for redevelopment. The team prepared questionnaires, the feedback was collected and inferences have been drawn to assist in the formulation of master plan.
Project Reports
Feasibility Report established contextual premise for the redevelopment project. It is a compilation of analysis and observations made by design team
Draft report documents the design process and presents the design alternatives, their evaluation and the selection process for the preferred option
Final report provides a summary of entire design process, elaborates on various aspects of the final master plan and offers design guidelines for future development
Context Analysis
Site Analysis
Design Goals
Master plan Alternatives
RADIAL
The form facilitates in forming a park core which cohesively holds all the other programs as its complimentary radials
TRIAD
Two linear plazas act as main circulation zone which establish 3 program zones for events, park & institutions
The site was studied for the following aspects: • Urban context- defining the Race Course Precinct boundary for the master plan. • Site context- street network, block structure, built surroundings, building uses, building heights, visual survey. • Site conditions- topography and drainage, tree cover, on-site buildings, site ownership and management, vehicular access and parking, pedestrian access and movement, utilities, periphery. • Existing uses and conditions- activity mapping, sports facilities, children’s activities, open spaces, institutional facilities, amenities, events and temporary facilities.
Three master plan alternatives were developed to achieve these design goals. A master plan layout was finalised on the basis of the following criteriaease of implementation, minimal disruption to the existing facilities, movement choices offered, flexibility, attractiveness and variety in the programmatic themes of the inserts. The Nodal option was selected for further development owing to the movement choices it offered, flexibility, attractiveness, variety in the programmatic themes of the inserts, its ease of implementation and minimal disruption to the existing facilities.
NODAL (Preferred)
Four inserts of pathways coupled with nodes form the main framework, overlaid on the inherent structure on site. Existing programs are maintained & integrated within park.
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Proposed Master plan
Master plan Elements
The proposed master plan maintains all the existing facilities but enhances them by upgradation and inserts with a multitude of uses. Park is consolidated to form bulk of open space and forested area. The Race Course is planned to encompass a Sports Park, a Cultural Park and an Events Park. The Ring Park would encircle the entire periphery and provide pocket plazas, seating areas, green open spaces, parking, cycle track and tree groves, forming the face of Race Course Park. Entrance Plazas and Avenues are gateways to the park. Forecourts and courtyards are provided as extensions to existing buildings. Special Features form the nodal attraction for the four core plazas. Vending Zones are provided with the entrance avenues and will house food courts, kiosks and small shops for memorabilia.
Design Guidelines and Strategies
Ring Road Upgradation
Ring road in its existing condition
Proposed street layout with cycle track, bus stops, wider walkways and an enhanced usable green edge.
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BHUJ LAKE PRECINCT REDEVELOPMENT
Bhuj, India
Master plan proposal Municipal Corporation
for
Bhuj
June- August 2013 Site Area: 100 acres Team Project Redevelopment of Bhuj lake precinct is aimed towards revitalization of the lake cluster of Hamirsar, Chhatedi and Dhobi Talav and its surrounding areas into an integrated, enhanced and unified lake precinct in the heart of Bhuj. As a vital civic heritage in the arid context, the lake cluster has always boasted of strong historic and cultural links that can be strengthened to foster tourism and reinstill civic pride. The proposal by HCPDPM envisions the lake front as an agent of socioeconomic revitalization and a crucial step towards re-linking the lake system with Bhuj. This is achieved by improving accessibility to the precinct, creating gateways and public spaces, water network retrofitting to sustain water, restoring the lake ecology and enhancing the historic lake system.
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Regional Water Catchment System
Character Areas of the Lake
Cultural Precinct The catchment area is of about 25,000 acres.
Interconnection of Lakes
Bhuj is based in arid climatic zone. Water requirements were fulfilled by developing a water management system nearly three hundred years ago. Bhuj lake, situated in the heart of the city, is interconnected with the lake system of the city.
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Heritage structures Parks & Gardens Religious structures Institutions Bhuj has a rich historical background. The lake was developed in the city centre and many architecture marvels- palaces, temples etc. surround it. The lake also attracts large number of migratory birds forming a ecological zone.
Social Precinct
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The terrain of lakes is such that the overflow in one lake subsequently fills up the other lakes in a sequential manner. 1. Hamirsar Lake 2. Chhatedi Lake 3. Dhobi Talav 4. Pragsar Lake 5. Delsar Lake
Existing Lake Precincts
Natural Precinct
Character Areas
Conceptual Vision for Master plan
Visions & Objectives for the Master Plan Improve Accessibility to the lake precinct
Create gateways to the lake precinct
Patwadi gate extension Plaza at Idgah Dada dadi park extension
Development Proposals Rajendra Prasad Promenade This street is envisaged as a promenade to provide ideal backdrop for annual celebrations. It shall provide upgraded public realm with tree lined walkways, seating areas and a train link that would act as a local attraction
Ramkund Precinct and ghats The proposed ghats aim to revitalize the area around this historic step-well. The ghats and walkways would extend towards the main inlet canal to lake cluster, linking the public realm with the lake water
Chhattedi extension
Retrofitting of water network
Create public spaces
Dada-Dadi Park Extension
Private land Public land
Restore lake ecology
Enhance the historic lake system and precinct
Proposed Chhattedi Eco Park Fort wall Pitched wall A.S.I fence Low embankment Loose soil
The proposal retains essence of this node as landmark in the heart of city. The traffic junction is ‘reclaimed’ as a plaza providing public facilities with increased tree cover and an extended garden area
Chhattedi Eco Park
This part shall be restored as a wetland within lake precinct, offering a habitat for migratory and local birds as well as an opportunity for bird-watchers. Proposal also aims to increase ground water recharge
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Redevelopment Master Plan Proposal
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THE SECOND RENAISSANCE
Computer Training Institute Nagpur, India July- November 2009
Site Area: 20 acres Individual Capacity
Winning Entry in Prof. Shireesh A. Deshpande Design Studio Competition by Indian Institute of Architects, Nagpur A culturally rooted country like India retains strong links to its past. Indian architecture has always drawn inspiration from its land, materials, texture, climate and context. The vernacular process of growth and evolution continued with newer functional needs and expression. This evolution was interrupted by modern architecture movement in India. Important criteria are sacrificed at the altar of contemporary materials and technology, resulting in absolute facelessness and lack of contextual character in our architecture. Realisation of the importance and the appropriateness of the traditions of the architecture has started sinking in. The need is to reinvent a new and more responsive architecture which will be a continuum of the vernacular. This project aims at careful analysis of the vernacular architecture and an innovative synthesis of modern technology with traditional yearnings.
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Precedent Study
Design Inspirations from the Precedent Study
The traditional architecture constitute outstanding evidence of being climate responsive. To gain in-depth knowledge about the traditional architecture in Nagpur district, a study of villages in Karanja was carried out where age-old houses called “wadas� stand strong even today, providing fairly good living conditions for its occupants. It was seen that the wadas had evolved through centuries of experience & observations of climate & nature. The use of natural & passive means in wadas provides thermally comfortable living in hot and dry climate conditions in the region.
Compact organic planning reduces heat gain; narrow streets allow mutual shading and open spaces are interconnected.
Residential Zone
Utilization of Contours Wind speed lowers till it reaches the farms reducing crop damage
No Development Zone Site for Computer Training Institute
Courtyard planning works best in hot areas by closing the house on exteriors and opening it indoors. Hot air in courtyard rises up replacing cooler air through openings, thus enhancing air flow
Typical courtyard house of Karanja Street Orientation
Ambazari Lake
Compact settlement of Karanja
Settlement evolution
Compact planning
Site Analysis
Conceptualization of hot- air effect
Major road connection
The site is located in outskirts of the city. It has dense settlement towards east and rich green cover towards west, with two lakes in close proximity. Site is surrounded by commercial, educational and residential zones. It is well connected to the city by major road network.
Various elements at the wadas exhibit Venturi effect. When two faces converge to form a funnel, the wind flow speed increases and the area experiences generous ventilation and continues air flow.
Site slope helps proper drainage
Mutual shading
Activity Planning
Increased thermal insulation
Hierarchy of spaces
Courtyard helps in ventilation
Climate Responsive Approach
Converging walls engulf the wind flow indoors with great speed
Major wind flow on the site is from the North-West direction and minor winds flow from South-West direction. Hence, the cluster of buildings was placed so as to gain maximum advantage of the wind. Wind flows through a narrow opening between two buildings moving to a wider area thereby benefiting all the clusters.
Site photograph
Wind flow on site
Conceptual wind pattern
Model for sun & wind study
Wind as the Guiding Factor
Terraces as means of Viewpoints
Reinterpreting
Taking inspiration from the wadas which had sloping sides in order to enhance air flow, the concept was reinterpreted & sides of the buildings from where the air enters were made converging for a better air flow in the area. The windows of the institutional building, which is benefited the most by the wind from the N-W direction, also have a funnel-like form to capture the wind & force it inside. Also, the use of the Jaali facilitates cross ventilation. The working of this concept was verified by conducting a proper wind study on the study model.
Terraces have been provided to enjoy the scenic surroundings of the site. To enhance the experience, the terraces are designed to emerge out of the building line, hence, promising uninterrupted views.
A proper shadow study model for al was conducted. It w that a portion of th remained sun dren the summers and he this the shape of th was so derived that full shade in all the
Section 1-1
Front Elevation showing terraces used as gathering spaces
Section 2-2
Ground Floor Plan: Design response to wind study
First Floor Plan: Terraces to appreciate the natural surroundings
Second Floor Plan: S
Setup for the wind study
Marking observations of the study
A wind study was performed on the study model by spreading foam particles over it. Artificial wind was blown from the S-W direction which led to movement of the particles. Observations were derived to figure out areas receiving clear wind flow and those having turbulence. The study gives a clear picture of the potentials and constraints of the wind movement.
g shapes of Courtyards
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Site Plan
study on the ll the months was observed he courtyards nched during ence to rectify he courtyards they provided e year round.
Sculptural shapes of courtyards responding climatic study
Alternate entry for institute
Campus entry
Central plaza
Administration building
Academic building
Main Entrance
Semi-open Cafeteria
Auditorium and Sports Centre
Parking lot
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GANDHISAGAR LAKE FRINGE DEVELOPMENT
Nagpur, India November- May 2011 Site Area: 100 acres Individual Capacity Research and Design Thesis Architecture on the waterfronts poses many challenges- to capture the importance of the water body, to make it a locus and extend the vibrancy of the lake to the built forms, the surrounding spaces and the people. Gandhisagar lake in the heart of the city of Nagpur, Maharshtra, has been a silent spectator of the city’s fortune. Rapid urbanization of the city has affected the fate of the lake. Settlement of the Nagpur city started on this lake, and it was the only source of water. Today it stays filled with brackish water and filth. The Gandhi Sagar Lake precinct can be considered as an ideal example to demonstrate the contribution of culture to shape the face of the organically growing city space. The vision therefore, is reuniting the city with the lake by reviving its lost importance in the minds of people. It is a city that has the elements of an urban place and yet its water body lies ignored; a place where there is a need and scope for development is chosen.
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Evolution of Nagpur
Site Analysis
Military area Railway Station Empress Mall
Central Avenue Old city Nag River
Context Analysis Parsi Agyari Empress Mall
Hotel
Island Garden
Satellite image showing Gandhisagar lake and the dense precinct
Public place
Residential
Commercial
Bezonji Me
hta Road
Tilak Roa d
Raman S
Year 1867
Yearly- Visarjan on ghats
Gardens & Parks
Connectivity and Traffic Movement ntre Roa d
Activity Patterns
Temple
Temple
cience Ce
Year 1765
School
Heritage Structures
Park
The selected site is located in heart of the city, from where Nagpur originated. It is a densely populated region with mostly residential and commercial development. Temporary activities take place on site daily. A Saturday informal market happens every week in the precinct. Annual activities like Ganesh Visarjan is one of the major attraction in the city.
School
Gazebo
Raman Science Centre
Year 1706
Subhash Road
Weekly- Market & temple activities Primary Road
Secondary Road
Major Collector
Building Typologies
Year 1960
Morning- Parks and walkways
Afternoon- Food stalls & commercial
Year 2011
Evening- Parks, temples, ghats
Night- Walkways
Lake is situated in a very dense residential neighbourhood with very few open spaces for recreation. The immediate edge across the peripheral road is very distinctive; comprising of commercial, residential, and public structures. Landmarks and important activities around the lake attract large population on daily basis but the lake remains neglected due to innumerable reasons.
Residential
Commercial
Landmarks
Major Viewpoints
Traffic flow on Subhash road and Tilak road is heavy throughout the day. Bezonji Mehta road has smooth but continuous traffic movement while Raman Science Centre road shows low traffic movement. Peak traffic hours are during morning and evening. Road side parking and bus stops on lake edges add to the traffic woes. Neighbourhood Collector
This city space boasts of rich and varied cultural heritage which is imparted to it by: four temples, an Agyari, two high schools, banks, decades old residences with distinct architectural style, residential apartments and commercial complexes along the four sides of the Gandhi Sagar Lake.
Residential & commercial
Religious
Public place
Banks
North Side Development- Bezonji Mehta Road Edge
Key Plan
Image existing scenario
Visual Site Analysis
Design Simulations
Section showing various existing elements on this edge
This lake edge is observed to have gone through some haphazard urban interventions previously. Today, it lies in a sorry state with all the design elements vandalised. Temporary food stalls, rickshaw pullers, homeless have occupied the pathways making it difficult for people to utilize it for the intended use. This edge has a dense foliage, wide pathway, and access to the island garden. It has a potential to be developed by proposing recreational activities pertaining to the existing character of the avenue. The north-west edge can be developed into an open market to cater to the weekly market in a more organised manner.
East Side Developm
Key Plan
Existing site conditions
Visual Site Analysis
Design Proposal
Design Proposal Part Plan
Part Plan
Part Sections Design Stimulations
This lake edge has the bus on the roadside and a na main feature of this edge corner. The proposal is to d the temple and the ghats, visitors, by planning sha dedicated space for vendin pediments can be connect form viewing decks for the
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ment- Tilak Road Edge
Section showing various existing elements on this edge
siest vehicular traffic arrow sidewalk. The is the temple in the develop area around for the benefit of the aded seating areas, ng activities etc. The ted to the sidewalk to e public.
West Side Development- Raman Science Centre Road Edge
Key Plan
Existing site conditions
Visual Site Analysis
Design Simulations
Section showing various existing elements on this edge
This is another edge where unthoughtful urban interventions have ruined the lake edge. The high seatings completely disconnect the lake from the surroundings. In fact, this has led to many malpractices in the area. A gazebo at the centre of the sidewalk has become a landmark and is proposed to be restored. The suggestion is to destroy the seatings and develop the edge as an open plan with elements of seatings, which can be doubled up as platforms for use for the weekly markets. Since the street on this side has very low traffic, the road width is proposed to be reduced to add more parking space for public, which is not possible on the other edges.
Design Proposal
Part Plan Part Sections
Part sections
South Side Development- Subhash Road Edge
Key Plan
Image showing temples and park on this edge
Visual Site Analysis
Design Simulations
Section showing various existing elements on this edge
Existing edge condition
This lake edge is dedicated to religious and recreational activities. The temples in the south-east corner of the lake miss a common connection due to division by walls. There is a need to unify the temple area and the ghats into a single temple complex. The park functions well for elderly and children but addition of activities is required to attract users of all ages. The south west portion of the lake provides an excellent location for building a multi- dimensional centre, a place for the community to come and unwind at the waterfront. A place with multitude of activities making it vibrant and lively.
Design Proposal
Part Plan
Proposed edge condition
Conceptual view of the temple cluster
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Multi- Dimensional Centre on Subhash Road
Key Plan
Lake
Floor Plans
Site Plan
Design Intent
The location of such a parcel of land in the heart of the city is very beneficial. With the existing density of people in the area along with the anticipated growth in the nearby areas, need for such a convention centre is justified. With the development proposal of the lake fringe, a strong need of a magnet for the urban mass was felt: a place for the people where they can rejuvenate and enjoy the natural surroundings. The proposed centre is aimed at enriching the image of the city and symbolizing the local spirit of the place while creating a focus on the lake front. The activities & spaces are designed such that they can completely interchange their functions & purposes.
Concept Development
Moments of revelation
Sectional Development
Lakeside
Lakeside
Elevations and Sections Focal axis towards the lake
Viewing decks and terraces
Play of masses
Image taken at Sun Temple, Modhera, Gujarat by the author
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Rangoli Art form from India- Hand drawn patterns embellished with coloured sand, Courtesy: Author
Nature Photography, Courtesy: Author
Thank You