Architecture
SHUBHAM MAJUMDER
2019 - 2022
Portfolio
Shubham Majumder Architecture speaks of a place and its ‘context’, not just in terms of geography but also in terms of its timeline of evolution. In the beginning, my understanding of architecture was limited to buildings but as I now understand, it refers to the very fabric of a place. It cannot just be the built elements of society but is in fact an all-enveloping cloak that drapes us all and permeates our lives in every way possible. I believe that once an architect has designed “a space”, the responsibility to treat it with the same respect as it was given while designing it should come from the inhabitants of a space thus making it a communal responsibility to safeguard the authenticity and essence of a place. As a designer, I aspire to learn and improve upon my every design by revisiting what I’ve done in the past. I believe it is absolutely necessary to analyse and critically think about every design to understand better what works and what does not so that we educate ourselves by way of our creations and improve as designers in our craft and in what we profess.
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Personal
Experience
Date of Birth - 24 Apr 1997 Nationality - Indian Email id - amatya824@gmail.com
SM Studio ,
Mumbai, India
Intern Architect [Jan - May 2018 I June - Nov 2018]
Abin Design Studio ,
Education Holy Cross Anglo Indian Higher Secondary school
Architect [Sep 2019 - Mar 2022]
Kolkata, India
Primary school [Grade 1-3]
Competitions & Certifications
St.Thomas Matriculation Higher Secondary school
Indian Green Building Council
Secondary school [Grade 4-12]
Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science [HITS] Bachelor of Architecture [Jul 2014 - Apr 2019]
Adobe Suite Photoshop, Lightroom, Indesign, Premier Pro MS Office
Drafting AutoCad
Shortlisted Top 10 Entry in Louis I.Kahn Trophy - 2018 National Association of Students of Architecture [NASA]
Certificate of commendation for the best 3D visualization - 2018 The Vivek Punjabi Visions Award by Dialogue Events
Refugee Shelter Design Challenge - 2021
Skills Presentation
Quarry Design Competition - 2017
Modelling Rhino Sketchup
Visualization Vray Lumion
Resurrect 2021
“Performer of the Year Award” - 2021 Abin Design Studio
Build with speed - 2022
- expected
Ultratech Cement - India Next - Housing Competition
“Navyom” nominated in Top 100 Commercial buildings Archdaily Awards
Languages
Others
English Hindi Bengali [Native] Tamil
Confluence at SAP Campus - 2016 Caricature Workshop - 2017 Vertical Studio Workshop - 2017
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Contents I
COOUM RIVERFRONT REGENERATION Urban Developement - Seventh semester
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II
RE-DOCK [ Reclamation of Sassoon dock ] Urban Developement - Thesis
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III
NAVYOM Sales Pavilion
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IV
ADISAPTAGRAM WORKSHOP Peri-urban Developement
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HAPPY WORKS Working Pod
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V VI VII
NO MAN’S LAND BUT ALL MAN’S HOME Refugee Shelter Design Challenge
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ONE DAY HOUSE Build With Speed: UltraTech IndiaNext Competition Edition 05
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Academic
Professional Work
Competition
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Glimpse of the re-designed park
Cooum Riverfront Regeneration Urban Developement Location - Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India Area - 3.57 sq.km Cooum River has served as an inevitable source for the agriculture and livelihood of the people in the periurban areas of Chennai. However, by the end of the 20th century, the river had become polluted and inaccessible due to many significant factors. The design aims to restore the river and provide access for the people to utilize the riverfront in an environmentfriendly way. The objectives are to establish a relationship between the streets and the banks while maintaining the flood line with the proposed barrier-free design. Although the entire stretch of river is not considered yet, but the principles apply.
Sep 2017 - Academic
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Tracing the Past 8
Introduction & History
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Areas of Interest and its existing conditions The connectivity of this area is good in terms of traffic and accessibility. The Egmore park sits on this road, people use it on regular basis and has ample vegetative cover.
The area beyond the park i.e. the riverbanks of the Coovum river is prone to flooding.
Marshalls road
Pudupet is fine grain in terms of density, with buildings close to each other and fewer common spaces. So there’s no possibility to remove shops/ residences in the existing scenario to introduce green covers.
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Urban Morphological mapping
South Coovum River road The road as well as the bank portions are narrow, being prone to flooding. Currently, there are illegal auto shops that are being removed. An abandoned park rests along this road, which became an adobe for the homeless people due to less maintenance and improper invigilance. At present, people don’t use the park anymore. Langs Garden road
Egmore on the other hand is coarse grain in terms of density due to existing government zones built in the earlier times with luxury of spaces.
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Areas of Interest and its existing conditions
Egmore has abundant green cover balancing the solid-void ratio, while Pudupet is a hub of the automobile market. There are shops built with sharing walls making the whole complex dense and deficient in vegetation. And hence a waterfront with green cover along the Pudupet’s riverbank would be a great proposal for the public.
Pudupet Zone 45% Commercial Zone 30% Residential Zone 25% Mixed Commercial Zone Top four occupations Automobile Workshops Metal Crap shops Import/Export Automobile parts Wood manufacture
News Source - The Hindu
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Urban Morphological mapping
Is public life more likely to arise in streetfronts, green space and active promenades ? Without a doubt, it does make a huge difference to people’s lives as well as for the environment. This particular area can be rejuvenated by providing the spaces, which it has been missing. A stark difference will be noted by the public and it might set an example to further situations similar to this.
Egmore Zone 47% Government Zone 33% Residential Zone 30% Commercial Zone
Characteristics of Egmore as a place
Governmental Institutions - Museums, Library Commercial - Restaurants, Hotels & Bars High end showrooms - Cars, Bikes & Apparels
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Problem & Solution Roots Diagram
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Proposal for Marshalls Road
Proposed
Existing
Key plan
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Promenade extension
Children’s play area
Natural Mounds
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Proposal for Langs garden road
Proposed
Existing
Key plan
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Mangrove plantation along the promenade
Jogging Track / Pause areas
Proposed restroom
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Proposal for South Coovum River Road
Proposed
Existing
Key plan
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Seating Areas
Public gathering space
Hydraulic car parking
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Sassoon Dock - Mumbai
Re-Dock
[Reclamation of Sassoon dock] Urban Developement Location - Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Area - 13.8 acres The relationship between ports and cities is an extremely complex and evolving one. With a coastline spanning 7516km, India’s 12 major ports are a significant part of this interconnected web of international trade. The city of Mumbai has an interesting 1800 acres Eastern waterfront in terms of geographic location within this city. These areas are largely the holdings of Mumbai Port Trust. Built in 1875, Sassoon dock is one of the six docks on the Eastern waterfront and has a thriving eco-system of Koli fishermen and their fishing business. Regrettably, most of the facilities are crumbling and in dangerously dilapidated condition as of now. The thesis revolves around the steps taken to rejuvenate the dock and analysis of the relation between public and private space usage.
Jan 2019 - Academic
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Mumbai as a place Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The most populated city in India and the second most populous agglomeration in the world is also the wealthiest city in India. Mumbai is the financial, commercial and entertainment hub of India. The business opportunities, as well as the potential to provide a superior standard of living, entice migrants from all over India, making it a potential place in the economy. Mumbai is built on the seven islands - Bombay islands, Parel, Mazagaon, Mahim, Colaba, Worli & Little Colaba on the Konkan coastline joined to form the island city of Bombay.
Maharastra, India
Mapping the Eastern Waterfront In 1873, the present statutory autonomous Port Trust was set up for administering the affairs of the Mumbai Port. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 revolutionised the maritime trade of Mumbai. It shifted the whole scenario of import and export trade from the East coast to the West and Mumbai port became the principal Gateway of India. The first wet dock constructed in India was the Sassoon Dock at Mumbai in 1875 followed by the Prince’s and Victoria Docks in 1880 and 1888 respectively.
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“ In Mumbai, the air is saltier. The sea is roilier. The traffic is snarlier. The pinks are pinker. The ostentation is crazier. ” - Hanya Yanagihara
Mumbai Eastern Waterfront project PROPOSAL BY THE GOVERNMENT The eastern waterfront has largely been locked out of the public realm owing to industrial, commercial and port activities. The proposal aims for the following - Tapping into fish tourism by streamlining fishing activities at Sassoon Docks, introducing fish tourism and converting the area into a vibrant tourist spot. - Water transport services like International and Domestic cruises and ro-pax [ roll on/roll off passengers ] services - Development of land for housing, commercial activities, healthcare and transport.
966.30
Hectares Total development
28-km
Waterfront development
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Hectare Park
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Hectare Central garden
Proposed map by the government
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Hectare Themed Streets Mumbai - Eastern Waterfront
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How the CRZ regulations made it possible for the developement? The CRZ [ Coastal regulation Zone ] notification 2018, which supersedes the 2011 notification, allows development close to the coast. It also grants floor space index (FSI) for CRZ-II areas – developed areas close to the coast – according to the regulations of the town planning authority.
Goals of the proposal 26%
+
36%
= 62%
8%
+
17%
= 25%
Publicly accessible open spaces and gardens
Public Spaces
Land area will be public streets
Public streets
Open space is going to be created by the Eastern developement
Current open space in the Eastern Waterfront
The re-development of the Port Lands offers a unique opportunity to re-invent our city by creating the much needed public infrastructure, utilities and public spaces that we are so short of.
Sassoon Dock
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History of Sassoon Dock The Sassoon Dock is the first dock constructed in the year 1875. Presently it is the main fish jetty of Mumbai with iconic fish market. The dock is used to export the fish to various countries. The New Sassoon dock was constructed in year 1995. The area experiences heavy traffic congestion during peak period. Due to age, the existing godowns within old Sassoon dock have become dilapidated. The government of Maharashtra in association with MbPT has undertaken a revamping exercise of Sassoon Dock. Some quick facts about Sassoon dock:
150000
1500
25
20
13.8
2
Livelihood depends on this dock crore facelift from government Acres of land
Trawlers visits the dock
Tonnes of fish catch everyday crore daily turnover
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EXISTING SITE PLAN COMPRISES OF
35%
40%
10%
are characterized by long, narrow structures where fishes are stored and peeled. These sheds were built in the early periods and expanded organically as per requirements.
are found in both the fishing as well as in the non-fishing zones, usually abandoned godowns, office premises etc. It eventually became a resting zone for the workers toiling over there.
are mostly office buildings and the rest are miscellaneous like garages, food stalls, restrooms etc.
Godown spaces
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Unused spaces
Non-fishing spaces
Building Conditions of the site
1. Sassoon Dock Clock tower - The entrance tower / Gateway of the dock has two arches with a Victorian clock at the centre. It was pretty much in a dilapidated condition with very little maintenance.
2. Supply office - This building renders a blank wall to the road making the whole complex obscure. Although it is built with stone arches, the current situation is poor and needs to be reconstructed.
3. Godowns - The infrastructure is really weak, the bricks are weathered and the metal frame structures are corroded. Some of the them are not in use because of their poor condition.
4. Office - The building is in better physical condition compared to the rest, but the zoning of spaces are not well distributed as they are dislocated leading to excess circulation.
5. Fuel resource - There are certain points only where the fishermen can draw fuel for the trawlers, the rest have to fill in barrels and move around which causes the spillage and pollutes the surface.
6. Water tank - Earlier it used to cater for the needs of the dock, but currently, it’s closed and unused due to worse conditions. The concrete structure has weathered and now sits idle on the site.
7. Market / Auction hall - People pass through the godowns and then reach the auction hall, where fishes are sold. It’s a temporary structure with concrete columns and metal roofing. It is overcrowded with poor hygiene and maintenance.
8. Export hall - Two major activities happen beneath this shed – loading of fish onto the trucks and ice flaking. The structure, as well as the problems faced, are similar to the auction hall.
9. Parking - Around 50 – 60 trucks circulate or halt at this place, due to the export activities. Although there aren’t enough sheds to accumulate all of the trucks, the real problem lies in the traffic and movement.
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Urban Morphological Mapping
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Number of Workers / ratio 12000
People work in this dock
40% Women
60% Men
There are several communities of people working in this area, the Koli community people are engaged in the peeling activities, the Banjara communities are mostly the people who work on the dockside. The Yadi community people are the ones who are into trade and supplies. The local labours mostly reside in the dock, while the rest travel from nearby areas of Chembur, Trombay and Dadar.
When do the boats not visit the sea and why? Jan May Sep
Feb Jun Oct
Mar Jul Nov
Apr Aug Dec
June-July is the breeding season for fish, so fishing activity must be halted to allow babies to hatch and protect juveniles. To maintain balance in nature, this rule was laid by the government. Also, it’s the monsoon season and sea tends to be rough during this time making it risky for the fishermen.
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Ideology - The flux between Private & Public spaces Public space is a key to a healthy community. By providing a nucleus for the activity that is interwoven with green spaces, public art and markets, a community is created. Public spaces particularly when integrated into the private realm create a shared sense of unity and emotional resonance within the space, if designed carefully. The proposal aims to create a balanced environment where people can co-exist without hindering their activities. POSSIBILITIES AND ITS OUTCOMES
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PROGRAMMES OF SPACES 33
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Fish Processing Centre 36
View of the busy local market and the Fish processing centre behind
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Godowns of Sassoon Dock
Modifying the element, but retaining the character The intent of the design was to revive the characteristics of the existing stucture, making it fit to the context. Previously, there were issues in the godowns due to dark atmosphere and poor ventilation. Exisiting profile of the roof Shifting the top Introducing clerestory openings The proposed clerestory openings provides ample amount of lights to the interior spaces during the day, thus saving on electricity as well as promotes cross ventilation.
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The green platform 40
Activities of the dock beneath the bridge
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Public space
Private space
Boats moored in disorganized manner at the existing site
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Ideologies of ‘Green platform’ Vertical Segregation of spaces Although its a challenging factor to merge public activities into a private environment, there is a solution wherein the activities can be divided on various levels so as to avoid interference. In this way local people as well as tourist can witness the vibrant ‘Koli culture’ and their work.
Dual yield design The green platform acts as an urban park on the upper level with spaces like amphitheatre, jogging - cycling tracks, rest areas etc. while the same provides shade and comfort for the people working beneath.
Transition space The green platform is simply a bridge connecting two similar nature of spaces and overlooking a different zone during the travel.
Re-organinzing the dock Because of the exisiting space constraints, there were heavy traffic in the dock area leading to problems among the fishermens. To lessen the traffic in the exisiting zone, additonal ‘mooring arms’ and ‘fingers’ [ Fingers are the two parts of the dock that are perpendicular to the main dock and create two decks on either side of your boat when it is moored ] were proposed. A. Existing dock
B. Proposed dock
A
B
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Gallery of Sassoon Dock 46
The building rests on the gentle mounds of landscape
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Urban Art Festival 2017 To revive the historic heritage of the 142 year old docks, St+art India foundation, in association with Asian paints, gave a complete makeover to the home and lives of the Koli community at Sassoon Docks through the artworks of over 30 artists over the world. Source - thebetterindia.com
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Ideologies Nurturing the History The art project was a success, but in no time, did things go back to the way they were. The exhibhition space stays idle and unused currently. The idea of the gallery is to retain the history and the artworks imperishable, so that people can acknowledge the history throughout and not only during certain events.
Experiential Circuit The gallery would not only hold its history but also welcomes other exhibitions and events to attract more public. The circulation of the gallery revolves around the perimeter of the rectangular box with a courtyard in between. The spaces are arranged along the walkway in a linear fashion with display items in the centre.
IN
OUT
Buoyancy The form is lifted from the ground level for two major reasons, first is to increase the curiosity of the user and the latter would be to deliver the experience of being at the edge of the dock to catch a sight of the sea from a different perspective. FORM SEA
FORM SEA
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Light washing the metal screen
NAVYOM Sales Pavilion Location - Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Area - 365 sq.m Located in the bustling city of Kolkata, Navyom is a minimalistic pavilion developed on its remediated site. The site, once a waste yard, includes two large banyan trees that become the determinant of the design. Navyom functions as a mock-up for the upcoming apartment on the site that it overlooks. “Nominated Top 100 in Commercial buildings for Archdaily’s Building of the year awards”
Dec 2019 - Professional works
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Site Condition - Before
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
Site Condition - After
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Site stratergy
EXISTING BANYAN TREES
VYOM COMPLEX
CIRCULATION BUFFER
SITE ENTRANCE
1. SITE OFFSET The rectangular site comprises existing trees at the rear end and a little bit of buffer space in the frontage. The buffer is kept for the ease of circulation and landscape intervention. The vyom building complex which is adjacent to it overlooks the site.
EXISTING BANYAN TREES
VYOM COMPLEX
PROPOSED BLOCK CIRCULATION BUFFER
SITE ENTRANCE
3. CONTEXTUAL PARAMETERS To break the monotony, the linear approach of the site is broken down by curvy paths giving them a different experience and viewing angles of the building.
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EXISTING BANYAN TREES
VYOM COMPLEX
PROPOSED BLOCK CIRCULATION BUFFER
SITE ENTRANCE
2. MASSING The rectilinear form sits lightly on the elevated landscape improving the viewpoints of the building. The form bends and transforms as it circumvents the existing trees.
EXISTING BANYAN TREES
VYOM COMPLEX
SITE ENTRANCE
4. ADDING POCKETS IN THE MASS The chamfered ends on both sides become cosy balconies expressing the experience one would have in their purchased apartment. The design is punctuated with tiny pockets of vegetation.
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Site masterplan & Section - AA’ LEGENDS
1. Main Entrance 2. Building Entrance 3. Balcony 4. Outdoor Seating 5. Existing Banyan Tree 6. Services 60
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
The landscape is a humble attempt at the recreation of nature. Assorted flora of various scales makes it appear less man made. The pavement is organic and experiential as it is intended. Navyom is a philosophical combination of ‘remediation’ and ‘place making’.
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GROUND FLOOR PLAN +1400 MM Legends 1. Foyer 2. Reception 3. Lounge 4. Pantry [ Cafe ] 64
5. Kitchen 6. Seating [ Cafe ] 7. Toilet [M] 8. Toilet [F]
9. Server room 10. Meeting room 11. Seating 12. Balcony
13. Model display 14. Sample Living room 15. Service entry
Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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The reception table is custom designed to fit the comprehensive design language. The meeting rooms are oriented close to the canopy of trees, making the function more comfortable and sustainable. The mock-up living room cum discussion room is placed in the other end attaching itself to the balcony.
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Photos by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
The projected frame guides vantage point whilst creating overall visual balance. The metallic mesh lights the balcony in intricate beams, in the nature of, light filtering through dense foliage. The metal mesh that envelops the pavilion is reclaimed from an old project of the client. The spaces are carefully curated and planned.
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Cafe Seating
Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
BUILDING SECTION - BB’
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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The earthy tones reflect on the interiors as well, with a subdued colour palette reflecting it’s modernism and minimalism. The building does not overpower the site and comfortably fits the human scale without being underwhelming. The mostly monochromatic colours of the interior bring out the volume to its best.
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Photo by Abin Chaudhuri
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Ve r t i c a l o p e n i n g s f a c i n g t h e p o n d
Adisaptagram Workshop Peri-Urban developement Location : Adispatagram, West Bengal, India Area : 100 sq.m [Original], 340 sq.m [Expansion] The Adisaptagram Workshop is situated in a small village context with natural landscapes and water bodies surrounding. The main program of the building includes promoting the art and craftmanship of the local workers while encouraging the employement factor too. The previous structure has been renovated due to the expansion of the business.
Jan 2020 - Professional works
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Program of the building The proposed workshop extension is programmatically conceived to allow craftsmen and stakeholders to explore and collaborate on building techniques related to carpentry, metalwork, building finishes, material, etc in a singular space along with exhibition spaces and workspaces for supervisors.
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1. Site offset
2. Form Extrusion
5. Addition of Volumes
6. Punctures in Masses for Cross Ventilation
3. Profile Subraction
4. Sun Path Analysis
7. Derived Form
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The workshop sits in harmony amidst nature
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
The proposed major road is along the south side of the site which divides a pond adjacent to it. An arterial road moves along the east frontage of the site. The building in its conception takes advantage of the south-east wind direction combined with evaporative cooling from the pond, but also shades the facade from harsh sunlight. The idea thus is to puncture the facade like a vertical cove and project outward by 4 feet from the built mass; thereby creating enough depth to block direct sunlight and generate resting spaces for workers at the workshop.
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
The projections along the facade are designed as sleek boxes made using two layers of MS plates for heat insulation. These are opened at the top with operable louvers, in a north-facing direction for cross ventilation. The space between these consecutive ‘boxes’ is covered in sloping G.I sheets resting on M.S rafters, as the area receives heavy rainfall. The structure is thus worked out to allow ease in construction while indulging ephemeral functions. Overall, the idea is to break the typology of a factory-like space and establish a language that allows the inclusion of stakeholders within the craftsmen’s space using an architectural framework that develops a strong tectonic relationship with the context.
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Details - Portal & Roof junction
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Photos by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Photo by Abin Chaudhuri
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Site Section The entry to the building is from the south-east side leading into double-height workshop spaces arranged in an open plan, envisioned to allow flexibility in function and interaction across the floor plate. The catwalk at the first level along the central spine acts as a visual axis to usher visitors towards the main exhibition spaces and meeting areas, both of which are located at the south-west side of the building - in adherence to Vaastu. It also accommodates an introvert green court of 4.2m x 2.0m so as to allow the eye to rest.
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Peek of the workspace via portal
HAPPY WORKS Working Pod Location - Kolkata, West Bengal, India Area - 93 sq.m HappyWorks - working pod is a response to the shift in working culture that the world faced in early 2020. With ‘Work From Home’ becoming mandatory at the time, the perception of a viable workspace has found various interpretations. Reducing the current office infrastructure to a space which would only be used for collaborative work, a lot of industries have acclimatized to their employees working offsite long term. With many offices normalizing, and even preferring, the WFH ethic, the onus of equipping one’s home to suit this mode of employment falls on the individual. In a developing country like ours, it is not always possible for everyone to sustain a comfortable working space within their homes.
April 2020 - Professional works
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Motive of the project
In light of this, the working pod’s smart pods provide a formal working environment for those looking for such a solution. The pod houses different types of work stations catering to all i.e. from small groups to individual stations. To balance the work areas, break-out zones with indoor screening, dry café and warming stations, outdoor courtyard and amphitheatre have been incorporated. All of these programs seamlessly flow into each other, giving one freedom to choose and maneuver easily. The natural lighting, the shaded courtyard, connects the users to the natural elements and aids in invigorating them. Being modular in design, the pod has been planned at various nodes in Newtown. All that is required is a small parcel of Land.
Form development
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
Amphitheatre 97
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Photos by Suryan & Dang ©
Workspace
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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Entrance
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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West Elevation
Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
Relation between indoor and courtyard space
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Photo by Suryan & Dang ©
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North Elevation
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E x p a n s i o n w o rk progress of a 6-uni t cl uster
No man’s land, but all man’s home Refugee Shelter Design Challenge Location - Rukban, Border of Syria Area - 0.36 sq.km Over the past decade, Syrians are also facing such situations of civil unrest within the country. Syrians fleeing conflict in their country often leave everything behind. They’re in need of the basics to sustain their lives: food, clothing, healthcare, shelter, and household and hygiene items. Survivors have fled towards “what they hope will be a safer existence” Different government plan implementations has not been successful in terms of housing strategies and facilities over the years laid over them. So, our idea starts from a notion of breaking the grid and giving them the opportunity of building their homes not “Refugee Camps”. Building a refugee home and shelter is very subjective as well as a crucial perspective to think about It must be a place that provides not only physical support but also inspires safety and hope. So, what is the role of architecture? What should a shelter look like? How modular it can be?
January 2022 - Competition
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Challenges & Tasks Throughout the history of mankind, we have noticed people have been displaced from one place to another in search of basic living standards like food, shelter and better economic possibilities. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, estimates that global forced displacement surpassed 80 million in 2020, which is more than one per cent of the current population residing on earth.
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HOW TO SELF SUSTAIN WITHIN THE LIMITED RESOURCES? By the aid of the governing bodies, there are very little resources being distrubuted to the site. To propose activities and to educate them on semi arid farming, they can sustain and become more dependent on themselves. “The key thing will be to design and construct shelter where no or little technical supervision is required, and use materials that are locally available and eco-friendly. It’s important that the houses can be easily maintained by inhabitants.”-Shigeru Ban
Cluster arrangement on site
HOW TO BREAK THE NOTION OF “CAMPS” IN A REFUGEE’S MIND? The best approach are sometimes the minute details and observations in a design. Avoiding the bold labels of the organization on the tents or by breaking the grid placement of tents can actually make a huge difference to their living conditions. Series of interconnecting public and semi-public spaces can create a positive human environments.
HOW QUICKLY CAN IT BE BUILT? In a remote area, the mode of construction is a tedious process and hence requires a quick and easy method. Modularity is one way to replicate and can be done easily over time. Keeping the construction process simple also lets the user to gain the knowledge of building.
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Making Tangible City and understanding the spaces from history
CITY SCALE Since ages we have seen growth of the cities always happened organically according to increasing needs of the users policies changes as per the adaptability.
URBAN SCALE Inspired from Noli figure-ground Mapping active community neighbourhood spaces are most important aspect for creating better positive environments.
NEIGHBOR SPACE Neighbourhood identity can be established as a collection of private spaces, also allocating semi-public space for each individual Unit so that is spaces can function as per neighbourhood.
UNIT SCALE Tyopolgy of the modular housing could be inspired from tradtional housing techniques of Syria public spaces are connected through inward looking courtyard.
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Social spaces - play area for kids, gathering area for the people to pray, interact etc.
Goals for the community
Social identity
Interaction
Individuality
Community Interaction
Safer existence
Self sustaining
Communal spaces
Density
Walkability
Organic
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Cluster Arrangement
1 Unit 23 sq.m
6 units
9 units
12 units
Single unit x1
Single unit x2
Single unit x3
Double unit x1
Double unit x2
Double unit x3
Triple unit x1
Triple unit x1
Triple unit x1
138 sq.m
207 sq.m
276 sq.m
Expansion programme
Area of Units
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Breaking the Grid The six, nine and twelve clusters are themselves modules when adapted to the site plan. The below diagram shows the branching of these clusters and how it interacts with the different setups. Many interesting pockets grow out of it due to its inorganic nature and hence people adapt to it without any implementing force of other governing bodies.
1.Setting up Units
2.Radial expansion
3.Merging of Clusters
4.Sharing common spaces
5.Green pockets
6.Healthcare units
7.Community gatherings
8.Movement pattern
9.Inorganic expansion [ master site ]
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Nurturing the Community garden
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6 UNITS CLUSTER PLAN Area - 138 sq.m
Insulated puff Sheets sloped on both sides
M.S. frame structure for supporting roof Grills for ventilation -stack effect
9 UNITS CLUSTER PLAN Area - 207 sq.m
Modular partitons for walls
Modular doors
Emergency floor made with reusable wooden pallets & steel sheets M.S. frame structure raised from ground for better insulation 9 UNITS CLUSTER PLAN Area - 276 sq.m
STRUCTURE COMPONENTS 117
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T h e u n i t h o m e g l o w s up l i ke a l antern duri ng the ni ght
One Day House Build With Speed: UltraTech IndiaNext Competition Edition 05 Location - Rakkinarkottai, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu Area - 0.36 sq.km We agree that everyone needs undivided attention, be it rural or urban. The homelessness problem in the rural areas is rather simple and the problems in the rural fabric are just beginning to sprout. In rural and remote villages disadvantaged/homeless people have less access to opportunities as compared to disadvantaged peoples in the urban setup. Issues of urban migration may be solved if the issues of the rural areas are addressed first. Nestled in between a cluster of villages in the Tiruvadanai Taluk of Ramanathapuram lies RakKinarkottai, a hamlet destined to serve as a safe haven for the currently homeless, semi-nomadic Narikuravars. “The Narikuravar Are An Indigenous Community In Tamil Nadu, Who Are Also Considered Gypsies And Dalits (Untouchables). The challenge lies in building a house that can be built with speed [ as per the brief of the competition ]. Often plans and schemes are made for the underprivileged without offering them a choice, our proposal respects everyone’s desire and one shall remain in the existing condition, if desired.
January 2022 - Competition
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Geographical context
1. An unidentified tribal community
2. Acknowledged through vaccination camps
3. Undocumented and unreachable through Internet / media sources
Somewhere in TamilNadu....
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ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
The Narikuravar—’jackal hunters’ in Tamil—are named for their outstanding hunting skills, though they are no longer allowed to pursue their livelihood in local forests. Instead, the Narikuravar sell bobby pins, earbuds, bindis, and beaded necklaces at bus stations and busy thoroughfares across Tamil Nadu. They are a semi-nomadic tribe believed to have moved to Southern India from the North of the country half a millennium ago.
“We cannot get jobs because we don’t have any recognized certificates”
“My school is so far away. Sometimes i sleep in my school at night”
“We starve every time it rains as everything gets wet”
“My house is about to fall, four of us live here”
“I wish i were educated”
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Modular Planning
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EXISTING KUTCHA HOUSES AND OPEN DEFACATION AREAS
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POSITIONING PREFABRICATED BUILDING ELEMENTS
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‘PATTA’ OWNED
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NON-LABOR INTENSIVE PREFAB CONCEPTS AND INNOVATION JOINTS
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ZONING - RESIDENTIAL AND RE-PURPOSING OLD SITE
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CLUSTER OF 8 WITH SHARED 7 COMMUNITY GARDEN AND COURTYARD
MODULAR PRINCIPLES + SCALABILITY + MASS PRODUCTION
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A SCALABLE SITE PLAN FOR THE NEW RURAL INDIA
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SDG Goals Sustainable development is the heart of a development strategy that embraces growth while using resources more efficiently, with consideration of immediate and long- term benefits for our planet and those who live on it. The primary objectives of SDG are:
Economic growth v) SDG 15: Life on Land (terrestrial ecosystems) Social inclusion Environmental protection Overall Integration Level Assessment (axis based) :
OVERALL INTEGRATION LEVEL ASSESSMENT (AXIS BASED) :
5 SDGs have been considered as relevant foci for the design: i) SDG 6: Clean water and Sanitation (water) ii) SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy (energy) iii) SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure iv) SDG 11: Sustainable cities and Communities v) SDG 15: Life on Land (terrestrial ecosystems) As of 2020, Tamil Nadu had a composite score of 74 , leading as a Front Runner (score: 65-99) in 12 out of the 17 goals, and as performer (Score: 50-64) in the remaining categories. We proposed to include the cultural, institutional, political as well as ethical dimensions as core pillars to our sustainable design. 123
Cluster homes are arranged in a grid plan
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Pivoted Ceiling Plate Detail It acts as a multipurpose rain screen cum surface to dry grains, clothes and for feeding birds.
Strage Loft An additional storage space is used for storing food, paddy, tools, etc
The Garden Facing Thinnai This arrangement creates a semiprivate space that is used for gardening ,drying clothes and other utility activities.
45 Families housed! 56
Total number of units
24.5 Sq.m
Carpet area of 1 unit
46.8 Sq.m
Built up area of 1 unit
1246 Sq.m
Total Carpet area of all units
44 Sq.m
Anganwadi Carpet area
19.4 Sq.m
Temple carpet area 126
A CONSCIOUS CHOICE OF CONCRETE
The conscious choice of concrete addresses the mindset of people who have a sense of pride associated with concrete finishes rather than brick finishes which they consider ‘unfinished’.
Technology as a tool
Clerestory for better ventilation. Detached kitchen to contain the smoke from the living unit.
Prefabricated Concrete Wall Panels
The Courtyard-Facing Thinnai This arrangement creates a semi- public space that caters to social interactions and creates a vibrant frontyard
QR TECHNOLOGY
The prefab materials are packaged with a QR code that takes them to a video tutorial of how to build your house.
MAGNET JOINTS
Innovative mesh with magnetic strip can be easily stuck on the steel structure for immediate fenestrations - replacing time consuming and labor intensive wood work and joineries.
Hollow wall panels to run services through them - making it light weight and uses less material.
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Structure Components SPEED
Hollow pre-cast concrete wall panels through which services can be run. Benefits also include light weight and reduced material quantity.
TECHNOLOGY
Hinged pivoted part of roof for varying needs.
LONGEVITY
Steel structure for resilience and longevity.
PROCESSES
Design execution optimized with minimal low skilled labors.
SPEED
Innovative mesh and magnetic strip frame replaces mil-work and offers ease of installation. Saves 11% of total cost compared to typical wood work.
MATERIAL
Prefabricated concrete and steel structures bolted on site.
SPEED
QUALITY OF LIFE
Pre-cast wall panels with interlocking grooves
The design doesn’t compromise on the well-being of the users and sensitizes a rural centric proposal. All Modules are connected to community garden and open courtyards. They have elaborate offsets and ‘thinnai’ making it easier to rebuild their lifestyle at ease.
PROCESSES
Prefab materials with hardly any wet joints, bolts instead of welding, innovative magnetic joints cuts down the construction time tremendously.
SCALABILITY
Grid allows repeatability and dynamic expansions. Services and plumbing can be laid in grid at once to reduce wastage and reduce overall time.
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Roof overhang covering the verandah
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Site Masterplan The Temple is strategically positioned in the very entrance of the site which helps create an identity and sense of pride for the community. The housing units are repeated in fundamental principles of Modular Architecture creating a grid like pattern making it easier and time efficient for creating PHE & MEP Services. Furthermore reducing the wastage. The grid is crafted in a way that it can be expanded further in x,y,z extents and allows development to flourish by creating expandable pockets.
ROOF PLAN
SECTION Each repeatable cluster consists of a maximum of 8 houses sharing an open Courtyard. The clusters are arranged in a carefully planned manner so that the voids become provisions for future development of roads. The proposed design is easily scalable across the country with minimal customization for context.
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K
F
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Plan of Module Each House unit is 24.5 sq.m. Two Houses share a community garden, towards which the roofs slope down. The Backyard of the houses are contnected to the community garden creating a semi-private utility area. The front portion of the house opens up into the large courtyard / activity area. The courtyard and the house clusters are created to reflect the rural characteristics and their specific way of life. The unit is designed with speed and efficiency in mind without compromising on the quality of life or contextual response.
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LIVING / BDR
The plan is simple and functional, The house offers a porch area where the traditional ‘Kolam’ is enjoyed every morning. ‘Thinnai’ a traditional architectural character of the region is re-adapted in a minimal form and offers ample outdoor seating - relevant to the sociable community.
B
As we enter the house it opens up into a living and sleeping area with an attached toilet. The Kitchen is spatially disconnected from the rest of the functions to prevent the firewood smoke from entering inside. The above slab is used as a loft storage. The roofing system extends beyond the building to provide adequate shade all around the Unit making it more of a live-able space. The slope of the roof directs rainwater runoff to the community garden. The angle also creates a grandeur appearance to the entrance while the clerestory window helps in cross ventilation.
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A unit home’s frontage / common space
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MARKET PLACE
A communal gathering space for the local people to sell their daily harvest vegetables, fruits, flowers, other products etc.
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Shared garden
Public gathering Space
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Awarness Wall -Tribes with outstanding hunting skills - Prohibited from such acts in modern times - Educating them about endangered species by providing an ‘awareness wall’
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Anganwadi - Existing semi-pucca house re-purposed as anganwadi. - Existing tree re-purposed as outdoor study area.
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“Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.” – Nelson Mandela “Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.” – Nelson Mandela
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“THINKING OF A PLACE”
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