JAN-APRIL 2021 ISSUE 1
Thikaana The place for a space
AXIS VANAM VANAM means ‘Forest’ in Sanskrit, as this project successfully restores the balance of the depleting greens, in the urban landscape. This idea is represented very strongly yet subtly, as we come across the design. The building is G+4. 4 units on each floor. 2BHK apartments on each floor. Common lobby connecting the lift and staircase to the flats on the floor. Every unit plan is different with a terrace and green deck, connected to either living or bed rooms. Green deck is staggered and located at alternate floors. This facilitates taller plantations on the deck. The floorplate of the floors is almost same. The only difference is of the staggered decks on each floor. The seperate decks are highlighted. The users get freedom of using the deck as per preferences. Precast MS balconies. Staggered decks- which are in shape of the angle of repose of soil. Structurally deeper beams to withstand soil load.
sides and intermediately, with tropical and native vegetation. A podium towards the south end of the plot. The lobby area is tiled with natural stone. The staircase centrally located, is open to skylight. The skylight is made of natural terracotta jaali. Stack ventilation for the staircase. The location enables a quite environment away from the main city, yet connected to basic amenities. The building is structurally made strong enough to withstand soil load. Optimum usage of space for the functionality. Green decks on all sides. Rainwater harvesting, water treatment, natural skylights, large windows, all make the building sustainable.
The building is enveloped in green spaces from all
BOSJES CHAPEL Location - South Africa Architects- Steyn Studio Structural Designer- PERI Historic- The traditional Cape Architecture of the surrounding region is also represented in the curves of the roof. Concept- The terrain of the region surrounding the site are Waaihoek Mountain ranges. The rough terrain is represented in this chapel with the smooth undulating curves of the chapel roof. It is surrounded by a reflective pool, that emphasizes the floating nature of the chapel and gives an impression of weightlessness, which represents a flock. The site is located in the midst of rugged mountains. The surrounding of the site is highlighted with green vineyards and pomegranate orchid. The ridges and valleys of the roof represent the mountains of the surrounding terrain. Building area- 430 sq m.
of forces is affected by mobilization of sectional forces. The elements which are typically curved, are mostly capable of taking tension as well as compression. Holbol form- inward and outward curvatures. 6 peaks rise- one at each corner and two each at the centre. Shell type of surface active structural system. These systems are flexible and the rigid planes are able to resist tension. Highly polished terrazzo floors, which reflect light internally. Pure white coloured ceiling. A rectangular plan contains a large and open meeting space. The DETAILS functional program of the structure is placed under 20m x 12m with 6m height Intricate roof design. Shell the ground so as not to interfere with the form. The type of surface active structural system. These systems glazed façade is framed by timber, which appears as are flexible and the rigid planes are able to resist a crucifix. The neutral palatte is much like a frame for tension, compression or shear. The redirection the entire view beyond.
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ZAHA HADID-
THE GLASGOW MUSEUM
The Glasgow museum, Scotland, was built on the junction of the river Clyde and river Kelvin. It has direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, which facilitated trade and s on the growth of the shipbuilding industry. The Glasgow riverside museum of Transport and travel has a historic collection of timeless pieces of transport and technology as an aspect of the area and its history. Zaha Hadid architects are known for designing buildings which represent their environment and are a vivid characterization of the context they represent. An ideal of this structure lies in the way Zaha Hadid interprets the context and purpose in the initial stages of the planning. This structure happens to Zaha Hadids interpretation of that era of sea travel and transport, how this transport has a connection with the history of that area. This structure represents an immortal connection of the transport and the area, for the coming years to witness, and something which has not been long lost in the memories. This building has been conceptualized as flowing between the waterfront and the city as two opposite sides face the respective areas. The roof is shaped in the form of flowing waves, like the crests and troughs representing the high and low waves. The roof and the longitudinal cladding are covered in zinc sheets, which is uniform and sculptural, tactilely as well as visually. Either of the façades facing the city and the riverside are almost 36m high. These opposite walls are glazed and transparent, which appear to cut a cross-section through the building, and thus highly emphasizing the wave on both the sides. The outer waves and inner waves, thus form an envelope for the services to be enclosed within. This kind of material and design, provides for the main central space being completely column-free. This structural aspect thus provides for a more open space in the interior and thus allowing for great flexibility in the planning of the exhibits. This openness in the planning allows for any change in the planning of the exhibits required.
river at the site. It was also a metaphor of flow from the city to the riverfront, the façades of either of which are glass, thus, a visual flow. Also, the flow of vision from the interior to the exterior of the structure is justified. The historic era of the transport and travel it represents, are flowing to the modern day Glasgow. Through this structure, the history of the area shows a smooth flow into the present, which will get carried on towards the future generations. The basic concept of the structure, transcends its originality on various aspects of aesthetics, materials as well as contextually. It has been beautifully incorporated into its practical implementation, on the inside as well as outside. The symbolic placement of the museum is not only in context to the riverside and city, but also linking the history and its future. The material used is zinc, which is a solid material. This seems to be in a sharp contrast with the flowing concept which is propagated. Flow represents a certain fluidity, which is presented in the aesthetic. Thus, this aesthetic balances out on the material part. The lighting of the interior spaces could be more natural and windows could be provided on the elevations, other than the ones facing the city and the riverside. This natural light could also be the flow that one would accomplish, with the interior as well as exterior, as one transitioned across the structure. This has been balanced out by the use of solar energy for lighting as well as ventilation.
These variety of aspects are the constituents of this structure. Overall the justification of materials used, structurally and aesthetically as well as the conceptual interpretation of the idea propagated by Zaha Hadid, is firm and the structure represents it successfully. Moreover, certain aspects are overlooked. In conclusion, the structure can be seen as being a metaphorical as well as symbolic representation of what it claims to be. The history of Glasgow and its Since the structure was placed at confluence of transport has been successfully etched in its timeline, river Clyde and river Kelvin, it was characterised to due to this structure, forever. The Glasgow Museum represent a certain flow. This flow was considered on stands tall and proud as if the city itself. It thus, is a various aspects. It was considered a metallic third memorable icon in the skyline of the city of Glasgow.
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AN ARCHITECT Ar. Karan Choudhary
How long have you been practicing architecture? I passed out in 2013, so it has been 8 years. What do you think architecture is? It is a big responsibility. Like doctors have responsibility of the human race and all the living things we have in the world, we have a responsibility to keep these people in a good environment. When we say good environment, it is not only the ecosystem or the healthy life but it is also about the comfort we are going to give them. We design cities, houses, products too everywhere, right from a small product to a big city and at the end a big country. We play a very important role in the development of the entire nation. It is a big responsibility that we have on our shoulders. Would you recommend the architectural profession to someone? Definitely, but it also depends on if the person is interested in it. since, I already told you it is a big responsibility we have on our shoulder. If I just recommend it to anyone and he takes it only because I recommend it, and he does not perform well, then somewhere it is our loss. What is a trait which you have developed as an architect which is helping you in your everyday life? You can say planning. Right from the day we stepped into architecture school, till the day we are planning everything. We started planning our submissions, days, exams, planning the projects and so many things. So, that thing is now inherent in us. We have it very strong in ourselves. Even if I want to travel somewhere, I will just not go for one thing. I will plan everything, and understand ki future mein kya kaam aeyga yahi route pe. So can I do those in advance? So what can I plan. Once I’m out of my house I plan everything, so I don’t have to visit that pace for another 10-15 days. The planning thing has come. Even looking at everything and observing everything in depth. Analyzing everything, criticizing everything has come a lot. Basically, I started observing a lot and her ek cheez ko criticize karna. Criticizing is not a bad criticism, but a good criticism. As an architect we have to take care of design aspect, technology, client requirement and the contractors
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requirement. How do you manage to keep up with all these factors? Here when we practice, we become a bit selfish. There are very few architects who design for the customer or the client, but there are a lot of other architects who think that they are architects hence they can deliver a much better product to the client who is hoping for something. WE are expert in it so we can understand the potential of the project and plot. When we look at these things, hamein pata chal jata hai ki uska potential kya hai. So we start developing the design in that fashion. We try to convince the client, kyuki client convince ho gaya toh the contractor is taken care of. We don’t have to worry about the contractor, because at the end the contractors looks only for money. There are very few contractors who look for challenges and experimental work. Otherwise, at least in Pune I haven’t seen any of such contractors. When I was in Auroville, there the contractors, architects and civil engineers, they all worked hand in hand. It was not only the project of an architect, but of the entire team. There I have seen a lot of challenges taken by architects, contractors and structural engineers and even the client supported such activities. The product which will be delivered at the end will be out of the box. Such thing I have not seen in pune. IN metropolitan cities, pune and Mumbai, once you convince your client then your road is clear. But it takes time to convince them. Sometimes we have money constraints, time constraints and if you want to do something off the box or different construction techniques then you have to really convince the client. I don’t put the entire design in front of the client. Suppose the client has a budget of 25 lakh, and if I put the project in front of him for 75 lakhs. He will definitely say no because we are going thrice the budget he has in mind. So, we slowly slowly, at each stage we ask him if we can stretch it. When we look at these things, hamein pata chal jata hai ki uska potential kya
hai. So we start developing the design in that fashion. We try to convince the client, kyuki client convince ho gaya toh the contractor is taken care of. We don’t have to worry about the contractor, because at the end the contractors looks only for money. There are very few contractors who look for challenges and experimental work. Otherwise, at least in Pune I haven’t seen any of such contractors. When I was in Auroville, there the contractors, architects and civil engineers, they all worked hand in hand. It was not only the project of an architect, but of the entire team. There I have seen a lot of challenges taken by architects, contractors and structural engineers and even the client supported such activities. The product which will be delivered at the end will be out of the box. Such thing I have not seen in pune. IN metropolitan cities, pune and Mumbai, once you convince your client then your road is clear. But it takes time to convince them. Sometimes we have money constraints, time constraints and if you want to do something off the box or different construction techniques then you have to really convince the client. I don’t put the entire design in front of the client. Suppose the client has a budget of 25 lakh, and if I put the project in front of him for 75 lakhs. He will definitely say no because we are going thrice the budget he has in mind. So, we slowly slowly, at each stage we ask him if we can stretch it. when we stretch it piece by piece or stage by stage, it is not very shocking for the client. When we put it stage by stage, he has already seen the experimentation we have done at stage 1. I have asked him to go for something else, so he has already seen stage 1 has been completed and it has been successful and he is liking it. so then he can risk going for another stage, in whichever way architect is asking him. Ya convincing the client is a little tricky. Yes. There are lot of clients that straightaway say no, mujhe typical hi chhaiye or I want like what is the general practice in the market. But then are a lot of clients who say costing kitna jaeyga and time kitna jaeyga. If it fits into our timeline and budget then we can go ahead. Sir, you said you were in Auroville. So, what was your experience there, can you elaborate a little more? That was the best moments of my life that I always cherish till date. It was not only about having a lot of fun, exploring a lot of things, but it was also the overall development of mind and the overall development of my personality that has happened in those 6-7 months
when I was there. The overall perspective of looking at things has changed a lot. I think very rationally because I met a couple of people there which affected me an inspired me to think in a certain way, certain directions. So, it was a very wonderful experience and it was kind of city which was in the forest. So you have all the facilities and at the same time you are also staying in a very good nature which is balanced, very good human groups. So it was very wonderful experience. In terms of architecture also I learned a lot. In terms of how to live life, how to deal with people, everything. That was like one of the best experiences I ever had. How long were you there sir? I was there for 6.5 months. Was this an internship? I started a bit early and I ended a bit late, so it was supposed to be four months. But I completed my 4 months and did a couple of courses like Ev Ed courses, arches, vaults and domes courses, ferrocement courses. Then, I was also working with Ar. Mira Prajapati on waterbodies of Auroville. So we studied all the water bodies that were there at that time in Auroville. Right from the smallest 1m by 1m waterbody to a lake. So we studied how the system works. What these people did to maintain the water, how that helped in creating a microclimate. How those water bodies help in making Auroville greener. How those water bodies attracted more birds and how the ecosystem was more balanced. Auroville has a lot of vernacular architecture, right? No we cannot say that it has a only vernacular, it has a lot of things. There are a lot of experiments which are being happening over there which are like different. Obviously people staying there they all are having a different mindset, but in the end they have only one aim, to be able to be a good human. That is the first aim. There are a lot of people that come for different backgrounds and have a different way of looking at things. So everybody has different perspectives. It is not that there they only practice vernacular architecture but a lot of experiment is being taken in there like there are a lot of architects that work only in mud, but in a more contemporary way. There are lot of people working in concrete, bamboo. They are also working in ferrocement. There is an architect called Fabian Oshner. He has designed couple of houses complete in metal, steel structure with corrugated sheets. So there is not only vernacular architecture. There are very few architects like Mira Prajapati, Dharmesh Jadeja,
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Suhasini Iyer. These people are practicing vernacular style. But there are also a lot of people who are more into contemporary, more minimalistic architects like Ar. Ganesh Bala, Sheryll and Castalino, Fabian Oshner and a Japanese architect. People who started designing in Japanese style and zen architecture, Popo Pingel and Mona Pingel. There is a variety of things, there’s no one thing anybody of any taste can easily survive there and he can find his own likes there. Do you think it is sustainable? Like everyone is experimenting, so do you think one of their aims is sustainable architecture? Yes, definitely. Auroville falls in hot and humid climate. So, basic climate itself is very challenging there. To design something which will give you comfort. So, giving comfort is a very sustainable thing, without AC. I have seen a lot of projects in Pondicherry, where being in hot and humid climate, they don’t have fan and ac. The way they have been oriented and designed looking at everything. The way we do site analysis, we don’t just stick to our site, we also check surrounding. So that is a very important role. A lot of projects there are designed in such a way, where they have thought at a very bigger scale before designing any project. One such example is Golconde in Pondicherry. It was done in 1940-1950s. Curtain wall can be anything, not just glass. It just has to curtain the exterior and interior. There is another building- Luminosity designed by Ganesh Bala. They have thought of everything in such depth that they don’t require any kind of fan, acs even the building is 100% self-sufficient. They don’t even take electricity from the corporation, not even the water. They produce their own electricity and water. Now they might be taking electricity and water. Do you think sustainability is the future of architecture or can you just elaborate ways in which we as architects can contribute in reducing global warming? Definitely we have that responsibility. Now if you see India is a developing country and is a major source of pollution. Worldwide the majority of pollution is produced by the construction industry, because of coal, cement, transportation, extraction of steel, aluminum and other things. So this industry plays a big role in pollution. If we think rationally in selecting the materials, and how to place them, check maintenance cost, durability and life of the materials. If we study the entire thing rationally, then we can reduce the carbon footprint. Since this is the major source of pollution, we need to work to design more
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sustainable things. Luminosity doesn’t use acs, the climate of Mumbai and pondicherry is almost same. But in Mumbai, we cannot imagine a single house without a fan. They run the fans throughout the day and night. So, only the orientation of the buildings can reduce the carbon footprint to such an extent. Imagine if entire cities are designed in such a way, image the amount of carbon footprint that we will be reducing. We need to take lessons from our history and past. There were a lot of towns planned keeping the solar system into consideration, along with wind direction. Jaisalmer, if you see the wind direction, planning of streets, that all is so sustainable. Even the material. Definitely the material is extracted from earth, disturbing the earth to some extent, but you cannot say those materials are hazardous. So orientation, material, they play a very important role in reducing carbon footprint. Even the selection of materials, form where it is coming. Gandhiji said that you should build your house from materials which are available in radius of 5 km.
“We play a very important role in the development of the entire nation. It is a big responsibility that we have on our shoulders.”
Do you think Indian culture is getting affected by modernism? Indian architecture is losing its importance? Yes, it is. The main thing is why architecture is reflecting the western style. Because our lifestyle is also moving towards that. We way we dress, behave, eat and requirements today are going towards western. The reason behind that is that is that the world is becoming smaller. We have everything in our hands. Internet, so we just see what is happening and reflect. This was not the scenario before mobiles and internet. The curtain wall was designed in Europe in 1930s, travelled to India in 1980-1990s. So that was the lag, till then we all developed our own systems. Change is a part of the system, but we need to take care of climate and lifestyle before blindly aping the western people. There are a lot of things they too are adopting from us. Sharing and exchange of thoughts is going to be there. We cannot say that all historical monuments and buildings were purely Indian culture, except temples. If we see forts, they were always influenced by invaders or our travel. So that influence is going to be there forever and change is a part of life so we have to accept that. But only thing is that we have to be careful in placing it in different places.
RAISE A SOCIAL AGENDA social stigma of a working woman
With the increase in the pace of today’s life we forget to see what we leave behind. The thing we leave behind is left behind and stays there until propelled forward. Something similar is the case of social issues. Some of us keep them behind and forget about it. the rest have to do the homework and push it forward. To keep the society in the progression, we need to overcome these bumps on the road which are the social issues. These are issues held onto, in the name of culture, by the people of the country. If we choose to let go and overcome these mental speed breakers, then nothing is stopping India from being a superpower. One of the social issues in today’s day is the chaining of a woman’s dreams onto the confines of the house. Despite being excellent in all the work women do, they are not allowed or rather pulled back from achieving from their dreams. When a woman dreams, the society makes her feel as though she herself has no rights to see them or even pursue them. The society pulls her back from her dreams and hands over the responsibility of a family, which she might not even want to take over in the first place. A working woman is called names and said to be unfocussed and unconcerned about her family, and even if the same woman is reaching milestones in her own field, her personality is pointed to. The society fails to consider that a woman can excel in fields that might not necessarily involve making other people happy all the time. With this thought in mind no matter how many women excel in various fields, they do not receive as much recognition as men, because men are always associated with work outside the homes.
Women always need to compete with men and put more efforts than men to achieve the same level of professional excellence. The underestimation is a primary cause as to why there is a hindrance in the professional excellence of women. The women do not receive enough appreciation for the work they do. As architects, we should strive to create spaces which do not have any sort of gender dominance in the area. The spaces we design should be in a way to make all kinds of people feel comfortable, irrespective of their gender and societal role. Since the society is formed by accumulation of all these individuals, it is absolutely necessary to be aware of creating spaces which cater to almost all of them and especially the people who normally are not included in the designs. This makes them feel as though we are a part of the society as a whole. It is absolutely high time that we realize the precious gems we have in the form of women, in our society and instead of pressing them down we as responsible citizens of a community should strive to encourage women to excel in all fields there are.
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MAGNIFICENT PELLING unexplored spaces in nature
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After two days of train travelling who wouldn’t be tired. The train journeys are certainly tedious ones, but who knew what stood for us at the end of the journey. The train was so tiring that the sound of the moving train still echoed in my eyes. Although enjoyable, it builds up until the main destination was certainly too tiring to hold up to. A literary journey into the undiscovered roads and experiences of the town of Pelling. The destination was very beautiful to say the least, but the duration of the journey, a little bit tiring, but an add on is that no matter how much time it took to reach the place, in the end the place is worth more than so much more of the effort. Entering into the city in the brink of sunrise is a thing not worth missing. The route goes from New Jalpaiguri to Pelling. We can take a train to Jalpaiguri or a flight till Kolkata and then carry on by road. For me it was a train journey for two days, before reaching New Jalpaiguri in the middle of the night. Stepped into the AC train from a warm humid Mumbai to the spinechilling cold of New Jalpaiguri. The cold was expected, but the chill which ran in the body on stepping off the train was a little more than expected. The bus took us from Jalpaiguri to Pelling. As we entered the hill region, the pollution decreased and the sky and stars were on top of us. The stars were at an arm’s reach, closer than ever. Spotting the constellations would be fun if the train trip hadn’t tired us so much. As the bus went on to the hills, the roads got narrower than any road previously seen. This is the moment of the most adrenaline rush in anyone’s life. Literally a cliff at the side and a bus could hardly ever fit on the uneven road. Not exaggerating, but one centimeter on the side and the bus was sure to be off trail. Fortunately, the eyes were too tired to see in the middle of the night, so it all dawned upon when the next day we took the same route to a sightseeing visit. Nothing like a morning of breakfast beginning your day overlooking the lush green mountains backed by snow clad peaks. I could never understand if the view was more relishing than the food, or I simply could not absorb so much beauty at once. When the first rays of the sun hit us, the beauty of the rising sun and the snow-clad mountains dawned upon the mesmerized eyes. Not even in the slightest of imagination was it expected to have such a stunning discovery in the city of Pelling. It was our first day of discovering Pelling and we were all ready to see
everything that waited for us. Outside the hotel, the view from the helipad with a feeling like were on top of the world, literally, among the highest ranges we stood gaping at the beauty we couldn’t absorb in. The orange yellow hue of the rising sun hit the snow-clad mountains in such a beautiful that it mesmerized everyone. The sky above a pure hue of blue and below lush green forest covered hills, with the scarcest human population I had observed. Such peaceful lives the people led as they travelled through those tangled beautiful lush green trees every day. As we walked 12km on this road to the Shanghak choeling Monastery, I felt a different kind of serenity which was never felt in the normal chaos of a city life. This place was a haven and a place where one could live all their lives. Each and every curve of the road was a hair pin bend and so smooth, as we ascended the hill, the feeling of being such a tiny part of the whole of nature struck me as the tall coniferous tress surrounded the tiny roads. At the end of walking a huge twisted riad, we reached the monastery. We entered into the gates and moved forward into the monastery. As we moved ahead, we observed the monastery was surrounded by a beautiful place, which had flowers and certain beautiful plants encircling the monastery on the periphery. The time we reached there was a prayer time, so we heard the relaxing sounds of the large bells. The monks had gone for a prayer in their place. The minks which prayed, ranged from very young kids to very old men. There was no age limit as to who could pursue this peaceful life of a monk. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to visit the monk kitchen, but it is said that the monks have very good kitchens and there is always a little contribution from some monks in the form of any assistance needed for cooking. The beautiful architecture of the monastery was mesmerizing. I was stunned looking at the ancient architecture and design of the place which was made so many years ago and still held the same impact for which it was created. The interior allowed for an ideal space for meditation and self-reflection. On the way to the Khecheopalri Lake, was a beautiful waterfall which flowed from the top and almost sprinkled a shower as it fell from the topmost stone to the stone below. With the water rushing from the top, they hit the stones which were below. With such a force of the water, the stones below developed a
smooth surface. Crossing the minute stream as we skipped to the other side to catch a glimpse of the plantations which had grown at the side of the rushing waterfall, amidst the smoothened stones. A beautiful waterfall which flowed through the hill, causing an indent and further moved downwards creating a similar indent in the massive rock which was the hill. After the Changey waterfall we moved towards the Khecheopalri lake. The lake is at such a serene location, surrounded by mountains on all sides and just one side to access the lake. There a small worship place which is at the lake, which the people believe to be very auspicious. A small trail which was stone paved lead us from the main road to the lake. The trail was so stunning with the shadows of the trees lurking around in the presence of the sunshine which shone brightly. The singshore bridge was visit worth so much. In the evening, after the lake we moved to the bridge. The bridge was an amazing work of engineering, suspended from the two edges. This beautiful bridge stood suspended from the two hills and on top of a valley like indent. Under the bridge all we could see was a lush green forest which would’ve have been such a comfortable location. For a fraction of a second I even wish I had gotten by bags, ah then I would never go back to the city life. From the middle of the valley, we could see the setting sun and its hazy rays all spread out. The fog from the trees rose to intercept the rays and form a rainbow sort of reflection. The small stream below had a mesmerizing sound of the flowing brook. On the other side of the sunset was a much flatter land which saw the light and shadow as the sun played around among the clouds. Looking at such a phenomenon from the top, really brings out a much greater satisfaction of the observance of nature.The other day on our trail out on the hill, it got a little bit late. Due to it being in the eastern region of India, the sunsets earlier than it ought to set in western cities of India. By 5 pm the area was pitch dark. We decided to wait out at a place which was nearby. It was one of the only places in the 8km we travelled. We waited back for a rest. There was bonfire which helped us warm down in the chilling cold. The stars in the sky were almost a blanket covering us, they were so close I wanted to reach out. After that we cramped tightly against one another and ordered maggi and wai wai. The wai wai was delicious, it might’ve been the hunger, but in such a chilling cold, a hot soupy noodle was just the perfect deal. This place also had momos, but there are only a few places
which make them so delicious and mouthwatering. But, wherever you have them, they are always better than any other city counter. They have something authentic about them which is very evident in the first taste of the dish. I wouldn’t call it a city, because it had such a scarce population, to the extent that I believe the locals were so used to being alone that they had their houses at least one kilometer away from the others house. The people were very kind though, even though they preferred being undisturbed in the peace whenever anyone approached them, they always had a smile and helping hand and were readily drawn into a conversation. They were very approachable and would never deny a help or any assistance. Probably one the reasons that tourism thrives here. Pelling is comparatively a very less discovered place, which due to its overall beauty is gaining so much attention and tourists. It is a very mesmerizing place indeed, with all the factors that make it. From the first view of the place to the last goodbye, one will never feel like leaving this place. Personally, I even felt I could go there after everything and just enjoy my life there in peace. It is a proper getaway from human chaos and brings you back to your own senses. It is a perfect place for self-refection and exploration. The serenity allows you to step back and see yourself as an individual, without losing it all in the chaos and getting carried away. I felt that I came back as a better human. Pelling is a place one must discover at any costs; it is worth every second of it. It is an experience of a kind. The place is a mesmerizing heaven on earth.
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BIOME ENVIORONMENTAL SOLUTIONS office report
Biome Environmental Solutions is a Bangalore-based design firm focused on ecology, architecture and water. It came about by a collaboration with Chitra Vishwanath Architects and Rainwater Club, in 2008. They aim to incorporate the vision of sustainability with the client’s aspirations for aesthetics, functionality, and budget. The nature of their work strives to be ecologically and socially sensitive. Their speciality focuses on - Impact on land - Energy and Architecture - Integrated water management - Social responsibility The office’s diverse team includes designers, architects, civil and mechanical engineers and urban planners from various parts of India and abroad. Chitra Vishwanath- Principal Architect & Managing Director (Bachelor of architecture, CEPT Ahmedabad) Vishwanath S- Director (Master in Urban Planning, CEPT Ahmedabad) Avinash Krishnamurthy- Director and Project Manager Sharath Nayak- Director/ Senior architect Anurag Tamhankar- Director/ Senior Architect
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The ground floor comprises of the owners residence, which is attached to the car park itself. The office can be accessed directly from outside, by a flight of staircase immediately left of the entrance gate The first floor of the studio comprises of a terrace garden leading to the waiting area, which in turn is connected to the workshop area. Further on, there is a verandah connecting the meeting rooms. Towards the end, lies the washroom as well as kitchen and dining. The steps from the verandah lead up. Opening directly into the library, then onto the workspace and model making space. Towards the end lies an open terrace and a much unique, open bath.
Precast panels of perforated terracotta ‘jaali’ blocks over the metal roof provide it shade. The debris from the previous waterproofing layer, is made into a wall of The studio was designed on a existing structure, so the mud concrete. This wall separates the model making owners stay on the ground floor. The studio comprises space and the open bath. The studio, thus represents of first, second and mezzanine floors. The additions the ideal of biome, by recycling and reusing material, made using techniques and materials, which were as well adopting a need based curriculum. lighter. The use of steel columns and metal roofing, allowed The segregation of spaces is efficient, while providing visual connectivity. This idea was crucial at Biome, visual connectivity. since everyone had their contributions and this The acommodation of people is not clustered. made it easier to share and get involved. The office The spaces are placed thoughtfully, with a more overlooked neighbouring foliage, which provided for interactive nature. a relaxing touch. The meeting spaces are below, so as to provide easy access for clients. The working space, model making space and library is located closeby, for efficient handling of a project. The mezzanine floor overlooks the second floor, thus increasing interaction among the team. The main idea which the firm strongly supports, the reusability of material and spaces, has been efficiently incorporated in the making. Another striking concept was the idea of an open bathroom.
THE ESSENCE OF A SPACE The things that make a space what it is
What makes a space truly comforting and attractive? Never known that. Certain spaces or locations or corners attract and psychologically impact us to feel comfortable. Comfort is the primary to us human beings. Luxury is often considered comfort, but we do not consider comfort a luxury as such. When, in the basic necessity, that is what we look for unconsciously. Comfort needn’t be expensive, a simple basic form of an object or space can be as comfortable as anything, but nevertheless, it is subjective.
solid looking table or chair, with simple straight lines of the form, may make the person feel conscious and attended at all times. Why now we would wonder our lounging spaces have huge cozy seating. A soft and supple texture automatically tends to put us at ease. We all prefer comfort after a tiresome day.
Our senses play a huge role in how we perceive the space. All these factors first tend to impact us visually and thus our first impression of the space. The tone of the space is a combination of hue as well as lighting, since both are pointless without each other. As we approach the space, our body experiences it physically What really makes a space comfortable? What and responds. A formal, firm and bright space will captivates us? What makes up the whole essence of make the user aware of their surroundings, whereas the space that resonates with us? a soft, cozy and mellow space will have the exact opposite impact on the human mind. A space consists of various elements, each truly intriguing even in its utmost simplicity or minuteness. Addition of certain decoratives, especially indoor When we see a space, we feel its energy, the vibe of the plants, can go a long way in making a space comfortable. space attracts us. Not only that, but it also makes the space healthier and is effective in uplifting the mood. Feeling close to As we begin to feel a space, the color of the space is nature never felt out of touch. what impacts our brain. The tone and impact of a color can unconsciously, but directly trigger the mood and how we perceive the space. The color palate may be designed separately as per the nature of the space and the requirement of the user goes. A neutral color palate will calm and ground us as we interact with the space. A pastel palate will relax as well as rejuvenate, with the freshness of color and subtly of the tone. The brighter colors will certainly add a splash of fun and A varied combination of these aspects make up a energy as we include them in the scheme. specific type of design, which are suited for various other kinds of spaces. These designs can be an indicator The tone of the space can amp up the atmosphere or of everything, ranging from color palate, materials, make us feel mellow. A brighter light would be used finish, lighting, furniture and decoratives. Some of in spaces requiring full attention and awareness. But, these design styles include modern, contemporary, a comfortable space will use much soothing tones and traditional, bohemian, Scandinavian, rustic and intensities of light, just so that the brain calms down tropical. All these designs sure originated in specific and relaxes. This aspect also considers the intake of circumstances, but now as people prefer comfort, they natural light, which may affect the daily activities in prefer unique customization as well. the give space. Selecting the most important factor to oneself and The impact of the space lies in another aspect, the then choosing the type of design for a specific space is materials and their usage. These materials can be used the way to go about. This would in turn build up the in a diverse way to give the desired design output. A essence of the space, the mind wants to perceive.
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MAGAZINE REVIEWS Indian Architect and Builder September ‘15 80% - images. 20%- content. Elongated titles, similar color scheme to the pictures. Page number- top corner. Subhead- right page corner.
Design and Architecture ‘20 Staggered and mixed up- images and content. Bold highlighted titles. Bold capital brief description. Page number- below corner. Subheading- left page, top centre.
domus December ‘20 Staggered- images and content. Different fonts of titles, similar color scheme to the pictures. Page number- below the page, centre.
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Daylight and Architecture magazine 3 Column form of content. Titles- capital, large font. Larger than content, smaller than title- brief description. One page- image, opposite pagecontent. Page number- below corner, on side of content page. Subheading- below, on content page. Description/ highlight- top corner of content page.
Architecture fabricate ‘20 Landscape form. 3 Column form of content. Titles- capital, large font. Larger than content, smaller than title- brief description. One page- image, opposite pagecontent. Page number- below corner, on side of content page. Subheading- below, on content page. Description/ highlight- top corner of content page.
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NEWS UPDATES A LOSS OF A MAGNIFICENT PIECE OF ARCHITECTURE
Who wouldve known the Notre Dame would burn down someday. It would’ve stood the test of time, but for how long. This magnificent piece of history, culture and architecture has been an attraction since ages. Seeing it burn down saw a huge hole buried in the hearts of people, along with them seeing a whole lot of impressions which were inspired by this marvellous structure.
MAHAKUMBHAGAIN
RELIGION
REIGNS
Religion has always been a focal point for the people of India, but at the risk of helath hazards, we still do not seem to understand the crucial impasse of the situation. Belief in religion is not wrong, but having superstotitous beliefs at the risk of some serious health concerns is mind numbing.
THE RISING TREND OF CORONAVIRUSA DOOMED REALITY?
The past few days have seen a trend which has risen into a steep cliff. With the mind gappling increase in Covid-19 cases and the heart wrenching number of deaths, we all have come to face a reality which we haven’t been ready for. Worse than ever and stronger than ever, we see the virus impacting our lives heavily RISING CLIMATIC CONCERNS as we stay contained in the comfort of our homes for With the rise in world temperature, we observe an increase in global warming, which is raising serious a yet longer time. helath hazards as well climatically altering our lives. With the forest fires burning down large forests to ice caps melting into the ocean, we see a great loss of our nature as well as our individual lives. No matter how lesswe observe it, it is evident that there is no escape in the long run and we are at a high risk to our species.
“Anything which is in the news is a huge part of our lives, strive to change.” 14
ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY travelling in pictures
MONASTERY
RANI NI VAV
MONASTERY
MONASTERY
INTRICATE DETAILING
LOCAL HOUSE
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EDITORIAL Srushti Panchal
Why are you here? The curiosity of a place and space with every inch of how its being is brought alive. The most important aspect that a space brings about is not the space, but the comfort to us, the fulfilment of the purpose of its existence. With the awareness of people evolving way beyond basic spaces, we see that everyone has their own requirement on what kind of space they require. So many kinds of space, so many different purposes for each of them, it is almost like a parallel universe within itself, because it all brings out a different kind of energy and boosts of a unique aura. Every space is its own identity, which has been given to it by the designer or the architect of the space. Spaces are a feeling in themselves, but that is only because we feel and interact with these spaces. The human to space interaction is so important that it dictates alot of the emotions we feel and stimulates or calms them to a certain extent. Space is way more than we can describe it to be. Even more than what we can feel it to be. Architecture is not merely a design of structures. The planning and designing, all are an intricate part of the design process. This process defines how a person shall experince a space. It is a feeling, an emotion and a way of expression of the humanity that we all share. The comfort that we have lost, somewhere we find that in the spaces that we experience. By experience, I mean a full sense experience as a human. Each and every sense of the human body is awakened and necessary in the feeling of a space in its absolute and complete sense. As architects we design and create space which enable optimum human experience and allow human intercation in the maximum limit. The role of an architect is not limited to just erecting building and designing an area. The role of an architect is more intricate than which has been visible. We design spaces which enable humans to interact with each other and nature in a way what is a comfortable environment. An interaction which is a reason for growth and progression of the society. We do not realize that intercations and comfort which we are entitled to enable through our designs, keeps us at a powerful position in the society and the people, which is sensitive too. Designing spaces with intricacy and indulgance makes us come up with spaces and designs, which are perfect for humans, espcially the people using that specific space. With every space a person uses, it has been designed by someone or the other. Our role is to bring the society together, by making inclusive spaces for all sections, genders, religions and sects of society, without any descrimination. We hold a power to the most comfortable spaces of human and have a key to their comfort and engagement. If we take on the charge of what the society entrusts us with and bring our sensitive nature into understanding the requirement of human nature, we will certainly be a much more important chain binding the society together.
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JAN-APRIL 2021 ISSUE 1
Thikaana The place for a space
SNIPPETS OF LIFE SRUSHTI PANCHAL
Striving to reach to people through visual and textual means. Write back to us onsrushtipanchal.2000@gmail.com
SNIPPETS OF LIFE SRUSHTI PANCHAL
Striving to reach to people through visual and textual means. Write back to us onsrushtipanchal.2000@gmail.com
