The Architect's Diary Magazine - October 2024 Edition
Tadpod with AR. MANAS BHATIA
Exclusives from IIDA 4.O ELEV8 SPOT
Cover Image MONSOON IN FARMHOUSE I2A ARCHITECTS NEW FEATURES OF THE MONTH
It is a never ending saga when it comes to learning and exploring architecture. There are always new structures, materials, technologies, products and in-finite innovations awaiting for one to scrutinize. Have no fear, we’ve got you covered with our new edition of The Architect’s Diary Magazine. This October let's dive deep into the pool of new creations and inspirations with the latest edition.
<I have a dream that architecture can bring something to contemporary society. Architecture is how people meet in space.= – Kazuyo Sejima.
With an ample amount of construction on a daily basis, being eco-conscious and applying sustainability at the core of building has become our priority. From choosing local materials to meticulously designing, using new technologies needs to be considered while not jeopardizing functionality and comfort can be a task at times. Hence, our carefully curated feature projects are deployed to inspire and envision different insights on smart solutions. Hereby taking a step further on acknowledging innovations in traditional material, this edition celebrates World Bamboo Day.
To amplify these learnings globally, The Architect’s Diary hosted IIDA 4.0, which is an online summit inviting the best of the archi-tects and designers from all over the globe, to participate in enlightening panel discussions and various significant workshops to prompt upcoming aspirants and professionals. Further emerging digital age and architecture, engage in an exclusive TADPOD interview with Ar. Manas Bhatia, illuminating the importance of AI and reforming our design approach. And lastly, what can be a better companion to a magazine than a deliberately selected Playlist of the Month? Submerge in the world of design with this latest edition.
Ar. SIDDHARTH BHAYANI FOUNDER, THE ARCHITECT’S DAIRY
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Beneath a timeless gable roof and expansive design, this weekend home in Indore stirs a sense of curiosity and wonder. The embrace of warm terracotta blocks paired with the striking elegance of an impressive filler slab weaves an undeniable allure into the heart of the abode. Here, the landscape gently entwines with the built space, crafting a sanctuary of comfort and luxury, where nature and architecture dance in perfect harmony
This Gable Roof House Welcomes One With The Sound of
The designers sliced the terracotta blocks in half for wall cladding to create intriguing patterns.
As a conceptual obligation and for spatial coherence, the largerpartofthemartialpaletteremainsconstantthroughout the project. We consciously present the same materials in alternative ways across spaces. The dense tropical plantation forms a buffer around the property and helps in controlling the microclimate of the house. As night sets, the glow of the lights on the gable roof makes it seem floating on the delicatestructure.
SAUMIL NAGAR Principal at AXA
A multidisciplinary firm, mastering the spatial design typology, with the splendid amalgamation of traditional and modern construction technologies. The details are evoked through their subtle geometries in design. And by deliberately crafted material pallets their designs speak a story within itself.
This gable roof house is a 700squaremeter weekend home for a family on the outskirts of Indore.
The solid terracotta blocks are arranged to control the visibility and sunlight in the Master bedroom placed behind it. The dining, kitchen, and living rooms are all paced in an open-plan format, one next to the other. There are ample spillover opportunities from this central spine of the house to the outdoor spaces, such as the pool, the upper deck, and the massive lawn. The designers sliced the terracotta blocks in half for wall cladding to create intriguing patterns. The design of the Master bedroom on the ground floor also follows a minimal approach balanced by a conscious introduction of softened design elements: be it through color, texture, materiality, or light.
BENEATH A TIMELESS GABLE ROOF AND EXPANSIVE DESIGN, THIS WEEKEND HOME IN INDORE STIRS A SENSE OF CURIOSITY AND WONDER. THE EMBRACE OF WARM TERRACOTTA BLOCKS PAIRED WITH THE STRIKING ELEGANCE OF AN IMPRESSIVE FILLER SLAB WEAVES AN UNDENIABLE ALLURE INTO THE HEART OF THE ABODE.
i2A Architects
Embodying the vibrant spirit of Kerala’s cultural heritage, this Thrissur farmhouse gracefully melds modern living with traditional design. Embraced by lush paddy fields, swaying coconut groves, and serene backwaters, it stands as a beacon of eco-conscious design. Its open, fluid layout guides residents through a sanctuary of comfort and serenity, inviting a deep sense of peace.
the MONSOON FARM house
LOCATION: Thrissur PROJECT SIZE: 2302 Sq.ft
PHOTOGRAPHS: Vishnu V Nath YEAR: 2024 in
This modern approach enhances connectivity within the house, making it ideal for family gatherings and social interactions. It includes two well-appointed bedrooms, each designed to provide a cosy and intimate space for relaxation. Large windows in the bedrooms allow for ample natural light and bring in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. While the exterior maintains a traditional aesthetic, the interiors are designed with a contemporary touch. Sleek furniture, minimalist décor, and modern amenities ensure comfort and luxury. The choice of tropical trees and plants not only reflects the local flora but also provides shade and natural cooling. Thus reducing the reliance on artificial cooling systems. The lush greenery envelops the farmhouse, creating a laid-backandrefreshingenvironment.
Embraced by lush fields,paddy swaying coconut groves, and serene backwaters, it stands as a beacon of ecoconscious design.
Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Kerala, India, this traditional kerala house stands as a testament to the melodious blend of traditional design and contemporary functionality. Envisioned as a tranquil retreat, the farmhouse encapsulates the essence of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage while integrating modern architectural principles to create a space that is both timeless and current. The chirping of birds, the hum of bees, the tapestry of light and shade, and the cool touch of the earth underfoot create a soothing aura. The open-plan layout encourages a sense of freedom and fluidity, while the incorporation of natural materials and sustainable practices ensures that the design is both environmentally responsible and visually harmonious. The farmhouse features an open plan layout with large windows ensuring an unobstructed flow of light and air, enhancing the sense of spaciousness andcomfort.
A BEAUTIFUL LARGE POND, LINED WITH LOCALLY SOURCED LATERITE STONE, IS A FOCAL POINT OF THE LANDSCAPE.
This farmhouse in Kerala is crafted with love, and precision by i2a Architects Studio
The pond not only adds to the visual appeal but also serves as a natural cooling element, helping to maintain a pleasant microclimate around the retreat.Inadditiontothelargepond,smaller
water bodies and thoughtful plantings enhance the sensory experience. Thus making the farmhouse a true haven of peace. These water features also attract local wildlife, creating a vibrant ecosystem around the farmhouse. Indigenous tropical trees and plants like bamboo, elanji, mango, etc. are strategically placed to enhance the aestheticappeal.Meanwhile,italsopromotesbiodiversity.
The thoughtful design and integration of natural elements make this farmhouse a model of sustainable and aesthetically pleasing architecture. Moreover, offering a serene sanctuary for those seeking a blend of comfort, tradition, and modernity. The farmhouse has transformed from a weekend getaway into a home for the clients’ family. It now embodies a new identity and a way of living in harmony with nature. Thus encompassing trees, insects, dogs, cats, and all that comes with it. The elements of nature—a piece of sky, a feel of the earth, a gentle breeze caressing the landscape, refreshing and soothing all in its path..
Sanjukta Chakraborty & Arjun K J Principals, i2a Architects Studio
A significant highlight of the farmhouse is the expansive deck area, which extends from the main living area. This outdoor space offers panoramic views of the countryside and serves as an ideal spot for lounging, dining, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The landscaping is meticulously planned to create a harmonious blend of pristineandfunctionaloutdoorspaces.
i2A combines a passion for architecture with a commitment to innovative solutions for clients' challenges. They encourage clients to dream without inhibitions and transform their designs into bigger dreams. Success is achieved when clients trust i2A to pose tough design challenges and innovate unique solutions.
BAMBOO CREATORS MAKING POSITIVE IMPACT IN INDIA
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
the COCOON pre-primary SCHOOL
LOCATION: Vijayawada ARCHITECTS: andblack design studio
PHOTOGRAPHS: Vinay Panjwani YEAR: 2024
Embracing the avant-garde in design and education, this Andhra Pradesh school exemplifies the brilliance of parametric creativity
FREE FLOWING
Bloomingdale International School in Vijayawada is a first-ofits-kind institute and the only International School in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India, that has: in its core value a
vision to provide education that is unconventional by standards; in its heart to go beyond what other pre-schools in the region provide; and in its brief to bring a paradigm shift in early education through thoughtful architectural design. In a region where traditional education systems dominate the sector, the design of this school highlights the transformative power of parametric architecture in pushing the boundaries of education and challenging conventional norms. The preschool occupies a 4,000 sq. ft. area within the campus, adjoining the existing school building in Andhra Pradesh. Connecting the two buildings is a sunken courtyard, following the topography of the site and ascending towards the new extension as if climbing a hill. This site arrangement, along with the need to cater to about 100 preschoolers, offered the architects an opportunity to develop something
EXPLORATORY
unique to the school campus. The outcome is a design that challenges the notion of what a school should be. It does so by bringing the built form, landscape, and interiors together into a single entity, using non-conventional spatial organization, modern technology, and robust materials. In line with its vision, the architecture of Bloomingdale International School breaks away from the typical school design norms. Instead of the usual box-like classrooms for an undulating 3,000-sq ft indoor space, the layout envisions classrooms as fluid, interconnected spaces that foster free movement and interactions. The design seamlessly merges spaces for playing and learning, blurring the lines between the two. The courtyard adds to this effect by adapting itself as a playground, a classroom, an amphitheater, or a puddle pool, as the function demands. This unique spatial experience is further enhanced by the use of full-height glass panels in place of walls and skylights on the roof. This design blurs the boundaries between inside and outside.
Another point of departure from conventional school architecture is the design’s reliance on built form instead of bright colors to generate visual interest. Central to this idea lies the thought: “the building,
instead of being a part of the landscape, should be a form of the landscape in itself. The designers conceptualized the fluid form of the roof—covered in turf and resting on an unobstructed structural space devoid of internal supports or partitions—using computational tools. Its ingenuity lies in how the green surface outcasts the rest of the built form. Thus, making it a landmark in the area.
Even more surprising is that we realized the structure within a limited budget by adopting an efficient construction process that leverages readily available resources and technologies.Its reliance, especially on prefabricated materials, is another critical aspect of the design. The structural core of the roof has been erected on site using prefabricated elements and construction techniques. This involved directing unique junction plates at each intersection of bent circular hollow sections along the X and Y axes. We achieved the required curvature by varying the heights of precisely fabricated and assembled junctions. We resolved the structural complexities of the smooth external skin by integrating a ferrocement shell above the unique metal structure.
The visual effect of this austere material palette is heightened by natural light dissipating through the skylights. Thus punctuating the seamless curvature and creating an anchor point in each classroom. The movement of light and shadow, diffusing in the classroom across the day, adds another playful element to the design. The architecture of this school is unique in its structural expression. Also, the innovation in design, and resoluteness in its unconventional approach, where every part has been thoughtfully designed to reinvent the concept of educational spaces. This leaves an impression on its users.
Jwalant Mahadevwala & Adity Rawat
Principals, andblack design studio
Drawing inspiration from complex interactions in nature, andblack use parametric tools and physical modeling to evolve their designs. They uniquely use materials like metal, wood, bamboo, and paper, and believe in collaborative work. They strive to deliver iconic and meaningfulprojects.
The classrooms, with their flowing, organic forms, infuse a sense of uniqueness and boundless openness into young minds.
Cabinet Sliding Fitting
NANDI AALAYAM
LOCATION: Andhra Pradesh
ARCHITECTS: Madhuri Reddy
Architects
SIZE: 5550 Sq.ft
PHOTOGRAPHS: Hansoga
Photography
In the heart of Nandyal, Nandi-Alayam emerges as a sanctuary where tradition and modernity embrace. This architectural gem, steeped in the essence of Indian culture, invites three generations of the Reddy family to dwell harmoniously.
With its vintage charm and contemporary elegance, the home is a poetic testament to the joy living...of
Named Nandi-Alayam, the 1,850-square-foot Andhra house spans three floors and draws inspiration from its location This vacation home comes straight out of a dream, a stunning bungalow designed for their extended family
nestled in Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh. The historical temples dedicated to God Nandi surround it. Furthermore, the name stems from Telugu words meaning <giving joy= and <a moral place of living.= Three generations of the Reddy family reside in this home, living harmoniously based on the principles of Vaastu and biophilia. The design of the Andhra house uniquely showcases Indian culture by integrating vernacular elements with modern and contemporary features. One enters Nandi-Alaym through a wooden door adorned with vintage handles, also enhancing its simple charm. The design prominently features natural wood throughout the space, also embodying the authentic and earthy essence. These authentic essence consists of India’s soul and making it a key element. Notably, the family has inherited much of the rosewood used for the wooden furniture from previous generations. Additionally, the Andhra house design crafted some of the wall panels from leftover waste wood on the site. Large natural teak wood windows and doors fill the home with abundant air and natural light. Furthermore, it amplifies the organic feel and elevates the indoor environmental quality.
Upon entering the home through the foyer, the seamless fusion of vintage and modern elements is immediately apparent. The space features lounge chairs from Dtale Modern and a centre table from This and That, thereby blending the old and new effortlessly. A sleek wooden partition in the foyer introduces an element of surprise, offering glimpses of the expansive living room beyond.
The living room showcases a minimalist design, centered around an elegant vintage leather couch paired with a sleek black coffee table. These understated elements are enhanced by exquisite custom artwork, including the 8Art of Ardhanareeswarar9 from Studio Orion, which depicts the androgynous form of Lord Shiva and Parvati with their vahanas. A sleek TV console in the living area showcases accent decor from West Elm. The adjacent pooja room is concealed behind a wooden door adorned with intricate brass beadings and divine figurines carved in brass. The lower level features a rejuvenating lounge for grandparents, featuring an old inherited daybed, indoor plants, wooden beams, and onyx accents, creating a barrierfree, visually separated area.
Every corner whispers stories of heritage and the beauty of nature intertwines with the soul of the family.
The kitchen embodies modernity with its sleek black and white design, emanating a pristine ambience. Featuring white cabinets complemented by a black granite countertop and backsplash. A subtly traditional seating area balances its
contemporary aesthetic. The bedrooms spanning two floors present captivating thematic contrasts. The master bedroom exudes a timeless vintage charm, showcasing exquisite rosewood furniture passed down through generations. The room gains further richness from a meticulously handwoven dhurrie from Aadyam, with intricate patterns that add depth and warmth to the space. A staircase connects the floors, where the steps also feature accents of black granite and white Rajasthan marble, adding a touch of dramatic flair. To create a sense of openness, the staircase wall also incorporates glass panels and wooden niches, integrating natural elements. In the family lounge on the second floor, a vibrant palette immerses guests in Indian heritage. Rosewood sofas and a centre table, cherished heirlooms, harmonize with a custom-made teak wood swing adorned with brass details. Adding to the cultural ambience are art prints featuring Radha Krishna from the House of Things, additionally complemented by a captivating rug from Obetee Carpets. The cushions in the lounge have been sourced from Kainaat and the throw is from Ithihaas. The second-floor family lounge features a seamless connection to an outdoor seating area and balcony, and also enhance with sleek black leather-finished granite. Teak wood bifold shutter doors elegantly unite the indoor and outdoor spaces, furthermore creating a fluid transition when fully opened.
One of the bedrooms ( Younger daughter’s bedroom) on the upper level features a minimalistic design, also adorned with wall art sourced from the Calcuttan Gallery. t features low-seated areas that also serve as storage compartments, strategically placed alongside the bed to optimize space utilization and functionality. In contrast, the adjoining bedroom (the elder daughter’s bedroom) embodies serene Scandinavian elegance. A centerpiece of this room is a circular bed adorned with crisp white linens, set against suspended wooden rafters, additionally, t evoke a sense of airy sophistication.
Madhuri Reddy
Principal, Madhuri Reddy Architects
Madhuri Reddy Architects is a sustainable architecture firm that combines Indian art and culture with modern design. They create versatile living spaces that inspire and enrich occupants' lives, focusing on client-centric approach, experimentation, and continuous learning to preserve cultural heritage and modernity.
BEGONIA PLANTER
Expertly crafted from sustainable rattan, these planters offer both durability and an elegant touch of natural texture.
MUSHROOM FLOOR LAMP
Deeply reminiscent of nature’s beauty, this mushroom lamp made of fabric and metal brings a soft magical charm to any room.
This living space exudes a contemporary charm with its plush, cinnamon-hued sofa that invites one to sink into its comfort.
Panel Discussion on Balancing Design Innovation and Quality in the Age of Visual Inspiration. Followed by a QnA
Series.
Light Lamping Ceremony
Ar. Pankti Shah
Ar. Shivanish Singh
Ar. Bhavik Mehta
Ar. Akash Goplani
Team Casantro, Ahmedabad
ELEV8 SPOT
In esteemed collaboration with Casantro, an initiative by The Architect’s Diary presents an exclusive event that celebrates the fusion of culinarymasteryandinteriordesignbrilliancein Ahmedabad. The event marks the launch of Casantro Kitchen's avant-garde culinary innovations, showcasing their seamless integration into aesthetically refined interior spaces.
Experience Luxury Kitchen & Wardrobes at CASANTRO
RECOMMENDATIONS TAD
BHUTAN- A MOSAIC OF THE DRAGONS
By Bhutan Communications
Bhutan, the rare gem hidden in the deep folds of the great Himalayan Mountains, is the blend of natural splendors, religion, and rich culture. The unique yet untouched terrain generating breathtaking views can mesmerize anyone. Rooted in the essence of Buddhism, the country holds a great grip on literature, art, and crafts drawn from its religious influence. Bhutan also possesses a significant identity in architecture, showcasing a blend of engineering skills and aesthetic beauty from massive fortresses to residences and bridges. Above all, chants of peace and happiness from hundreds of sacred monasteries rejuvenate the atmosphere and pave the way for life. This book aims to blur the borders and introduce the opulent culture, heritage, and undiscovered lands to the global audience.
MORPHOGENESIS - The Master Architect Series
By author, morphogenesis
Morphogenesis, paving its way as one of India's most renowned architecture firms, has been thriving for 20 years, evolving from a home garage to a team of 125 working in the Global South. Sonali and Manit Rastogi are redefining what contemporary architecture can be in the context of sustainability through social, environmental, and financial aspects. Working across all kinds of climate zones and terrains, the studio draws design inspiration from the regional history of building knowledge and achieving high standards of sustainability and livability. From residences to high-rise apartments, from institutional buildings to commercial buildings, Morphogenesis has addressed sustainability, use of passive energy, and optimizing resources, strategically transforming its way in the global marketplace. Delivering the compilation of great workmanship, philosophy, and influential results, projects in this book are curated not only to inspire young Indian architects but emerging Asian architects as well.
MUSEUMS OF RAJASTHAN
ByChandramani Singh
Museums - the Chippendale of great historic culture art, and the State itself of Rajasthan are dated back to the late 19th century. At first, it started as a human instinct by individuals to collect their appealing objects, but later shifting collections of important resources in the historical study. These Government Museums of Rajasthan opened doors to scholars, connoisseurs, craftsmen, and laymen to study and learn the techniques of art through their rich collections. Apart from artifacts, they also display Botanical, Zoological, Archeological, and Geological splendors from every part of the State. Such tremendous growth of museums eventually demanded the documentation and publication of their treasured highlights. Therefore, this book is a poetic response to every history enthusiast in the urge to learn more.
INTRODUCTION TO MANDIRS
By Sadhu Amrutvijaydas
Mandirs - a collection of beliefs, escalation of love, and peace- is one of the pillars of Hinduism Sanatan Dharma. Throughout time, Mandirs have been a source of comfort, strength, and guidance nourishing Hinduism worldwide. Not only dwelling the Gods, but Mandirs are also spectacular representations of ancient architecture, social institutions shaping one's social, economic, and cultural lives. The book beautifully takes us through the journey of the evolution of Mandirs marking Hinduism's philosophical ideas and visions of life, breaking down details of every element.
THE CORB’S CAPITOL -JOURNEY THROUGH CHANDIGARH ARCHITECTURE.
By Sangeet Sharma
This book is simply a love letter to Chandigarh. People are always curious about the architecture of public buildings in the new city, especially when the city is Chandigarh, which is enriched by a few revolutionary architectural buildings. That’s when the author realized that the bare minimum information about these buildings is available. Hence, to justify the poetic response and experience that shaped him and many generations of architects professionally and personally, this book is grateful for the city's historic architecture.
MY INTEREST IN AI SPIKED BY DESIGNING AND RECEIVING RECOGNITION FOR THEM.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
AR. MANAS BHATIA
DISCUSSION ON WITH SIMRAN KHARE
THE IMPORTANCE OF REFORMING AND CHANGING OUR DESIGN APPROACH BY INVOLVING THE STRENGTH OF AI
Manas earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Manipal University Jaipur and possesses a robust background in graphic design and visual communication.
He is passionate about exploring the potential of artificial intelligence in architecture and design He has created innovative conceptual projects using AI, such as <AI x Future Cities= and <Symbiotic Architecture=, which gained global recognition.
Q1: Share some of the key moments that shaped your journey in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Architecture.
During my undergrad years only I was interested in software and technologies. However, the traditional process in design supported more usage of AutoCAD, rather than the tools of Revit and BIM. Before that, I didn’t agree with the opinion but had to work likewise. That is when I came across works of ANT Studio, which dealt with natural materials, and computational techniques. Being inspired I attended a workshop in New Delhi and met Manish. I was determined to learn from him and later on, I joined ANT Studio. Here at the firm, we completed a range of projects, from government and private residential to art installations. We used new-age technologies and computational techniques to develop forms inspired by nature. Interestingly most firms have repetitive steps in the design process, which better tools and technologies can optimize. This is how I discovered AI and more specifically generative AI tools such as mid-journey. My interest in AI spiked by designing and receiving recognition for them. After a few years, I decided to expand my knowledge and therefore enrolled in Colombia. Here I am exploring what's more to AI and the people working on it. It was a massive journey, and I am further enthused by the domain of AI and design.
“
WITH AI HANDLING REPETITIVE TASKS,
DESIGNERS
CAN
FOCUS MORE ON CREATIVITY AND THE EMOTIONAL IMPACT OF SPACES. “
Q2: How do you perceive the technological evolution impacting the creative process and outcomes in architecture?
AI is enabling a lot of creativity in designers, allowing them to prototype and develop new architectural styles rapidly. Generative AI tools make rendering much faster; what used to take days now takes minutes. AI tools, powered by large datasets, create precise outputs and predictions. Over the past couple of years, AIgenerated images have vastly improved, requiring fewer prompts to achieve photorealistic results. While AI can generate random images quickly, controlling the narrative still requires human input. We can't rely entirely on AI yet, but it significantly speeds up the process. As AI becomes embedded in more software, the design process will be much more optimized and efficient.
Q3: Can AI have an impact beyond visualization to enhance design decisions and the execution processes in the future?
Some platforms use generative and procedural design to create floor plans. That means you feed in space type, building typology, and size, and tools automatically generate floor plans and 3D models. Generative design uses a set of parameters and limited data, adding AI that allows it to learn and improve continuously. For example, AI will optimize window functions based on weather data and sunlight data; learning over time and predicting more accurately. An AI trained in a year is way more efficient than using sensors. Integrating AI into 3D modeling, floor plans, and building functions speeds up the process and proves reliability.
Q4: Concerning the integration of AI with various software, does the accessibility towards AI get any easier?
AI is making design more accessible. In computational design, using tools like Grasshopper and Python scripting requires coding knowledge. Traditionally, we communicate with computers using their language, but AI allows us to use natural language, removing the need for designers to learn coding. This shift lets designers focus on creating better spaces rather than learning complex programming. It's like speaking human to computer, not computer to computer.
Q5: How can we develop effective prompts to generate AIdriven designs that are both efficient and can be executed by students and architects?
Before using AI tools, it's important to have a clear thought process. You should ask the right questions and know what you want to achieve. Decide on the kind of image or 3D model you want AI to generate. One should be in control of the narrative rather than relying on AI's outputs and getting lost in its many iterations. Start by jotting down ideas on paper. If you're inspired by a famous architect, analyze their work—consider the elements, style, materials, and environment. Once you have this information, create a prompt. Combine different AI tools, like ChatGPT, to refine your process. AI will follow your guidance, so clear communication is key to getting the results you want.
Q6: Looking at the current architectural landscape, how do you think architects can harness this power of technology to curate sensible, efficient, and environmentally conscious architectural designs?
A lot is happening in the realm of generative design. Google's Sidewalk Labs, for instance, was working on projects to create innovative urban environments using AI and data-driven methods, although the project was eventually dissolved into other initiatives. Their approach involved using generative design to develop townships based on various parameters such as building heights, courtyard sizes, street grades, and sunlight exposure. These parameters are crucial for understanding how building forms affect the environment, including how much daylight reaches the streets and how comfortable outdoor spaces are. By adjusting these variables, designers could create multiple iterations to find the optimal design for comfort and sustainability. With AI, these tools can process vast amounts of data and learn from each design iteration, improving over time to provide more optimized results than traditional generative design methods. AI integration makes these tools smarter by allowing them to adapt and evolve, leading to better design decisions and more efficient urban planning.
FLUID MUGHAL MARVELS
CAVE DWELLING
3D PRINTED SAND HOTEL
Q7: What job opportunities do you think can be generated with the evolution of AI?
New roles are emerging, especially as we shift towards virtual environments and the metaverse. Though the metaverse is still developing, it promises to bring new rules and possibilities. With AI handling repetitive tasks, designers can focus more on creativity and the emotional impact of spaces. Instead of creating mundane details like window schedules, we can use AI to streamline these processes and concentrate on how spaces make us feel. Education will also benefit, as new tools require teaching, and I've started leading online workshops on these AI tools.
Q8: How institutions can incorporate a wider perspective towards architectural education, beyond the basics of architecture, and embrace technology as a whole curriculum?
Most of the architecture curricula in India stick to traditional methods, which are important, but have to be merged with modern tools and software. Generative and procedural design should be taught to help create the best options by exploring various possibilities. Basics of machine learning, Python, and coding could also be included, even though AI may eventually make coding less relevant. It is also important to the students that this would provide a continued learning opportunity through new tools, guest lecturers from diverse design practices, and refreshed content, so they will remain relevant and current with their education. For example, it is less relevant today to learn how a batten door works when that could be replaced with the education of current technologies.
Q9: As we come to the end of our discussion, what would be your piece of advice for the upcoming architects and designers who are inclined towards AI and technology?
Stay curious and explore beyond traditional teachings. Talk to diverse people to gain new insights and find what interests you most in design. Architecture isn’t just about building design; it includes product design, lighting, facades, and visualization. Don’t be limited to one path—explore various related fields. Remember, architecture can be overwhelming with information, so focus on what truly interests you. Don’t get discouraged; by the end of your studies, you’ll find your niche. Then can venture into that.
“ While AI can generate random images quickly, controlling the narrative still requires human input
“
In conclusion, Ar. Manas Bhatia’s discussion highlights the transformative impact of AI on architecture. His transition from traditional methods to leveraging AI tools demonstrates how technology can enhance creativity, streamline processes, and drive innovation in design. Manas encourages future architects to stay curious and explore various fields, emphasizing that AI opens new possibilities for efficient and imaginative design. By integrating these advancements into architectural education and practice, we can look forward to a future where design is both more innovative and responsive to our needs.
