2024_Master's Portfolio_Vidula Dinesh

Portfolio

Vidula Dinesh Politecnico di Milano, Italy 2022-24

Contents

Po-limpsest

Landscape regeneration of decommissioned nuclear power plant site at Caorso, Italy

Academic Project : 2023 -24

Re-farm

Regenerating agriculture at

Academic Project

Bodhi Festiscape

Corporate Office Design

Common Ground Architecture

Professional Project : 2018 -21

Dissertation Project 01

Identification of on the transition festivals in North

periphery through adaptive Porto di Mare, Italy

Project : 2022 -23

03 06

Eco flow

Nurturing Sustainable Transit Hub in Piacenza, Italy

Academic Project : 2022 -23

of Cultural Nodes; A study transition of spaces based on folk North Kerala

Project : 2017 -18

Design pursuits

Calendar Design Up-cycled furniture design

Product / Graphic Design : 2016, 22

Po-limpsest

Unveiling the layers of history

Caorso, Italy

Sem 3 Studio | Group project | Polimi | 2023

Abstract

The Caorso Nuclear Power plant station, in the ever-dynamic landscape of Italy, once symbolized progress and innovation. Today it stands as an icon not only for what was, but what could be. This project brief outlines our ambitious endeavor to redesign and rehabilitate the Caorso station using the context as inspiration.

Therefore, we have decided that our primary tool to achieve this will be history, both manmade and natural to drive our design decisions. With that perspective in mind, our strategy involves combining the majesty of the river Po with the buildings on site to create a sustainable landscape park that has solved the question of radiation and provides functions to incorporate it with the rest of the urban fabric.

Design Task : Landscape regeneration of the decommissioned Nuclear Power plant site in Caorso

Project Mentors : Prof. Sara Protasoni , Prof. Francesca Neonato, Prof. Francesco Fusco

My Role : Concept, Design, Illustrations

First impressions of the site

Zooming into the layers

PO Over the years

PO and the valley In plan-section intersection

The Po Landscape

Centuries of land reclamation projects transformed the Po Valley from a wetland haven to a fertile agricultural region. This human-driven change reshaped the landscape but also impacted biodiversity and environmental quality. Efforts are now underway to find a balance between human needs and preserving the valley’s natural heritage

Conceptual Representation

The idea of intervention took birth from the attempt of studying the evolution of site and nearby territories in various eras of geological history ; transformations marked in both pre-human, human, and anthropocene time scales.

This design approach translates historical narratives into immersive spatial experiences, transforming palimpsests of the past into meaningful landscapes.

00 - Layer for the future innovations

01 - Present layer the power plant

02 - The human era Agriculture

03 - Forest layer

layers

Master plan

Study of the character of different landscape typologies in the site area provided light for planning the proposal.

The character and functions of those lands has not been altered but highlighted

Creating Experiences

Essential importance has given to creating viewpoints and frames in the landscape of the forest layer. The layer has minimal interventions which consists of paths, bridges, and small towers that would give you the feel of tree houses. The forest experience is accessible from the power plant site, the agricultural fields and even from the PO through the main entry pier.

Framing the bridges

To the PO Water, tower and the tamed-wilderness

Between the woods

Section

Trees

High shrubs

Low shrubs

Perennials

Landscape scheme

Biomes for Research and Experimentation

Layer-0 houses the biome for research and experimentation. The centre focuses on conservation of native plant species, enhancing resilience of flora, actions for the creation and restoration habitats for pollinating species.

01. Waterfront Plaza

02. Created Ecosystem

03. Research Center

04. Mini Biosphere

05. Cafe

06. Viewing Pavilion

Landscape Detailing

Landscape sections

Re-farm

Abstract

Regenerating periphery through adaptive agriculture

Porto di Mare, Italy

Sem 2 Studio | Group project | Polimi | 2023

The project aims to regenerate the area through adaptive agriculture, bringing different categories of actors together and reinforce communities. by proposing different activities that attract the actors. As well as proposing educational programs in the area of Polimi off campus in Cascina Nosedo Preserving the tangible and intangible heritage is one of the main goals along with reconciling lifestyles.

Here we approach to our vision taking into consideration every rural-urban transition edge. This is a regeneration design approach of all areas where periphery meets urban using adaptive agriculture as a tool. Modern technologies and traditional agriculture methods are merged to help in the community’s progress.

Design Task :

Urban and landscape regeneration of Porto di Mare are through improving infrastructure, rejuvenating the landscape and protecting the historic farms and farmsteads

Project Mentors :

Prof. Debiaggi Paolo, Prof. Paola Branduini, Prof. Paco Aldo

My Role : Concept, Design, Illustrations

Parks

Productive agriculture

Areas open for regeneration

Artificial surfaces

Scaling up to surfaces

Project goals

Revival of Cascina Nosedo & Promoting adaptive agriculture

Improving street infrastructure

Landscape regeneration

Urban and Landscape Regeneration Studio | Academic Project

Insights into Landscape Design:

In this landscape design project, several interventions have been implemented to enhance the quality and functionality of the space These interventions combine functionality, cultural references, and sustainability to create an inviting and visually appealing outdoor environment

From Tradition to innovations; Exploring Adaptive farming

The design embraces various agricultural spaces, carefully positioned to respect the site’s historical context while harnessing the potential of today’s advancements.

Community Gardens

Farm land with viewing tower

Green houses

Urban and Landscape Regeneration Studio

Street redesign; Via Fabio Massimo

1. Entrance plaza

2. Open areas for sports

3. Buildings with sport functions

4. Cafe and food court

5. Industries and warehouses

6. Historic farmsteads

7. Pocket parks for community

8. Kid’s park

9. Cascinas as community Centers

10. Community Garden 11. Farm land 12. Viewing tower

Infrastructure Design in a Nutshell

This approach improves pedestrian and bike amenities, enhancing community connectivity and promoting sustainable transportation. It includes new paths and bike stops for convenience. Urban greens are created as community gathering spaces, fostering social interaction.

Historic farmsteads are revitalized for various activities, preserving agricultural heritage. Informal industrial buildings are repurposed for advanced agricultural technologies, benefiting the local economy and environment.

Urban and Landscape Regeneration Studio | Academic Project

Landscape elements

wall and walnut landscape

The green wall design in this landscape project show-cases wildflower varieties on both sides, creating visual allure and promoting biodiversity. The 30 cm thick screen is made of expanded metal in corten steel with a core of mineral wool and covered with plant substrate on both sides. The screen is irrigated via a drop hose placed in its upper part.

These regions have a history of walnut cultivation and as a way to honor , walnut tree landscapes have been incorporated into the landscape design.

Layering of green wall

1. Plant layer

2. Base

3. Mesh

4. Plant substrate

5. Top cover

6. Drop hose

Green

Green wall; In the context

Green wall; In the context

THE MEANDERING LOOPS

Inclusive, multi-layered landscape belt

The Meandering Loops

Porto di Mare Park boasts two main loops for running and biking, each offering unique experiences.

The longer loop covers the entire park, perfect for enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the picturesque surroundings. Alternatively, the shorter loop provides a more condensed route, ideal for quick workouts or leisurely strolls. Additionally, the track features minor pathways resembling veinlets, weaving through enchanting wildflower meadows enhancing both aesthetics and the natural connection during exercise.

Urban and Landscape Regeneration Studio

Central courtyard

Education and Research

Workshop building

1. C0- working and cafe

2. Polimi off campus

3. Conference hall

4. Workshop spaces

5. Hostel and guest house

6. Central courtyard

7. Rainwater harvesting pond

8. Community garden

ReFarm transforms Cascina Nosedo into an adaptive agriculture hub, promoting innovation and sustainability. Upgraded infrastructure supports efficient resource use and waste reduction, fostering collaboration among farmers, researchers, and communities. The redesigned space includes educational areas, a hostel, workshops, and a low-carbon cafe/co-working space, engaging the urban population with a community garden and central courtyard for functions.

Cascina Nosedo

A node for adaptive agriculture

Cascina Nosedo; as a node of interactions 1.

2. Stable on ground floor and Hay barn on first floor

3. Storage on ground floor

1.

2.

3.

4. Hostel and guest houses

5.

1. Renovated, not in use

2. Renovated, Used as Polimi off-campus

3. On the verge of collapse, Not in use

4. Partially Residential use

5. Abandoned

6. Collapsed

Co-working and low cafe

Polimi off campus on ground floor and educational uses in first floor

Educational uses on first floor

Workshop spaces

C0- working and Low carbon eating cafe

C0- working and cafe

Eco-flow Nurturing Sustainable Transit and Urban Harmony

Abstract

Sem 2 Studio | Group project | Polimi | 2023

The project aims to regenerate the area from a district of untapped potential; from a city dominated by fast moving can and e-bike traffic. with under-performing public spaces and a lack of standards for the built environment’s maintenance and quality. that doesn’t yet invite residents and visitors to walk, cycle or linger...

To an inviting, lively and resilient district for all; To a city with a well balanced variety of mobility options. One that invites its users to walk and cycle - with options for stopping and socializing. To a city with natural and environmental qualities that weave throughout a public space network of high quality and unique local character.

Design Task :

Proposing strategies to revitalize vacant and under used spaces along the BRT line to enhance urban livability, ecosystem services, and promote inclusive, green mobility.

Project Mentors : Prof. Paola Pucci, Prof. Stefano Amaducci Piacenza, Italy

Collaborative studio sessions with the University of Westminster, London

My Role : Concept, Design, Illustrations

Fragmented yet aligning

1. ’PARK’ ing proposal

2. Plaza

3. Agricultural functions

4. Kids’ area

5. Cafe and amenities

6. Picnic / Park

Regeneration of Landscape

Enhancing Slow Mobility Ecological Corridor

Urban and Environmental Design Studio

Strategical scheme: Main goals

Proposing a strategy that through the redesign of underused, vacant and infilling spaces, along the BRT line, aims at regenerating all the area, supporting active mobility and accessibility by proximity, increasing land use efficiency and values, rehabilitating polluted land, strengthening the link between urban fabric, open and green spaces and rural environment.

River front park

PARK ing with meanwhile use

Agrivoltaics

Sports hub

Transport hub

Commercial hub

BRT stops

BRT Route

Restricting traffic flow and converting to pedestrian and bike streets in non-peak hours

Allowing traffic flow

Dynamic street typology

Implementing a dynamic street typology involves converting streets into pedestrian and bike friendly zones during non-peak hours, promoting safety, sustainability, and vibrant urban spaces

Harmonising

slow mobility and community engagements

Strengthening

Entry points with amenities

Eco-district concept

An eco-district is a sustainable urban development that aims to minimize environmental impact through energy efficiency, green infrastructure, sustainable transportation, mixed-use development, community engagement

Re-designing Nodes

In the design of BRT nodes inclusivity and engagement take center stage. These spaces cater to diverse needs, while acting as vibrant focal points within the urban fabric. Community involvement fosters pride, enriching the urban experience for all.

Train station Plaza

Bus station lupa

Food forest plan

Church Plaza

Urban Food Forest

The Food forest leads to enhanced ecology catering to diverse bio life and at the same time generating organic food. The process converts into natural processes and cycle in a matter of a decade which creates a self sustaining landscape.

The sunken abandoned green area around Lidl Superstore is converted in a food forest enhancing a better connection between two levels and BRT line. The food forest can be managed by Lidl which also regenerates the vacant space.

Introducing agriculture and solar energy generation

Bike parking as a priority

Food forest

Bodhi | Common Ground Architecture

Professional Project

Bodhi The Vertical Garden

Kochi, India

Internship - Professional Project | 2018-21

Winner: Commendation Award, Indian Institute of Architects, Kerala 2021

Abstract

A green office; To be able to work in a natural environment was the main requirement of the clients. The building is designed in such a way that all workspaces are surrounded by abundance of greenery. This is achieved by designing 40cm deep planter boxes all around the building, filled with fertile soil and automated watering system. Several types of tropical plants, mostly native are planted in these.

The greenery helps cool down the environment, improve air quality, keeps away pollution and dust and helps to rise productivity levels of employees. Leaving the sliding doors to the planter boxes open aids good cross ventilation throughout the day.

Client A vibrant, multi-disciplinary couple running many successful businesses together, including Business Solutions, Multimedia, Digital marketing, Business Education, Chartered accountancy etc, wanted to integrate all their businesses under one roof and one brand name- Bodhi.

Project Leaders : Ar. Simi Sreedharan, Ar. Fidal Roshi

My Role : Construction drawings, Detaiing, Presentations

Ground Floor Landscape Plan

Landscape planning

A local approach

A diverse mix of tropical plants is used in the project, including at least 3500 nos of shrubs, 1500 climbers and creepers, 60nos Bamboo& palm, 60nos of Flowering trees, and over 5000 nos of small ground cover, herbs and medicinal plants. At least 200-300 plants are planted per planter box.

Planting is done in such a way that every floor pattern is different; thus the view from every window is different.

Drive-way detailed section

Planter box section

Detail of path

Bodhi

Common Ground Architecture

Professional Project

50% of the site that the building takes up is compensated as planter boxes along the façade, that acts as a double skin, cutting off direct heat and noise pollution.

Standing tall, yet camouflaged along urban Kochi, Bodhi focuses on finding a green response to the large space requirement of a busy corporate office.

Festiscape

A

Abstract

Research Project | Sem 8 | 2018 | Individual

The culture of a place is the totality of the values, livelihood and social behaviour of people there. Thinking from an architectural perspective, we might find that this idea has several spatial backgrounds. In a simplified explanation, the tangible thing needs space. Even intangible ideas would need space to get communicated as well. Surprisingly, we come across numerous epitomes of this relation. Whether it is ballet or Kungfu, there are performance spaces in their home countries, respectively. Like this, innumerable versions of this correlation are available from all the parts of this globe.

Consistently researches on culture arrive at the notion that festivals are strong entities that bind the traditions with spaces. They are the ways by which a space achieve cultural meanings. The most common topics of the Cultural Studies’ perspective on festival research are to be identified, i.e. festival audiences, festivals as space where cultural identity negotiation takes place, festivals as part of the subcultural network, and festivals as a spectacle. To identify the architectural configurations of festivals, we had several examples in the past, and have a few in the present with the same importance of how it was meant to. The study is a journey through traditional spaces in northern Kerala, India, and an attempt to find the factors which nourished some influential festivals and celebrations in the yesteryears.

Project Mentors :

Ar. Archana A. P

Ar. Alok Dinesh

study on transition of spaces based on folk festivals in North Kerala

Research Methodology

Deciding the space typology

After fixing the research area in northern Kerala, the target was to finalize cultural space typologies. North Malabar have multifarious traditional spaces, and they are shortlisted for the initial study. The analysis propounds the fact that these spaces could be categorized into 3 - festival landscapes ( sacred groves/ kavus), semi-built landscapes (aras), and festival spaces associated with residences.

In the further stages, the third typology, .ie, festival spaces linked with houses are chosen for the detailed research, and it is a unique Cultural space typology.

Deciding the festival to be studied

1. Poorotsavam is also known as the spring festival of North Malabar. This festival of the North Kerala region in India consists of ritualistic offerings dedicated to the god Kamadeva (Hindu deity of love) for the wellness of the love in the world, and is known as the ‘eleventh lunar asterism’.

2. Theyyam is one of the oldest and religious ritual dances glorifying the goddess. It originated from Kaliyattom once practised by the tribal community of North Kerala. Many of these have evolved out of the land, lives, social customs and traditions of the devotees.

Give it a read!