Pilgrimage Rejuvenation & Conservation of Cultural Heritage – Parshuram Kund, Arunachal Pradesh

Author: Kartikye Bordoloi
Site Location: Arunachal Pradesh
Institute: Faculty of Architecture, Marwadi University
Advisor: Prof. Parth Sadariya

description

Bhagwan Parshuram is believed to have cleansed his sin here of committing matricide by washing his hands in the holy water to rid the axe after creating the passage for the River Brahmaputra through the Himalayas. This mythological significance forms the cultural heritage and attracts a large number of pilgrims (70,000 to 100,000) particularly during Makar Sankranti. There is a steady rise in the number. The present facilities and amenities are inadequate and poor.
The Government of India in 2022 under the scheme PRASHAD sanctioned Rs. 37.88 Crores for the basic amenities and facilities and enrichment of the religious tourism experience. The goal is to integrate the kund vicinity in a prioritised, planned and sustainable manner.
Arunachal Pradesh is bestowed with a rich biodiversity, flora & fauna, scenic beauty, lifestyle, cultural heritage and a diverse ethnicity, food, dress, arts & crafts, and festivals. It is proposed to showcase and promote these attributes for the benefit, economic development of the local people as an inclusive program.

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The Last Pause – As a Belief in Varanasi

Author: Anuj Kumbhar
Site Location: Varanasi
Institute: Vishwaniketan College of Architecture, Arts & Design
Advisor: Prof. Viji Nair

description

Varanasi, often called the spiritual capital of India, is a city known for its ancient rituals and traditions, particularly those associated with death and cremation. The existing facilities for accommodating visitors during these sensitive times are inadequate, leading to overcrowding, environmental concerns, and limited amenities. “The Last Pause” is an innovative solution that aims to transform the perception of Varanasi’s death rituals by providing a well-designed and inclusive space that caters to the diverse needs of its visitors. The primary objective of “The Last Pause” is to create a sustainable and respectful space that honours the traditions and beliefs of the people coming to Varanasi for death rituals. By establishing this intervention, we seek to provide a range of facilities and programs that will enable visitors to grieve, perform rituals, seek solace, and find a sense of community during their stay. Furthermore, by incorporating landscape irrigation and other sustainable features, the project aims to contribute positively to the city’s environment. “The Last Pause” envisions a transformative architectural intervention that redefines Varanasi’s social spaces and rituals surrounding death. By providing a comprehensive and respectful environment, this project aims to create a harmonious experience for visitors while upholding the city’s cultural heritage. Through collaboration between NGOs and the government, this aims to foster a deeper sense of community and understanding in one of India’s most spiritually significant cities.

drawings

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Wind Induced Computational Design

Author: Divya Gupta
Site Location: Alibag, Maharashtra
Institute: CTES
Advisor: Prof. Anuprita Surve

description

In the climate change era, a rise in sea level temperature has led to many calamities. It has become important for architects to address these issues at the conceptual stage of design.

Wind induced computational design refers to the process of using computational tools to analyze the aerodynamic performance of a building in response to wind loads. It involves simulating the behavior of wind around the structure, and using the data to adjust the design, in order to minimize the wind induced forces and optimize the performance.This process can be used to connect and optimize other climatic factors like solar, radiation and wind.

The focus of this project is on developing an innovative method of precisely designing the shape of the building and form-finding methods based on weather data. This knowledge can be further utilized to make a cyclone resilient structure that can withstand heavy wind forces. This program consists of a primary school, disaster management office, and gymkhana for sports that can provide shelter during disasters.

drawings

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Black gold: Beginning to every end waste treatment facility and awareness centre

Author: Suditi Chaudhury
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute: Lokmanya Tilak Institute of Architecture & Design studies
Advisor: Associate Prof. Shilpa Vivekanand

description

Urban areas in India generate more than 1,00,000 MT of waste per day (CPHEEO, 2000). A large metropolis such as Mumbai generates about 7000 MT of waste per day (MCGM, 2014), Collecting, processing, transporting, and disposing of this municipal solid waste (MSW) is the responsibility of urban local bodies (ULBs) in India.
The Project attempts to investigate the issue of waste, which is frequently overlooked in the field of architecture. Waste management infrastructure is typically invisible to the general public, despite being critical to city planning. The hope with this new program is that the activated space would consequently attract the entire community. The site will promote relationships with the city, which will enrich its citizens. Reconnect and communicate to the masses, but also weave new public or institutional programs with by-products and sustainable production. The site will deal with a waste segregation facility where manual and mechanical input together can go hand in hand, Secondly, the waste treatment plant will act as a transitional place between all stakeholders mentioned above. Thirdly, adding a learning and awareness center which will bridge the gap between the knowledge of waste disposal and the public. By keeping this in mind, the four program components become waste, transportation, education, and living.

drawings

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Sculpting the sky: Investigating the Expressive Form & Spatial Narratives of Mumbai’s Supertall Buildings

Author: Joseph Benny
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute: Wadiyar centre for Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Manoj Ladhad

description

The thesis explores the architectural significance and socio-cultural impact of an iconic free-flowing tower in Mumbai, India. The tower stands as a testament to the city’s evolving skyline and represents a bold departure from conventional design norms. With its distinctive curvilinear form, the tower captivates attention and raises questions about the relationship between architectural expression, functionality, and urban identity. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this research delves into the design principles, structural innovations, and spatial experiences associated with the free-flowing tower. It investigates the conceptualization and execution of the tower’s organic form, exploring the factors that influenced its creation and the challenges encountered during its realization.

Furthermore, the thesis analyzes the tower’s functional integration and programmatic versatility. It examines how the unconventional form of the tower has facilitated the creation of dynamic spaces that adapt to various uses, such as residential, commercial, and cultural. The study also investigates the tower’s impact on the surrounding urban fabric and its ability to foster social interactions, enhance livability, and contribute to the city’s identity as a global metropolis.

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Beyond Design – Community Centre for Designers

Author: Yukathasri C.
Site Location: Bengaluru
Institute: CMRU School of Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Muralidhar. K

description

The architectural thesis proposes the design of a community center for designers by repurposing one of the abandoned NGEF factory buildings (Bengaluru).
The community center would be a hub that fosters creativity, collaboration and professional development of designers. It is to be a space for designers to connect, share ideas, develop skills and network.
The research is based on the understanding that designers need a setting that offers the requirements needed for creative expression, learning and professional development. These requirements are analysed through the assessments of live and literature case studies.
The design proposed is a flexible and adaptable space that accommodates a variety of design activities for different design fields.
The community center offers coworking spaces with collaborative workspaces, makerspaces outfitted with specialized tools and equipment, a resource library with access to design materials and an exhibition space to showcase the work of the designers. The facility also has areas where the designers can relax, socialise or recharge.
‘Beyond design’ strives to encourage designers by catering to their needs and supporting the community.

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Rejuvenation of Dakshinpat Satra, Majuli Assam

Author: Bibhuti Bikash Bora
Site Location: Majuli, Assam
Institute: Acharya’s NRV School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Gracy H. David

description

Dakshinpat Satra, located in the state of Assam in India, is a significant cultural and religious site. It is one of the most visited places in Assam, attracting a large number of tourists every year. However, despite its cultural importance and the increasing number of visitors, the satra lacks proper accommodation for tourists and advanced educational facilities for students of majuli . Moreover, there is a need for exhibition and workshop spaces to showcase the rich art and craft of the region. This thesis aims to propose a design solution for the development of Dakshinpat Satra by adding accommodation for tourists, school facilities, and exhibition and workshop spaces.
So the main aims is to enhance the cultural heritage of the region by providing proper accommodation facilities for tourists, school facilities for students, and exhibition and workshop spaces for artists and craftsmen. promoting local craftsmanship and reducing the carbon footprint. Also it will provide a unique experience for tourists, enhance the knowledge of students, and provide a platform for artists and craftsmen to display their work.

drawings

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Architecture of Incrementality

Author: Dhruv Sachala
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute: School of Environment & Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Rupali Gupte & Ar. Apurva Talpade

description

The design thesis looks to intervene in existing processes of architecture practiced in various parts of the country. 95% of architecture evolves incrementally, mobilizing multiple forces. It follows a very nuanced and intermittent way of transforming their built form, shaped by diverse social and economic influences. This organic growth involves continuous, non-linear transformations that respond to inhabitants’ needs. Unlike traditional linear processes, that appear to be the only delivery system, this approach incorporates factors like local networks, small finances, kinship networks, and a sense of repair.
The aim is to comprehend and engage with this dynamic, ecologically sensitive design process, to understand the forces that produce inhabitation, and to find ways for architects to insert themselves into this process.
The tool kit is a set of specific and surgical architectural interventions / techniques that allow for rethinking of fundamental elements of the building, and funtionality such as walls, fenestrations, foundations, etc, to be much more responsive to the condition of enighbourhood. The toolkit is divided into parts, each part talks about elements of building, it talks about how these elements which are present in the neighbourhood can be repaired or scaled in way to enhance the light and ventilation conditions in the dense area, while also looking at the asthetic details of the space. The catelogue is further used to design few habitations in detail. Also, looking at how to work on the form of such spaces keeping in consideration the density. The catelogue is further used to design some of the habitation in detail.

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Smriti – Reminisce of a Memory – Dementia village

Author: Vibha G Rao
Site Location: Bengaluru
Institute: SJB School of Architecture & Planning
Advisor: Ar. Shreya Shetty

description

Memories, emotions, and spaces are all interconnected in our lives. But what about the person whose memory is fading and therefore finds it uncomfortable to live in an environment that is not conducive to them? This is true for people with dementia.

Architecture can play an important role in the lives of people with dementia. The design of buildings and spaces can enable or hinder our ability to navigate, communicate and engage with our environment.

So, there are other ways to create an environment for them and protect their dignity by showing the spectrum of designed spaces beyond the physical realm. Project focused on studying the impact of dementia-friendly architecture to create a supportive and empowering environment for people with dementia so that they can live with dignity and independence for as long as possible.

Design includes:

• Giving people with dementia a sense of community

• Maintaining quality of life in progressive dementia

Environmental cues that highlight different spaces.

• Flexible design features that facilitate individual lifestyle continuity, facilitate memory, allow for changes in people’s needs and reactions.

• Different settings and features of interest

• Discreet security features that support freedom while reducing risk to a level acceptable to employees and families.

drawings

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Disaster Resilient Housing – Prototype for Himachal Pradesh

Author: Ichchha Vijayendra Singham
Site Location: Himachal Pradesh
Institute: Pillai HOC College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Ashwathy Rajagopal

description

Himachal Pradesh- a north Indian state with difficult terrain and was often seen as in isolation from the modern and western influences of the world, untouched by the modern and western influences of the world. Over the past few years, Himachal has been frequently affected by ominous flash flooding resulting in landslides due to washing away of soil. The idea of the project is to form a prototype for housing in Himachal with disaster resistant techniques of construction. The design responds to the cold temperate climate of the Himalayan mountains, remoteness of the site as well as aims for resilience to earthquakes and landslides. The building is designed with heavy stone filled gabion retaining walls at the bottom and a light wooden structure on top covered with wattle and daub panels as an infill material. Undressed stone in gabion walls is used because it can be picked up from waste and also it reduces the labour. It is crafted with a balance between local knowledge and modern construction techniques aiming to encourage community participation and ownership. the idea was to not just provide a structure but system from start to end where users take part in it and have better understanding of their impact.

drawings

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Memorial Complex for Victims of Bhopal Gas Tragedy, At Bhopal Smaran Sthal

Author: Suraj Satish Wani
Site Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Institute: PDEA COA – Akurdi
Advisor: Ar. Nishant Gawande

description

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy Memorial Complex is a sustainable project that pays tribute to the victims of a devastating industrial disaster while prioritizing environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The complex incorporates sustainable design elements and practices to minimize its environmental impact and ensure long-term viability.

Energy efficiency is prioritized through natural ventilation and lighting in the admin block, reducing energy consumption and enhancing visitor comfort. The use of durable materials like exposed brick and concrete minimizes maintenance needs and resource-intensive renovations.

Water conservation measures, including rainwater harvesting systems, are implemented to reduce reliance on external water sources. Social sustainability is promoted through facilities like knowledge and skill development centres, fostering community empowerment and economic growth.

The project’s economic sustainability is achieved through responsible design and operation, reducing maintenance costs and supporting the local economy through a food court for local vendors.

The complex serves as a solemn memorial while exemplifying sustainable practices, inspiring future developments and responsible resource management. It stands as a testament to the fusion of remembrance and sustainable principles, creating a lasting impact on the affected community and the environment.

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Coexistence of Human- Wild at Merger of Urban and Wild

Author: Deep S. Nahar
Site Location: Versova, Maharashtra
Institute: Aditya college of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Rita Nayak.

description

Taking a look at the proposal for Eco-centric research, awareness center and museum is for 400 people daily visitors. The center focuses not only the treatment of leopards but also on the overall development how human and leopard coexistence can be maximize at and around the periphery of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The leopard research center is dedicated to wildlife biologist, leopard researchers, veterinarian etc. and awareness center to create awareness to local people how to deal with leopards, precautions to be taken to avoid conflict with leopards.

The spaces are shaped in accordance with the existing trees on the site and reflect the topography’s slope, which does not rest on the ground and allowing the natural life of the soil and the creatures to continue. Bamboo architecture has been employed because the location is in a forest zone and will assist the project become a sustainable and ecofriendly building. The Design’s Form is inspired by a phenomenon in nature known as “The crown shyness,” in which trees avoid touching one another in order to let the other live while maintaining their own lives.

drawings

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INNOVATIONINTRADITION-Rural Livelihood Creation in Handicraft Sector of Thar

Author: Darshan Sukhadiya
Site Location: Thar, Rajasthan
Institute: Institute of Design, Planning & Technology (IDPT)-SCET
Advisor: Prof. Saloni Shah

description

Craft has a profound impact on society by shaping cultural values, stimulating economic growth, fostering creativity, promoting social harmony, and introducing community identity.

As time changes, the appreciation and preservation of traditional crafts hold a special significance. As contemporary society seeks to reconnect with its cultural roots while embracing modernity, redefining the importance of traditional crafts became a captivating endeavour. It involves the delicate balance of honouring timeless techniques, cultural heritage, and artistic expression while infusing these crafts with a fresh and relevant appeal that resonates with the tastes and sensibilities of today.

Traditional crafts are not relics of the past, they are living traditions with rich stories and craftsmanship. Thus, this project reimagines their value for contemporary society. It attempts to bridge the gap between the past and the present, uniting generations and cultures under the banner of creativity and innovation.

The project examines native handicraft groups and the role of craft in their day-to-day life. It critiques the nature of the existing craft networks and their interdependency and attempts to rethink rural infrastructure by looking at planning methods, using conventional beliefs that can provide a socio-ecological manner of creating an environment – Using the local knowledge to make architecture as a catalyst for managing traditional knowledge within the present.

It invites craftsmen to explore the boundless possibilities of blending old and new.

This proposal understands the existing complexities and challenges and works towards an integrated solution. By looking at the craft community as a reflection of a combination of events, activities, and thought objects, this project aims to celebrate the craft by amalgamating innovation with tradition.

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Replace – A Multipurpose Makeshift Space

Author: Komal Prabhakar Pawaskar
Site Location: Assam
Institute: AIKTC School of Architecture (Anjuman I Islam Kalsekar Technical Campus)
Advisor: Prof. Parag Rawool

description

It is observed that traditional and cultural patterns are slowly disappearing due to emerging and shifting land dynamics. Moreover, there is a critical point at which populations migrate voluntarily and constructively before being forcefully relocated. The community is at the risk of gradually growing hungry as their coping methods become exhausted. The design is created with an integrated approach towards addressing problems along with the socio-cultural practices in the reconstruction of public infrastructure that can withstand uncertainties and can improve capacity building within the communities—creating employment possibilities that meet shifting market demands while empowering communities.

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