Architecture of the Sacred Commons: Water Landscape of Pamban Island

Author: Kshitij Churi
Site Location: Pamban Island, Tamil Nadu
Institute: Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies (KRVIA)
Advisor: Aishwarya Padmanabhan

Description

Pamban Island’s sacred landscape is woven around its 64 teerthams- holy water bodies that once sustained both spiritual practice and ecological balance. These stepped tanks and wells are more than ritual sites; they are decentralized water systems capable of recharging aquifers, resisting seawater ingress in groundwater, and ensuring equitable access to water. Their neglect has led to cultural erosion, ecological vulnerability, and restricted access for communities.
This thesis reimagines the teerthams as active commons- spaces where the nature–culture link is re-established through water. By designing interventions rooted in the stepped tank typology, the project creates equitable spaces of access, ritual, and performance for three key users of the island: the local, the pilgrim, and the tourist. Through architectural insertions addressing the local, pilgrim and tourist, the proposal positions these sacred water structures as anchors of both cultural continuity and ecological resilience and the design becomes a medium to restore lost links between people and place, ecology and ritual, nature and culture.

Drawings

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Where Nature takes its [Race] Course

Author: Batul Lokhandwala
Site Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Institute: Rizvi College of Architecture
Advisor: Minaz Ansari

Description

Urbanisation inherently excludes the natural components that make up the city and focuses overwhelmingly on the built environment, hence distorting the perception of the environment and disconnecting its citizens from the ecosystem. Mumbai exemplifies this characteristic of cities in terms of not only the scarcity of natural areas but also in terms of what the city classifies as natural areas, a limitation of definition rather than a limitation of availability.
As cities develop, our planning needs to accommodate a cohesive environment for its natural landscape and existing biodiversity. Further it attempts to offer a more holistic design approach. An approach that reconciles the inherent disconnect by ensuring that development acknowledges and respects nature. While demand for land in the city increases, the open spaces grow vulnerable to further destruction. The need for development will forever persist but it should also foster the need to design natural pockets within the dense metropolis.
The Mahalaxmi Racecourse offers a unique opportunity to create a large urban forest within the Island city.
THE REGULATION CURRENTLY FOCUSES ON GENERATING MORE REVENUE THROUGH INCREASING FSI RATHER THAN CREATING BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE BY INCREASING OSI.

Drawings

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Ritual and Right: Water as a Democratic Urban Experience

Author: Aleena Paulson
Site Location: Kochi, Kerala
Institute: SEED – APJ Abdul Kalam School of Environmental Design
Advisor: Ar. Jills Philip

Description

This architectural thesis explores the democratization of water in urban spaces by reimagining water infrastructure as an inclusive public realm. It emphasizes equitable access for all users, regardless of gender, age, or physical ability, while reviving the cultural significance of communal bathing—once central to social interaction, well-being, and collective identity. The project addresses the disappearance of shared water bodies due to urbanization and privatization, positioning water as not only a utility but also a spatial, social, and emotional connector.
The chosen site at Kakkanad, Kochi, located along the Seaport–Airport Road, provides excellent connectivity through road, metro, and Water Metro links. Its sloped terrain and natural water reserve create opportunities for layered spatial experiences, where water becomes both symbolic and functional, mediating between the dense urban fabric and the surrounding landscape.
Conceptually, the design begins with a simple mass divided into public, semi-public, and private zones. A cross-through access organizes movement, while addition and subtraction of volumes shape a dynamic composition of open and enclosed spaces. Envisioned as an “oasis in the city,” the project ensures physical, social, experiential, ecological, and urban equity through universal accessibility, inclusive water interactions, affordability, diverse modes of engagement, and preservation of natural resources.

Drawings

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Pravah : Harmonizing Water, Culture, and Environment

Author: Anish Shinde
Site Location: Poladpur, Maharashtra
Institute: Aditya College of Architecture
Advisor: Rita Nayak

Description

This thesis examines the vital relationship between water, human culture, and ecosystems, highlighting how water influences the identity, livelihood, and rituals of rural communities. Set in Poladpur, Maharashtra, a region with high rainfall yet chronic water scarcity, the project addresses the ecological and infrastructural failures behind this paradox.
In response, it proposes a multifunctional rural node that combines water infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and runoff management with community-focused spaces for gathering, health, agriculture, and learning. Drawing from traditional systems like johads, kunds, and stepwells, the design blends indigenous knowledge with sustainable practices.
Rooted in field research and local engagement, the project also tackles outmigration, declining traditions, and the loss of communal spaces linked to water insecurity. Reimagining water as both a sacred resource and social connector, the design seeks to restore ecological balance, cultural pride, and community cohesion.
Crucially, the intervention creates a space for all villagers, wildlife, livestock, aquatic life, birds, and visitors, fostering a shared environment where water becomes the central unifying force, nurturing coexistence, biodiversity, and an inclusive rural future.

Drawings

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Metamorphosis of Sonsoddo: Bridging the Gap Between Waste and Public Consciousness

Author: Muhammed Swaleh Beg
Site Location: Margao, Goa
Institute: Goa College of Architecture
Advisor: Dr. Uma Jadhav

Description

Metamorphosis of Sonsoddo – Bridging the Gap Between Waste and Public Consciousness reimagines the Sonsoddo landfill in Margao, Goa, as a catalyst for renewal rather than neglect. Once a peripheral site, now encroached upon by residences and schools, Sonsoddo symbolizes both environmental degradation and systemic failure in waste governance. This thesis proposes a transformative model that integrates waste management with public life, positioning the site as a shared urban resource.

The project critiques the prevailing linear “take-make-waste” economy and instead advances a circular approach, where discarded materials are reintegrated into productive cycles. Facilities such as upcycling workshops, training centers, an eco-market, awareness spaces, and landscaped trails transform the landfill into a place of learning, opportunity, and ecological restoration.

At its core, the proposal envisions a pilot ecosystem where enterprises, artisans, craftsmen, students, and the elderly work alongside each other, creating social, economic, and cultural value. Recyclable materials and RDF become resources for industry, while other materials are recycled, displayed, and repurposed, breaking down barriers between waste, knowledge, and community.

Through thoughtful site planning, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive programming, the thesis positions Sonsoddo not as a symbol of exclusion but as a model for collective growth, resilience, and renewal.

Drawings

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Land.Water.Life: Majuli’s Symphony of Survival

Author: Abhay Rajesh
Site Location: Majuli Island, Assam
Institute: Avani Institute of Design
Advisor: Ar. Thushara K

description

In response to the annual floods and relentless soil erosion on Majuli Island, this architectural thesis explores how spatial adaptation can enhance resilience and improve the inhabitants’ lives. The “Land Water Life – Majuli’s Symphony of Survival” project focuses on creating multifunctional community spaces that dynamically respond to the island’s ever-changing landscape. The design investigates architectural strategies that facilitate living during and after floods, aiming to extend the functionality and safety of the spaces on the island.

The project delves into the intricate relationship between land, water, and community, highlighting the resilient negotiations the people of Majuli undertake to coexist with their environment. By reimagining traditional Satra spaces and integrating essential healthcare facilities, the project preserves cultural identity while improving access to critical services. This holistic approach underscores the interconnectedness of cultural preservation, environmental resilience, and community well-being.

The thesis emphasizes creating structures that not only adapt to the island’s flooding but also support the community’s socio-cultural revival. Through innovative design strategies, the project aims to serve as a beacon of resilience and empowerment, ensuring that Majuli’s way of life can endure and thrive despite the challenges posed by floods.

drawings

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Water Edges: Navigating Inequity and Dilemmas related to Urban Water

Author: Dweep Jain
Site Location: Nashik
Institute: L.S. Raheja School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Mridula Pillai

description

‘Water edges or boundaries’ are challenging to define due to water’s inherently fluid and dynamic form. In the rapidly urbanizing society, water in the urban realm is increasingly vulnerable. Such is the plight of the Godavari River also known as the as the Dakshin Ganga, is India’s second-longest river. The river is enshrined in scriptures as one of the four sacred rivers worthy of reverence and worship. Godavari not only harbours a strong cultural significance, being the stage for the Kumbh Mela, but also is home to delicate ecosystems. Despite people worshiping the intangible idea of the river, its tangible form has been subject to abuse in the name of development. The inequities become especially severe at the source, in Nashik, where rampant concretization, illegal encroachment etc have severely compromised the river’s health and its ecological network, creating an alarming situation in need of immediate intervention.

By conceptualizing the evolving riverscape as a “form,” this approach responds to the impending climate emergency in Nashik’s precinct. The form is designed to sustain and adapt to its ever-changing environment, creating a resilient and equitable realm. It revitalizes the riverscape, ensuring it nurtures the neighbourhoods and ecosystems that rely on it as their lifeblood. Here, the ghats and built structures are not static; they adapt dynamically to shifting climatic and cultural needs. This approach moves beyond mere preservation, establishing a sustainable and equitable framework that addresses contextual and climatic challenges, ultimately fostering a resilient and thriving precinct. Architecture, in this vision, transcends its physical form, becoming a living entity that adapts to shifting cultural needs as well as, integrates, and mitigates climate emergencies.

drawings

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Saahor Alohi, Tea Experience Hub, Assam

Author: Charlina J. Dutta
Site Location: Amchong Tea Estate, Assam
Institute: GZS School of Architecture & Planning, MRSPTU
Advisor: Ar. Amandeep Kaur

description

The thesis project envisions a transformative tea experience hub, set within a 24-acre estate, designed to immerse visitors in the art and culture of tea. The site is thoughtfully divided into two primary sections: a built-up area that houses key facilities and a cultivation zone dedicated to tea production.

The built-up area features a variety of carefully curated spaces, including a museum, a restaurant, guest accommodations, and recreational areas. Each structure is strategically placed to enhance the visitor’s connection with the surrounding landscape while offering insights into the tea-making process. The cultivation zone allows for direct engagement with the tea fields, offering a holistic experience that blends education with leisure. Central to the design are climate-responsive features that ensure sustainability and harmony with the environment. The architecture optimizes natural ventilation, minimizes solar gain, and integrates water management systems. Local materials further ground the design in its cultural and environmental context, creating a space that is both innovative and respectful of its natural surroundings.

drawings

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Open Mall and Restaurant at Sindhudurg

Author: Pranjal Rajendra Paithankar
Site Location: Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Institute: Vidya Pratishthan’s School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Priyanka Barge

drawings

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L’habitat Biophilique Balancing Nature & Urbanism in High Density Housing

Author: Pavithran Gunashekar
Site Location: Auroville
Institute: Saveetha College of Architecture and Design
Advisor: Priyanka Rachael Mathews

drawings

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Pravas – Redesigning of an existing crematorium

Author: Shrinivas Tele
Site Location: Nashik
Institute: CTES College of Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Gayatri Narkar

description

The redesign of the crematorium in Nashik is a thoughtful fusion of tradition, sustainability, and climate responsive architecture. Rooted in the principle of “form follows climate,” the design is shaped by Nashik’s hot, semi-arid environment, ensuring that the structure is both functional and harmonious with its surroundings. The crematorium, located near the sacred ghats of the Godavari River, honours centuries old rituals while incorporating modern amenities that address the needs of a growing and evolving city.

The building’s orientation and materials are carefully selected to mitigate the harsh summer heat, utilizing natural ventilation and shading to maintain a comfortable environment for mourners year round. Locally sourced materials, such as stone, brick and wood, helps to reduce the carbon footprint.

Landscape design plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional experience, with indigenous plants and water features creating a serene atmosphere for reflection and remembrance. The crematorium’s design respects the flow of traditional rituals, guiding mourners through a dignified, contemplative space that blends seamlessly with the spiritual landscape of the ghats. This project exemplifies how modern architecture can uphold cultural significance while adapting to contemporary environmental and societal challenges.

drawings

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Thara Pani Nirmala: Building 21st Century Stepwell with Heritage

Author: Payal Kachawa
Site Location: Nagaur, Rajasthan
Institute: Aurora’s Design Academy
Advisor: Ar. Pingal Naga Praveen

description

Project centers on revitalizing a historic stepwell in a region where water is collected and stored for six months, with the land remaining vacant during the dry season. This site, once integral to the community for both water storage and ritual activities, has seen a decline in its usage and cultural significance. To address this, my project aims to reinvigorate the stepwell by blending ancient water storage techniques with modern design, ensuring that its historical function is preserved while adapting to contemporary needs.

The redesigned stepwell will enhance water conservation through its original structure, emphasizing sustainable practices that honor traditional engineering. Additionally, the project will introduce new functions, transforming the site into a year-round cultural and social hub. Shaded pavilions, mandapas, and spaces for seasonal markets or events will breathe new life into the area, encouraging community interaction during the dry months. This approach not only safeguards the ancient water storage technique but also reestablishes the stepwell as a vital part of the community, bridging past and presenting a meaningful way.

drawings

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Community – centric papermaking hub – kagzipura, Maharashtra

Author: Misha Pastagia
Site Location: Kagzipura, Maharashtra
Institute: Department of Architecture, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda
Advisor:  Ar. Digisha Mehta

description

The thesis proposal stems from villages of Kutch during an internship, emphasizing on workplaces, well-being of workers and industrial amenities. The vision is to redefine the role of factories as sustainable industrial practices. The project is proposed in Kagzipura, a village with a 700-year-old papermaking tradition located on the heritage route from Aurangabad to Ellora. It aims to promote environmental protection, green manufacturing, and net-zero strategies, using local materials like basalt and brick to enhance energy efficiency and merge with the fabric of village.

Despite its rich biodiversity and historical significance, Kagzipura struggles with lack of technology and infrastructure. The proposal envisions transforming it into a hub for sustainable industrial innovation and cultural preservation, integrating regional heritage into its design. The site planning, facades and landscape draw inspiration from local architecture, aiming to merge modern functionality with historical and natural elements. The project also emphasizes the well-being of the Kagzi community, aligning with the philosophy: ‘YOU are the context,’ prioritizing the people and culture at its core; and ultimately enhancing quality of life in Kagzipura.

In conclusion, the proposal seeks to celebrate craftsmanship and heritage through a sustainable, culturally resonant architectural solution.

drawings

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Elephant Conservation Centre

Author: Shyam Sundar GN
Site Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Institute: Faculty of Architecture, PES University
Advisor: Ar. Sharath H Aithal, Ar. Pranathi Udupa

description

Elephants, as keystone species, play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of their habitats. However, rapid urbanization and deforestation have led to significant reductions in their natural habitats, pushing them into closer contact with human populations. This results in human-elephant conflicts, causing damage to crops, property, and sometimes even loss of life. The traditional methods of addressing these conflicts have been largely ineffective, often resulting in further harm to the elephants. Recognizing the urgent need for dedicated spaces that provide safety for elephants and educate the public about their conservation, the “Elephant Conservation Centre” aims to address these critical social concerns through innovative architectural solutions.

It provides a sustainable and educational sanctuary dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of elephants. By addressing the critical issues of habitat loss and human-elephant conflict, the project seeks to create a harmonious environment for both elephants and humans. The center focuses on conservation, education, and sustainable design, showcasing the role architecture can play in addressing pressing social issues. Through its design, the project aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of elephants, highlighting the importance of their conservation for both ecological and cultural reasons. And spread awareness among the tourists.

drawings

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Heritage Center: Reminiscing Pune

Author: Poornima Solunke
Site Location: Manas Lake, Pune
Institute: S.B. Patil College of Architecture & Design,
Advisor: Ar. Abhishek Ranka, Ar. Neha Pathak

description

  • Introduction: –

Heritage Centre, a public building dedicated to preserve, conserve and to represent history, culture and tradition of city. The project aims to showcase architectural heritage of different historic era of Pune, which also consist of dedicated Heritage Management Cell, comprising of archeology, research & development, and workshop space to work on various craft and to make specimen for restoration. The center will also made interactive by featuring hands on experience through various workshops for its visitors, meanwhile differentiating it from other museums.

  • Need of the Project: –

Being Ruled by various rulers, the old city Pune has got mix of culture and tradition, which can be relived through various architectural heritage of that era. Conserving this heritage will help us understand the architectural evolution of the city and also the culture of that time. Rejuvenation and protection of these heritage structuresv is important to keep the history alive. Due to workshops, many local artisans and sculptures will get beneficiary of employment. With dedicated heritage management cell, old construction techniques could be revived and used as sustainable practice for modern construction technology.

  • Aim: –

To design the Architectural Heritage Centre to represent architecture of different era and to preserve, conserve the old structures through Research and Development department.

  • Objective: –   
  • To discuss the architectural heritage and its Research and Development.
  • To design museum to showcase various architectural artifacts.
  • To develop R & D department to work on different techniques to preserve and conserve the heritage.
  • To design Exhibition space and Galleries.
  • Documentation and archive space.
  • Open air amphitheater and indoor theater arenas to showcase traditional folk lore and plays.
  • To provide cafeterias and traditional cuisine restaurants.
  • To create replicas of architectural heritage which includes wadas, temple, forts, stepwells etc.
  • To provide workshops for local artisans and experts to practice their skills and to showcase their work.
  • Scope: –

The study covers the designing of architectural heritage center to conserve the heritage with the help of heritage management and to educate the visitors about history and old practices through museum, exhibits and interactive workshops.

  • Limitation: –

The study only covers to designing of Architectural heritage center for conserving Architectural Heritage of Pune and conserving it through Heritage Management Cell.

drawings

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Interpretation Hub for Bishnupur’s Cultural Heritage

Author: Mayuri Dutta
Site Location: Bishnupur, West Bengal
Institute: Piloo Mody College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Anshuman Mishra

drawings

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The Urban Farm, Panjim

Author: Trevin Zeus D’Souza
Site Location: Panaji, Goa
Institute: Sir J.J. College of Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Mustansir Dalvi

description

The Agricultural Value Chain in India has been under tremendous strain in the recent past due to an erratically changing climate and inconsistencies in the maintenance of the supply chain. This has shown its effects in the form of rising food prices and 1/3rd of the food that is produced, being wasted in India due to extremely long and poorly organized supply chains. India, historically and geographically an agrarian economy is a food supplier to the world. However, with these rising issues, no amount of natural intervention is proving sustainable for the future of food production. Agriculture in itself is slowly becoming unsustainable due to extensive deforestation and chemical usage.
Controlled-Environment Agriculture is a technological approach to mass producing food using advanced technology but is still a topic of concern considering the large amounts of energy and investment it requires. This thesis aims at devising a built environment with energy harnessing capacities, resource re-utilization and optimization technologies, strategic quantification of produce (targeted choice of vegetables, organic produce for economic viability) and strategic layout of services to tackle these issues. The vision is to set up a nexus of farms all over cities in Goa, to make cities self-sufficient in their food supply.

drawings

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AAROHAK Tribal School For Dhar Community

Author: Khushi Bhatnagar
Site Location: Nalchha, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh
Institute: DIT University
Advisor: Ar. Vicky Rawat

description

The Tribal School in Dhar is a visionary project designed to provide a nurturing educational environment for the indigenous communities of Madhya Pradesh. Rooted in the principles of vernacular architecture, the school reflects the cultural heritage of the local tribes, utilizing traditional materials like bamboo, stone, and thatch.

The design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating rainwater harvesting, solar energy, and natural ventilation to minimize environmental impact. Classrooms are flexible and open, fostering creativity and a strong connection to nature. Outdoor learning spaces, along with areas dedicated to traditional crafts, music, and dance, ensure a holistic education that honors both modern and traditional knowledge systems.

More than just an educational facility, the school serves as a community hub, providing spaces for gatherings, workshops, and cultural events. This integration ensures that the school remains a vital part of the community, promoting a sense of identity and pride among students and their families. The Tribal School in Dhar is a model for culturally-sensitive, sustainable, and community-focused design, aiming to empower tribal children with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in both their traditional and modern worlds.

drawings

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Water Edges: Navigating Inequity and Dilemmas realted to Urban Water

Author: Dweep Jain
Site Location: Nashik
Institute: L.S. Raheja School of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Mridula Pillai

description

‘Water edges or boundaries’ are challenging to define due to water’s inherently fluid and dynamic form. In the rapidly urbanizing society, water in the urban realm is increasingly vulnerable. Such is the plight of the Godavari River also known as the as the Dakshin Ganga, is India’s second-longest river. The river is enshrined in scriptures as one of the four sacred rivers worthy of reverence and worship. Godavari not only harbours a strong cultural significance, being the stage for the Kumbh Mela, but also is home to delicate ecosystems. Despite people worshiping the intangible idea of the river, its tangible form has been subject to abuse in the name of development. The inequities become especially severe at the source, in Nashik, where rampant concretization, illegal encroachment etc have severely compromised the river’s health and its ecological network, creating an alarming situation in need of immediate intervention.

By conceptualizing the evolving riverscape as a “form,” this approach responds to the impending climate emergency in Nashik’s precinct. The form is designed to sustain and adapt to its ever-changing environment, creating a resilient and equitable realm. It revitalizes the riverscape, ensuring it nurtures the neighbourhoods and ecosystems that rely on it as their lifeblood. Here, the ghats and built structures are not static; they adapt dynamically to shifting climatic and cultural needs. This approach moves beyond mere preservation, establishing a sustainable and equitable framework that addresses contextual and climatic challenges, ultimately fostering a resilient and thriving precinct. Architecture, in this vision, transcends its physical form, becoming a living entity that adapts to shifting cultural needs as well as, integrates, and mitigates climate emergencies.

drawings

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Desert Mirage: Reimagining Desert Settlement & Tradition

Author: Srushti Dilipkumar Trivedi
Site Location: Rajasthan
Institute: D.C. Patel School of Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Monal Mistry

description

Migration has led to the rapid expansion of cities, causing overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and declining quality of life, while rural areas are being abandoned due to a lack of basic facilities. This project aims to design a sustainable desert settlement that addresses these challenges by integrating climate-adaptive solutions with urban development strategies, tailored to meet the needs of rural communities. The goal is to create a thriving environment in harsh desert conditions by providing the necessary resources and infrastructure to support a healthy, fulfilling life, thereby reducing migration and revitalizing rural areas.

drawings

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