IA&B January 2015 by Indian Architect & Builder Magazine

www.iabforum.com

EXPLORE

VOL 28 (5)

JANUARY 2015

INDIAN ARCHITECT & BUILDER

Innovation for Sustainability Deeper Daylight Sustainability - A Way of Life

DIS.ARCHITECTURE

Discourse, Intuition and Syntax in Architecture

INAUGURAL LECTURE 2015 MASSIMILIANO FUKSAS

For partnerships contact : sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com

Over seven editions, 361째 Conference has evolved as the singular most relevant platform for discussion and discourse on architecture and design in India. Since its inception, the legacy has captured the progressive nature of design creating in its wake a forum for the emerging and influential practices in India. As an eclectic, thought-provoking and egalitarian platform, 361째 in its eighth edition will continue to celebrate the power of thoughts and ideas and initiate a truly relevant dialogue on architecture and design.

Partners

Knowledge Partners

Presented by

For Delegate Registration log on to: www.361degrees.net.in

VOL 28 (5) | JANUARY 2014 | www.iabforum.com RNI Registration No. 46976/87, ISSN 0971-5509 INDIAN ARCHITECT AND BUILDER

EXPLORE

Chairman: Jasu Shah Printer, Publisher & Editor: Maulik Jasubhai Shah Chief Executive Officer: Hemant Shetty Editorial: Aastha Deshpande Email: iabedt@jasubhai.com Design Team: Mansi Chikani, Prasenjit Bhowmick, Kenneth Menezes Events: Abhijeet Mirashi Subscription: Dilip Parab Production Team: V Raj Misquitta (Head), Prakash Nerkar, Arun Madye Head Office: JMPL, Taj Building, 3rd Floor, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001. Tel: + 91-22-4037 3636, Fax: +91-22-4037 3635 SALES Brand Manager: Sudhanshu Nagar Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com MARKETING TEAM & OFFICES Mumbai Parvez Memon Taj Building, 3rd Floor, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001. Tel: + 91-22-4037 3636, Fax: +91-22-4037 3635 Email: parvez_memon@jasubhai.com Delhi: Preeti Singh / Suman Kumar 803, Chiranjeev Tower, No 43, Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110 019 Tel: +91 11 2623 5332, Fax: 011 2642 7404, Email: preeti_singh@jasubhai.com, suman_kumar@jasubhai.com Bengaluru / Hyderabad / Gujarat: Sudhanshu Nagar Mobile: +91 9833104834, Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com Chennai / Coimbatore: Princebel M Mobile: +91 9444728035, +91 9823410712, Email: princebel_m@jasubhai.com Kolkata: Sudhanshu Nagar Mobile: +91 9833104834, Email: sudhanshu_nagar@jasubhai.com Pune: Parvez Memon Mobile: +91 9769758712, Email: parvez_memon@jasubhai.com Printed & Published by Maulik Jasubhai Shah on behalf of Jasubhai Media Pvt Ltd (JMPL), 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Printed at M B Graphics, B-28, Shri Ram Industrial Estate, ZG D Ambekar Marg, Wadala, Mumbai 400031and Published from Mumbai - 3rd Floor, Taj Building, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001. Editor: Maulik Jasubhai Shah, 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Indian Architect & Builder: (ISSN 0971-5509), RNI No 46976/87, is a JMPL monthly publication. Reproduction in any manner, in whole or part, in English or any other language is strictly prohibited. We welcome articles, but do not accept responsibility for contributions lost in the mail.

28 CURRENT

The latest news, events and competitions in architecture and design

from India and abroad.

36 INNOVATION

Innovation for Sustainability : Ar. Prem Chandavarkar.

38 ARCHITECTURE

Ship House

A result of a series of investigations into the client’s life, the

ship house is a curious and unorthodox illustration of queer yet

thoughful architecture.

Arambol House

YOUNG DESIGNERS ‘14

- ARCHITECTURE

A strikingly independent house that stands staunch on the hills

of Goa.

An Architect’s Office

Built without the usual pressures of design, the risk of failure,

intent to innovate and to prove, this office is an honest

manifestation of what Nvironment Planners truly intend with

their work.

50 Stables

Arched shelter for a different species.

St. Peter’s Cemetery Chapel

A restoration and revival.

ACADEMIA Sustainability – A Way of Life

A sustainable design approach is essential at all scales of a

design project.

What’s your taste?

Architects and cooks alike manipulate colour, texture and shape to

tantalise our senses; a gastranomic analogy with architecture.

deeper daylight

anidolic devices in new delhi office buildings

SPACE FRAMES

Doors of Perception

Photography Feature: Shijith V.P. chases the theme “Doors and

Windows” in a series of metaphorical scenarios.

Printed & Published by Maulik Jasubhai Shah on behalf of Jasubhai Media Pvt Ltd (JMPL), 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Printed at M B Graphics, B-28, Shri Ram Industrial Estate, ZG D Ambekar Marg, Wadala, Mumbai 400031and Published from Mumbai - 3rd Floor, Taj Building, 210, Dr D N Road, Fort, Mumbai 400 001. Editor: Maulik Jasubhai Shah, 26, Maker Chamber VI, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021. Indian Architect & Builder: (ISSN 0971-5509), RNI No 46976/87, is a JMPL monthly publication. Reproduction in any manner, in whole or part, in English or any other language is strictly prohibited. We welcome articles, but do not accept responsibility for contributions lost in the mail.

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industry news

Kich grabs Laurel of Asia’s Most Promising Brand in Architectural Hardware Category business associates at Kich. All these promotions are being done using Indian Cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara as brand ambassador of Kich. Today with 47 product galleries, 03 application centres and above 220 dealers across India Kich has succeeded in securing top most position as a leader of architectural hardware products category with support by local representative to give pre and post service. Many corporate giants are its loyal clients for their requirement of Architectural Hardware, Handrail & Baluster Systems and Bathroom Accessories. Kich is also engaged in export of architectural hardware products. With a vast network in Europe, Middle East and Africa, Kich has ensured its presence in many countries across the globe. Apart from this recent achievement, Kich is also the first Indian company to win National Award for Best Quality in premium architectural products category. Besides, due to quality assurance, streamlined service channel, product strength, matchless product designs and excellent functionality, it has also been able to win other leading accreditations such as Indian Power Brand, Star Brand India and I-Mark.

t is said that excellence speaks for itself. Brands, which grow tremendously, naturally come in limelight and are acknowledged with respect and rewarded with accreditations. To elaborate this, we would like to share the recent achievement of Kich.

With stringent parameters of manufacturing, Kich products are successfully authenticated with regards to mechanical and product life cycle standards by Bodycote, world’s largest independent testing service provider. Moreover, Kich products are also certified for fire safety standards by Warringtonfire (UK). Kich Handrail and Baluster Systems have been successfully tested for various American standards by Al Futtaim Exova Testing (AFE - Dubai).

Asia’s Most Promising Brands is the largest brand benchmark project globally in print, portal and broadcast format. It exhibits a research-based listing of the most promising brands across the Asian Continent. Multi-phase research was executed by a World Consulting & Research Corporation (WCRC) and ibrands 360. To increase the authenticity of process KPMG played role for process evaluation. With global jury credibility of process was enhanced. At the end of such a rigorous process Kich has emerged prominently in this valuable list of Asia’s Most Promising Brands.

“We try to adopt innovative ideas and technology to accommodate all possible media in our promotion. With such a planned approach we have succeeded in gaining brand recall among end consumers as well as influencer groups. I believe this accreditation of ‘Asia’s Most Promising Brand’ is result of our product quality and service commitments to our customers. These two fundamental values have made Kich the most acceptable brand in mind of the customer” quoted Mr. Bharat Hapani, Managing Director of Kich Architectural Products Pvt. Ltd. on this glorious achievement of Kich.

Kich has been selected as Asia’s Most Promising Brand 2014 in architectural hardware products category for its innovative marketing strategies, tremendous growth and brand recall. On all said parameters, Kich has put conscious efforts under their media mix. Just not to miss any touch point of potential customer or influencer group Kich has used print, electronics and social media to its best possible level. Extensive participation in trade events and regular seminars for influencer group is another way to support Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

For further information, contact: KICH Architectural Products Pvt Ltd Mr. Anil Vanjani Gondal Road, NH 8B, Vavdi, Rajkot(Gujarat), India Tel: +91-281-3290316 Email: anil@kichindia.com

industry news

Nirali excels in product design:

EXA Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink with detachable lids

onstant innovation and product upgradation has always been pivotal to Nirali, India’s No.1 stainless steel kitchen sink company. The design and engineering teams work in tandem to create products that blend modernity, customer needs, aesthetics, functionality and durability. EXA Multi-Purpose Kitchen Sink under Nirali’sExpell kitchen sink range is yet another example of path-breaking innovation. Understanding the pressing constraints of today’s modern homes, EXA kitchen sink comes with detachable lids that cover unwashed vessels and can also double up as an extension of a kitchen platform. What’s more, these lids also give a hygienic touch by not allowing insects to pry around at night. Conforming to AISI 304 quality stainless steel, which is 1.2 mm thick, the EXA kitchen sink has deeper bowls and comes with satin finish to give kitchens that modern aesthetic appeal. For further information, contact: Tel: +91-22-24315500/11/22 (India) Sales: sales@nirali.com Email: nirali@nirali.com Web: www.niralisinks.com

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

industry news

SIMPOLO INTRODUCES OUTDOOR PORCELAIN TILES

eramic Tiles for Out Doors?? NO WAY!!. This was the reaction of Specifiers, Architects ,Landscape experts,or Civil Engineers till recent past. For outdoor flooring or for heavy traffic areas, the foremost concern is the functionality than the aesthetics, Simpolo worked closely with the Industry experts to understand the need and came out with a tailor made solution to address this. Simpolo introduced Outdoor Porcelain Tiles with 16mm thickness for the first time in India. This collection is available in 2 sizes viz. 600x600 mm known as Rockdeck series & 1200x800 mm known as Riverstone & Cemento series. It is a versatile system for designing your outdoor living. Now you can transform your outdoor living space with ROCKDECK / RIVERSTONE/ CEMENTO OUTDOOR PORCELAIN TILES. These tiles are extremely tough (Flexural breaking strength >7500N) ie.. can take heavy loads without any problems , are non-porous and require no maintenance, slip resistant, stain resistant, scratch resistant, fireproof, fade proof, these tiles are also resistant to frost expansion,and easy to clean. Since these are full body homogenous tiles, they not only withstand wear & tear of high traffic but can be used on steps with bullnose or deep chamfering as well just as Granite or other stone slabs. Fired at ultra high temperatures these tile become more durable and denser than normal ceramic tiles. This advanced technology enables these tiles to aquire more intricate textures that so closely mimic those of stone tiles, that they are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. They are produced with non-slip textures also for usage, in wet areas without any compromise with safety. WHY Rockdeck/ Cement. Riverstone ? 1. High breaking strength leeds to increased load bearing capacity > 3 times than running vitrified tile. Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

2. Higher solar reflective index helps to reduce surface temperature rise. 3. Lower deep abrasion rate indicates longest service life compare to natural stone. 4. High slip resistance due to structured surface to ensure safety. 5. Low water absorption discourages microbe inhabitant. 6. Resistant to chemical, stain, scratch, fire and temperature fluctuation(day/night). Applications: a) House: Garden, Patios and terraces, steps and pathways, around swimming pool, parapets and flower beds. b) Public venues: Hospitality, bathing resorts, industrial areas, pathways. EASY STEPS: 1. Easy to install 2. Easy to remove when applied without bond. 3. Easy to inspect 4. Easy to clean 5. Easy to change idea. Installation System: It can be dry-installed directly onto the footing, grass, gravel and sand, or it can be used as a raised laying with the variable heights (max upto 100 mm). It is quick to install and the floor can be immediately walked on. For further information, contact: Simpolo Vitrified Pvt Ltd Old Ghuntu Road, Morbi - 363 642, Gujarat Tel: +91 2822 242122, 241622, 243622 Email: tiles@simpolo.net Web: www.simpolo.net

December 2010 | # 06 INDIAN EDITION

Supported by

Obituary I walked with Dashrath Patel MP Ranjan

The future sound of Indian design Cover Story

Obituary Leonardo with a revolutionary cause Uday Dandavate

India’s First International Design Magazine D E S I G N • I N N OVAT I O N • C R E AT I V I T Y

0 Founder of NID Dashrath Patel

Former Director, NID Dr. Darlie Koshy

Former Director, NID Ashoke Chatterjee

Graduating in the 50th year of Indian Design: Shraddha Sakhalkar

Present Director, NID Pradyumna Vyas Journey of Indian Design

photographed for POOL by Sudhir Sharma

Blogger Ramya Mohan

Fairy Tales

Maestros Saumin Patel

Katha

INDIA’S FIRST GLOBAL DESIGN MAGAZINE www.indipool.com

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POOL 43

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Tanaji Avghade pg 32 Jasleen Bindra pg 32

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Suresh Venkat 04 MIXIN, Srinagar 12 'Ek Type' foundry 18 Anant Nanvare 26 Manish Gulati 44 Anais Basu 50 Manreet Deol 58

pg28

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Rit Mishra 04 Stefan Stark 10 Madhura Kulkarni 14 Love@FirstSight 18 Mithun Darji 26 Ram Raheja 42 Dhruv Kapur 52 Deepak & Aparna 58 Cagri Cankaya 63

Now Available at :

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Commenting on the partnership, Erez Schweppe, VP Sales – Caesarstone, commented, “Through a fusion of technological innovation and design expertise, Caesarstone has been creating superior quartz surfaces which are not only beautiful to look at, but also enhance home and commercial interiors and overall property value. . Häfele is our gateway to India. Their ability to understand the diverse Indian market and to adapt to the changing tastes and trends helped us identify and partner with them for Caesarstone quartz surfaces.” About Häfele India

Häfele India partners with Caesarstone Introduces Super premium quartz surfaces in India

äfele India is pleased to announce its partnership with Caesarstone, a pioneer in the development of quartz surfaces and the world’s premium quartz manufacturer. Caesarstone quartz surfaces are made of 93% natural quartz making Caesarstone strong, nonporous, low maintenance as well as impact, stain, heat and scratch resistant. Apart from the above benefits, Caesarstone quartz surfaces are also environmentally friendly. Speaking at the launch Mr. Jürgen Wolf, Managing Director, Häfele India Pvt. Ltd. said, “By adding Caesarstone products to our portfolio, Häfele offers all those looking to create exceptional personal interiors a starting point for their creative endeavors and create a unique stamp on any room which is strikingly different than any other. With this association, Häfele aptly exemplifies its avant-garde disposition in India.” Mr. Balakrishnan Pillai, Manager – Caesarstone, Häfele India added, “These products represent high-quality precision based engineering and patented technologies that will redefine the Indian market. We have associated with Caesarstone, the pioneer in developing quartz surfaces with a vision to not only introduce the Indian Customers to a high quality brand but also to a truly international brand experience. Caesarstone quartz surfaces fall under the super premium category owing to its exclusivity and numerous benefits ↑ over other natural and Dalia Kliger, Market Development Manager Erez Schweppe, VP Sales - Caesarstone composite surfaces.” Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

Häfele set foot in India in 2001 as a liaison office essentially handling Hospitality projects for its line of Access Control Systems – Dialock. The growing hardware demand and the increasing architectural maturity motivated the company to start full commercial operations in India in 2003 as a wholly owned subsidiary by the name, Häfele India Pvt. Ltd. With its head office in Mumbai, 6 regional offices with Design Centers in all major metros and sales presence across the country, Häfele India has, over the last 10 years, acquired a leading position in the Indian Architectural Hardware Industry. Today, Häfele India employs over 450 people who cater to a wide customer base with the help of an efficient distribution network, comprehensive logistics system and a sophisticated warehouse located in Mumbai. Häfele India lays pride in its diverse range of quality products, wellnetworked channel partners and unmatched service to customers; with an overall product range consisting of more than 150000 articles and more than 400 dealers across India. The ability of the company to understand the diverse Indian market and adapt to the changing tastes and trends, has made it an authority in the field of architectural hardware, furniture fittings and kitchen fittings and accessories.With this successful backing and the promise to grow in manifolds, the company has expanded to meet the ever-growing demands not only from India but also its neighboring countries. About Caesarstone Established in 1987, Caesarstone pioneered the original quartz surface and continues to be a leading developer and manufacturer of premium surfaces. Caesarstone surfaces consist of up to 93% quartz and utilize advanced technologies and proprietary know-how. The surfaces are highly functional, design forward and have endless application possibilities including kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, flooring, wall paneling, furniture and more. The unique and rich variety of colors, patterns and textures gives each customer the ability to find their ‘ultimate surface’ and create their own unique interior environment. Caesarstone’ s extensive designs are constantly evolving and developing to meet the latest world trends and the highest level of international quality standards, the surfaces are stain heat and scratch resistant. With its high profile designer collaborations Caesarstone is confirming its position as a leading platform for design.

For further information, contact: Häfele India Pvt Ltd Helpline number: 18002666667 Email: customercare@Häfeleindia.com

current

Category : International Type : Students and fresh graduates. Deadline : Registration: 20 th January, 2015 Submission: 1 st February, 2015 The Royal Society of the Arts’ (RSA) Student Design Awards is a global curriculum and an annual competition for students and recent graduates. The competition challenges students and recent graduates to think differently about design through tackling briefs focused on real-world problems. RSA develops the competition briefs in association with industry partners and supports the participants through workshops and mentoring. This year the Competition spans across eight different categories - Creative Conditions, Moving Pictures, Water for All, The Daily Diet, Human by Nature, fair play, mobility city and heritage by design. The participants can submit any numbers of entries for a particular category or multiple categories; individually or as a team. For further information, log on to: http://sda.thersa.org/

d3 HOUSING TOMORROW 2015 Category : International Type : Architects, landscape architects, interior designers, engineers and students Deadline : 1 st February, 2015

COMPETITIONS

Established in 2010, the annual d3 Housing Tomorrow competition has become the leading voice in alternative residential architecture and is one of the most notable international awards in speculative, performancebased housing design. The competition calls for transformative solutions that advance sustainable thought, building performance, and social interaction through study of intrinsic environmental geometries, social behaviours, urban implications, and programmatic flows. d3 challenges participants to rethink strategies for investigating residential design from macro-to-micro scales ranging from urban—promoting broader physical interconnectivity; communal—exploiting an interaction of units with shared facilities; and internal—examining the interior particularity of the unit, individual, or family in housing design toward promoting identity, ownership, and intimacy.

Earth Architecture Workshop: Mud Hut Design in Ghana Date Venue

: 12th January - 10th April 2015 : Abetenim, Ghana

The main goal of this workshop is to built the 1st prize winning design in Nka Foundation’s Mud House Design 2014 competition by the French design team MAMOTH. The workshop will be held in the village of Abetenim, located 40 km South East of Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The aim of the competition is to experiment with vernacular material like bamboo and mud. NKA FOUNDATION … Serving the Underserved Communities For more informations & inscriptions email to: mamoth.collectif@gmail.com. / info@nkafoundation.org www.nkafoundation.org

Architectural Association Haiti Visiting School Date Venue

: :

3rd – 13th January, 2015 Quisqueya University, Port au Prince, Haiti

For the second year, January 2015 sees the Architectural Association return to the unique terrain of Haiti to push students to experiment, design and speculate on the future of bamboo in this Caribbean nation. The brief will be to form a building proposal, however the challenge will be to present a vision for bamboo to meet the programmatic needs of this Haitian metropolis. Over the course of the eleven day workshop students will be taught 3D modelling and parametric programs, as well as software to test aerodynamics. This will allow students to experiment and respond to the extreme seismic and climatic context of the site. The teaching staff will comprise of both local and international architects, engineers, artists and horticulturists. It will form a formidable base of knowledge of local culture, bamboo material characteristics and 3D design software. For more information and applications please visit haiti.aaschool.ac.uk

For further information, log on to: www.d3space.org/competitions/

361° Conference: DIS.ARCHITECTURE

International Prize for Sustainable Architecture | XI edition

Date Venue

Category Type Deadline

The Department of Architecture at Ferrara University, Italy, during these years has been involved in international seminars, courses and activities concerning the sustainable architecture such as the International Prize for Sustainable Architecture, now in its eleventh edition. The main aim of the award is to promote architectures that is are in greater harmony with the environment and designed for the needs of man, capable of satisfying the needs of our generations without limiting those the future, and to share with a large public the results of the research in the architecture field.

As one of the oldest and the most respected design forums in India, the 361° is an iniative by Indian Architect & Builder to create a truly relevant dialogue on architecture. In its eigth edition, the conference plans once again to host individuals who lead the thought and practice of architecture and as an extension - design in the world. Over the past seven editions, the conference has established a thought - exchange program with its presentations and discussions thus chronicling a multitude of ideas and innovations that have had a significant impact on our habitat. This year, the 361° Conference focuses on discourse, intuition and syntax in architecture with an attempt to initiate a discourse on the methods of critical appraisal between eminent architects and critics.

For on-line registration log on to: www.premioarchitettura.it

For further information, log on to: www.361degrees.net.in

: International : Open to all : 31 st January, 2015

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

: 3 rd – 5th March, 2015 : Mumbai, India

EVENTS

RSA Student Design Awards

Steven Holl for Mumbai City Museum Steven Holl Architects has been selected to design a new wing for the Mumbai City Museum, also known as Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Besting competition from Zaha Hadid, OMA and Amanda Levete, plus 5 other finalist teams, Steven Holl Architects will now work in collaboration with Opolis Architects, Guy Nordenson & Associates and Transsolar on the design.The museum will be expanding to the north with a 125,000 sq ft addition, situated in Mumbai’s oldest museum garden in Byculla. Working with the site boundary, Steven Holl Architects has designed a sculptural addition in white concrete which diffuses the light, ensuring that each of the gallery spaces receives 25 lumens of natural light. Besides the 65,000 sq ft of orthogonal galleries, the scheme will encompass a central channel with a shaded monsoon water basin. Water will be deposited from this basin into a central pool, beneath which will be an expanse of photovoltaic cells in order to generate 60% of the museum’s electricity. Alongside the white concrete, the design incorporates local rough-cut Indian Agra stone. Construction is due to begin in 2015.

Four cricket bats and a balancing ball seen in ARK’s 96 Iconic Tower for Sri Lanka ARK (Reza Kabul Architects) has shared its latest design with WAN. The literal concept is dedicated to the Sri Lankan Cricketers that won the 1996 World Cup and is comprised of four cricket bat shaped structures with a cricket ball balanced between the handles. The team has selected Colombo as the location for this project.The mixed-use form - named 96 Iconic Tower - blends residential units with retail outlets and public space, rising to 96 storeys. Public parking and vehicular drop-off can be found on the lower ground floor, with lifts to the south leading to the ticket counter for the Observatory on the 92nd level and the Sri Lankan Cricket Legends Museum on the 93rd floor. There are two entertainment decks within the 96 Iconic Tower (levels 14 and 66) which include: a library; indoor gaming centre, business centre, jogging track, children’s play area, outdoor play area, lounge and coffee shop, gym, spa, outdoor yoga area, and sky decks.

Two Universities Win NCARB Award for Merging Practice and Education The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has awarded Parsons The New School for Design and Clemson University the 2014 NCARB Award to aid the development of innovative programs that merge practice and education.

NEWS

NCARB CEO Michael J. Armstrong said, “The award honours innovative ways for weaving practice and academy together to address real-world architecture challenges. The winning proposals for 2014 explore new paradigms of practice and move students from the theoretical to applied practices working with licensed practitioners.” While the Clemson University proposed a Graduate Program in Architecture + Health, which aims to facilitate health care facility design through collaboration among architects, academia and members of the health care industry; the Parsons The New School for Design proposed ‘Student-Practitioner Partnerships in Building Performance Evaluation’ which addresses a new and critical opportunity for architecture students to improve the environmental performance of buildings through measurement. Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

current Glenn Murcutt takes-up inaugural Seidler Chair in architecture at UNSW Australia’s Pritzker prize-winning architect Glenn Murcutt has been named as inaugural recipient of the Seidler Chair in the Practice of Architecture at UNSW.UNSW’s Faculty of Built Environment has established the position funded by a gift from architect, businesswoman and arts patron Penelople Seidler AM. Dr Seidler has also funded a PhD scholarship and an international design studio for graduating students.

Naturally-lit sports pitches create fluid connections at new Campus Igara, Brazil OSPA ARQUITETURA E URBANISMO has been announced as the winner of a competition to design the new Campus Igara for the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA) in southern Brazil. The 26,385 sq m scheme has been designed with the premise ‘More than a public institution, a public space’. The resulting scheme is a fluid development which provides key connections to the city. Designed with a porous layout, Campus Igara is arranged with two high-rise building forms which house the university activities, joined by a core structure with various sporting facilities. The design team has introduced spiralling staircases to encourage users to select the ‘healthy’ option rather than taking a lift; this measure also acts as a simplification of internal flows. The buildings are orientated to receive lower thermal load plus natural lighting and ventilation.

Juhani Pallasmaa and Diébédo Francis Kéré Honored in 2014 Schelling Architecture Awards The Schelling Architecture Foundation has announced Juhani Pallasmaa and Diébédo Francis Kéré as the recipients of its Architecture Theory and Architecture Prizes, respectively, for 2014. Awrded every once in two years, the Schelling Prizes are prestigious awards that have been predictors of the Pritzker Prize. This year the theme, ‘indigenous ingenuity’ was inspired by the 2012 Theory winner Kenneth Frampton‘s theory of Critical Regionalism, with the theme questioning, ‘how can inventive and directly comprehensible architecture satisfy human needs in an appealing way?’ The jury cited Pallasmaa’s lifelong contribution to the culture of architecture which highlights his passionate exploration of the phenomenological approach. “Driven by insight into the existential essence of architecture, Pallasmaa has been encouraging – through decades of work as an architect, teacher, lecturer, writer and editor – the development of an awareness and sensitivity for architectural phenomena,” they said. Kéré was selected as a winner after presentations made from the three nominated architects: Kéré, Anna Heringer and Carla Juaçaba. In selecting Kéré as the winner, the jury praised his body of work and how by “using local means and with numerous participants, he manages to turn the opportunities of globalization into reality.”

THE ECONOMIC TIMES ACETECH: THE MASTER OF TRADESHOWS BROUGHT GREAT MINDS AND GREATER WORKS TOGETHER T

he curtain raiser show of The ET ACETECH held from 6 th-9 th November 2014 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai was inaugurated on 6 th November 2014 by the Honorable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Other dignitaries present were Niranjan Hiranandani of Hiranandani Group, Ashish Raheja of Raheja Universal, Ar. Hafeez Contractor of Architect Hafeez Contractor, Ar. Chris Bubb from Fosters+Partner, Ar. Arunjot Singh Bhalla of RSP Design, Kamal Khetan of Sunteck Realty, Suzanne Khan of Charcoal Project, Parag Munot from Kalpataru, V. Srinivasan of CRISIL, Ar. Claudio Bellini from Claudio Bellini Studio and Kaiwan Mehta of Domus India. ET Acetech Delhi saw the presence of top Architects and Developers of the city like Mr. Mohit Gujral, DLF, Getambar Anand, ATS Infrastructure Ltd, Ar. Sonali Bhagwati, DPA, Ar. Sorabh Dalal, DPA, Raj Singh Gehlot of Ambience Group, Pranav Ansal of Ansal API, Anuj Puri of JLL, Tine Hegli of Snohetta, Ar. Natasha Kochhar of LTDF Architecture + ID and Ar. Oikonomou Grigoria of Concept Architectural Studio amongst several other names. With the huge success of its Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi exhibition, The Economic Times ACETECH 2014 has taken the tradeshow industry a notch higher. At the platform of ET ACETECH Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi, finest national and international brands met eminent architects, real estate developers, hoteliers, equity investors in infrastructure, builders, engineers and designers, from across the globe. Buyers, clients and suppliers assembled at the show and shared, witnessed and selected from a wide variety of Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

options available for their respective businesses. ET ACETECH will next be hosted in Kolkata at Science City Exhibition Grounds from 16 th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18 th January 2015, followed by Ahmedabad. The show is staged in and around a vast expanse of 2Mn sq. ft. gross spread over 4 months. ET ACETECH and Mosbuild Association will have more than 1625 exhibitors from across the world. This year, ET ACETECH will stage eight Allied Events which will include ACETECH Design Wall, ACETECH Connect, ACETECH Felicitation and Gala Networking Night, Grand Stand Awards, The International Lighting Summit, The Global Green Summit, The Design Mock Up Studio and the ET ACETECH Glass Intertech.

industry news

At The ACETECH Design Wall more than 450 brands competed for recognition from the pioneers of construction, interior and design fraternity. In Mumbai on 5 th September 2014 at Taj Land’s End, Design Wall 2014 undertook its 6th edition in association with BLUE STAR LTD along with eminent sponsors like INNOVATIVE IDEALS & SERVICES (INDIA) PVT LTD and R K MARBLE PVT LTD, to name a few. Anita Arjundas, Niranjan Hiranandani, Ashish Raheja, Bindu Oberoi, Sandeep Runwal, Manju Yagnik, Ar. Yatin Patel, Ar. Zarir Mullan, Ar. Seema Puri Mullan, , Ar. Sonmoy Chatterjee, Ar.Kalhan Mattoo, Ar. Vivek Bhole and Ar. Sonali Bhagwati, to name a few. The 21 winning products were displayed on the splendid ‘Video Wall’ at the venue of The ET ACETECH Mumbai show on 6 th November 2014, including the Gold Winner- ThyssenKrupp Elevator (India) Pvt Ltd, Silver WinnerInpod and Bronze Winner- Rocland Pvt Ltd. 100 renowned developers and architects were present at the ACETECH Design Wall, Delhi held on 12 th December 2014 at The Leela, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi to honor and select the winners from Delhi. Delhi jury had eminent names like Ar. Abhimanyu Dalal, Alex Felez Buchholz- Hines India, Ar. Christine Mueller, Natasha Kochhar- LTDF Architecture + ID, Nayan Raheja - Raheja Developers, Ar. Najeeb Khan - KGD Architecture among several others. On the other hand Connect, an initiative of ACETECH, facilitated direct meetings of India’s top Construction Houses, Architects and Designing firms with brands exhibiting at ACETECH in Mumbai on 10 th October 2014 at Taj Land’s End. Dignitaries like Gunisha Sanyal (Principal Architect, Hiranandani Construction), D. S Rao (GM Purchase, Omkar Realtors & Developers), Ramesh Chaudhary (Manager Purchase, Kalpataru), Sachin Pednekar (Senior Manager Purchase, Oberoi Realty), Rajesh Goyal (GM Purchase, Rustomjee), Muttaqi Ahmed (Head Contracts & Procurement, L&T), Sudarson Das (AVP Procurement, Adani Township & Real Estate Company) amongst others, were present. ACETECH also launched Connect, Delhi on 13 th December 2014 at The Leela Palace (Chanakyapuri), New Delhi which attracted participation from the leading developer houses like Raheja Developer’s Ltd, Supertech Limited, Lotus Green , Unitech Limited, M3M India Limited, Ashiana housing Limited, Ambience P Ltd, Omaxe Ltd. to name a few. ET ACETECH Grand Stand Awards, Mumbai, appreciated and honored the efforts of exhibitors and participants who put in their best to make their stand spaces look fantastic and brilliant. On 7 th November 2014, the selection panel, comprising of eminent personalities like Ar. Brijesh Kanabar, Ar. Santha Gour Mattoo, Ar. Gunisha Sanyal, Ar.

Shresht Kashyap, Ar. Ketan Sheth, , Ar. Shubhashish Modi, Ar. Milind Pai, Ar. Mihir Kotak, Ar. Pratik Edwanker and Ar. Rooshad Shroff to name a few, picked the finest of all the displays. The selection process was followed by The Grand Stand Awards ceremony on 8th November 2014 at ACETECH show held in Bombay Exhibition Centre. The title of Mega Booth Award was won by Vis à Vis. Pidilite Industries Ltd and Wipro Enterprises Ltd had won the Special Jury Recognition Award. Amongst other winners were Simpolo Vitrified Pvt Ltd, Mahaphanth Fibre-Cement(South Asia) Pvt Ltd (Shera) in the category of Platinum Award, Gold Award winners were Simas (Q-bo) and Inpod, Silver Award winners were Hafele India Pvt Ltd and Beautex Industries Pvt Ltd and Bronze Award winners were Merino Industries Ltd and Focus Lighting & Fixtures Pvt Ltd. The International Lighting Summit (ILS) 2014 was an event that ran concurrent to the Mumbai exhibition on 7 th November 2014 to add knowledge and value to the Lighting Industry. Speakers like Dr. Amardeep Dugar, Vilas Prabhu, Jaspreet Chandhok, Babu Shankar, Ekta Shanghvi, Satish Rana, Nirmit Jhaveri, Ar. Nilabh Nagar, Ar. Ratan Batliboi, Ar. Sandeep Shikre and Ar. Nitin Killawala were seen discussing various aspects of light and light technology used in today’s industry based on the theme ‘The Fourth Dimension of Architecture - LIGHTS’. The summit had over 400 registered delegates On 19th December 2014 at Pragati Maidan, Delhi The Global Green Summit (GGS) 2014 witnessed architects, developers, green practitioners, consultants, relevant industry associations, key players and relevant decision makers from the ministry and local government bodies united for one sole purpose – to raise and discuss the vital issues pertaining to the industry and work towards building of a greener ecosystem. The focus areas of GGS 2014 encompassed green buildings and materials, cost efficiency, role of the government, renewable energy, energy efficiency, water and waste management and many such efficient ways of building up this industry. The theme of GGS 2014 was ‘Catalyzing the green movement in India’ and the Summit had over 700 registered delegates. To provide its tradeshow a truly holistic approach, ET ACETECH will leave no stone unturned. The show will further fascinate, motivate and encourage personnel of architecture, construction and design industry and will consequently push the industries forward. info@etacetech.com/urvashi.c@abec.asia Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

Ahmedabad, 11 th December 2014

“Sustainability - A Way of Life” Design, Innovation, Sustenance

erolac “Earthmatters” in Association with IA&B saw an evening with over 90 architects in Ahmedabad on 11 th December about Sustainability…a way of life with a keen focus on design, innovation and sustenance. The attempt was to speak about sustainability not as a speciality but as a prerequisite of all actions, specifically creation, here Architecture, with a special address to design, innovation & sustenance. The evening began with presentation by Mr. Udit Gupta, Chief Institutional Manager, Sales, Kansai Nerolac , which highlighted eco-friendly products introduced by Nerolac and the steps taken by the brand for a sustainable future. The three distinguished panellists were Ar. Kamal Malik from Mumbai, Ar. Rajeev Kathpalia (Vastu Shipla Consultants) and Ar. Bobby Desai (HCP) from Ahmedabad. Sustainability being their forte, the speakers presented and discussed various facets of the issue, each with their own ideologies and concepts about how to translate it to architecture. Mr. Bobby Desai’s presentation very succinctly covered every aspect of the building industry’s approach (or the lack of it) to effective sustainability. Clinical and academic in content, he spoke of the volatile nature of norms and regulations laid out by the authorities of the industry and the futility of the exercise. At the same time he proposed a feasible solution to reform and resolve fundamental loopholes in the system.

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

post event

Mr. Malik and Mr. Rajeev through illustrative examples of their own projects described how sustainability, with a little more thought and effort could and should be achieved in projects of all scales. They stressed upon how each site is exclusive in itself and ought to be respected and ‘heard’ before being built upon. The projects entailed how resources in terms of material and site parameters as well as history could be sustained with a conscientious effort from its creators to respect nature and all she presents. Moderated by IA&B Editorial personnel, an interesting discussion amongst the panellists and the audience followed the presentations. The audience participated in an engaging discussion with the panellists, questioning, discussing and putting forth their concepts on matters of the earth. The evening concluded with talks about sustainability and designing and innovating for sustenance in the future over dinner. The evening saw eminent architects from the city of Ahmedabad interact and discuss “Earthmatters” putting forth what the future holds for us.

In the world of construction, buildings have the capacity to make a major contribution to a more sustainable future for our planet. Add to this the fact that for the first time in human history over half of the world’s population now lives in urban environments and it’s clear that sustainable buildings have become vital cornerstones for securing long-term environmental, economic and social viability. Sustainable construction aims to meet present day needs for housing, working environments and infrastructure without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs in times to come. Sustainable construction involves issues such as the design and management of buildings; materials performance; construction technology and processes; energy and resource efficiency in building, improvement to existing contextual conditions; interdependencies of landscape, infrastructure, urban fabric and architecture; flexibility in building use, function and change; and the dissemination of knowledge in related academic, technical and social contexts.

“We cannot hope to create a sustainable culture with any but sustainable souls.” - Derrick Jensen About Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd. Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd. has been a cherished brand name in domestic as well as commercial circles across the country for its diversified range of products and assurance of balanced quality equations. With an idealistic showcase of surface solutions, it has translated values of its brand integrity and cutting-edge notions into novel products that not only help enhance the visual appeal of homes substantially, but also retain the same for a longer period. Earth Matters which was conceptualized by Kansai Nerolac in 2010 has become a forum for inspiring think – tank on green endeavours. It has also created Nerolac ArchEdge, which is a platform for architects for sharing their thoughts, ideas related to sustainability. For further information, contact: Visit: www.nerolacarchedge.com To enquire call on - 18002092092/ 09357005700/ 02240602823 or write to us at contact@nerolacarchedge.com

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

ARAMBOL HOUSE PLAYGROUP STUDIO, Goa A strikingly independent house that stands staunch on the hills of Goa. Text: Aastha Deshpande | Drawings & Images: courtesy Playgroup Studio, Goa

n the northern plains of Goa, amongst the undulating hilly terrains of cashew trees stand a house in solitude, seemingly indifferent to its surroundings and conspicuous in its geometric appearance that refuses to merge with the natural elements that envelop it. The house is a manifestation of its inhabitant’s persona; built for a lady, having a fiercely independent spirit. The program was to create 4 relatively independent rooms, each having its own privacy with a common shared living and kitchen area. Two of the rooms would house guests, while, of the remaining two, one would be used by the owner and the other by her daughter. The plan consists of two blocks of rooms connected on either sides of the staircase, with the living and dining areas opening on to the

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

private courtyard. Openings are oriented to prevented direct sunlight from entering while providing expansive views of the valley around. Windows are located such that each room gets complete privacy from the other areas of the house, except the daughter’s window which can be looked into from the mother’s. Circulation across the rooms is designed such that each gets connected to the outside without having to pass through any common areas. The idea was to create a pure geometrical object standing independently against the contrasting background of verdant undulating hills, inclined roofs being the result of a local by-law making it mandatory for all houses to have ‘sloping roofs’. Water is channelled through concealed gutters on the slab and brought down

YD â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;14 | architecture

through vertical grooves between the three blocks. The 18mX18m block consisting of all the services - the staircase, toilets, pantries and water tank forms a backdrop framing the other two blocks and the courtyard. The staircase opens out centrally to the east and access to the top is opened out towards the West overlooking the courtyard. Amongst the serenity of Goa is a silently defiant home that illustrates independence in more ways than one.

FACT FILE: Project : Location : Architect : Design Team : Site Area : Project Area : Initiation of Project : Completion of Project :

Arambol House : OM Kairos Arambol, Goa Harsh Patel Abhijeet Gehlot Paresh Gaitonde 300 sq.m. 240 sq.m March 2012 February 2013

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

AN ARCHITECT’S OFFICE Nvironment Planning, Kochi Built without the usual pressures of design, the risk of failure, intent to innovate and to prove, this office is an honest manifestation of what Nvironment Planners truly intend with their work. Text: Aastha Deshpande | Drawings & Images: courtesy Nvironment Planning, Kochi

“W

e didn’t expect much from our office building, all we needed was a space to work without boundaries literally, and a permanent address!” Nvironment Planning had their requirements very crystal clear when they decided to build this office, which, on its completion, was to articulate what they execute and wish to elucidate while working within it. Breaking free form the shackles of the architectural industry, which demands a great deal from its members, Nvironment planners, as their name indicates, did just that. They created what they formally call an ‘office’ but is in actuality a space they created

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

to experience, see and feel nature everyday while they did what they loved the most-design. Built primarily in concrete and steel, the office is divided into three major zones on the basis of privacy and daylight requirement; the studio, the waiting and the architect’s private office. The conference room is intelligently placed in a zone that receives least sunlight, as is its requirement when delivering digital presentations in dim light. A spiral staircase is a distinct feature of the structure. Centrally located and spiraling vertically, the staircase shaft placed in a

courtyard is responsible for most of the light that reaches the ground level and intrigues one to find out where it leads. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The choice of a life of innovation within boundaries, judged always for what is done and not done, by all that surrounds and more by one self. A relentless pursuit, being forced to get it right the very first time, in a world which expects every step to be in a newer direction but not willing to stumble and fall. And then there is aesthetics, style, trends, form, balance, function, technology, durability, sustainability, economy, budget, etc. ... So much noise.â&#x20AC;? The office in its way, safeguarded them from the various pressures, boundaries and insinuations designers are subjected to and preserved their sanctity towards their pursuit of design.

FACT FILE: Project : Nvironment Planning-office Location : Edappaly,Kochi Architect : Ar.Binesh Balagopalan Design Team : Shalini Febin Site Area : 242.82 sqm Project Area : 110 sqm Initiation of Project : June 2011 Completion of Project : Feb 2012

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

STABLES Gandhinagar Arched shelter for a different species. Text: Aastha Deshpande | Drawings & Images: Kartikeya Chhaya, Gandhinagar

n unconventional client that cannot speak for itself, a need to study a different species and their habitat requirements and a design that would culminate in peaceful co-existence of man and animal; ‘Stables’ was a project with many a peculiar challeges and curious requirements. The client in addition to his retreat home, a farmhouse, had equestrian interests and wished to house his two horses on the same site as his farmhouse. The region in which the site for the stables is located is the topography of a river-basin; that area where the plateau of the plain through which the river flows comes and actually meets the river bed. In the belt adjoining the length of the river, the flows of water that carry the monsoon runoff into the river are the strongest, creating

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

deep dendritic crevices.Undulating land and scrubby vegetation made for an unlikely context for the place for horses, requiring a flat field for training and a relatively gravel-free ground for running on. The owner’s farmhouse plot, each four acres in area, adjoined the one for the stables; this particular piece of land offered a gentle slope to plan sheltered stalls as well as a running ground. As a program, the stables area was an extension of the farmhouse, with its weekend use for living and recreation. The continuation of the house included a pavilion that sat close to the horses’ stalls and yet was independent. In this context, the placement of the stables on the plot made the stables partly visible from the house, at the same time standing centered in their own domain.

The major design determinants after locating the stalls were climate and material. The hot dry air of Gujarat that is inundated with heavy spells of precipitation in the monsoon time created the need for both dark, but well ventilated spaces protected from the harsh sun and sometimes driving rain. A section was derived; massive at the bottom and lightly covered above. This section was extruded along the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s length, changing slightly with varying conditions. Stone,used to make aggregate for concrete, made up long horizontal layers of the base, the sills and lintels then held a brick wall between them. The roof emerged from this RCC band. The width of the building was spanned using a flich beam: built-up composite members made by sandwiching a steel flat between planks of marandi wood. The combined beams allowed less depth, and while the steel reinforced the counter to shear, the wood provided bouncy flexibility that allowed the articulation of detail to remain rough and rugged.

The black stone, exposed brickwork and painted corrugated roof elucidated a rather exaggerated sense of simplicity which was apt for housing the sturdy stallions. The pavilion, on the other hand, became, within the same language a more elaborate construct, with arches of several types and spans holding up a more playful roof. Being a place to recreate, relax, meditate, introspect or merely spend lazy mornings watching horses in the running yard, this structure is made up of kota stone arches in the same stone-and-exposed-brick walls. The roughly square building is situated higher than the stables but in line with them, and stands up to be noticed while the long stables building appears more formal and heavy in the landscape. Viewed from around the plot and from a distance, the roof of the building becomes the only properly visible element; moving away from the place, in this landscape also means that almost immediately one is behind a small hill, in a valley, of viewing through a thicket of dry vegetation. The roof swings behind these obstructions often merging across the parched and blank open Gujarat sky.

FACT FILE: Project : Location : Architect : Design Team : Site Area : Project Area : Completion of Project :

Stable for two horses Alloa, Gandhinagar Kartikeya Chhaya, Mehdihasan Dodiya Shilpa Menad Khushboo Shah 4000 sq.m 330 sq.m June 2013

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

ST. PETERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CEMETERY CHAPEL Corinthian Consortium, Mumbai A Restoration & Revival Text: Aastha DeshpandeWW | Drawings & Images: Corinthian Consortium, Mumbai

ore than a century ago, a Mortuary Chapel was founded on a large piece of land, which was subsequently predominantly used as a cemetery. It now, with great effort, attempted to stand, frail and dilapidated, ready to submerge into its very foundation. The chapel underwent a remarkable transformation in terms of design and structural system and now also serves as a Parish Church.

and unify the interior space while revealing a 100-year-old Burma teak skeleton. The same bricks were rearranged to form arched openings and low height walls along the periphery of the structure. Parts of the old walls that displayed sufficient strength were retained at places bringing forth an aura of memory and austerity to the building.

To begin with, he structure was relieved of the weight of its roof; supported by 9 steel trusses and bounded by stone gable walls, the new roof emanates from the earth and envelops the old structure. Spanning 70 ft, it provides an enhanced volume combining the three old bays into a single one.

The transparency of the enclosing grilles opening onto the meaningful landscape elements, allows for natural air movement; and the wellplaced dormers allow for air circulation and natural light. Coupled with the heat resistive properties of the roofing material, the shelter remains remarkably cool even during the suns zenith.

The restoration process ensured preservation of history and material, resulting in a rather inconspicuous yet remarkable outcome. The crumbling brick interior walls were carefully dismantled to open up

A notable aspect of the project would be the attempt, and successful accomplishment, of finishing the project, complete with landscape and electrical fixtures at a cost of `900 / sq. ft. Every step of the

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

design process was supplemented with constant on-site supervision, keeping in mind the micro-context. This greatly helped reduce the construction costs, as did the use of several intelligent alternatives for conventional constructional practices. The structure’s shape provides an excellent acoustic environment for assemblies of all sizes. Thermal performance, ample ventilation, space flexibility and high attention to construction details prove that even though the project was realised at a commendable cost, there has been no com promise on quality. Incorporating the basic functional requirements of a seamless assembly hall of Prayer, a spiritual form symbolising the Blessed Trinity, the use of basic exposed materials - basalt stone, red clay bricks, old timber, grey granite and plain cement concrete floor, open mild steel grilles with liturgical panels for enclosure and security, the ambience of the Chapel now transcends our materialistic existence into a peaceful meditative mood.

FACT FILE: Project Location Design Team Site Area Project Area Initiation of Project Completion of Project

: : : : : : :

Restoration of Existing St.Peter’s Mortuary Chapel St.Peter’s Cemetery, Dharavi, Sion, Mumbai Corinthian Consortium Projects Private Limited 1 acre 7050 sq.ft. February 2013 December 2013

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

space frames

Doors of Perception

Curator: Dr Deepak John Mathew Photographs: Shijith V.P.

hotography is no more in to freezing a moment. As a medium, it has taken a detour from an extension of painting to a language of its own. In the earlier days of photography, it was treated as a replacement of painting. This medium was treated as a skill,or a tool to achieve what a painter would do with her brush. The ease of use and the ability to reproduce whatever was in front of the camera made this medium an appropriate tool for documentation and documentary making. When painting was more about realism, photography was actually doing the job of a painter. As new ‘-isms’ emerged, they both took different routes and continued the journey. In a short time span there were two schools of photography; one looks at photography as a tool of documentation and captured the “real” and the other as a medium of artistic expression and followed the paths of painting. In the earlier days these two streams were treated as two separate methods of work and documentary was never considered as “art “ or artistic photography was never considered as “real”. The contemporary photo documentarist walks through the narrow border between the fine art and pure documentary. They don’t look for events that have historical or political importance. For them, capturing an image itself is documentary photography. They look for the extra ordinary in the ordinary .And documenting over a period of time is also a commonly practiced method. Photographing a series will help us in telling us a story in a non-linear manner. It is not about one picture telling a story, but about the series building one.

Shijiths practice of photography falls into this school of thought. As any other documentarist, he carries his camera always and documents everyday events and objects. He works on different series at the same time each series taking time to shape and its central theme evolving. In this series, he has chased a theme “Doors and Windows”. where doors and windows work as a metaphor. They also work as a connecting thread and reference points in the series. He looks at the events happening in and around the doors and windows. This is like the Village gate in Rashomon (by Kurosawa). The gate is a witness to all the events happening around it. It weaves the story and explores the relativity of truth. as are Shijith’s doors and windows. Each person in the photograph is engaged in different activities but when we see it as a series, the doors and windows connect them and make the story complete. At the same time his compositions in each frame also have a stand-alone quality. The stories happening inside the door frame and outside the door frame create a montage and bring out different interpretational opportunities. The paintings on the walls at times have political overtones and at times are just an ornamental element. Some frames look like a frozen moment from a theatre performance and the interplay of architecture and living beings completes the drama. The use of human elements is very conscious and it has cultural connotations which make the reading of a photograph more interesting. In the absence of human element, Shijith brings in text, organic elements like leaves and twigs, posters, cycles and scooters in order to tell the story. Shijiths photos shuttle between fine arts and documentary as it is also a documentation of vernacular architecture.

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

Shijith V.P.

Dr Deepak John Mathew

Shijith V.P. is a doctoral student in the Department of Design at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Hyderabad. He did not study any photography related courses in anywhere in his academic career before he joined IIT but has been passionate about visual media since his childhood. Even without having any formal training in visual media, he chose ‘Still Photography’ to express himself. His skills and training in free hand drawing have enhanced the finer sensibilities that are required for eyes behind the lens. Currently in IIT, he has engaged in attending his course works and finalizing his Ph.D. proposal. His enquiry is in the field of cinema and colour with focus on the various dimensions of colour used in Malayalam cinema.

Dr Mathew was Head of Photography Department till 2013 and Founder of the Photography Design Department at NID (National Institute of Design). Currently he is working as an associate professor in the Design Department at IIT (Indian Institute of Technology). Dr Mathew has developed the curriculum and designed the first post graduate Dual Master level programme in Photography Design in India. With an experience spanning over eighteen years in photography, painting and graphics, he has published several papers and conducted workshops on photography worldwide. Dr Mathew has taught as visiting professor at many institutes in India, New Zealand and UK. Deepak John Mathew’s Website: http://djmphotography.in/ Space Frames investigates issues of architecture and environment through the medium of photography. To contribute, write to us at iabedt@jasubhai.com or to the curator Dr Mathew at dr.djmathew@gmail.com.

Indian Architect & Builder - January 2015

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