In the ever-evolving world of architecture, the focus on sustainability and conscious design has never been more critical. The recent article on Architectural Digest highlights the innovative and environmentally responsible projects of several leading architects.
This blog post delves into the details of these projects, exploring how they exemplify the principles of sustainable architecture and design.
From passive solar heating techniques in Ladakh to reclaimed materials in Goa, these projects showcase a commitment to environmental stewardship and thoughtful design.
Innovative Sustainable Projects
The featured projects in the Architectural Digest article reflect a diverse range of approaches to sustainable architecture. Each project is unique, yet they all share a common goal: to create beautiful, functional spaces that minimize environmental impact.
Faiza Khan and Suril Patel: Ladakh’s Earthen House
In Ladakh, Faiza Khan and Suril Patel have designed a residential project that combines contemporary aesthetics with traditional Ladakhi planning.
This earthen house utilizes locally sourced materials and is designed to stay warm in winter through passive solar heating and cool in summer via cross ventilation. The project also ensures year-round running water, a rarity in Ladakh.
- Materials: Locally sourced wood
- Philosophy: A traveling architecture practice shaped around hands-on collaborations, deconstructing indigenous built forms, traditional artisanship, and formal geometry.
Palinda Kannangara: Horizon House in Sri Lanka
Palinda Kannangara’s “Horizon” project is a private house perched on the cliffs overlooking Hiriketiya Bay in Sri Lanka.
The design breaks away from traditional unified dwellings by separating individual spaces from common areas. The concrete structure, supported by columns and framed by glass, seamlessly blends with the sea’s horizon.
- Materials: Readily available materials that suit the context
- Philosophy: Respecting the environment and available resources, building simply but impactfully.
Kunal Shah: Remodeled Cottage in Alibag
Kunal Shah’s project involves the remodeling of a 15-year-old cottage in Alibag, with the addition of a pool and garden.
All debris generated was used to create levels on-site, avoiding landfills. The garden, designed by landscape architect Hemali Samant, mimics a wild tropical jungle, and the lap pool is lined with kadappa stone to resemble a natural waterbody.
- Materials: Wastage or offcuts of marble and marble slurry
- Philosophy: Authenticity, timelessness, simplicity, and effortlessness, distinct from minimalism.
Climate-Responsive and Vernacular Architecture
Several architects featured in the article draw inspiration from traditional architecture and local climates, creating designs that are both innovative and contextually appropriate.
Niveditaa Gupta: Private Residence in Nagpur
Niveditaa Gupta’s project in Nagpur, where summer temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, incorporates climate-responsive vernacular architecture.
Inspired by the havelis of North India and timber-based wadas of Maharashtra, the design includes communal courtyards, projecting balconies, and intricate lattice screens to enhance ventilation and cooling.
- Materials: Natural stones
- Philosophy: Designing spaces for a rapidly urbanizing India, meticulously crafted from a study of climate, culture, history, and technology.
Sameep Padora: Zama Villas in Goa
Sameep Padora’s Zama Villas project in Anjuna, Goa, rethinks single-family group housing by creating a variety of house forms structured around a common open space.
The design incorporates the concept of the threshold, referencing the vernacular Goan balcao to enhance the communal experience.
- Materials: Reclaimed concrete and upcycled concrete blocks
- Philosophy: Questioning the nostalgia of static ‘museumification’ of craft and tradition, and exploring the nature of the ‘regional’ in global and regional networks.
Homage to Cultural Heritage
Some architects pay tribute to their cultural heritage through their designs, blending traditional materials and techniques with modern aesthetics.
Vinu Daniel: Toy Storey in North Kerala
Vinu Daniel’s Toy Storey project in North Kerala is a circular home that serves as an homage to childhood memories.
The residence features an encircling “toy jali” wall displaying over 6,000 discarded toys. The design allows community access to the large veranda while secluding the residential area with Japanese shoji screens.
- Materials: All materials equally
- Philosophy: Making thoughtful material and construction choices to minimize embodied energy and environmental impact.
Ajith Andagere: Contemporary Malenadu House
Ajith Andagere’s contemporary Malenadu house in Karnataka bridges the past and present, inspired by the verses of Kannada poet Kuvempu.
The design uses local wood, mud bricks, and lime plaster to create a space that honors the region’s cultural heritage.
- Materials: Natural fibers
- Philosophy: Reconciling modernity with traditions to create meaningful and contextually appropriate designs.
Conclusion
The projects highlighted in the Architectural Digest article demonstrate the diverse approaches architects are taking to create sustainable, culturally resonant designs.
By utilizing local materials, respecting environmental contexts, and drawing inspiration from traditional architecture, these architects are setting new standards for conscious design.
Their work not only addresses the immediate needs of their clients but also contributes to the broader goal of environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.
For more details on these inspiring projects and the architects behind them, visit the full article on Architectural Digest.