INDEX
Life work & writings
Importance of walkability in urban design
Building a sustainable future
Lights, Traffic, Life
Indian International Centre
Mehrangarh Fort
Le Corbusier
Steve McCurry Photography
Photo essay
Live Report
Editor’s Note
In this edition, we embark on a thought-provoking journey through the timeless narratives of architecture, as we highlight the work of visionaries who have profoundly shaped our built environment. This issue pays tribute to the pioneering spirit of Le Corbusier, an architectural journalist and pioneer whose reflections offer a deep dive into the evolution and begging of modern design.
Among the key features in this issue is the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, a symbol of architectural innovation and a historical significance. It has an architectural style of Rajputani architecture, the city of jodhpur and its history and its influence in its arxhitecture.
This issue is more than just a collection of articles; it is a curated exploration of architecture’s impact on society and culture. As you flip through these pages, you’ll witness how structures have shaped societies and how the changing times have influenced design principles. We invite you to engage with the ever-evolving conversation of form, function, and ingenuity that defines the world of architecture today.
EDITOR IN-CHIEF
Life, work & writings
Life, work & writings by
Gautam Bhatia
This book is a biography of Laurie Baker written by Gautam Bhatia, who is a Fine Art graduate and has a post graduate degree in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. He has written multiple books on architecture and practices from New Delhi. He was influenced by Laurie Baker when he joined HUDCO in 1985 in Kerela. He was taken aback by his use of materials and techniques to make his buildings drastically economical. He also compares Baker with Hassan Fathy- Egyptian Architect also known as “architect of the poor”. Additionally, he shares that Baker’s ideals were of vernacularism, sustainable and cost-effective architecture, Which is being promoted by the people of Kerela and HUDCO.
This book is about how Baker was inspired by Indian people using vernacular architecture and the material understanding which they had learned from their past, and how he went on to promote such architectural practices across India while it was modernizing, which grew after French architect Le Corbusier who designed Chandigarh. Even Prime Minister of India could not persuade Baker of his strong beliefs of economic and sustainable buildings, when he was asked to join a meeting about allocation of billions of rupees for housing of twenty million, which he refused to join as he belived that his allowed expenditure of 30,000 rupees could be better used to build houses for some people in the weaker section.
“My feeling as an architect is that you are not after all trying to put up a monument which will be remembered as ‘Laurie Baker building’ but Mohan Singh’s house where he can live happily.”
~ Laurie baker
During World War II he enlisted in Friends Ambulance Unit in China dealing with people suffering from leprosy, but due to his deteriorating health, he was sent back to England on his way back he met Gandhi. That encounter really made him appreciate Gandhi’s ideals and soon came to India for helping people suffering from leprosy. In India, he met his to-be wife and they settled in Pittorgarh in the foothills of Himachal, where he found his real inspiration from the people living there. Later, the Baker family acquired a land in Trivandrum from a local bishop, who had rendered that land unusable due to it being on a rocky steep terrain. But Baker was inclined towards purchasing this land because of its challenges.
Centre of Development Studies ©Lauriebaker.net
Baker emphasizes that modernism is impacting the world, with mostly third world countries like India being affected. Architects of the modern world believe that “modern movements” will provide technologies and new materials which will help ordinary people, as if technology is the solution to the persisting problem of housing.
Government looks at housing as a commodity with its focus being majorly on occupancy rather than usability, which, as a result makes all the mass housing buildings look the same. Architects are forgetting about the living conditions, existing vegetation, the cultural and the traditional aspect, and the climatic conditions of the cities. Thus, they have to sell these buildings by emphasizing the living conditions. Baker uses historical and cultural aspects in his architecture by giving brick jalis, terracotta roofs, laterite bricks and louvers, establishing links with local building traditions. He naturally achieves economical and subtle variation in designs by his use of materials. His knowledge from Himachal and Trivandrum really inspires his ways in architecture as he uses rock foundations in rocky terrain and a rubble foundation in flat land. Concrete is used sparingly in his designs, often in folded slabs with waste and discarded tiles used as fillers.
He has worked on various projects for people in need of a cost-effective house and even for people who want to develop a university in an efficient way. Baker had set his ideals when he came to India, without knowing how poor section was living more efficiently and sustainably than what he had studied in his School of Architecture. He had understood how people in the north and the south have completely different ways of living. Moreover, he paid extensive attention to the needs of an individual and remained within the budget, which gave characteristic to different buildings. According to him, an architect shouldn’t limit oneself to providing shelter but also understand the person’s obsessions, peculiarity and requirements. People have come to him with small budgets like four thousand rupees for a six-bedroom house and he was still able to follow through his client’s budget, by reusing materials and utilizing his skills.
“If only we didn’t level sites and eliminate trees but instead plan to go around them, then we won’t have long monotonous rows to begin with.”
~Laurie Baker
https://www.magzter.com/stories/Architecture/AD-Architectural-Digest-India/Brick-By-Bricknet
Laurie Baker is truly an inspiration for all the architects in the world, especially for Indian architects. The modernistic approach is from the mindset of the people, believing that the western culture is modern and criticizing our roots doesn’t make us modern. India has a great heritage and an amazing understanding of materials that can be seen in our historical architecture, by using and understanding them we can create livable environments around us. Bakers’ practices and his strong ideals are what people will always remember through his architecture and his writings. This book helps architects to retrospect in what they believe in and how they can help people and how they can design better.
Importance of Walkability in Urban Design
(Expository Writing)
Walkability refers to how friendly and accessible an area is for pedestrians, focusing on the ease, safety, and convenience of walking as a primary mode of transportation. In urban design, walkability is a key measure of a city’s infrastructure and its impact on residents’ quality of life. A walkable city has well-designed sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and mixed-use developments that make it easy for people to access essential services like shops, schools, and parks without relying on cars.
Examples of highly walkable cities include Copenhagen, New York, and Paris. These cities have designed their urban spaces to prioritize pedestrians, incorporating green spaces, public plazas, and reducing traffic in central areas. Copenhagen, for instance, is known for its extensive pedestrian zones and bike-friendly streets, making walking and cycling the preferred modes of transport.
“A walkable city is a place where streets come alive with the energy of people, fostering health, connection, and sustainability in every step.”
The benefits of walkable cities are numerous. First, walkability enhances public health by encouraging physical activity and reducing air pollution from cars. Studies have shown that residents in walkable neighborhoods tend to have lower rates of obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Second, walkable areas contribute to social cohesion, as they promote casual interactions between residents, creating a stronger sense of community. Additionally, reducing reliance on cars lowers greenhouse gas emissions, helping cities combat climate change.
Economically, walkable cities often attract more businesses and tourism, as they create lively, vibrant streets that are appealing to both residents and visitors. Overall, designing walkable cities supports sustainability, health, and economic vitality, making them a crucial aspect of modern urban planning.
The Rising Storm
(Narrative Writing)
Ava stood at her office window, watching as the dark clouds loomed over the skyline of her beloved city, Solis. It had been years since she first started working on its urban revitalization plan, turning it into a model for sustainable living. But today, a new challenge threatened to undo it all. The storm predicted to hit the city was going to be the worst in over a century, and the flood barriers, designed years ago, weren’t built for this magnitude.
Her phone buzzed. The mayor’s voice crackled through. “Ava, the reports are in. The storm surge is exceeding our estimates. We need to evacuate the lower districts within the next six hours. If we don’t, the flooding will devastate everything.”
Ava closed her eyes, calculating. She had planned for a crisis like this but never expected it so soon. “I have an idea,” she said, her voice steady. “It’s risky, but if we can divert the surge through the unused canals, it might buy us time.”
The canals, part of an old water management system from decades ago, had fallen into disuse when newer infrastructure was built. They were never factored into the modern flood defenses, but Ava had studied them. She knew their potential.
“We’ll need the city’s full cooperation,” Ava continued. “Engineering teams, emergency services, everyone. We reroute the surge, give the people time to evacuate, and minimize the damage to the central areas.” The mayor hesitated. “You’re asking us to gamble with the city’s infrastructure.” “I know,” Ava replied, “but it’s a calculated risk. The alternative is certain disaster.” By midday, the city was in motion. Drones flew overhead, broadcasting evacuation orders, while Ava and her team worked at the command center, coordinating the redirection of the storm surge. Engineers scrambled to open the old canal gates, clearing debris and testing water levels.
As the rain started, Ava could feel the tension rise in the room. Her assistant, Liam, stood beside her, monitoring real-time data. “The surge is intensifying,” he muttered. “We have a half-hour window at best.”
The Rising Storm
“Hold steady,” Ava replied, her eyes never leaving the screen. Every second counted. The storm raged on. Wind howled against the glass walls of the command center as water levels rose in the canals. The city’s streets began to flood, but Ava’s plan was working— slowly. The surge, diverted through the canals, was redirected away from the city’s vulnerable core.
Hours passed like seconds, the storm pounding against Solis. Finally, as dawn broke, the storm began to subside. The streets were battered, but the heart of the city remained intact. Ava stepped outside, feeling the cold wind on her face. The streets were flooded, but not destroyed. The canals had held, allowing thousands of people to evacuate in time. Exhausted but relieved, she took a deep breath.
The city would survive.
Liam walked up beside her, his face etched with disbelief.
“You did it.”
“We did it,” Ava corrected, though her mind was already spinning with thoughts of rebuilding. “But this was just the beginning. We’ll need stronger defenses next time.”
In the distance, the sun began to rise over Solis, casting the first rays of light on a city reborn from the storm.
“Investing in public transportation is not an expense, but a commitment to a greener, more connected, and prosperous future for all.”
Traffic congestion costs billions in lost productivity every year. A new system would alleviate traffic, cutting commute times, which average over 30 minutes in many major cities. With faster, reliable transportation, residents can spend more time with their families and less time stuck in traffic.
Opponents argue that the cost of developing a new system is too high. However, long-term savings in energy costs, reduced pollution, and economic benefits far outweigh the initial investment. By creating a more connected, accessible city, we ensure sustainable growth for the future.
In conclusion, investing in a new public transportation system is not just a luxury but a necessity for building a greener, more efficient, and economically prosperous city.
Building a Sustainable Future (Persuasive
Writing)
Implementing a new public transportation system in our city is essential for both economic and environmental progress. Cities that prioritize public transit experience reduced traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improved quality of life. For example, according to the American Public Transportation Association, every $1 invested in public transit generates approximately $4 in economic returns. This is due to reduced travel time, increased access to jobs, and fewer expenses for vehicle maintenance.
Furthermore, public transportation dramatically cuts greenhouse gas emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that public transit produces 76% fewer emissions per passenger mile than single-occupancy vehicles. As climate change becomes an increasing concern, building a modern, efficient public transit system will significantly reduce our city’s carbon footprint.
Lights, Traffic, Life
The city’s skyline shine bright with billboards covering its facade, the bright neon light coming from every billboard shines on every person walking by it. The building’s image moving with every person walking by, the night seems as bright as the day. The people walk in unision, coming back from work, some waiting for the electric bus in the bus stand, children clenching onto their parents hands and waiting patiently for ice-cream. Sidewalk vendors calling out to, selling hotdogs and coffee and the smell fills up the space with its aroma.
The roads fill up with yellow taxis surfing through traffic and the distant noise of horns waiting for cars to move can be heard. Old brick buildings adorned with murals of of local artists sit beside futuristic structures.
The faint sound of street performers drifts through the air, a violinist playing a haunting melody as people pause momentarily before hurrying on with their day. Beneath it all is a low, constant hum of city life, an unspoken rhythm guiding each person through the crowded streets.
Underneath it all, the city hums with life, a quiet, constant energy that guides the hustle and bustle of every soul navigating its streets. It’s chaotic, vibrant, and somehow, perfectly in sync.
The city hums with a life of its own, a chaotic yet vibrant rhythm where every step, every sound, and every flicker of light weaves together in perfect harmony.
Indian International Centre
Designed by Joseph Allen Stien
“Good architecture is timeless, it respects the environment and serves the needs of the people.”
The Indian International Centre (IIC) in New Delhi is an iconic architectural project that serves as a cultural and intellectual hub. Designed by the acclaimed American architect Joseph Allen Stein in the early 1960s, the IIC is renowned for its fusion of modernist principles with traditional Indian elements, making it one of India’s most significant architectural landmarks. Stein’s use of sustainable and local material acts as a harmonious blend between the building and its surrounding landscape.
His initiative towards sustainability was ahead of its time, before it became a concern all over the world. He used stone and brick which mimicked the characteristics of Lodhi garden, which is placed near the Indian International Centre. Stein’s design emphasizes simplicity and tranquility, reflecting his admiration for Buddhist architecture. The building’s interconnected courtyards, open spaces, and verandas are designed to encourage interaction and contemplation, creating a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the busy urban environment outside.
The IIC is not just a physical structure but a center for intellectual discourse and cultural exchange. It houses libraries, seminar rooms, galleries, and an auditorium, attracting scholars, diplomats, and artists from across the world. The design, with its open-plan spaces and natural light, supports these activities by fostering a sense of openness and dialogue. The center’s garden courtyards and water features also provide spaces for informal meetings and relaxation, reflecting the Indian tradition of gathering in communal outdoor areas.
The IIC is a masterclass in contextual modernism, where the architecture respects and enhances its surroundings. It is a testament to Stein’s ability to design structures that are modern yet culturally sensitive. The building’s minimalist aesthetics and its seamless integration with nature have made it a significant case study in sustainable and humane urban design.
In conclusion, the Indian International Centre stands as a prime example of how architecture can blend functionality, cultural sensitivity, and modern design, continuing to inspire architects and urban designers globally.
Mehrangarh Fort
The city of jodhpur, also known as ‘ the blue city’ lies at the edge of Thar desert. The city is situated on the foot hills of Mehrangarh hill, which houses the famous Mehrangarh fort. The fort and the blue houses that spread throughout the landscape of thr city tell the brave tales of the Rajputs and defensive architectutre under the laws of which the fort was built. In addition to Mehrangarh Hill, the city is surrounded by smaller hills that are part of the Aravalli Range, which is one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.
The blue houses of Jodhpur, once a symbol of distinction, were originally painted to signify the homes of Brahmins, the priestly caste. This practice was believed to offer protection, as invaders would avoid harming Brahmins to prevent the sin associated with killing a member of this revered caste. Over time, the blue color spread throughout the city, and today, the vibrant blue homes have become a definin Pilotis (Columns g characteristic of Jodhpur, earning it the nickname “Blue Purism in Art and Architecture City.”
The carving on t Flat Roofs and Roof Gardens he fort represents Rajasthani architecture, with multiple intricate arches and carvings on the facade. Rajasthani Rajput architecture is a remarkable blend of aesthetics, functionality, and grandeur, characterized by a combination of robust defense structures and intricate decorative elements. Influenced by the desert environment, the Rajput kings of Rajasthan developed a distinctive architectural style that reflects their royal heritage, warrior culture, and respect for religious and cultural traditions.
The perspective highlights the grandeur of the fort and the panoramic view of the city, emphasizing the contrast between the ancient architecture and the modern cityscape, with a mix of greenery and desert terrain.
On 17 July 2016, seventeen projects by Le Corbusier in seven countries were inscribed in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement.
Le Corbusier remains a controversial figure. Some of his urban planning ideas have been criticized for their indifference to pre-existing cultural sites, societal expression and equality, and his alleged ties with fascism, antisemitism, eugenics, and the dictator Benito Mussolini have resulted in some continuing contention.
Le- Corbusier An Architect towards Modernism
“The materials of city planning are: sky, space, trees, steel, and cement; in that order and that hierarchy.”
Charles-Édouard Jeanneret (6 October 1887 – 27 August 1965), known as Le Corbusier was a Swiss-French architect, designer, painter, urban planner and writer, who was one of the pioneers of what is now regarded as modern architecture. He was born in Switzerland to French speaking Swiss parents, and acquired French nationality by naturalization on 19 September 1930. His career spanned five decades, in which he designed buildings in Europe, Japan, India, as well as North and South America. He considered that “the roots of modern architecture are to be found in Viollet-le-Duc“
Ideals
Functionalism and Efficiency
Purism in Art and Architecture
Urban Planning and The Radiant City Standardization and Mass Production
The Five Points of Architecture
* Pilotis (Columns)
* Flat Roofs and Roof Gardens
* Open Floor Plans
* Horizontal Windows
* Free Façade
WRITING STYLES OF LE CORBUSIER
DIRECT & PERSUASIVE- Le Corbusier's writing is often assertive and unapologetic. He strongly believed in his architectural principles and expressed them with conviction. He used short, punchy sentences to drive home his points, often addressing readers directly. His tone was authoritative, as if urging the world to adopt his ideas.
PHILOSIPHICAL & IDEALISTIC- His writing was deeply infused with his philosophical ideals. He often wrote about architecture as a moral and cultural force, seeing it as central to the well-being of society. Le Corbusier intertwined his architectural vision with broader reflections on modernity, society, and human nature.
CRITICAL- Le Corbusier was unafraid of challenging traditional architectural styles, and his writing reflects this boldness. He often criticized the past, especially ornamentation and the classical architectural traditions, promoting modernism as the path forward. His critiques could be sharp and polemical.
TENCHNICAL- Though he was a visionary, Le Corbusier was also highly practical in his writing. He frequently discussed architectural details, materials, and construction techniques in precise, technical terms. His writing blends creative vision with practical application, offering specific solutions to architectural problems.
“The purpose of construction is to make things hold together; of architecture to move us.”
“The engineer’s aesthetic and architecture are two things that march together and follow one from the other: the one at its best, when it is most efficient; the other, when it is most beautiful.”
Throughout the book, Le Corbusier draws parallels between modern architecture and advancements in technology, particularly automobiles, airplanes, and ships. He was fascinated by the sleek, efficient design of machines and believed that architecture should adopt a similar focus on functionality and precision. His use of images, like comparisons between Greek temples and modern cars, reinforces his argument that modern forms are as aesthetically pleasing as classical ones.
Towards a New Architecture had a profound influence on the development of modernist architecture and urban planning. It inspired generations of architects to adopt functionalism, simplicity, and the use of new materials like reinforced concrete. The book’s ideas were instrumental in shaping movements like the International Style and were implemented in projects worldwide.
TOWARDS A NEW ARCHITECTURE
BY LE CORBUSIER
iIt s considered one of Le Corbusier’s most influential works. It lays out his vision for modern architecture, championing functionalism, simplicity, and the use of modern materials. The book is written in a descriptive, persuasive and manifesto style and calls for a departure from historical architectural styles in favor of new, industrialized forms.
Le Corbusier’s central argument in Towards a New Architecture is that architecture should serve the practical needs of people, rather than rely on decorative or historical styles. He famously describes a house as a “machine for living in,” emphasizing that buildings should be as efficient and purposeful as machines.
STEVE McCURRY PHOTOGRAPHY
Steve McCurry is an iconic American photographer best known for his striking and emotional images of human life, especially in conflict zones and developing countries. His work often focuses on themes of human endurance, beauty, and the effects of war and poverty on everyday life.
“If you wait, people will forget your camera and the soul will drift up into view.”
Steve McCurry’s style of photography is distinctive for its rich visual storytelling, emotional depth, and masterful use of color.
The image of Sharbat Gula, a young Afghan refugee with piercing green eyes, became a global symbol of the plight of refugees.
McCurry has a unique ability to capture intimate and deeply emotional moments, particularly focusing on the human experience. Whether it’s the struggles of individuals in war-torn regions or the everyday lives of people.
His images often evoke empathy and draw attention to universal human emotions such as sorrow, resilience, hope, and joy.
McCurry is known for his use of bold, saturated colors, often emphasizing reds, oranges, and blues. His images feature a rich vibrancy that adds emotional intensity and draws the viewer’s eye to the subject.
McCurry’s use of vivid colors is another defining feature of his work. He often shoots in rich, saturated tones that heighten the emotional impact of the scene.
FABRIC OF INDIA BY STEVE McCURRY
Date: 9 October,24
Venue: Amity University Noida, hosted by the Amity School of Architecture and Planning Theme: Entrepreneurship Opportunities in Built Environment and Urban Analytics
The 6th International Conference on Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership (ICEIL 2024) presented an insightful discussion on the theme of “Entrepreneurship Opportunities in Built Environment and Urban Analytics.” , hosted by the Amity School of Architecture and Planning, focused on the transformative potential of urban analytics and entrepreneurship in reshaping modern cities and infrastructure.
Event Highlights
Welcome and Opening Remarks
The session was inaugurated by the Master of Ceremonies, Ar. Luvditya Khurana and Ar. Snigdha Choudhary, who set the tone for the day’s theme by emphasizing the pivotal role of emerging technologies in the built environment. They highlighted how data-driven innovations can enhance urban spaces, improve sustainability, and optimize infrastructure management. The session sought to explore the link between entrepreneurship and urban analytics, identifying how these fields intersect to solve urban challenges like traffic management, resource optimization, and environmental sustainability.
Keynote Speakers and Discussions
The session was moderated by Dr. Devendra Pratap Singh, Dean of Faculty of Architecture Planning and Design at Amity University, who gave an overview of the event’s expectations and invited insights from distinguished speakers.
Dr. Arvind Varshney, an expert in Sustainable Urban Development, discussed the impact of data streams on urban planning. With over 26 years of experience, Dr. Varshney’s talk centered around how urban analytics and geographical information systems (GIS) can provide actionable insights, transforming data into strategies for building smart, resilient cities.
Ar. Manu Goel, Director at Novarch Consultants, shared her expertise in integrating sustainability with architectural design. She focused on the importance of using innovative technologies to build inclusive, resilient spaces, citing successful projects like the Handicraft Center and Urban Haat in Bareilly and the Sahasra Semiconductors Factory in Bhiwadi, both recognized for excellence in design.
Ar. Shailesh Garg, co-founder of Interstice Studio, highlighted the role of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big Data in revolutionizing the built environment. He demonstrated how these technologies could be leveraged to develop innovative, cost-effective, and user-centric designs in architecture and urban planning.
Ar. Naman Dev Garg, joining online from Texas, USA, brought a global perspective on urban analytics and architectural entrepreneurship. He emphasized the regulatory challenges and opportunities in different countries, comparing India and the United States, and discussed how governments can foster innovation in the built environment.
