Revitalizing Renewable Energy Through Passive Green Building At Dharnai- B. Arch. Thesis Portfolio

REVITALIZING RENEWABLE ENERGY THROUGH PASSIVE GREEN BUILDING AT DHARNAI THESIS 2020 BRICK SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE ARCHIT AWASTHI

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my thesis guide Ar. Ninad Rewatkar. His critical feedback and constant support have been the guiding force through this journey, and have helped me arrive at a real-world, implementable solution.

I am indebted to Mr. Ajay Yadav, Mukhiya of Dharnai Gram Panchayat, for welcoming me to the beautiful village of Dharnai. I would also like to appreciate his immense contribution towards making Dharnai a model example for all villages of modern India.

I would like to thank Santan Ji for showing me around in Dharnai and for his valuable insights about the local DRE grid. He provided me with the basis of my research and design, as well as a lot of valuable information about the site.

I would also like to thank the professors and staff of Brick School of Architecture for helping me realize my potential through the five years.

Last but not the least, I would like to sincerely thank my colleagues and my family for their priceless support and motivation.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FOREWORD

4

1. BIHAR- ENERGY AND GROWTH

5

2. DHARNAI SOLAR VILLAGE

10

3. SITE STUDY

14

4. CASE STUDIES

24

5. SYNTHESIS

31

6. DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

37

7. DESIGN OUTCOME

50

A. PLANNING

51

B. SECTIONS

68

C. MATERIAL PALETTE

80

D. WALL DETAIL

81

E. SOLAR BOWL DETAIL

83

F. OPERABLE FACADE DETAIL

84

G. SERVICES

88

H. PHASING

90 PAGE

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FOREWORD Dharnai is a small village in the Jehanabad district of Bihar. In 2014, it became the first fully solar powered village in India, thanks to the initiative taken by Greenpeace India. But the DRE system failed shortly due to excessive load, and a connection to the municipal grid was provided in 2015. Today, the DRE is used as a backup to municipal electricity powered by coal.

The proposal is of a model community center for Dharnai. It has been envisioned with an aim to revitalize the potential and importance of renewable energy, as well as passive and green building design in rural areas.

The community center is a cluster of the following- sabzi mandi, auditorium, solar kitchen, dining hall, administration office, library, workshops and classrooms, and exhibition and multi-purpose spaces.

The architectural language is a harmony between brick, concrete and bamboo, along with unconventional materials like ferrocrete and IPS. The building technology relies on simple indigenous techniques like jack arch roofs, operable facades and shading devices, and built in furniture. Passive ventilation has been controlled through cooling towers, internal courtyards and water bodies. On-site waste management systems have also been designed as part of a complete circle of the building functions.

The building itself is an educational experience, as well as a place for daily activities that promote community gatherings. It is also a space for empowerment, independence and self-reliance. It aims to upskill the villagers with a number of job opportunities. It is a place of tourist interest, and celebrates the solar village of Dharnai.

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1

B I H A R - E N E R GY AND GROWTH

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POWER IN INDIA In every country, abundant energy supply is a prerequisite for development and holistic growth. With rapid development of infrastructure in India, energy consumption is projected to have the highest growth in the coming years. Most of this electricity is estimated to come from coal.

Population without electricity access in India, 2000-2016

Projected rise in global primary energy consumption

Share of coal consumption for power in India 2017-18

Projected rise in % share of global energy demand

Total energy consumption (1990-2050), quadrillion British thermal units

Residential electricity consumption (REC)

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RAPID GROWTH IN BIHAR From 2004-05 to 2014-15, Bihar emerged as the fastest growing state in India, with over 10 per cent annual growth for the past decade. In the process, it has more than doubled its economy. According to the Bihar Economic Survey, in 2016-17, the growth rate was 10.3 per cent, while the national average was 7 per cent. In 2015-16, Bihar's growth rate was 7.5 per cent.

Population growth of Indian states and UTs since 1971

Bihar has the highest fertility rate in India

Statewise fertitilty rates in India, 2017

Projected population of Indian states- 2026

Per capita income of Bihar as compared to national average

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OPPORTUNITY IN BIHAR Within India, most of the states are still on the path of electrifying thousands of villages, but Bihar is a state which faces an acute shortage of electricity, as 82% of the popualtion is still in darkness. The rural population of Bihar is the worst affected.

As the villages of India get electrified, there is naturally a lot of potential for clean energy in Bihar. Renewable energy production will also create new jobs, and empower the people towards self-sustainance.

Statewise electricity access and consumption

Per capita consumption of electricity in India (kWh)

Share of renewables in total grid installed capacity (Source: CEA-MNRE report)

In 2016, Bihar recorded the fastest growth in per capita availability of power over a decade

Job creation in the renewable energy sector in India (Source: IRENA)

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VISION Bihar has adopted a long-term approach for energy sector to fulfill its vision to provide "Har Ghar Bijli" The vision roadmap supports low carbon pathway to sustain the economic growth. The vision focuses on increasing the number of state-owned power generation plants, with increased share of renewable energy, separate feeder for agricultural purpose, demandside management by improving the overall efficiency in distribution system and strengthening the distribution companies. This is tune with the vision of SDG i.e.

"Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all."

The Government of Bihar in tune with the national priority has identified the energy sector as a key area, and a lot of initiatives have been undertaken in the recent past to cover the lost ground.

Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is one of the key indices for human development. Further, sustainable energy paradigm is one of the most important prerequisites for achieving Bihar’s development goals.

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DHARNAI SOL AR VILL AGE

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In 2012, an NGO named Greenpeace proposed a decentralized rural electrification model powered by solar to provide energy access to a heterogeneous village in Bihar, where agriculture was the main occupation. Dharnai was selected for the establishment of a DRE system. The village already had basic social infrastructure like a school, healthcare facility, an anganwadi, a commercial zone and around 400 households.

The solar-powered micro-grid was installed by Greenpeace in 2014 with the help of BASIX and CEED. It was a comprehensive, first-of-its-kind enterprise that was designed to provided 24Ă—7 electricity to more than 450 households and 50 commercial establishments.

This included the energy requirements of two schools, one health centre, one Kisan Training Centre (Farmer Training Centre), 50 commercial establishments, 60 street lights and 10 solar-powered water pumping systems. Once the DRE was set up in Dharnai, the villagers took charge to manage and monitor the system.

By demonstrating the potential of such a DRE system, Greenpeace appealed to the government of Bihar to recognise the model for replicating and upscaling to provide energy to the other rural areas of Bihar.

Decentralized Renewable Energy System (DRES) or distributed microgrids can be designed to meet the specific power needs of local people according to their needs. Additionally, in the context of poor rural communities, microgrids offer clear financial advantages for low-income end-users, as access to electricity results from an ongoing service that is locally produced and managed.

The decentralized solar-based microgrid project implemented in Dharnai has evolved out of this vision and philosophy.

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1947

1981

2000

2010

2011

2012

2014

2015

2015

INDIA GAINS INDEPENDENCE

DHARNAI LOSES POWER CONNECTIONS DUE TO NAXALISM

BIFURCATION OF BIHAR STATE MOST THERMAL POWER PLANTS AND NATURAL RESOURCES GO TO JHARKHAND

VILLAGERS POOL IN RS. 45,000 AND ASK LOCAL ELECTRICITY BOARD FOR A CONNECTION

CENSUS REVEALS THAT 82% OF THE POPULATION IN BIHAR LACK ACCESS TO ELECTRICITY

GREENPEACE DOES AN AUDIT ON RGGVY (RAJIV GANDHI GRAMIN VIDYUTIKARAN YOJANA)

MICRO GRID POWERED

BY PV PANELS IS SET UP BY GREENPEACE

VILLAGERS DEMAND CONNECTION TO CENTRAL MUNICIPAL GRID DURING VISIT OF CHIEF MINISTER

CONNECTION TO CENTRAL MUNICIPAL GRID PROVIDED

2020 SOLAR MICRO GRID BEING USED AS A BACKUP! An article written by Vaidyanathan brings to light some of the challenges faced for sustaining such a DRE system. He reports that soon after its inauguration, the wealthier families of Dharnai plugged in energy-inefficient televisions and refrigerators. With the power suddenly facing heavy demand, the batteries in Dharnai’s solar microgrid power station drained within hours.

Upon realizing the urgent need to control the electricity usage within households, the village electrification committee decided to restrict electricity supply to five hours at nighttime. It was reported that Greenpeace put up posters requesting people not to use energy-hungry appliances, and to use LED bulbs in their homes.

Following these events, Greenpeace had invited Bihar’s former chief minister to inaugurate the solar village. But the citizens saw this as a chance to get a permanent solution to the electricity problem, and requested the chief minister for “real” electricity. A week later, trucks came into the village and set up a 100-kW transformer, connecting Dharnai to the grid. Power became free for those below the poverty line. Others started paying 3 rupees per kilowatt-hour of electricity. The Dharnai solar microgrid started being used as a backup.

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S I T E S T U DY

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DHARNAI DEMOGRAPHICS

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ENERGY The village of Dharnai had not received electricity for over 30 years. Lack of power had stunted the growth of Dharnai to a very large extent.

The village presently has a connection to a municipal electricity transformer, as well as a solar micro grid set up by Greenpeace, BASIX and CEED in March 2014.

The solar microgrid set up in the village is used as a backup for times when there are power cuts in the municipal electricity.

Dharnai has 60 solar based streetlights.

At the time of the study, the solar grid in the village was not working due to a battery failure. Repairs were expected within two months.

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STREETSCAPES The houses are tightly packed, but rarely share walls due to differences in construction times.

The village streets are the places where most of the interaction happens amongst the villagers.

Only one main pukka road runs through the village, and has a railwaycrossing.

A lot of agricultural produce can be seen stored in heaps along the roads.

Large parts of the streets are shaded by trees.

The streets are lit up at night by solar powered streetlights.

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ACTIVITY MAPPING The streets become spill outs for almost all the houses, and most of the interaction amongst the villagers takes place on the streets.

The men go to work to nearby towns or to Patna.

The village has several trains to and from Patna and Gaya daily.

Women usually sit and chat in groups, in verandahs or on the terraces of houses.

Children study in the local primary school.

A lot of children go to a secondary school in Makhdumpur.

Small children play in the streets and in the farms.

Children usually help out their mothers with household chores.

The elderly spend their time sitting in groups and talking, or by taking care of small children.

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BUILT FORM A variety of local materials can be seen in the village.

The walls are usually constructed in brick, or in mud.

Most walls are left either exposed, or cladded with cowdung cakes to keep the houses insulated.

Only a few walls in new houses have been plastered.

The plinths are usually not more than 300mm high.

Joint families usually live in a cluster of houses, with a common entrance and central courtyard.

Sloping roofs are constructed either in thatch or clay tiles.

Flat roofs are the most common, with a lot of them having solar panels mounted on them.

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NATURAL LANDSCAPE There are few large trees in the village, with the exception of the oldest peepal tree which has a canopy almost 30m in diameter.

The soil is very fertile known as “kewal� in local terms. It is very suitable for the production of rice, wheat, cane, and rai.

A lot of natural water ponds are spread across the village. The water is used for all purposes except drinking.

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SITE SELECTION

OPTION 1

OPTION 2

OPTION 3

Perimeter: 819 m

Perimeter: 782 m

Perimeter: 600 m

Area: 32,600 sq m

Area: 40,800 sq m

Area: 22,500 sq m

Description: Small pond on the north side. Surrounded by farms. Close to national highway. Slightly less walkable distance from village. No existing tree cover.

Description: Bound by roads on 2 sides. At walkable distance from all houses. Closest to Dharnai railway station. Axis to large peepal tree. Model aanganwadi kendra and farmers’ workshed existing on site.

Description: Bound by railway line on the east. Site may be extended further south. Most walkable location from village on both sides of railway line. Trees present on site.

POSSIBLE AREAS FOR INTERVENTION These 3 options were surveyed and selected for possible areas of intervention.

Each had their own pros and cons, the major determinants being walkability and impact on the outlook of Dharnai.

OPTION 2 was selected as the area of intervention for the project. Being at the heart of the village, it is at a walkable from all the houses of the village. It is also next to the Panchayat Bhavan and the railway station of Dharnai- both being active areas of community interaction.

The site has 2 existing structures- a Model Aanganwadi Kendra (child care centre) and a Farmers’ Workshed.

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SITE SELECTION

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SITE SELECTION

SITE AREA: 15,750 SQ.M. PERIMETER: 500 M.

C

VIEW FROM POINT A

VIEW FROM POINT D

VIEW FROM POINT C

VIEW FROM POINT B

B D

A

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CASE STUDIES

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A. SOLAR KITCHEN, AUROVILLE Building typology: Community, kitchen Year of completion: 1997 Built-up area: Presently about 2000 sq m Plot size: 3 acres Location: Crown Urban Corridor, Auroville

SECTION THROUGH DINING HALL ENTRANCE

Climatic Zone: Hot Humid coastal zone Actual Occupancy: Cooking for 1000 persons per meal time with seating for 350 at one serving.

Architect: Suhasini Ayer

DESCRIPTION The aim of the project was to build a demonstration project- In the use of Solar Thermal Energy – in steam generation. This, would then be used for cooking meals three times a day for about 1000 people – To support the organic farming sector of Auroville and the local villages by being the main purchaser of their products. It is also envisioned to be a demonstration project for Appropriate Building Materials and Technology, Solar Passive Architecture and Waste Water Recycling.

The Solar Kitchen building has been designed as a major collective kitchen for the Auroville community and was finalized in December 1997. Since then it has served lunches in its Dining Hall and in the same time sent lunches to different outlets like schools or individuals.

Throughout the year approximately 1000 lunches are prepared daily, of which 540 go to the schools, 200 go out by tiffins and 260 to 300 are consumed in the Dining Hall.

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

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OPERATIONS

SOLAR BOWL

In the morning at 9 am the solar bowl is put into operation, converting water pumped into its receiver directly into steam. The solar steam is mixed with the steam of the kitchen’s diesel fired boiler which is started daily at 8 am.

Both the solar steam and the diesel steam work together to cook most of the lunch for the solar kitchen.

The collector is positioned at the western end of the first floor, composite granite blocks were used for the foundations, and walls of compressed earth blocks support the whole structure.

A total of 96 prefabricated ferrocement elements were cast and hoisted in place to form a perfect fixed spherical bowl.

A tilted fixed mast supports a moving receiver which can rotate in all directions around a double-axis articulation placed at the centre of the sphere and balanced by a counterweight.

The diesel boiler is stronger and contributes ¾ of the steam required during the morning, while the solar steam accounts for ¼ .

A computer program ensures the automatic tracking of the whole system with scope for seasonal changes. The solar bowl is hybridized with a conventional diesel fired boiler back-up system for cooking on an off-on basis.

But at 11 am or so, the diesel boiler is turned off on sunny days, and the remaining cooking and the production of all hot water for cleaning up all the kitchen vessels is all done only by the solar bowl steam.

The interface is through a heat storage tank using thermic fluid storage (1.4 m3) with one-hour heat storage capacity. Possible future replicability for community cooking, power generation, desalinization and cold storage have been kept in mind.

GREEN FEATURES • Integrated site planning for effective management of surface and roof run-off to recharge the aquifer • Landscaping with indigenous “tropical deciduous evergreen forest” –reduced water needs merged with food production • Decentralised recycling of all waste water including black • Urban agriculture to grown fruits • Solid waste management with segregation/recycling/ composting • Solar Bowl integrated as a roof to generate steam for cooking • Use of appropriate building materials and technology like CSEB/ferrocement/light roofing/natural stone floors • Solar passive design; natural ventilation/lighting/solar chimneys • Energy efficient fixtures for lighting and appliances PAGE 26

B. SOLAR KITCHEN, SHIRDI Building typology: Community, kitchen Year of completion: 2009 Built-up area: 11,500 sq m Location: Shirdi, Maharashtra Climatic Zone: Hot semi-arid Actual Occupancy: Cooking for 3000 persons

DESCRIPTION Sri Sai Sansthan Prasadalaya is a free kitchen in Shirdi, Maharashtra. It is spread across 4 rooftops with 73 solar dishes, making it the largest solar-powered kitchen in India. The solar dishes fuel the preparation of nearly 50,000 meals each day and the concentrated heat from all the dishes creates 2800 kgs of steam in a single say!

These dishes concentrate sunlight on receivers that contain water, generating steam that is piped down to the kitchen for cooking the meals. More than 2 tonnes of rice is cooked through this plant every day, saving cooking gas of up to Rs 20,000. Till date, the plant has saved Rs 60 lakh for the trust. As per the ministry of non-conventional energy sources, New Delhi, this has been identified as the world’s largest solar heating cooking system.

THE KITCHEN • 73 Solar panels of 16 sq ft each are installed which provide steam for all the cooking in the Sai Prasadalaya.

• LPG Gas project is instructed with the capacity of 20 tone Thermal Fluid Heating System, which is used for making the Prasad ladoo’s, due to which 30% gas is saved.

• For the arrangement of pure drinking water to devotees R.O. Plant having capacity of 2500 liter/hour is implemented.

• For dishwashing two imported dishwashing machines are used.

• For cutting of vegetables two imported machines are used.

• To wash the rice, vegetables, legume’s three imported machines are used.

• For grinding flour online mill unit is sated up.

• For cooking rice steam cooker is used.

• The readymade material of flour, spices, turmeric, coriander powder etc are not used. They are made through pulverizing or grinding machines using raw materials.

• The cold storage facility is available for vegetables & dry foods.

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WORKING OF SOLAR COLLECTORS

USER-CENTRIC APPROACH

A parabolic type concentrating solar steam cooking system was commissioned at Shri Saibaba Sansthan, Shirdi on 24th May, 2002. This is the first of its kind in Maharashtra. It cooks food for about 3000 devotees.

The Sansthan has a prasadalaya where it offers food to the devotees at subsidized rates. Thousands of devotees take food at a nominal rate of Rs.4/- per meal for grownups and Rs.2/- per meal for children. So, to reduce its overhead costs:

• The 40 nos. of solar parabolic concentrators raise the water temperature to 550C to 650C and convert it into steam for cooking purposes.

• They have installed hot- water- systems at its dormitories, providing staying facilities for devotees.

• This system is integrated with the existing boiler to ensure continued cooking even at night and during rain or cloudy weather.

• In the Sulabh Sauchalaya complex located in its premises, to night-soil-biogas plant is installed to generate gas from human excreta, which is used to operate generators to produce electricity for the complex.

• The solar cooking system installed at Shirdi follows the thermo siphon principle and so does not need electrical power or pump.

SAVINGS AND POPULARITY

• The Sansthan has also installed solar streetlights in its pumping complex.

Further they have decided to install the new solar steam cooking technology. Before the installation of this cooking system, the steam for cooking at sansthan was generated by Liquid Purified Gas (LPG) gas firing in the boiler. The prime objectives behind the installation of the system were: • To reduce LPG consumption up to 50%, beside financial benefits due to saving LPG gas was to use as much natural energy as possible to promote environment protection, its conservation and rejuvenation by using renewable and clean energy.

• To promote and popularize use of solar energy.

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C. SECMOL, LEH

DESCRIPTION The SECMOL campus is home to about 70 students and a few staff and volunteers, who live, work and study there. It is maintained, and to a large extent run by students themselves.

The campus comprises one large school building, three residential houses and 20 small cell rooms apart from other necessary infrastructure.

CONSTRUCTION The thick rammed earth walls of the school building keep it warm in winters and cool in summers. The building is oriented to face south with its main facade having large fenestration on this sun-facing side. This keeps the building warm in winters - passive solar heating. With thick rammed earth walls which act as heat banks, the building absorbs heat from sun during the day, stores it, and then releases it to the rooms at night.

The compact double-storied building has been constructed with thick walls in rammed earth. The structure is sunken one metre below the ground on the north side. Since the earth’s temperature at this depth is relatively warm in winters and cool in summers, it helps in creating comfortable living conditions inside. Apart from this, it helps in getting the main building material that is, earth on site thus eliminating the need for transportation from long distance. Another advantage of this technique is that when the construction finished, there is no debris to be thrown away.

The success of the building can be gauged from the fact that when outside temperature is -25°C in winters the inside temperature remains +14°C. The building does not have any electric connection nor does it require to burn fossil fuels for heating even during peak winter months.

The school building along with others, has been designed by Sonam Wangchuk - a local born engineerturned-architect and Ramon Magsaysay award winning environmentalist, educationist and social reformist.

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SUSTAINABILITY • At SECMOL, solar power is used to run almost all devices.

The wall sockets draw energy from the batteries that store power using sun’s energy during the day. The buildings themselves have also been constructed in keeping with the idea of using modified designs in infrastructure instead of buying expensive materials.

• The windows face south and so receive sunlight all year round, providing natural light during most of the day.

Additional skylights in the main halls make sure the interior is not gloomy. For warmth, makeshift greenhouses outside the windows (sheets of ultraviolet stabilised plastic that can be pulled down during winter to trap the heat in) keep a warm temperature inside even when the mercury slides as low as -20 degrees Celsius. The ceilings and the walls are also insulated – excess sawdust – between the inner and the outer panels to trap the heat.

• Another way solar energy has been utilised is for cooking.

The setup consists of a parabolic reflector (made up of a lot of smaller mirrors stuck to a dish-like structure) that concentrates the sunlight on a smaller area on the ground. This is then reflected upwards to the bottom of any cooking vessel and is thus able to use sunlight directly without the need of any semiconductor material.

• The cherry on this green cake though is the concept of having their own time zone. This small institute has initiated the practice of moving their clocks ahead by one hour during the summer, calling it “SECMOL time”. This maximises all their other efforts by a significant amount since it ensures all the students, teachers and volunteers wake up and retire in the evening earlier than usual and are able to make the most of daylight. Wangchuk confesses that this is his favourite solar device.

Roof is insulated with wood waste generated during the construction to stop heat loss through it.

Natural lighting has been provided in abundance so electricity is not needed for light in daytime.

Windows have been provided on south side as the sun moves low in the southern sky in winters and keeps the building warm.

Greenhouses are attached to the south side for trapping heat of the sun.

In winters, huge plastic sheets are rolled down to make big greenhouse which works as a solar collector.

PASSIVE FEATURES FOR MAINTAINING BUILDING TEMPERATURE

Insulation has been provided in roof, outer walls, and in some places under the floor.

In summers, the plastic sheets are rolled up to prevent overheating.

Thick earthen walls and floors help in storing collected heat.

Skylights are covered with glass or clear plastic to keep warm air indoors.

Source: India Architecture News, worldarchitecture.org

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SY N T H ES I S

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FORM FOLLOWS ENERGY

KINETIC ARCHITECTURE

FLEXIBILITY

RESPONSIVENESS

LOW ENERGY BUILDINGS CONTEXT-BASED

EVOLVABILITY

ADAPTABILITY

PASSIVE CONSTRUCTION DESIGN/SHAPE

MULTI-ABILITY

USER-RESPONSIVE

ACTIVE

CLIMATE-RESPONSIVE

LOW EMBODIED ENERGY

CLIMATE ADAPTIVE BUILDING SHELLS

SOURCES OF INSPIRATION

INNOVATIVE TECHNICAL DEVICES

RELEVANT PHYSICS

REGENERATIVE MATERIALS

SECONDS MINUTES

ADJUSTABLE SHADING DEVICES

TIME SCALES

BLOCKING

AUTOMATION

HOURS

SMART MATERIALS

FILTERING

DIURNAL

SENSORS

RAPIDLY RENEWABLE MATERIALS

ACTUATORS CONVERTING

SEASONS SCALES OF ADAPTATION

COLLECTING

CONTROL TYPES MACRO

LOW COST

STORING

MICRO EXTRINSIC INTRINSIC

PASSING THROUGH ENERGY FIELDS

MATRIX- RESEARCH ON CLIMATE ADAPTIVE BUILDING SHELLS

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REVIVAL OF RENEWABLE ENERGY Due to the efforts of Greenpeace, a renewable energy grid was set up in Dharnai, but it failed due to heavy loads. This resulted in the villagers losing their faith in renewable energy.

The need is for job creation through operations and maintenance of the building. This will also promote skilled labour amongst the villagers.

COMMUNITY INTERACTION

SKILL DEVELOPMENT The intervention could be an opportunity to educate the villagers about renewable energy, and future world wide goals in terms of switching to cleaner sources of energy. Training programs for developing the skills of the villagers can also be introduced in the place.

JOB CREATION

BROAD OBJECTIVES OF THE INTERVENTION

The idea of an ‘urban insert in a rural context’ aims to promote community interaction, and attract the villagers to a central place which they might see as the heart of the village.

Placemaking principles can be implemented to promote social and cultural well being.

ECO TOURISM Ecotourism is entirely a new approach in tourism. It is a preserving travel to natural areas to appreciate the cultural and natural history of the environment, taking care not to disturb the integrity of the ecosystem, while creating economic opportunities that make conservation and protection of natural resources advantageous to the local people.

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RESEARCH ON RAPIDLY RENEWABLE MATERIALS

METHODOLOGY TO ARRIVE AT DESIGN OUTCOME

RESEARCH ON KINETIC FACADES

FORMULATION OF DESIGN STRATEGIES STUDY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY MODELS IN RURAL AREAS

STUDY OF EXISTING GOVERNMENT POLICIES

STUDY OF BIHAR

LIVE STUDY OF DHARNAI

BACKGROUND STUDY

STUDY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY GRID

SITE SELECTION

SOCIAL STUDY

PHYSICAL STUDY

BUILDING MATERIALS AND TECH. STUDY

CLIMATE STUDY

TECHNOLOGICAL STUDY

CASE STUDIES

DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS

STUDY OF ECONOMICS STUDY OF FAILURE

CASE STUDIES

CULTURAL STUDY

SOCIAL SPACES

IDENTIFICATION OF GREEN BUILDING CODES

EDUCATION STUDY PROGRAMMATIC ZONING

EVENTS OF VILLAGE DESIGN BRIEF

DESIGN OUTCOME

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PRINCIPLES OF NATURE

METERS

MATERIALS NATIVE

EASILY UNDERSTANDABLE

CHARTS

SURFACE

INFLUENCE AND GOVERN THE ARCHITECTURE

QUANTATIVE

SIMPLICITY

CELEBRATION

EASY TO CONSTRUCT

MASS

ENERGY

EQUALITY

INTERACTION

FORM

EDUCATION QUALITATIVE

INNOVATION

DEMONSTRATION

INFLUENCE CULTURE

ENCOURAGE CREATIVITY

PRINCIPLES

MODELS

PLAN

ZONING

GRAPHICS

CIRCULATION

BENEFITS EMPOWERMENT

INVOLVMENT

FESTIVE SPACES DIRECT ACCESS

VISUAL CONNECTIONS

PLAYFULNESS

PARTICIPATION

PROMOTION

DESIGN BRIEF AND AGENDA PAGE 35

ROOFTOP SOLAR COLLECTORS

NURSERY FUTURE LAB

SOAK PIT BATTERY ROOM

WORKSHOPS LIBRARY

MOVIE THEATER & PERFORMANCE SPACE

DHARNAI MUSEUM & INFO CENTER

ENTRANCE FOYER

ORGANIC FARMING SUPPLIES

MANURE PRODUCTION

BIOGAS PLANT

COMMERCIAL SPACE

FAÇADE CONTROLS

INORGANIC WASTE TREATMENT

COOLING TOWERS

LAUNDRY

MAIN INTERACTION SPACE

DISH WASHING HAND/FEET WASHING

DAY CARE CENTER

TOILETS

SERVING COUNTER

DINING AREA

PLAY AREA

LEGEND KITCHEN

BLACK WATER TREATMENT

PRIMARY EVERYDAY ROUTE

GREY WATER TREATMENT

ALLIED FUNCTIONS FOOD PREPARATION

GRINDERS/MIXERS STEAM COOKING

STORAGE

PROGRAMMATIC BRIEF AND CONNECTIONS

BACKUP GENERATOR ROOM

TRANSFORMER ROOM ORGANIC WASTE TREATMENT

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE SPACE & COMP SCI CLASSROOM

SOLAR FARM

CUTTING/PEELING LOADING/UNLOADING AREA

TOURIST INTEREST WASTE MANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT

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DESIGN D EV E LO PM E N T

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SHADED STREET AND MARKET AREA

VAULTED COMMERCIAL AREA AS EXTENSION TO EXISTING STRUCTURES

FABRIC ROOF

USING NATURAL SLOPE TO MAKE STEPS

TWO-WAY STAGE

COOLING TOWER

NATURALLY VENTILATED INTERIOR SPACES

ACCESSIBLE TERRACE SPACE

KINETIC FACADE FACING NORTH

INTERNAL COURTYARDS SERVE AS SPILL-OUT SPACES

SKETCH- SITE SECTION PAGE 38

SKETCH- BAMBOO TRUSS DESIGN

COOLING TOWERS NATURALLY VENTILATE THE AUDITORIUM

PERFORATED WALL AT ENTRANCE

AUDITORIUM FLANKED BY GREEN SPACES ON TWO SIDES

BAMBOO TRUSS

LIGHTWEIGHT FABRIC ROOF

USING NATURAL SLOPE TO MAKE STEPS

FERROCRETE VAULTED ROOF TO MINIMIZE HEAT GAIN

VISUAL CONNECTIVITY AND UNOBSTRUCTED VIEWS

NATURALLY VENTILATED GREEN ROOMS AND WINGS

TWO-WAY STAGE, OPEN TO LARGE INTERNAL COURTYARD

SKETCH- SECTION THROUGH AUDITORIUM PAGE 39

PIPE CARRYING STEAM TO KITCHEN BELOW

JACK ARCH ROOFING SYSTEM FOR EFFECTIVE LOAD DISTRIBUTION

SMALL OPENINGS DRAW IN HOT AIR TO COOLING TOWER TRANSPIRATION COOLING FROM INTERNAL COURTYARDS

FERROCRETE BOWL CONSTRUCTED IN-SITU

IPS FLOOR- COOL, EASY TO MAINTAIN, WARM COLOURS

BUILT-IN BENCHES

FLEXIBILITY IN SPACE USAGE

LOW OPENINGS SUPPLY COOL AIR TO INTERIOR SPACES

RECYCLED WATER USED FOR EVAPORATIVE COOLING

SKETCH- FORM FOLLOWS ENERGY PAGE 40

RCC STRUCTURAL FRAME

WINDOW OPEN POSITION WOODEN LOUVERS CONTROL AMOUNT OF LIGHT ENTERING THE SPACE

GEARS AND SPROCKETS MINIMIZE EFFORT NEEDED TO OPERATE WINDOW

WINDOW CLOSED POSITION

DYNAMIC PLAY OF LIGHT AND SHADOWS

OPERABLE HANDLE WHEEL TO OPEN WINDOW

SKETCH- KINETIC FACADE PAGE 41

N LIBRARY Morning/Afternoon

MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM

Diffused light Quiet, private Connection with nature

W

CLASSROOMS

ADMINISTRATION

Morning/Afternoon

All Day

Flexible spaces Uniformly lit Thermal comfort Connection with nature

Visually well connected Safe and secure

All Day/Night Flexible functionality Space for temporary accomodation Access to service entry

AANGAN All Day

DHARNAI EXHIBITION Morning

Universally appealing Flexible functionality Promote interaction

DINING HALL

KITCHEN

Afternoon

Morning/Afternoon

Minimal restrictions Built-in furniture Universal accessibility Connection with nature Flexible spill-out space Easily serviceable

Ventilation Hygiene Large utensils Waste management Serving counters Temporary storage Access to service entry

Sense of belonging Circulation and mystery Walls for exhibition

E

BIOGAS PLANT

AUDITORIUM

SABZI MANDI

Noon/Evening

Evening

Views of nature, sky Diffused light Natural cooling Festival celebrations

Easily accessible Large clearing Flexible usage

S

All Day Highest point on site Negative pressure ventilation Secluded from building Plantation restriction

ON-SITE ORIENTATION AND USAGE PAGE 42

Sabzi Mandi

Auditorium

Solar Kitchen

Dining Hall

Administration Office

Multi Room Library

Dharnai Classrooms Exhibition

Adult man working in Dharnai

N

Adult woman from Dharnai

G

A

Adult man working outside Dharnai

A

N

Elderly person from Dharnai

A

Children from Dharnai

Tourist visiting Dharnai

धरनई

Group of social workers

धरनई

RELATION BETWEEN SPACES AND USER GROUPS PAGE 43

ADMINISTRATION AANGAN

LIBRARY KITCHEN AND DINING

EDUCATION MARKET

AUDITORIUM

LEVELS, AXES AND ZONING The masses were developed around the large aangan. The site was split into two levels using the natural land gradient, and the slope was used to achieve a stepped profile for the auditorium. The entry points for the building were defined, and the circulation was planned to develop a visual connection with the aangan from all entries.

PAGE 44

DINING HALL

LIBRARY

CLASSROOM EXHIBITION

WORKSHOP

ADMINISTRATION

MULTI-PURPOSE

KITCHEN SABZI MANDI

AUDITORIUM 25 60

15 60

10

40

300

1700 40

150

LIGHT AND VENTILATION BASED ON SPACE-WISE CAPACITY The cooling towers were designed based on the space-wise maximum capacity requirements and building orientation. The water bodies at the base of every cooling tower would keep the interiors cool due to evaporative cooling. The towers would also help establish a sense of orientation with the user.

PAGE 45

DINING HALL

LIBRARY

CLASSROOM EXHIBITION

WORKSHOP

ADMINISTRATION

MULTI-PURPOSE

KITCHEN SABZI MANDI

AUDITORIUM

OPEN SPACES AND VISUAL CONNECTIONS Courtyards and green pockets were then carved out to optimize light and ventilation in the interiors. A hierarchy in the sizes of the courtyards would create pressure differences, and incease the air exchange rates. The continuous interaction of the user with these natural elements would enhance the sense of a connection with nature and the sky.

PAGE 46

SECTION SHOWING PASSIVE STACK VENTILATION SYSTEM

PAGE 47

View of pathway leading to the central aangan, flanked by the rhythmic and interconnected green pockets. The built forms vary in shape and mass.

Openings have been carved into the walls, which funtion as a permeable memberane between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

STREET CHARACTER

INFORMAL SPACES

Narrow streets Winding roads Surprise element Gathering spaces Sense of connection Vertical Visual connectivity Trees planted along the streets

Otlas and verandahs Multiple uses Children- playing and studying Women- cooking, socializing Temporary storage spaces Connections with nature, sky Used throughout the day

View of small verandahs on the western side of the building. These informal spill-out spaces serve a variety of functions like playing, sitting, community gatherings, etc. They can be accessed through the pivot doors, and engulfed as an indoor space, or they can be used from the outside. The parapet walls can be used as seats.

TRANSLATIONS FROM OBSERVATIONS IN DHARNAI PAGE 48

Exposed brick has been used as a structural and non-structural material throughout the building. Small openings and jaali walls have been provided on the facades more exposed to the sun. This saves material and cost, and adds an aesthetic character that blends with the context of Dharnai.

USE OF BRICK

TRADITIONAL & MODERN

Structural- exposed brick Non structural- plastered Small openings Aesthetic patterns Good quality and workmanship Used for drying cowdung cakes Small projections and chajjas Use of waste bricks

Visible transition Variety of traditional building materials like straw, mud Solar powered streetlamps Sense of belonging and ownership amongst villagers

A dialog between the modern functions and devices in a traditional built environment is harmonious with the character of the village.

The purpose behind the modern devices like the solar bowls and kinetic facades is to make the building more climate-adaptive, and to also educate the users about the workings.

Thus, there is a transparency between the traditional and the modern.

TRANSLATIONS FROM OBSERVATIONS IN DHARNAI PAGE 49

7

DESIGN O U TC O M E

PAGE 50

A. PLANNING

Y1

Y2

X5

Y3

7

X5

6

LEGEND 1

Space for sabzi mandi

5

X4 2

X4

Auditorium 8

3

4

Solar Kitchen

X3 4

Dining Hall

5

Administration Office

6

Multi-purpose Room

7

8

X3

3 9

Library

X2

X2

2

X1

X1

SITE PLAN

Classrooms 1

9

Dharnai Exhibition धरनई

Y1

Y2 FLOOR PLAN

Y3 0

5

10

25

PAGE 51

1

SPACE FOR SABZI MANDI/BAAZAAR Farming Utilities

A covered area which can be used as one or multiple shops, to sell farming utilities like organic fertilizer (khaad) produced on site, organic seeds and small-scale farming tools. The vaulted roof is harmonious with the roof of the pre-existing Model Aanganwadi Kendra, and helps keep the shops cool.

Farmers’ Workshed (existing)

This is a structure built for temporary storage, and sorting of harvested crops.

Sabzi Mandi

The open-to-sky clearing serves as a space for sabzi mandis, where hawkers can sell food and agri-commodities. This activity presently happens twice a week in Dharnai, next to the national highway.

The change in location has advantages like better hygiene and cleanliness, lesser risk of traffic accidents, and better walkability and accessibility. The space also serves as a foyer for the auditorium.

Model aanganwadi kendra (existing)

The child day care center of the village has been recently built. It has a vaulted roof and china mosaic glazing.

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SABZI MANDI AND ENTRANCE 3 P.M., MARCH

PAGE 53

2

AUDITORIUM Seating area

Covered by a wind and water-resistant roof of bamboo and canvas, the seating area is designed as an amphitheater, starting at the road level of +1.5m and gradually stepping down to the plinth level of +0.3m. The plan and truss profile have been designed to achieve unrestricted views of the stage. The form of the roof is inspired by traditional khema and yurt roofs, and resembles upside down vaults. The auditorium is cooled with the help of two cooling towers and water bodies. It is engulfed by bamboo plantations on both the east and west, and a perforated brick wall to the south.

Green rooms

The two green rooms on either side of the auditorium can be used as changing rooms, or for storage of mics, lights, props etc.

Stage

The stage opens up to both the inside of the auditorium as well as the central courtyard, and is accessible from the green rooms on two sides. This allows for more flexibility for a variety of functions like movie screenings, festival celebrations, cultural gatherings, and other public meetings.

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AUDITORIUM 5 P.M., APRIL

PAGE 55

3

SOLAR KITCHEN Roti making

The rotis are prepared in two stages-kneading wheat flour into dough, and then roasting them on a tawa.

Appropriate space has been provided for a raised platform for preparation of the dough, and a large tawa. This space has direct access to the dining hall via double acting doors, for quick and efficient service.

Mixing/Grinding

Mixing and grinding is done to make masala powder, purees, chutneys etc. This space is provided to house large pots and dishes for wet grinding, along with a large table for dry grinding and preparation for steam cooking.

Storage

A large store room is provided in the kitchen to store items for longer durations. This room can be locked when not in use. In addition, spaces for temporary storage like shelves, niches and platforms are designed to be built in during construction.

Steam cooking

A solar heating steam cooking system has been designed for the kitchen. The water heated by the Scheffler Concentrators on the rooftop produces steam that is brought down to the cooking area via insulated pipes.

Here, tasty foods like rice, dal and vegetables are cooked for large numbers of people, and sent directly to the dining hall through the double acting doors. Ample space for large cooking vessels is provided, along with built-in stone slabs for preparation and dressing. Space is also provided for packing meals in tiffins and sending them to the houses of Dharnai and neighbouring villages.

Loading/Unloading area

This is where the ingredients for everyday meals are brought in from the outside. Handcarts, tempos and small trucks can be unloaded at the plinth. The washing area outside can be used for washing large items like utensils vegetable crates and cloth sheets. Space is provided for temporary storage of large sacks, bags, baskets etc. inside.

Cutting/Peeling

The first step in cooking- vegetables and fruits can be cut here. Ample space is provided to spread a clean sheet of cloth on the red oxide flooring, with people sending baskets of freshly cut vegetables further.

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PAGE 56

KITCHEN

1 P.M., JULY PAGE 57

4

DINING HALL

Hand/feet washing

A washing area is provided at the main entrance of the dining hall, where people can wash their hands and feet before entering. This is considered as a sign of respect in various cultures, and is also a healthy and hygienic practice.

Drinking water

A solar water RO system is installed here to provide clean drinking water to the people before they exit the dining hall.

Dish washing area

Cutlery and mats

Upon entering the dining hall, one is exposed to an internal courtyard, from where they proceed to pick up clean thalis to eat in and jute mats to sit on.

Upon finishing the meal, one proceeds to the dish washing area where they empty food wastes into segregated bins.

This wasted food is fed into the biogas plant on site. The space has been designed so that the people can wash their own plates in 2-bowl sinks, encouraging a hygienic daily routine. The clean utensils are then kept on the built-in shelves.

Dining area

The dining area has been designed as a versatile space that opens up into the central courtyard. The linear seating arrangement is defined by the flooring patterns and aisles are demarcated by the empty spaces in between. This minimalist approach offers more flexibility in efficient usage of the space. Built in seats finished in stone have been provided in addition to the space for sitting on jute mats on the red oxide floor. One can enjoy interesting views of the central courtyard while sitting indoors, and if the pivot doors are opened completely, there are no barriers between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The cooling tower and jaali walls help keep the indoor temperatures low.

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PAGE 58

DINING HALL SEATING AREA 1 P.M., JULY

PAGE 59

5

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

6

MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM

Computer Science classroom

A computer science classroom for 8 students has been introduced within the administration office, for ease of safety and supervision. Here, children and adults alike can learn how to use computers, write emails and browse the internet.

Main administration office

The administration office is designed for the assistants to the mukhiya of Dharnai Gram Panchayat. Daily administrative tasks of the Panchayat can be performed here, in addition to the storage of important paperwork and records. The space has direct access to the central courtyard and the rest of the building complex which increases safety.

Mukhiya’s office

The private office of Dharnai Gram Panchayat’s mukhiya has his chair and workdesk, and a display cabinet for prestigious awards and photographs. The office has an attached private toilet.

Multipurpose room

As the name suggests, this room can be used for a variety of functions as per special requirements. It can act as an extension to the dining hall or library, or both. It can also be used as an independent room for meetings, temporary accommodation, shops and storage.

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COMPUTER LAB AND ADMIN AREA 11 A.M., AUGUST

PAGE 61

7

LIBRARY

Seating area

The library has built in seats finished in stone, which receive diffused light from the north. The seats can also be used as backrests by people who prefer to sit on the floor. A cooling tower has been provided in the library, with the intention of keeping the indoor temperatures low even during hot summer afternoons. The north façade of the library has large mechanically operated doors, which have louvers to control the amount of light and wind coming inside. These top hung doors can be completely opened, and one can sit outside under the open sky. The intention behind these doors is to remove the barriers between the indoor and outdoor and create an informal spill out space for reading newspapers, magazines and books.

Children’s section

This section has a floor covered by a carpet of jute bags. Books for small children and toddlers are kept here, and it can function as a day care area.

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LIBRARY SEATING AREA 12 P.M., MARCH

PAGE 63

8

CLASSROOMS

Lectures

Both classrooms can serve independent functions, or they can act as one large classroom by opening the sliding folding partition. Lectures can be given to both children and adults alike by people from the village, or guests coming from outside.

E.g. lectures on sustainable farming, spreading awareness about LED bulbs, women safety and empowerment.

Workshops

Educational and interactive workshops may also take place in these classrooms, conducted by schools, colleges, other institutions, govt. organisations, NGOs, etc. for the people of Dharnai as well as the tourists visiting the village.

E.g. workshops related to art and craft, handicrafts, yoga, value education.

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ROOM FOR WORKSHOPS 3 P.M., JULY

PAGE 65

9

DHARNAI EXHIBITION

धरनई

The exhibition space is designed to portray the story of Dharnai village, with the aim of setting an example for other villages and towns throughout India. Here, tourists and students will learn about Dharnai’s journey towards becoming the first solar powered village of India, and the work done by the NGOs Greenpeace, BASIX and CEED. They will learn about the other conventional and non-conventional sources of renewable energy. The exhibition will also showcase the national awards and achievements of Dharnai Gram Panchayat for rural development.

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PAGE 66

DHARNAI EXHIBITION 4 P.M., JANUARY

PAGE 67

B. SECTIONS

Battery room

0

3

6

15

Auditorium seating area

SECTION X1

Women’s toilets

KEY PLAN

PAGE 68

Kitchen cutting/peeling area

Auditorium green rooms

Auditorium stage

Dharnai exhibition

धरनई

0

3

6

15

SECTION X2

KEY PLAN

PAGE 69

Classroom

0

3

6

15

Dining area

SECTION X3

Kitchen steam cooking area

KEY PLAN

PAGE 70

Dish washing area

0

3

6

15

Drinking water

Administration office

SECTION X4

Toilets

KEY PLAN

PAGE 71

Library seating area

0

3

6

15

SECTION X5

Children’s section

Multi-purpose room

KEY PLAN

PAGE 72

Farming utilities shops

0

3

6

15

Auditorium seating area

Auditorium stage

SECTION Y1

Workshops

Lectures

Administration office

Library seating area

KEY PLAN

PAGE 73

Library seating area

0

3

6

Computer science classroom

15

Administration office

Auditorium stage

SECTION Y2

Auditorium seating area

Sabzi mandi

KEY PLAN

PAGE 74

Multi-purpose room

0

3

6

Drinking water

15

Dining area

Men’s toilets

SECTION Y3

Women’s toilets

KEY PLAN

PAGE 75

OPEN SPACES A rhythm of open-to-sky streets and courtyards help establish a sense of continuity. The connection with the sky is characteristic of the buildings in the village.

A hierarchy in the sizes of the courtyards would create pressure differences, and incease the air exchange rates. A stack ventilation system inspired by the local houses works in a combination of the courtyards and cooling towers.

Interlinked green spaces create a constant connection between the built and unbuilt spaces. They function as spill out spcaes, where the majority of community interaction takes place.

By planting native species of trees and shrubs, the need for water is minimized. Bamboo is grown in small pockets to be used for future construction in the village.

The open spaces are flexible and serve a variety of functions. They represent the equality and togetherness amongst the people of Dharnai.

PAGE 76

QUALITY OF LIGHT

Throughout the day, as the sun changes its position in the sky, there is a constant dialog of light and shadows in the building. The wind joins in, as it makes the leaves rustle, creating beautiful patterns on the floor.

Light is the most important element in the design.

The built spaces welcome natural light, and allow it to create playful patterns of shadows inside.

The perforated jaali walls and louvered windows filter and diffuse the light before it enters. In the courtyards, trees filter the light and keep the interiors cool, while allowing in diffused light.

The operable facades allow the users to change the way the light enters the space, a minimalistic representation of the constantly changing environment in the village.

PAGE 77

AUDITORIUM STAGE 5 P.M., OCTOBER

PAGE 78

PAGE 79

C. MATERIAL PALETTE

China Mosaic Tiles

The flat roofs have been finished in China Mosaic Tiles. They are durable against weathering, and easy to maintain. They also help reflect the harsh sunlight, and keep the interiors cool.

RCC and ferrocrete

The structure is constructed in a modular grid of 4.2 x 5.2m, with a frame of RCC columns and beams.

The vaulted roofs and solar bowls are constructed in-situ using ferrocrete.

Kota Stone

Kota Stone is a fine-grained variety of limestone, which has been used to finish the window sills and built-in benches and countertops. It associates a sense of belonging and pride amongst the people of Dharnai, towards the building.

IPS (Red oxide) flooring

Indian Patent Stone, or red oxide flooring, is a long lost traditional flooring material used in India. It has excellent thermal properties and durability. The material invites people to sit on the cool floor, and the harmonious red-monochromatic aesthetic of the space gives it a warm character.

Brick

EXPLODED AXONOMETRIC VIEW

Red clay bricks are used extensively in the houses of Dharnai. Good quality Class A bricks can be procured from within a few kms of the site. They are used in a rat-trap bond which provides excellent thermal insulation. Some walls are perforated to create jaalis which help in naturally ventilating the interiors. Brick has also been used in the jack-arch roofing system.

PAGE 80

D. WALL DETAIL

230MM THK BRICK PARAPET WALL PCC FLOOR WITH MOSAIC TILES BRICK BAT COBA FOR SLOPE 20MM THK KOTA STONE COPING

SCREED LAYER

230MM THK BRICK PARAPET WALL

DAMP PROOF COURSE RCC CHHAJJA

TERRACE FLOOR IN CHINA MOSAIC

FFL +3.45M

10MM THK TILE SUB-FLOOR

BRICK BAT COBA FOR SLOPE

PCC LAYER

RCC CHHAJJA PCC LAYER BRICK JACK-ARCH RCC BEAM

B

RCC BEAM JACK-ARCH IN BRICK 230MM THK BRICK WALL

230MM THK BRICK WALL PCC LINTEL BAND

DETAIL AT B

WOODEN FRAME FOR PIVOT DOOR PIVOT DOOR OUTER FRAME WOODEN LOUVERS IN DOOR

WOODEN LOUVERS IN DOOR

PIVOT AXIS OF DOOR

40MM THK RED OXIDE FLOOR 10MM THK TILE SUB-FLOOR WOODEN FRAME FOR PIVOT DOOR 20MM THK KOTA STONE SILL

BUILT-IN SEAT FINISHED IN KOTA STONE

230MM THK BRICK WALL DAMP PROOF COURSE

RED OXIDE FLOORING FFL +0.45M

A

SFL +0.3M

RCC PLINTH SLAB

RAMMED EARTH FLOOR

RCC PLINTH BEAM

RCC PLINTH BEAM RCC PLINTH SLAB

RAMMED EARTH FLOOR

COMPACTED EARTH LAYER

COMPACTED EARTH LAYER RUBBLE SOLING LAYER

RUBBLE SOLING LAYER

SOIL LAYER

DETAILED WALL SECTION

DETAIL AT A

PAGE 81

DINING HALL JAALI WALL 1 P.M., JULY

PAGE 82

E. SOLAR BOWL DETAIL SOLAR BOWL ASSEMBLED ON SITE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH LATITUDE OF DHARNAI

The solar dishes have been designed to be constructed in-situ on the roof of the kitchen and dining area. The parabolic solar dishes generate steam from water, which is piped down directly to the kitchen for cooking the meals.

The structural grid of 4.2 x 5.2m has a jack-arch roofing system. This helps in even load distributions of the dead weight on the roof. By integrating the solar bowls within the structural system, additional rigidity and earthquake resistance is achieved.

The brick jack arch roof helps insulate the interiors from the outside. The roof is glazed with china mosaic tiles to reflect the harsh sunlight and help keep the interiors cool. The solar bowl is constructed in-situ with ferrocrete.

At the time of maintenance and repairs, the parabolic solar collectors and pipes can be detached from the bowl.

RCC SUPPORTS FOR SOLAR BOWL ENERGY TO KITCHEN

FERROCRETE DISH CONSTRUCTED IN-SITU FOR SOLAR BOWL

TERRACE FLOOR FINISHED IN GLAZED MOSAIC TILES

JACK ARCH ROOF CONSTRUCTED IN-SITU FOR BETTER LOAD DISTRIBUTION DOUBLY REINFORCED BEAMS TO TRANSFER LOADS TO COLUMNS RCC COLUMNS

RCC PLINTH SLAB FINISHED WITH IN-SITU RED OXIDE FLOORING

RCC PLINTH BEAM

EXPLODED AXO VIEW OF STRUCTURAL FRAME AND SOLAR BOWL

PAGE 83

F. OPERABLE FACADE DETAIL

SCHEMATIC VIEW OF DOOR- CLOSED

SCHEMATIC VIEW OF DOOR- OPEN

Ever since electricity came to the village, there has been an increased importance given towards education and learning. The library, which is located at the northernmost frontage of the community center, is a space that is designed for flexible and unrestricted usage throughout the day. It celebrates light and energy in Dharnai, calling children and adults alike towards greater knowledge.

The operable kinetic facade has been designed to act as a configurable device that seperates the indoor and outdoor spaces. It has horizontal louvers that can swivel freely to filter the light entering the space. It also has a mechanical top hung door that allows it to be completely open, removing the barrier between the indoor and outdoor.

The kinetic facade uses salvaged parts from bicycles, bullock carts and sugarcane juice machines. This symbolizes the potential of using cheap and innovative ways to engineer machines and devices that are in harmony with nature.

PAGE 84

WOODEN OUTER FRAME WOODEN INNER FRAME

WOODEN LOUVERS IN CLOSED POSITION

WOODEN LOUVERS IN OPEN POSITION

FIXED MULLION

HANDLE WHEEL

MECHANICAL HANDLE CONCEALED IN SAFE BOX

CONTROL WHEEL FOR MECHANICAL HANDLE BOTTOM FRAME WOODEN INNER FRAME WOODEN OUTER FRAME

EXPLODED AXO VIEW OF MECHANICAL HANDLE PAGE 85

WHEEL (FROM BULLOCK CART)

AXLE

Bullock cart wheel

BEVEL GEAR TO PROTECT COUNTERTURNING (FROM BICYCLE)

LARGE SPROCKET (FROM BICYCLE)

Bevel gear in bicycle

SMALL SPROCKET (FROM BICYCLE)

LARGE SPROCKET (FROM BICYCLE) SMALL SPROCKET (FROM BICYCLE)

CHAIN (FROM BICYCLE) Bicycle chain and sprockets

SMALL GEAR (FROM BICYCLE) DOOR HANDLE WHEEL (FROM SUGARCANE JUICE MACHINE)

EXPLODED AXO VIEW OF MECHANICAL HANDLE

Common sugarcane juice machine

PAGE 86

NORTH FACADE 1 P.M., JULY

PAGE 87

G. SERVICES

DUNG FROM CATTLE

MIXING TANK

BIOGAS PLANT TOILETS

ORGANIC WASTE GAS STORAGE DOME PUMP ROOM

LANDSCAPE AREA

COOLING TOWERS

SUNLIGHT

KITCHEN

KITCHEN

ENERGY USED FOR COOKING

INORGANIC WASTE

WATER USED FOR COOKING

SOLAR BOWL

BOILED WATER WATER USED FOR WASHING GREY WATER

UNDERGROUND WATER TANK

TOILETS

UNDERGROUND WATER TANK

RECYCLING

WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM

TOILETS

OFF-SITE SOAK PIT

BLACK WATER

LANDSCAPE AREA TREATED GREY WATER WATER FOR CLEANING

BIOGAS PLANT

RAINWATER HARVESTING

FLOWCHART SHOWING ENERGY GENERATION AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

COOLING TOWERS

SCHEMATIC SERVICE LAYOUT

0

6

12

30

PAGE 88

ON-SITE BIOGAS PLANT 3 P.M., DECEMBER

PAGE 89

E. PHASING

1

SOLAR KITCHEN, DINING HALL, ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, UNDERGROUND WATER TANK, TOILETS

3 1

The construction of the solar kitchen and dining hall will initiate the community center’s functions.

The building would become a part of the daily routine of the villagers.

Lunch can be served every day, and sent to homes and schools. As the agricultural produce of the village is used locally, it will be beneficial for the farmers. The administration office for the community center can also be set up, including the Mukhiya’s office.

2

PHASING LAYOUT

PHASE 1

0

6

12

30

2

PHASE 2 AUDITORIUM, BATTERY ROOM, FARMERS’ MARKET, BIOGAS PLANT The auditorium will function as a large meeting space for the villagers of Dharnai. The building will be used after lunch and during the evening. The cultural importance of the community center will increase.

The battery room will complete the energy cycle of the building, as the solar power can be stored for later use. The biogas plant will produce manure and electricity from food waste generated in the solar kitchen.

The sabzi mandi and farmers’ market would sell important commodities at subsidized rates.

3

PHASE 3 LIBRARY, MULTI-ROOM, CLASSROOMS, TOILETS, EXHIBITION With the construction of the library, the community center will become a place of education. Children and adults can sit together and share their knowledge. The classrooms and workshops will invite educators from nearby towns and cities to the village. The Dharnai exhibition would become a place of tourist attraction, explaining to tourists the journey of the village towards clean energy, and social uplifment.

PAGE 90

AERIAL VIEW OF PROPOSED BUILDING DHARNAI COMMUNITY CENTER PAGE 91

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