MArch II: Accumulation of research findings on the city of Calicut
Type: Design Thesis Info: University Masters
Location: Calicut, Kerala, India
“Liveable Urbanism studio investigates the relationship between urban form and liveability to propose creative solutions to improve quality of life in rapidly growing cities in the Global South” (Raman, 2023).
The research booklet is the product of extensive research into the physical, social, economic, and environmental factors impacting cities and how their liveability can be developed.
This 200-page booklet is structured to introduce Calicut as a case study, the research method and questions employed, and our findings and evaluation of urban form in relation to ecology, mobility, security, and development.
Research booklet displayed at a Unit exhibition in India
Virtues
MArch II
How can urban design interventions foster mental well-being amidst stigma and rapid urbanisation?
Type: Design Thesis Info: University Masters
Location: Calicut, Kerala, India
The proposed action is to establish community recovery care services through formal and informal networks coordinated by a centralised centre in the city, serving as the catalyst project. Designing for mental health has proven that cities with green spaces, recreational areas, and community-oriented facilities tend to have healthier populations. Thus, the catalyst project and overall strategy lie around providing access to green/active open spaces. This proposal is part of the interconnected network with other health centres across the district, facilitating patient access to appropriate services. It aims to be a safe, welcoming place for informal conversation, countering the cultural fear and demonisation of mental health issues. The current carceral-like design of rehabilitative structures in Calicut and across India underscores the need for such an initiative.
Drawing, produced from findings, depicting current situation
Proposed Urban Strategy for harmonious living with nature and reducing urban stressors
The Wellness and Recovery Center: Reclamation of the vacant and overgrown site to be part of the network of healthcare buildings in the city centre
Main Entrance
Exterior corridor
Natural elements
Entry to the flat through a pocket door
Living Room
Conservatory
4/ Barge in La Seine
Professional Practice Part I placement, Paris, 2021-22
Practice: MFR Architectes
Location: Port de Montebello, Paris
Client: Herige Paris
Type: Competition 2
As part of the city’s calls for proposals on ‘Re-inventing the Seine’ in Paris, this design looks at reviving an existing barge (péniche).
The project proposes to capture the notions of heritage, the quays, and the Notre Dame cathedral - echoing the major renovations it is undergoing.
As a binding point, the project proposes a space for a culinary experience through a dessert bar on the ground level, and a rediscovery of arts and crafts through an exhibition space on the level below deck.
5/Pessac’s
University Halls
Professional Practice Part I placement, Paris, 2021-22
Practice: MFR Architectes
Location: Pessac, Bordeaux, France
Client: D.Bard Immobilier Type:
Competition (Finalist)
The proposal is situated on a former derelict plot of land that is part of the university campus, a development part of the council’s larger regenerative development of the commune of Pessac. Devising a pragmatic design, the proposal adopts a series of intents.
Envisioning a strategic masterplan for a former gasworks, which would accommodate a high-density development of family homes, open spaces, communal spaces of culture and education, and improved transport links.
Founded on the principle of circular economy, the master plan aims to support a natural regenerative system; grounded on the research of the Ellen McArthur Foundation.
The project then focused on one space of the masterplan to develop therefore I looked at the proposed Flexible Market Hall. From a derelict warehouse existing on the site, the market is designed on the temporal notion to be adapted over time. Designed for disassembly to maximise material recovery
