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Design approaches towards adaptations of Traditional Interior Architectural Elements in Retail Store
from Design Approaches for Adaptations of Traditional Interior Architectural Elements in Retail Stores
0.1 Introduction
In today’s world, the ease in foreign investment and trade across the globe, has resulted in foreign retailers acquiring local markets. The glimpse of local culture is somewhere lost in the modernization and globalization. Also, e-retailing has made it very convenient for people to shop from the comfort of their homes. This makes physical retailing even more difficult. But in past two decades, India has been witnessing, an arrival of retail stores which sensitize towards local culture, crafts, and heritage. In today’s era of e-retail, a lot of brick-and-mortar stores are themed around culture and heritage trying to make connect with the customers and make their physical shopping experience exclusive and worthwhile.
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India is a land of diverse cultures resulting in a rich historical background. It is found that old buildings offer exemplary architectural and building construction skills that are not prevalent today. These buildings hold onto historic values and narrate the story of our society from the bygone era. Housing retail in an adapted heritage setting is becoming an approach to re-connect with customers and create memorable experience for its users.
This study inquires into such stores of Rajasthan which are housed in traditional or heritage settings and incorporate traditional interior architecture elements in the store design. It gives an opportunity to re-connect and re-interpret the local and traditional architectural qualities of the region in response to the changing demands of the new environments. The stores of Rajasthan are chosen due to its rich and varied architectural tradition. Various strategies for integration of the traditional architectural elements in store design will be identified and design approaches will be analysed which will help in designing such stores.
Aim
To analyze various design approaches for integrating traditional interior architectural elements in retail stores with an approach of adaptive reuse.
0.1. Introduction
0.2. Aim and Objectives
0.3. Scope and Limitations
0.4. Research Methodology Objectives
1. To understand the need of local elements in retail stores.
2. To identify the intents and ways of integration of local interior architectural elements in retail spaces.
3. To analyze the strategies and approaches taken by designers to integrate traditional architectural elements in retail reuse projects.
Scope and Limitations
1. The study is concentrated in Rajasthan only.
2. Only the retail stores designed with an approach of adaptive reuse are identified and studied.
3. Only the architectural elements which play a vital role in providing character unique to Rajasthan and also aid in store design are selected for the study.
4. The focus is not on brand identity but the idea of regional architecture which brands use as a tool to be widely accepted and the approaches with which traditional architectural elements can be used for store design.
0.4. Research Methodology
The thesis will initially concentrate on identifying dominant traditional architectural elements of Rajasthan and their roles in traditional spaces. Furthermore, the elements typically found in retail environments will be identified.
The research will also look into the relevance of traditional architectural elements in retail and identify the intents behind their integration. The intents identified in the chapter serve as parameters to analyze the case studies.
Further, it focuses on the idea of adaptation and strategies for integration of elements. The case study selected are retail stores with an approach of adaptive reuse. The cases will be analyzed through the intents. Strategies and design approaches will also be identified.
Research Framework
Identifying elements extensively found in retail stores
Identify
Part I
Study of Traditional
interior architectural
elements of
Rajasthan
Traditional Interior Architectural Elements
Role of Elements in an Interior space
Selection of elements found in retail stores
Identifying intents behind the integration of elements
Identify
Part II A
Relevance of
elements in retail
store design
User Experience Cultural Significance
Aesthetical Intent Cultural Intent
Spatial Intent
Dimensional Intent
Identifying strategies for the integration of elements
Identify
Part II B
Design Approaches
towards Adaptive
Reuse
Strategies
Intervention
Insertion
Installation
Part III
Case Studies
Analyze
Analyzing Inferences Nila House, Jaipur
Forest Essentials, Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Museum Shop, Jodhpur
Conclusion
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1.1.1. Primary Elements
1.1.2. Secondary Elements
1.1.3. Tertiary Elements
1.3. Selection of elements found in retail
1.4. Role of selected elements in a traditional interior space
The notions of space are made physically manifest in architecture through the different elements that constitute the basic identifiable parts of the man-made or built environment. Each of these elements possess attributes inherent to their morphological construct which endow them as particular spatial properties, providing potential for their use and design in architectural compositions. (Pandya, 2007)
As discussed in the quote, similarly the architecture of Rajasthan gets a language and character from the traditional architectural elements that it possesses. These elements not only add to the aesthetic value but also contribute to imparting a unique spatial quality to the spaces.
1.1.1 Primary Elements
This category comprises of the structural elements that help create spaces according to the structural needs of the building, while influencing its aesthetics as well. These elements are: Foundation, plinth, walls, columns, beams, arches, brackets, and roof.
1.1.2 Secondary Elements
The elements under this category are not fully structural but have much to do with the addition of aesthetic value to the built form. Generally, they have a very specific function and role within the space. These elements are: jharokha, jaali, parapet, openings (doors and windows), chajja, chhatri, niches, staircase, threshold.
1.1.3 Tertiary Elements
These elements are purely for aesthetic upliftment of the space. These are generally the finishes. These elements are cladding, flooring and moulding.
Today, for bridging the gap between modern retail environments and traditional regional aesthetics, designers attempt to create spaces with a touch of local culture. Designers intend to create store interiors with different approaches such as thematic interpretation, imitation or re-interpretation of architectural elements, form, adaptive reuse, traditional or re-interpretated spatial organization, locally sourced materials and construction techniques and local art and crafts.
Some store examples below discuss the incorporation of traditional architectural elements in their designs:
• Anita Dongre Flagship store, New Delhi Designed by: 4.4 Designs, Mumbai
The designer’s store concept was inspired by the architecture and culture of Rajasthan. The interiors of the stores are meant to evoke the image of the Rajasthani Havelis. It covers an area of 10,000 square feet. The space planning (figure 4) was done in the same way as the havelis, resulting in a dramatic setting with spectacular views and unique spatial narratives as one walks through the store. To lend prominence to the craft, the interior design integrates numerous traditional Rajasthani crafts such as Pichwai paintings, stone inlay, thikri (mirror) work, and carved stone jaalis. It brings the design into context with the craftsmanship that goes into the bridal gowns that the designer creates.
Fig. 1.2.1. Plan of Anita dongre store, New Delhi
A series of arches in the space act as thresholds and space enclosures. The form of the traditional arches is minimalized and simplified by not incorporating the crafted ornamentation, thus creating an elegant and modern feel.
The arched alcoves act as display windows, with pichwai paintings as a backdrop. Glass added on the outer façade make them look elegant and modern. From the outside the store feels modern whereas on the insides it has the traditional Rajasthani architecture.
The Rajasthani architectural elements: walls and arches recreated in the space define the space in a traditional manner reviving the architecture of the place. The design intent has been to incorporate original forms of traditional elements with minimal ornamentation, thus creating a modern contemporary feel.
Fig. 1.2.2. Storefront of Anita dongre store, New Delhi Fig. 1.2.4. Arched alcoves for display
Fig. 1.2.3. Introduction of traditional accessories Fig. 1.2.5. Arch as a threshold within store
• Diwa’ni store, New Delhi
Designed by: Studio Incept, New Delhi
The brand is about respect and appreciation for creativity, culture and heritage craftsmanship and each element pays homage to it. Each store of the brand designs space with Mughal and Persian influences and crafts from Sind, Multan and Amritsar and rooting on to its emergence from Lahore. It celebrates the nostalgia of ancient Punjab and Awadh region.
Styled in antiques, the interiors remind the users of the bygone memories. It celebrates and displays traditional crafts and techniques such as carving, gold leafing, stone inlay, etching, and incorporate antique precious and semiprecious components though its elements.
Traditional architectural elements rendered in traditional skills and forms create a space nostlagic of the architecture of the place. The walls with intricately carved motifs, the jaali and arches create a rich architectural fabric for the store.
Fig. 1.2.6. Image of jaali in brass finish Fig. 1.2.7. View of reception from entrance of the store with jaali backdrop Fig. 1.2.8. View of main display area
Fig. 1.2.9. Arched entrance marking threshold Fig. 1.2.10. Arched alcoves for display Fig. 1.2.11. Form of arch for mirror in bridal section
• Jade, Mumbai
Designed by Monica Shah
The space is designed along the lines of Jade’s identity of getting inspired by the rich Indian heritage and techniques of the past. The principle of juxtaposition is seen when the traditional intricate building elements are seen installed in the dark sparse space.
The idea was to see the elements as installations rather than as part of interiors giving a feel of walking in an art gallery. The intricately carved installed elements are in sync with the intricately embroidered couture collection of the label.
The traditional architectural element installations exhibiting traditional skills and forms creates nostalgia and narratives adding to the user experience. The metal jaali interpreting traditional jaali form and motifs, the columns and arches also create and compliment display.
Fig. 1.2.12. Arched alcoves for display
Fig. 1.2.14. Arched alcoves for display Fig. 1.2.13. Arched alcoves for display
Fig. 1.2.15. Arched alcoves for display
1. 3. Criteria for Selection of Elements
1.4. Role of selected elements 1.4. Role of selected elements in a traditional interior space
Fig. 1.4.1. Traditional paintings on lime Plastered wall
Fig. 1.4.2. Planar walls acting as surfaces for visual communication
1. 3. Criteria for Selection of Elements
Every element mentioned above has a specific function in space. However, the elements selected for the detailed study are identified based on the elements which provide a space the unique character of Rajasthan and have a strong influence on the resultant interior space. The elements chosen are also the ones which have been widely used in retail spaces to set the theme. The elements are walls, columns, arches and jaali.
Each traditional element has values of spatiality, aesthetics and socio-cultural significance associated with it which helps understand its role in a space. The selected elements are studied in terms of its spatial role, physical attributes defining its aesthetic role and its socio-cultural significance which helps in understanding their influence in a traditional space and impart it a character of the place.
These parameters will help in further understanding their adapted roles in a retail environment.
1.4.1. Wall
Wall being an important structural and space making element. It is a vertical plane, defining enclosure and demarcating space. (Pandya, 2007)
a. Aesthetical Role : The properties of stone allows it a longer time for heat transfer keeping the space cool as compared to brick. Also, the factor of availablity and abundance of the material in the region facilitates the use of stone for cheap and convenient construction in the region.
The openings in the wall for jharokha, niches, doors are a part of compositon of wall surface.
The stone wall in the region is generally finished in lime plaster to hold further ornamentation. The planarity of wall is seen as an opportunity to articulate the surface and acts as a visual communication tool enhancing the aesthetics of a space.
b. Spatial Role : Walls are vertical and planar and hence help in defining volumes in a space. Partition walls are used to define and separate spaces ensuring privacy to the users. Also, different wall thicknesses allow to create niches, shelves and alcoves which can be used to store or display different objects.
Fig. 1.4.5.a. Walls creating space enclosures Fig. 1.4.5.b. Walls acting as movement guide Fig. 1.4.5.c. Walls acting as space dividers
c. Social, Religious and Cultural Significance: Walls being planar, occupy most part of the cone of vision, acting as barriers and depicting messages at the same time (Pandya, 2007).
Fig. 1.4.3. Openings in wall for entry and niche for oil lamps
Fig. 1.4.4. Niche for storage in walls
Walls of any built form can hold cultural and religious symbols or motifs in form of paintings or engravings. The symbols provide identity and association to the built form. They personalize a space and at the same time depict a regional identity. Sometimes, the intricacies of the paintings and engravings act as a measure of prestige and economy of the owner.
Fig. 1.4.6a. Wall paintings in shekhawati havelis
Fig. 1.4.7. Traditional Gold plating work on the walls of Mehrangarh fort Fig. 1.4.6b. Wall paintings in shekhawati havelis
Fig. 1.4.8. Mud painting on the walls of traditional house forms in Kutch
Puna
Bagri
Naag
Fig. 1.4.9. Components of a cusped arch
1.4.3. Arches
An arch is a structural element used to span large areas and support the structure below it. It acts as an ornamentation in architectural openings also.
a. Aesthetical Role : Most prominent arches found in Rajasthan are the cusped arches. A cusped arch has three components as identified by the craftsmen of the region. They are: Naag (Lower portion), bagri (middle portion) and puna (top portion). The arcades created by arches along with the columns create rhythm in space. The arches integrated in the openings of doors and windows are seen as ornamentation and adds to the aesthetics of the opening.
Fig. 1.4.11b Carved motifs as ornamentation
Fig. 1.4.10. Arches creating rhythm in space and also the internal facade in courtyard Fig. 1.4.11a. Arches in the door openings as ornamentation
b. Spatial Role : The combination of arch over columns creates arcades. These arcades are commonly seen around courtyards of traditional house forms creating semi- open spaces with connect to the court.
Fig. 1.4.12. Arches creating the internal facade in the courtyard Fig. 1.4.13. Arches creating semi- open spaces and guides the movement Fig. 1.4.14. Arches acting as thresholds in this case as semi- open space
c. Social, Religious and Cultural Significance: Arches were introduced to traditional Rajasthani architecture through Mughals. Like columns, arches also are highly ornamented with cultural and religious motifs painted and carved.
Fig. 1.4.15. Arched Doors in Jaipur city palace in exhibiting traditional craftsmanship and cultural value of the region Fig. 1.4.16. Sandstone arches with intricately carved motifs
1.4.2. Columns
A column is a tall vertical support element which transfers load from top to bottom axially. a. Aesthetical Role : Stone being the primary material in the region is used to carve columns. Different types of stone available in the region are limestone, marble, sandstone and quartzite. The structure of column is usually divided in five parts: talhata (plinth stone), kumbhi (base), stambha (shaft), thali-tekli (moulding) and sira (capital).
The column grants visual extension to a space by supporting the beams and arches on which the upper slab rests. The linear repetation of columns in a space creates rhythm, directs movement and allows visual transparency and connection to spaces.
Fig. 1.4.17. Rhythmic and symmetric facade Fig. 1.4.18. Components of a column
b. Spatial Role : Columns repeated in a space creates an imaginary plane which defines volume and creates a sense of semi-enclosed space. When placed around courtyard in traditional built form it acts as a transition from public to semi-public areas of the built form.
Fig. 1.4.19. Semi-open spaces acting as thresholds Fig. 1.4.20 Column help in creating semi-open space Fig. 1.4.21 Column help in defining circulation path
c. Social, Religious and Cultural Significance: The carvings on columns hold religious and cultural meanings. It holds figures of gods and goddesses and cultural motifs.
Fig. 1.4.22. Traditional Paintings on the columns in the havelis of Shekhawati Fig. 1.4.23.a,b Intricately carved religious figures on columns in Ranakpur temple
Fig. 1.4.24. Columns embellished in traditional gold painting in Mehrangarh Fort
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