Beyond dimensions - design transgressions by varadraj borde
Beyond Dimensions
Spaces, Ideas, and Systems
Design transgressions by Varadraj V. Borde, 2018–2024
The pencil moved, unthinking yet deliberate, across the page, weaving the moments of a world both solid and shifting. Shadows stretched, leaves fluttered, walls whispered—each a thread in the tapestry of dime nsions unseen. To design, I learned, was to translate this flux into form, to let spaces breathe with the pulse of history and the rhythm of nature.
I began to understand that I was neither my body nor even my soul, but an essence entwined with the spaces I shaped.
“Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma” - Chandrayog Upanishad.
and hence, started the journey of traversing, Beyond dimensions.
Design + Pilgrimage
Design + Perception
Design + community
Design + Speculation
Design + Metaphor
DIMENSIONS
Efforts have been made to tailor this portfolio according to university specifications, offering a concise overview. For a more comprehensive look at all the projects, please visit my personal website. https://www.varadrajborde.com/
Atmanirbhar Bharat Indepth
TRACING THE PILGRIM PATH
The motive of Parody.
PROJECT TYPOLOGY Architectural design dissertation and design thesis.
SITE Velapur, Solapur, MH.
MENTORED BY Mr. Mustansir Dalvi.
COLLABORATION Industrial design center, IIT Bombay.
INSTITUTION Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai.
In the twilight where the tangible meets the ethereal lies the heart of this thesis, an extension of the design research at Sir JJ College of Achitecture.
The Warkari pilgrims, in their spiritual odyssey, trace paths that blend the transient Wari procession with the enduring urban landscapes, particularly Velapur.
Velapur stands as a microcosm of the towns along the Wari path, facing the same challenges of balancing the ephemeral and the permanent. This thesis transforms research insights into innovative design solutions, advocating for culturally sensitive, socially just, and financially sustainable infrastructure with technological integration. These integrated systems explore the dynamism of built spaces, making them adapt to situations and behave almost like an organism. Each town shares a common refrain—a need for integration that honors both the temporal and the enduring.
Through this exploration, we provoke deeper design thinking, creating spaces that uplift and resonate with the spiritual and cultural essence of the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage. And so, the journey begins—crafting a narrative that is both a professional endeavor and a poetic homage to a tradition that transcends time.
INTRODUCTION
The Warkari tradition, where 7,00,000 devotees walk to Pandharpur, celebrates equality and draws Divinity into the hearts of followers (Bhandare, n.d., 20). The procession, originating from Dehu and Alandi, covers 250 km, passing through towns with an 800-year-old connection to the Wari. These towns face infrastructure challenges despite their cultural significance. SITE SELECTION
CHAPTER 1 | SITE
1. Velapur encapsulates socio-economic and cultural dynamics.
2. Diverse needs: social, economic uplift ment, and tourism growth.
3. Deep connections with Ashadhiwadi and related challenges.
4. Rich cultural heritage as a tourism opportunity.
5. Infrastructural requirements blend per manence and temporality.
6. Ideal for holistic, sustainable design approaches.
Serves as a microcosm, providing a representative context for all towns/urban settlements along the Wari route.
The figure below illustrates the path of the Pandharpur Wari pilgrims. It represents my research and analysis during the design dissertation, mapping key locations, moon phases (crucial for spiritual alignment), historical Yadava-period structures, and an approximate count of participants in the procession.
Velapur functions as a microcosm of the towns along the Wari pilgrimage route, sharing similar traits such as deeply rooted cultural practices, vibrant community gatherings, reliance on shared public spaces, and an intricate relationship between architecture and spirituality.
The flowchart below outlines the topic-wise exploration undertaken during the on-site design dissertation of 2022. This research engagement involved an in-depth analysis of the town’s social, cultural, and spatial dynamics, leading to the identification of key pain points. These challenges were addressed through carefully crafted design interventions aimed at enhancing functionality, preserving heritage, and fostering community well-being.
Fig.1.1.-Image shows the Pilgrims Dancing onto the folklore of the Wari. Fig.1.2.-Image shows the Pilgrims On the way towards Pandharpur.
LEGEND -
1. The plinth - multiple usecases
2. Nagar panchayat office and empowerment office. - integrated with the open floor plate for movable walls
3.Urban interventions
4. Central chowk
5. Kho-kho / kabbadi grounds
6. Bus stop - urban intervention
7.Ardhanarinateshwar temple, temple trust building and connection to the musuem.
8. Proposed Velapur museum.
9.Representation of a digitally interconnected Pandharpur wari.
Fig.1.3.-Image shows the implementation strategy of the deciphered design
STRATEGY AND DETAIL
INTERVENTIONS
DESIGN PROCESS
Based on site-specific data, analysis, and simulations, the following sketches and drawings showcase design experiments for various annual scenarios, such as: 1. Velapur plinth conditions during the annual sports festival, 2. Conditions during the Wari procession, and more.
The v-frame with a scissor joint Is designed to be adaptable to multiple scenarios, Specifically in this particular context.
The skeleton of the frame take multiple forms when it adapts to Diffrent activities.
1.The compressed frameWhen not in any use, the Frame can compress significantly from 4.2 m wide to just 0.5 m.
1.CANVAS TARPAULIN
2.12 MM MS ROD AS A BEAM
3.20 X 40 BOX SECTION FOR HALF SCISSOR MECHANISM
4.CANVAS TARPAULIN WITH SEMI- STATIC ROPE WITH A POLYESTER SHEATH.
5.12 MM ROD FITTED WITH BOX SECTION 6.DISMANTABLE IRON LADDER
7.20 X 40 BOX SECTION FOR PRIMARY SCISSOR MECHANISM
3. Complete frame- The frame is suitable for sleeping on On two different levels with the provision Of dismountable ladder and steel rod.
2.The shelter - When the central steel rod and the tarpolin Sheet is removed, the frame becomes an excellent shelter And can accomodate the weekly market, Sports events and really any type of gathering
MOVABLE WALL SYSTEM
The diagram below illustrates the various configurations of the movable, modular wall system, which adapts to multiple functions. It can transform into a bench, creating a vibrant social space for seating; an extended platform for market vendors to display their produce, with additional storage underneath; or a low-lying platform for the Wari procession, offering suitable sleeping and resting spaces.
SCISSOR FRAME IN ITS COMPLETE FORM. (for Wari accomodation) MECHANISM
RCC SLAB
BOX SECTIONS AND CHANNELS FOR MOVABLE WALLS
POSSIBLE ARRANGEMENT OF THE MOVABLE WALLS
DIVISION OF SPACES ACCORDING TO USER NEEDS
BUILDING AS AN ORGANISM
The integration of ephemeral components, as outlined earlier, plays a pivotal role in creating spatial and physical setups that are not only economical but also versatile and user-friendly across various use cases. This computational exploration leverages PEDSEM-based Grasshopper simulations to analyze and optimize spatial configurations. By defining critical parameters—such as entry and exit points, attractions, and deflection zones—the system efficiently determines the optimal positions for movable walls. This approach mechanizes spatial adaptability, transforming the built environment into a dynamic, responsive entity that behaves almost like a living organism, adapting seamlessly to changing scenarios.
SIMULATION AND OPTIMISATION
DEFINING PARAMETERSFollowing is the example of the imlementation of the pedsem simulation with the key deciding parameters being -
3. Person templates (User personas)
4. Density of people.
5. Attraction points (Targets)
6. Attraction probability, etc.
Scenario 01 - The market - The dataset points—attraction, entry, and exit—have been strategically defined based on observed movement patterns. By combining this simulation data with computational optimization, the system generates an efficient wall placement strategy that prioritizes usability while also ensuring adaptability for future scenarios. Leveraging machine learning algorithms, the solution enables automated simulations, seamlessly bridging digital and physical environments to create a responsive and future-ready spatial configuration.
Scenario 02 - The Panchayat meeting
Pedsem Simulation for scenario 01
Pedsem Simulation for scenario 01
import numpy as np from sklearn.cluster import KMeans import matplotlib.pyplot as plt import json
Define grid and simulation parameters
GRID_SIZE = 4 # 4m x 4m grid
NUM_GRIDS = 16 # Total number of grids in a square format (4x4)
Map void centers to the nearest grid positions void_centers_mapped = [(round(x / GRID_SIZE) * GRID_SIZE, round(y / GRID_SIZE) * GRID_SIZE) for x, y in void_centers]
Step 4: Optimize movable wall placement def arrange_walls(void_centers): wall_positions = [] for center in void_centers:
x, y = center
# Arrange walls forming a square around the void center wall_positions.append((x - 1, y - 1)) # Bottom-left wall_positions.append((x + 1, y - 1)) # Bottom-right wall_positions.append((x - 1, y + 1)) # Top-left wall_positions.append((x + 1, y + 1)) # Top-right return wall_positions
plt.title(“Pedestrian Simulation with Movable Walls”) plt.show()
Step 6: Prepare data for ML model data = { “entry_points”: entry_points, “exit_points”: exit_points, “obstructions”: obstructions, “attraction_points”: attraction_points, “deflection_points”: deflection_points, “void_centers”: void_centers_mapped, “wall_positions”: wall_positions
}
Save the dataset for ML training with open(“pedestrian_simulation_ml_data.json”, “w”) as f: json.dump(data, f)
print(“Data saved for ML training.”)
Step 7: Integration with ML Model (Reinforcement Learning Framework)
def train_ml_model(data): print(“Training ML model...”)
Placeholder for RL logic: e.g., Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) or Q-learning
The automation process is driven by Python code that analyzes simulations and identifies voids in circulation density. These identified voids serve as the basis for determining the most efficient placement of movable wall systems, ensuring functionality aligns with the simulation data. The accompanying flowchart illustrates how repeated datasets are fed into a machine learning model, enabling it to learn from multiple scenario sets and optimize wall placements dynamically through reinforcement-based adjustments.
FUTURE APPLICATIONS
Real-Time Adaptive Layouts : ML can predict and adapt spaces dynamically based on changing user behaviors or environmental conditions, such as crowd density, lighting, or weather. Movable Architecture at scale : Optimize the placement and reconfiguration of movable walls or furniture based on user needs or traffic patterns.
Fig.1.4.-Image shows the implementation strategy of the deciphered design
Steel box hanging section for structural support
image below shows the ground floor plan for the weekly market/Wari residential setup, outlining the design strategy.
image below shows the ground floor plan for when everything is wrapped up on a regular day.
Aluminum section with rollers for sliding along the rail channel
Frosted Plexiglass
Density: 1.2 g/cm³
Size: 2500mm x 1250mm (Max)
Thickness: 25mm
Multi-angle hinge locking system for securing boards at various angles.
Product specs:
Locks angles from 0° to 180° in 10° increments M5 screw used
Roller set integrated for smooth sliding of the wall on the floor.
Fig.1.5.-The
Fig.1.6.-The
What if the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage could transcend its physical boundaries, becoming a profound union of ancient wisdom and futuristic innovation?
This speculative vision, set in 2035, contemplates the seamless integration of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI), AI-powered Large Language Models (LLMs), and Quantum Computing to reimagine the pilgrimage as a deeply immersive and transformative spiritual journey.
At its heart lies the fusion of the timeless and the contemporary. By mapping a pilgrim’s emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, advanced algorithms craft narratives that evolve in harmony with their inner state. Each step becomes a moment of heightened emotion and connection, drawing from the historical and Vedic significance of the sacred sites along the way. This reimagining prompts deeper reflection.
Can technology, often seen as the domain of the tangible, elevate the ineffable? Can the tools of computation become instruments of empathy and transcendence?
These are the questions I try to answer.
By weaving together ancient truths and future possibilities, this vision redefines spirituality, suggesting that the sacred and the technological are not opposing forces but intertwined paths toward a greater understanding of our humanity.
THE FLOW
STEP 01
STEP 02
Awakening the Alter Ego Immersive Metamorphosis
“In the depths of memory, a mirror is forged”
The journey begins with a comprehensive pre-journey assessment. Using AI-driven LLMs and quantum computing, the pilgrim’s memories, emotions, and significant life events are analyzed.
Outcome: Creation of the “Alter Ego,” a digital manifestation of the pilgrim’s inner self, serving as the protagonist for the pilgrimage in the form of the mixed reality environment on the route of the pilgrimage.
“Through the veil of reality, the soul takes flight”
As the pilgrimage progresses, the pilgrim experiences mixed-reality environments generated by Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). These environments adapt dynamically, blending real-world locations, spiritual landmarks, and astronomical data into a personalized narrative.
Outcome: A surreal, third-person perspective of the pilgrim’s life, enriched by metaphorical storytelling and cultural symbols.
PHASE 01
” (Ātmanam viddhi) – “Know thyself.”
Initial connection to divine energy; emotional response: awe, humility, and curiosity.
Temple courtyard transforms into a flowing luminous field of verses from the Dnyaneshwari, guiding Aarav’s actions and thoughts.
Sant Dnyaneshwar’s samadhi represents a journey’s initiation into spiritual growth.
(Yajño vai Viṣṇuḥ) – “Sacrifice is indeed Vishnu.”
Emotional purification through devotional music; response: introspection and calm.
Environment materializes as a pulsating wave of abhang lyrics that light up paths and dissolve doubts in Aarav’s mind.
Sant Tukaram’s teachings symbolize surrender and devotion to Vitthal.
STEP 03
Ascension to Self-Realization
“Under the cosmic canopy, transcendence blooms”
At the journey’s culmination, the Alter Ego dissolves into the pilgrim’s consciousness, symbolizing unity and enlightenment. The experience culminates in heightened emotional and spiritual awareness, with the pilgrim attaining profound self-reflection and growth.
(Tyāgenaike amṛtatvam ānaśuḥ) – “Through renunciation, some have attained immortality.”
Symbolic of detachment; response: emotional release and resolve.
Urban landscape dissolves into glowing minimalistic elements; bustling noise replaced by rhythmic chants of Ganpati hymns.
Transition from worldly ties to spiritual discipline; urban backdrop fades.
(Ahaṁ Brahmāsmi) –“I am Brahman.”
Cathartic realization of cycles of life; response: reverence and determination.
Temple sculptures animate into glowing figures performing a cosmic dance of creation and destruction, surrounding Aarav.
Connection to Bhuleshwar Temple, a symbol of transformation and devotion.
PHASE
Waxing Crescent First Quarter Moon
Waxing Crescent
Waxing Crescent
Dnyaneshwar Temple Sant Tukaram Mandir
Kasba Ganpati
Bhuleshwar Temple
Scenario 1: Alandi ghats are enhanced with mixed reality overlays, creating a personalized spiritual narrative for each user.
Scenario 2: A mystical Chandrabhaga riverbank where the river dissolves into light, merging the cosmic and spiritual.
02
Defining User Persona (Hypothetical)Aarav Joshi (Age: 29, IT Professional)
(Karmaṇy-eva-adhikāras-te mā phaleṣhu kadācana) – “You have the right to work, but not to the fruits thereof.”
(Saṅgacchadhvaṁ saṁvadadhvaṁ saṁ vo manāṁsi jānatām) – “Walk together, talk together, let your minds be united.”
(Mṛtyor-māmṛtaṁ gamaya) – “From death, lead me to immortality.”
(Dhairyaṁ sarvatra sādhanam) –“Patience is the means to everything.”
Embracing inner strength; response: empowerment and focus.
Environment becomes an arena where Aarav “defeats” shadowy manifestations of his fears using metaphoric weapons.
Quiet growth and self-confidence; response: tranquility and grounding.
Fields transform into golden glowing stalks, bending toward Aarav to offer their fruits, symbolizing the rewards of resilience.
Temple Ancient Yadava-period
temple signifies victory over personal demons.
Symbolizes cultivation and spiritual nourishment through simplicity.
Sense of community and shared spiritual energy; response: belonging and joy.
Environment creates spectral projections of Wari participants, each contributing chants that weave into a protective glowing canopy.
A reminder of community strength and collective energy during Wari gatherings.
Symbolic of moksha; emotional response: catharsis and transcendence.
The river transforms into flowing light that envelops Aarav, dissolving all boundaries between the self and the universe.
Final cleansing ritual, dissolving ego, and attaining self-realization.
PHASE 03
Waxing Crescent Waxing Crescent
Waxing Crescent
Full Moon
Khandoba
Khandoba
Wari Bhavan Chandrabhaga River
The Nagar Panchayat office and empowerment center is a design proposal for Velapur as it transitions from a gram panchayat to a Nagar Panchayat. The design draws inspiration from the central courtyard style approach of hemadpanthi architecture during the Yadava period, but updated for the contemporary era. Sustainability is emphasized through the use of passive techniques such as a kinetic facade and proper wind circulation, rather than air conditioning. The center for empowerment serves the community by providing opportunities for education and entrepreneurship to marginalized groups and minorities.
CEILING PLAN FOR
OFFICE The plan above shows all the movable walls stacked inside the storage unit on the floor plate. This essentially frees up the entire floor plate, allowing for the flow of people in situations like mass gatherings and wari.
1.Parking
2.Front garden
3.Entrance space and space for community
4.storage/chappal stand
5.public toilet
6.Ardhanarinateshwar Temple
7.Entrance to the Scultpure museum
8.Introductory gallery
This interconnected design provides a synchronized circulation
9.Orientation gallery
10. Terrace gallery
11.Bus stop
12.Temple council office
13.Access bridge between Temple orientation center and sculpture museum
14.Sculpture museum
15.A/V Room
16.Terrace
17.The museum shop
The plan show the sculpture museum designed as an alternative to the already dilapitated museum along with an orientation center for the Ardhanarinateshwar temple for promotion of socio-economic activities in the town.
The View shows the external brick based facade of the Sculpture museum built as a replacement of the old dilapitated museum handled by the department of acheology.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF PSCYCOLOGY AND ART
An Inquiry into Perception and Expression.
Architectural Design SEM 6
PROJECT TYPOLOGY Experimental Museum Design SITE Kharghar hills, Navi Mumbai.
MENTORED BY Ms. Kalyani Mokasdar.
INSTITUTION Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai.
The design stands as a national symbol on the global stage, embodying a contemporary fusion of art, science, and psychology. It challenges us to rethink the intricate relationship between human behavior and complex evolutionary psychology, ultimately expressing this connection through the abstraction of art.
Psychology and Art
Both psychology and art are pivotal in understanding how the human mind evolves in perceiving information over time. This evolution shapes simultaneous psychological and artistic responses, which are deeply interconnected.
Through this design, an effort has been made to explore and express the profound connection between these disciplines, using architecture as the medium to bridge and justify their intricate interplay.
INTRODUCTION
Evolutionary psychology is a theoretical approach to psychology that attempts to explain useful mental and psychological traits—such as
MEMORY PERCEPTION
LANGUAGE
BEHAVIOUR
THOUGHT
FEELING as adaptations, i.e., as the functional products of natural selection.
GALLERY OF THOUGHT
EXIT GALLERY
-gallery of legends -merchendise -storage areas -service entry
-gallery of thought -the cove of self discovery -foodcourt
USING THE ABOVE GIVEN TRAITS,AN EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE,BY DESIGNING MUSEUM GALLERIES
RELEVANT TO THE GIVEN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR.
each gallery addresses a specific trait by-
1.ARCHITECTURAL EXPERIENCE.
2.ARTPIECES/EXHIBITS.
3.USER ACTIVITIES
GALLERY OF FEELINGS
-gallery of shadows -gallery of light -gallery of hope -gallery of colours
GALLERY OF PERCEPTION
-gallery of form perception
-gallery of visual perception
-gallery of audio perception -gallery of kinetic perception
INTRODUCTION
BUILDING
-orientation area
-waiting space -admins office
ENTRANCE COUNTER AND CONNECTING BRIDGE
-ticket counter
-baggage counter
-souvenier
-waiting area
examples of museum exhibits, i.e. art pieces which have relevant connection to pscychology , mainly challenging its traits,like memory,perception,etc.
THE INTRODUCTORY SPACE
The introductory space is designed for orienting visitors to the museum and its galleries, emphasizing the mutual connection between psychology and art. This area features screens, panels, and artworks to aid in the orientation process. Additionally, it includes provisions for restrooms, waiting areas, and a manager’s cabin.
GROUP GATHERING AREA
AREA FOR ORIENTATION
AREA PLAN
WAITING AREA
USER CIRCULATION
Visual illusion artwork
ROOF
The overall planning of the gallery makes the user experience different types of perceptive illusions guiding through different galleries for perception which include-
1.visual perception
2.form perception
3.audio perception
4.gallery of touch
5.gallery of motion\kinetic perception
GALLERY OF PERCEPTION PLAN
THE GALLERY OF FEELINGS
Once a spectator enters this gallery,he is subject to constant emotional experiences,coming from the wide halls of gallery of perception,this gallery starts by the intimidating,dominating pathway,followed by the galllery of shadows,light,hope,and colour,with justification of the connection of each trait to human pscychology.
PLAN AT 22500mm (gallery of shadow,light,hope)
PLAN AT 25500mm
SECTION BB’
SECTION AA’
THE GALLERY OF THOUGHTS
This gallery has been designed to initiate the spectator’s thought.
Using artwork as well as the gallery itself,the undulating roofing system represents the up-and-downs of our thought process,the subsequent interesting spaces formed inside are thought provoking,along with the gallery of discovery, one may for sure open the doors of self discovery and spirituality.
The gallery’s roofing system serves as an architectural metaphor for the perpetual flux of human thought
Winning entry, Faculty medal 2020.
PROJECT TYPOLOGY Mass residential - orphanage SITE Open plot near M.G.M, Aurangabad.
MENTORED BY Individual project.
INSTITUTION Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai.
This project is the proud recipient of the Faculty Medal, awarded as part of a prestigious legacy competition that has been held for the past 150 years at the institution. The competition brief called for a design to serve as an SOS village for children orphaned by the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary users include 50 children, along with their SOS mothers and aunts (2 per group of 16).
01 - The central courtyard is designed with residential quarters surrounding a children’s play area, serving as the focal point for all circulation patterns on the site. Different levels within the courtyard create distinct social spaces, accommodating various activities and fostering community interaction.
DORM ROOMSEach dorm room has an accommodation for 4 childrenwith shared BUNK BEDS creating the capacity of each house around 16.2 dorm rooms share a common study space.the rooms open up to the courtyards shared among each other.
DORM ROOMSEach dorm room has an accommodation for 4 childrenwith shared BUNK BEDS creating the capacity of each house around 16.2 dorm rooms share a common study space.the rooms open up to the courtyards shared among each other.
DORM ROOMSEach dorm room has an accommodation for 4 childrenwith shared BUNK BEDS creating the capacity of each house around 16.2 dorm rooms share a common study space.the rooms open up to the courtyards shared among each other.
DORM ROOMSEach dorm room has an accommodation for 4 childrenwith shared BUNK BEDS creating the capacity of each house around 16.2 dorm rooms share a common study space.the rooms open up to the courtyards shared among each other.
OPEN COURTYARDS WITH THE ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THE FAMILIESTHE TREES CREATE A VARIED SPACE SHARED BY TWO DORM ROOMS CREATING A SCOPE FOR INTERACTION AND GROWTH.
OPEN COURTYARDS WITH THE ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THE FAMILIESTHE TREES CREATE A VARIED SPACE SHARED BY TWO DORM ROOMS CREATING A SCOPE FOR INTERACTION AND GROWTH.
OPEN COURTYARDS WITH THE ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THE FAMILIESTHE TREES CREATE A VARIED SPACE SHARED BY TWO DORM ROOMS CREATING A SCOPE FOR INTERACTION AND GROWTH.
OPEN COURTYARDS WITH THE ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THE FAMILIESTHE TREES CREATE A VARIED SPACE SHARED BY TWO DORM ROOMS CREATING A SCOPE FOR INTERACTION AND GROWTH.
DORM ROOMSEach dorm room has an accommodation for 4 childrenwith shared BUNK BEDS creating the capacity of each house around 16.2 dorm rooms share a common study space.the rooms open up to the courtyards shared among each other. OPEN COURTYARDS WITH THE ELDERLY MEMBERS OF THE FAMILIESTHE TREES CREATE A VARIED SPACE SHARED BY TWO DORM ROOMS CREATING A SCOPE FOR INTERACTION AND GROWTH.
ENTRANCE LEADS TO THE COMMON LIVING SPACES ALONG WITH A SERIES OF COURTYARD CLUSTERS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS .the open kitchen creates an interesting space for the children to indulge in cooking their meals along with their mother. Dining spaces are spread around near the courtyards as an open layout. ROOM FOR S.O.S MOTHERTHE SOS MOTHER CAN SLEEP ALONG WITH BABES OR SMALL KIDS WHO NEED SPECIAL CARE
ENTRANCE LEADS TO THE COMMON LIVING SPACES ALONG WITH A SERIES OF COURTYARD CLUSTERS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS .the open kitchen creates an interesting space for the children to indulge in cooking their meals along with their mother. Dining spaces are spread around near the courtyards as an open layout. ROOM FOR S.O.S MOTHERTHE SOS MOTHER CAN SLEEP ALONG WITH BABES OR SMALL KIDS WHO NEED SPECIAL CARE
ROOM FOR S.O.S MOTHERTHE SOS MOTHER CAN SLEEP ALONG WITH BABES OR SMALL KIDS WHO NEED SPECIAL CARE
ENTRANCE LEADS TO THE COMMON LIVING SPACES ALONG WITH A SERIES OF COURTYARD CLUSTERS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS .the open kitchen creates an interesting space for the children to indulge in cooking their meals along with their mother. Dining spaces are spread around near the courtyards as an open layout. ROOM FOR S.O.S MOTHERTHE SOS MOTHER CAN SLEEP ALONG WITH BABES OR SMALL KIDS WHO NEED SPECIAL CARE
ROOM FOR S.O.S MOTHERTHE SOS MOTHER CAN SLEEP ALONG WITH OR SMALL KIDS WHO NEED SPECIAL CARE
ENTRANCE LEADS TO THE COMMON LIVING SPACES ALONG WITH A SERIES OF COURTYARD CLUSTERS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS .the open kitchen creates an interesting space for the children to indulge in cooking their meals along with their mother. Dining spaces are spread around near the courtyards as an open layout.
ENTRANCE LEADS TO THE COMMON LIVING SPACES ALONG WITH A SERIES OF COURTYARD CLUSTERS THAT CAN BE UTILIZED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS .the open kitchen creates an interesting space for the children to indulge in cooking their meals along with their mother. Dining spaces are spread around near the courtyards as an open layout.
Fig.
Fig. 02 - Entrance for the common living space
Fig. 03 - Internal Courtyard wth
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUE
Rammed earth construction featuring a load-bearing structure and prefabricated slabThe constructions surrounding the site create a lot of waste soil which qualifies for rammed earth construction which is very cheap, functional, and ideal for the context.
1. A blend f A-class bricks creates an ideal juxtaposition which contributes to the overall aesthetic. 2. The abundance of suitable materials create a scope for very cost-effective and sustainable development.
The construction of the entire housing units incorporates a combination of rammed earth and A-class bricks, supported by a load-bearing structure. This approach ensures the design is both sustainable and cost-effective.
Fig. 05 -
THE LABYRINTH OF DISCENRMENT
The Siloli Quest.
Individual speculation.
PROJECT TYPOLOGY Spiritual experience center. SITE Siloli desert, Bolivia. MENTORED BY Individual project. INSTITUTION Zero Degree design labs.
“Design in Flux: Embracing Change with Purpose”
This project reimagines a space as an experiential extension of the Auroville city near Pondicherry, India, set in the Siloli Desert of Bolivia. It explores the integration of future technologies—such as extended reality, Neuralink, and BCI—to create a dynamic environment where the digital and physical worlds converge for spiritual enlightenment. The design is guided by the principle of discernment, ensuring that technological change promotes growth, balance, and fulfillment.
Fig. 01 - The Experiential center in the middle of the siloli desert
Fig. 03 - The Interior converts itself into an extended reality platform to extrapulate the spiritual experience of self through the help of BCI and Neura Link
Fig. 02 - Outdoor Dinning and Viewing area
COA - Center of excellence
The caves that hold, terraces that recieve.
PROJECT TYPOLOGY Institutional center of excellence for council of Architecture, India. SITE Bangalore University, Bangalore.
MENTORED BY Ar. Sandip Jain.
COLLABORATION Shahal, Maneesha, Navin.
INSTITUTION Architecture Paradigm, Bangalore.
During my professional internship, I led a team of five in a project focused on creating a balanced and participative environment. The design aimed to seamlessly integrate built and unbuilt spaces, promoting sustainability and a strong sense of place. The planning process prioritized providing users—students, tutors, staff, and visitors—with both private spaces and communal areas for learning, work, play, and contemplation. I was responsible for defining the area statement, conceptual planning, and coordinating the team to deliver the final submission for the competition.
“As the city streets lead up and saunter through the built The flaneur marks his journey In the Labyrinth of place
The space offers for him to take He becomes the space and space him”.
As a place that seeks to engage in promoting excellence in the design of a built environment,the planning intent revolves around the idea of balance and a participative Atmosphere, where the built and the unbuilt come together to create a mutually sustainable environment , in the process bringing about a sense of place.
It is also driven by the understanding that students ,tutors, administrators, staff and the people who come here to learn, teach, work and also reside, need to have place of their own while sharing in communal activity.
This becomes the generator of the master plan and also the internal organizer of the building. From the users perspective a place where they are free to roam, meet others like themselves. and discover spaces suitable for learning, work, play and contemplation.
The design intent was to engage with these conditions and create a place that compliments the landscape in turn connecting to environs of the campus.
Owing to the fact that the buildable the area without trees is towards the center of the land parcel and constitutes a small footprint in relation to the otherwise large but un available land. Considering this aspect and the volume required to house the varied nature of the program lent to the initial idea of a dense labyrinth.The sloping terrain presents us with the opportunity burrow partially into this landscape. This led to The idea of a cavernous space housing the variety of spaces required for the diverse set of activities. The unifying nature of this idea bringing together the variety posits a participative and a multidisciplinary environment crucial to the premise of center for excellence.
Fig. 02- Master Plan
Fig. 08- Building Front Elevtation
Fig. 09- Section AA’
Fig. 10- Section BB’
ATMANIRBHAR BHARAT PROJECT -
Ministry of Panchayat Raj, Government of India.
Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by the Ministry of Panchayat Raj, New Delhi, I contributed to creating a Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan (GPSDP) through GIS-based spatial analysis, participatory planning workshops, and phased development strategies. Leveraging satellite data and geospatial tools, I identified land use patterns and infrastructure gaps, while socio-economic surveys and environmental assessments guided sustainable solutions. The project addressed challenges like reverse migration, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation by proposing resilient rural development models that integrated agro-industries, resource management, and community capacity-building. Recognized for its innovative approach, the plan set a benchmark for self-reliant, sustainable rural growth hubs.
In-depth is a dynamic convergence of architects, artists, researchers and writers committed to redefining the discourse of Art, Architecture and Design. We stand as a platform for intellectual exchange, where ideas are not merely debated but tested against the realities of the field.
Through podcasts, blogs and worskhops, we engage in discussions that sear the practicalities of design and space-making. Our intention is to consolidate the interdisciplinary knowledge encountered along the way into our studio, 0° Design Labs.
In a discipline as vast and complex as Architecture, we refuse to pedestalize the familiar or romanticize the past. Instead, we embrace an ‘investigative curiosity, challenging preconceived ideas and embracing the unknown.
As an architect, I have been actively involved in a diverse range of real-world projects. The following set of images highlights my on-site involvement in both under-construction and completed works, drawn from my professional practice, freelance engagements, and internships.
TRIL - Large scale commercial project Gurgaon.
KAKDE HOUSE - Row house redevelopment project. Aurangabad.
Individual project.
Morphogenesis , Mumbai.
YASHWATIKALarge scale villa development project. Ballari.
Architecture Paradigm, Bangalore.
I am an artist deeply passionate about handmade architectural illustrations, a craft I have nurtured since I was 5 years old. My portfolio, which now includes over 300 pieces, reflects a journey of creativity and dedication that I aim to carry forward as my utmost priority.
My work spans a vast spectrum, encompassing bird’s-eye views of urban developments, intricate maps, and imaginative depictions of cities, countries, and entire worlds. It also includes perspective drawings that bring architectural visions to life.
The diverse and unconventional dimensions of my artwork allow me to explore a wide range of themes, from solving small design challenges like crafting the perfect doorknob to envisioning galaxies. This breadth of exploration has been the driving force behind my artistic expression and continues to fuel my creativity.
Image 01. In 2015, I showcased over 250 of my sketches in a local school exhibition.
Image 02. The ability to envision and bring it to life on the canvas was recognized and appreciated by the local news outlet, Divya Marathi.
Image 03. A Cosmic Outskirt, 2020: A Conceptual Outline of a Type-II Civilization - A Portrayal of the Inherent Human Dichotomy, depicted through built spaces.
Image 04. 15-Minute City, 2014, (Age 13): An imaginative exploration of a self-sufficient city utilizing renewable energy, with all essential needs accessible within a 15-minute radius.
Image 05. Suvarnabhumi, 2017 (Age 16): An imaginary city featuring sector-wise divisions, a central business district (CBD), transit-oriented development, diverse geography, and various industries.
Image 07. Urban Density; 2012 (Age 11) Imaginative effort to create a dense urban bird’s eye view.
Image 08. Stepped city, 2010 (Age 09).
Image 06. ZALTA PHATA, 2018 (Age 18)
Envisioning a city intersection with integrated transit systems, transit hubs connecting central business districts (CBDs) and the airport, and tech-based industries on the horizon.
Efforts have been made to tailor this portfolio according to university specifications, offering a concise overview. For a more comprehensive look at all the projects, please visit my personal website.