[Re] – Factory : An Alternative to Sweatshops in Fast Fashion | Architecture Thesis

Excerpt:  ‘[Re]- Factory : An Alternative to Sweatshops in Fast Fashion’ is an architecture thesis by Tvisha Ranpuria from the Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute of Architecture and Environmental Studies (KRVIA) that seeks to develop a factory module that improves working conditions and provides a holistic environment for workers. The project emphasises the need to create a microclimate inside factory spaces to allow for light, ventilation, lower temperatures, and lower noise emissions in Bhiwandi’s hot and humid climate and aims to design spaces for maximum human comfort.

Introduction: Fast fashion refers to the extremely large-scale mass production of inexpensive, disposable clothing of low quality. Overproduction and overconsumption have resulted from an industry-wide movement sparked by these cheaply made, supposedly “trendy” pieces. This leads to negative environmental effects, a rise in waste production, and social repercussions for labourers and garment workers. The working conditions faced by garment workers are exploitative, unhygienic, and unethical. These include hot weather, excessive noise, inadequate lighting and ventilation, and unhygienic conditions.  

The project is located in Bhiwandi, which is home to one of India’s biggest textile industries. The objective is to develop a “RE-FACTORY” module for the fast fashion industry by reconsidering the layout of factories, also known as “sweatshops.” The primary goal is to develop an implementable factory module that, by offering spill-over interactive spaces, not only improves working conditions but also gives workers a holistic environment for learning and interaction.

The project emphasises the need to create a microclimate inside factory spaces to allow for light, ventilation, lower temperatures, and lower noise emissions in Bhiwandi’s hot and humid climate. It also aims to design spaces for maximum human comfort. Lastly, the project mandates a need for a waste recycling facility for textile industries, which has large environmental implications. It addresses various methods of closing the loop and repairing recycling, or upcycling fabric waste to include it in the circular economy.