Re-incarnation of ruins, Mukesh Mills, Mumbai | Architecture Thesis on Adaptive Reuse

Site Context

The design project focuses on Mukesh Mills in Mumbai, an abandoned and dilapidated building in poor physical condition. The mills, which are essentially industrial remains from Mumbai’s colonial past, have either been abandoned or are being replaced by skyscrapers or commercial structures.

Design Process

Through analysis, it was discovered that some of the Mukesh Mills units have deteriorated roofs and facades, which could either be reconstructed or left in place. The interiors of the units have large volumes and plenty of light is let in by the deteriorated walls. Fashion and art are the primary subjects of the commercialization that runs along the waterfront from the Taj Hotel. The neighbourhood could be thought of as a centre for fashion, art, and culture.

The majority of the structures are reusable and in good physical condition. The buildings being demolished are sheds that were built recently for security and watchmen. To make room for a central courtyard featuring a chimney, the smaller portion of block B is demolished.

The program proposed is NIFT, a fashion institute for the city. The remaining portions of the mill are converted into studios, boutiques, and cafes. The mill reacts to a broader section of the community and helps to define the area as a centre for fashion and art. With the courtyard in the centre, the public entrance turns into a street during all public events. The public movement remains on the ground and the movement throughout the institute happens via connecting bridges.

Final Outcome

An institute of fashion is proposed to be developed at Mukesh Mill, a cotton mill connected to the textile industry. By establishing a fashion hub, the new programme raises the textile industry from the ashes. The building’s typology, which makes it possible to create studios and a learning environment, provides the form for the educational programme. Additionally, the ruin aesthetic serves as a backdrop for clothing stores, encouraging commercialization.

South Bombay’s reputation as an art district juxtaposes with the complex since the latter is thought of as an artefact in and of itself, and the large volumes serve as the perfect location for studios and galleries.

The abandoned mills in Mumbai allow one to explore their condition because they are left in a state of ruin. They serve as a reminder of the industrial past and let the user address its injustice and tragedy, which is connected to the location’s history since the building’s experiences have left their mark.

Blocks A and B underwent thorough analysis. Their structural members are treated differently for conservation since their structural feasibility has been established. A boutique has been proposed for the first half of block A, with much of the existing building preserved to serve as their backdrop. The block is thoughtfully designed, appreciating the character of ruins that enhance and complement the programme. The inclusion of a central circulation space highlights the volume.

Block B is proposed to be largely classrooms for the institute. To reinforce the existing structure, a portion of the old structure is preserved and a new structure is introduced. While classrooms occupy the first floor, the ground floor transforms from being public near the street to being private at the rear of the building.

Conclusion: The project offers an architectural and experiential understanding of ruins, serving as a model for the conservation of ruins while responding to the present and adhering to the building’s aesthetic, historical, and social values.

[This Academic Project has been published with text submitted by the student]