Reinstating the Element of Earth | Architecture Thesis

Information

Project Name: Reinstating the Element of Earth
Student Name: Shaun Martin Fernandes
Awards: Honourable Mention in The Undergrad Thesis Project by Archdais | Top 5 at Zonal level in COA National Awards For Excellence in Architectural Thesis 2023
Softwares/Plugins: Autodesk Revit , Adobe Photoshop , Midjourney , Polycam

Year: 2023
Discipline: Architecture
Level: Bachelors Design Thesis
Institute: Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture
University: University of Mumbai
Location: Mumbai
Country: India

Excerpt: ‘Reinstating the Element of Earth’ is an architecture thesis by Shaun Martin Fernandes from the Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture, that seeks to explore sustainability through tourism and address the harmful hold that concrete has on the ecosystem. The thesis aims to design a resort that promotes sustainable and culturally relevant building practices through rammed earth construction techniques.

Introduction: Excessive use of concrete in rural building architecture can negatively impact society, the environment, and vernacular architecture. It may result in reduced sustainability, issues with water management, a loss of cultural legacy and identity, negative effects on the environment, and a division between traditional and modern lifestyles. It is critical to promote sustainable, culturally relevant building practices and to take into account how new construction could impact rural areas.

The tourism sector in Gujarat’s Kutch and North Gujarat area requires contemporary resorts with eco-friendly amenities, as the construction industry contributes to emissions and climate change. Traditional techniques exploit transportation costs and non-biodegradable nature, negatively impacting the ecosystem. Transitioning to locally sourced materials can mitigate environmental impacts, foster local expertise, and create job opportunities. Understanding local built forms can help understand communities’ adaptability. Tourism can reverse desertification, but sustainable activities are crucial for it to flourish.

The project seeks to explore sustainable architecture through tourism and address the harmful hold that concrete has on the ecosystem. The goal of this architecture thesis is to design a resort in the Jaloya region of Banaskantha district, that promotes sustainable and culturally relevant building practices by implementing rammed earth construction techniques.

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Site Context

Kutch and North Gujarat are the regions that are particularly impacted by the effects of climate change in the context of Gujarat, India. The harsh weather that these areas experience, such as prolonged heat waves, droughts, and floods, has a big effect on the way of life for those who live there. The proposed site for the intervention lies in the Jaloya region of Banaskantha District of North Gujarat. The small town of Suigam lies on the road leading to the site.

It is clear that there has been a trend towards an increased reliance on concrete-based RCC construction over time. Since resort sites are often located in remote areas, this trend not only degrades the resources at the source of the materials but also adds to the overall harm done to the local and global climate conditions during the transportation of these massive quantities.

Design Process

Modules resembling “Bhungas“(Vernacular House-form of the region) can be built using a more cautious and considerate method that makes use of the local resources, in this case, the saline alluvium-based soil in Nadabet. However, due to the design brief’s scale requirements, the built form and technique must be further modified. This can be accomplished by integrating the built form with a prefabricated rammed wall mechanism.

Panels that produce the fundamental components for the modules may be found at an on-site facility. Therefore, the creation of rammed earth panels enhances the “Bhungas'” architectural legacy while facilitating the utilisation of the soil’s natural qualities in the area.

Final Outcome

The two main factors dictating the evolution of the module design are the earth’s rigidity and the fluidity of the sands. The Bhunga unit module is circular and builds upon the aerodynamic properties of the curves by diffusing and rerouting the harsh desert wind that carries the abrasive sands that erode ordinary materials.

What distinguishes rammed earth in these types of environments is its inherent ability to self-heal with little upkeep. The resort’s cluster design also aims to recreate the sense of community and interdependence that characterised the Bhungas and other remote settlement clusters. The rammed earth panels are made from the earth that was excavated from the trench at the entrance, removing the need to significantly modify the top soil and site surface.

The creatively designed roof structure captures the gliding white sand dunes and the white expanses of the Kutch region by fusing the best tensile qualities of wool (obtained from local sheep and knit into fabric by traditional artisans) with a light layer of concrete. The buildings visually blend into the surroundings and become a part of the Rann with minimal impact on the ecology.

The resort would also act as a centre for environmental research and education. Guests would learn about local ecosystems and sustainable living techniques through workshops, seminars, and guided tours, which would increase their awareness of and appreciation for the region’s unique characteristics.

The design of the resort places a strong emphasis on wellbeing and a relationship with nature. Nestled within the natural landscape are yoga pavilions, meditation gardens, and spa facilities that provide guests with a peaceful and serene environment to rejuvenate. The integration of nature trails and birdwatching spots promotes the exploration of the surrounding ecosystem.

Conclusion: Ecotourism can be fully realised by implementing these policies and design principles, and it also establishes a precedent for future regional growth and development. By simplifying the modules, multi-story housing modules can be developed that can be constructed and replicated anywhere, releasing the harmful hold that concrete has on the ecosystem.

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