It was thus felt that a set of common guiding principles was becoming necessary to achieve alignment and provide focus to the increasingly diverse group. Thus, a core philosophy evolved with two parts: an over-arching core purpose and a set of core values to guide this purpose.
Sustainability is a phenomenon. It is a concept that stems from and culminates in the way of life. It is about contextual adjustments for the maximum gain, with the least disturbance or imbalance. It is meant to bring appropriateness to the milieu, wherein milieu implies place, people and programme. Architecture too, is a sum total of culture, climate and construction. Sustainable built form thus, refers to a holistic approach to design, and not just environmental management.
Truly sustainable architecture has to go through five fundamental tenets of space making, including: Timeless aesthetics, because buildings last longer than their creators; socio-cultural appropriateness, as spaces are created for the end users; environmental sustainability, since resources are frugal and consumption is high; economic affordability, because only then the resolution would be viable to realise; and structural strength and stability, which will make the built environment last for centuries. The uniqueness of this combination of criteria demands unique solutions over time and space. Therefore, any attempt at converting a phenomenon into a formula—by universalisation of norms and quantification of quality—remains an inherent contradiction to the idea. Phenomenon turned into formula ends up becoming a fashion. And fashion is always appliqué, cursory and temporal.
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Architecture + Design.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2019 edition of Architecture + Design.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
TEJAL PATNI
Engaging in a free-wheeling chat about the not-so-bizarre world of his rather well-paved journey, Patni gives us a peek into his creative mind and the diverse influences that have shaped his artistic vision, right after the resounding success of his debut show, Vichitra
NOT A RAT RACE
Driven by a passion for innovation and a deep-seated curiosity for the potential of computational tools in architectural design, Sushant has embarked on a journey to integrate technology seamlessly into his practice
WHISPERS OF DESIGN
Imagined by Sara Shah and Nilay Shah of Magic Houz, this 2,500 sq ft holiday home is a treat for the design-hungry souls
A SYNERGY OF DESIGN ARTISTRY & ARCHITECTURAL SCALE
Centrally located in India's technology hub, this hotel's design concept reflects nature and geometry as a homage to the city of Bengaluru
IN GOD'S OWN COUNTRY
Meera Pyarelal's Temple Town is a design haven for the connoisseurs of refined luxury
REDEFINING OUTDOOR LIVING
Nestled in a lush coconut grove with bohemian interiors, the luxury furniture showroom of Bengaluru-based Outdoor Connections exudes a laid-back resort vibe
A REBELLION AGAINST URBAN DISCOMFORTS
Crafted by Snehal and Bhadri Suthar of Grid Architects, Vanessa Villa in Aluha, Gujarat, emerges as a private Biophilic retreat, akin to a surrealist dream-seamlessly melding light, air, and greenery to demonstrate architectural excellence and ecological harmony
WHERE ART MEETS FINE FOOD
Three new culinary destinations by Beyond Designs at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi celebrate art, architecture and design styles from around the world
JASON WADHWANI
For Jason Wadhwani, bespoke luxury is synonymous with personalised experiences that transcend conventional boundaries.
PRIYANK MEHTA
Indulging in the essence of bespoke luxury, Priyank Mehta, the visionary force behind Attitudes, savours every creation like a connoisseur relishing a complex blend of rare spices, rich chocolates, and delicate floral notes.