CAN URBAN DEVELOPMENT BE ACHIEVED WITHOUT THE ENVIRONMENT? COMPROMISING

Architect Ravi Sarangan advocates the philosophy of building less for more, emphasis on the importance of vernacular architecture and mixed-use developments

- RAVI SARANGAN

India grapples with surging housing and infrastructure needs – all while striving to balance growth with minimal environmental impact from construction. The concept of building ‘less for more’ has gained significant importance in recent times due to the alarming effects of climate change and depleting natural resources. Understanding the causes and effects of urban sprawl and its impact on urban redevelopment requires a multidimensional perspective. In addition, policy options must be discussed to steer urban development towards more sustainable pathways.

Reducing Demand and Repurposing Spaces

In the context of sustainable urban development in India, ‘building less for more’ can prove to be beneficial as it prioritizes compact, efficient, and multi-functional design to optimize space and resource utilization, thereby reducing energy and materials required for construction, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing the efficiency of transportation and infrastructure. To maintain a progressive outlook on evolving paradigms of enhancing space quality, architects must continuously learn and adapt to new ideas and technologies while repurposing existing structures.

A conscious and compassionate design approach

‘Building less for more’ emphasizes the need for repurposing spaces and reducing the demand for building new structures. This approach aims to promote sustainable urban development by utilizing the available resources efficiently, reducing the carbon footprint, and creating a healthier and more livable environment for the present and future generations.