Fast-paced changes are the new constant in the design process.
Like all other facets of our lives, the pandemic has resulted in adaptive changes in the built environment, especially how it is imagined from hereon. As a result, we are witnessing a significant change in the design process and the key steps involved. Another major reform is with respect to sanitation design. Emphasis on natural ventilation and air circulation within a space is at the fore of this change. Design that encourages social distancing is also becoming a norm.
A valuable takeaway from the pandemic is to make the most of locally available resources. Use of natural, composites, and bacteria-resistant materials are gaining popularity. Indigenous building materials inhibit heat transmission and keep buildings cooler, especially in a tropical climate like India’s. Having said that, natural materials will surely gain prominence in the long run, and rightly so.
Architects need to establish a balance between conventional methodologies while adapting to the end-user’s ever-changing needs.
It is incumbent upon the architect to constantly strive to improve the built environment’s quality. Establishing a balance between our reliance on conventional methodologies and adapting to the end-user’s ever-changing needs is a wise strategy to adopt in such scenarios. For instance, remote or flexible work demands spaces to be multifunctional in nature and offer more than what meets the eye.
Adopting urban approaches like horizontal expansion, decentralisation, de-densifying cities, urban farming, lesser motorised vehicles, and increased pedestrian and cycling facilities, self-sufficient strategies, more green pockets, low-rise buildings, adaptive reuse, hygienic, lightweight, adaptable building materials, etc. can help in improving the quality of the built environment.
Movements such as minimalism, multifunctional design, and eco-conscious architecture have been on the rise and will soon come to the forefront. Furthermore, due to the pandemic, there is an increased awareness about sustainability and its global repercussions; so, movements that respond effectively to these issues will be in the spotlight.
Urban design is taking a cue from the pandemic lockdown and will undergo a change.
Architecture has evolved through history. When ‘form will follow function’ the narrative will itself change, and architecture will follow the need of the hour, the site, and the expectations of the end-user. Inclusive urban planning and proper management of multi-functional public spaces over preventive design strategies could encourage and enable physical activity by designing for the future.
The pandemic has reinforced that design and physical spaces play a role in enabling the spread of diseases. Learning from that, architecture will have to shape itself and be prepared for the next hit. We will see a change in product design and usage from hardware to furniture to sanitary fixtures to lighting.
Architect Mr. Reza Kabul: ARK Reza Kabul Architects
Architecture, as a subject, is always in an ever-evolving cusp of transformation. All factors affecting the built form, such as climate, global trends and technology are in a constant push to adaptation and change, thus influencing the
Ar. Himanshu Patel: 6thdesign studio
As an architect deeply rooted in the ethos of sustainable architecture, I believe that Indian architecture is indeed in a transformative phase, and this transformation is deeply intertwined with our commitment to environmental
Ar. Shruti Dimri, Ar. Madhav Raman, Ar. Vaibhav Dimri: Anagram Architects
In today’s context, the idea of modernity in architecture has shifted towards addressing the pressing needs of society. This includes a strong focus on technology, artificial intelligence (AI), energy efficiency, and the well-being of
Ar. Akshara Verma & Ar. Dinesh Verma: Ace Group Architects
India’s unique advantage lies in its ability to blend modern methodologies with traditional craftsmanship, thus fostering a distinct architectural identity. The convergence of these elements serves as a catalyst for innovation within
Ar. Akshay Selukar: Akshay Selukar
The future of architecture will be driven by innovation and a commitment to creating built environments that are environmentally sustainable, technologically advanced, and responsive to the needs of society
Architect Lalichan Zacharias: Lalichan Zacharias atelier
Yes, Indian architecture is in a transformation phase. Modernisation, Globalization and exposure to International Designs have influenced the Indian architecture to a great extent. Architecture is becoming more and more technology
Ar. (Dr). Harish Tripathi & Jyoti Tripathi: ARHATA
The architecture of any country is deeply rooted in the culture, psyche, economy, and politics, and India’s situation is no different. In addition to this, the advent of new technologies has a profound effect on the thought
Ar. Amey Dahanukar: ARA Designs
In modern India, architects have extensive travel experience, while earlier, travel exposure to different parts of the world used to be somewhat difficult. However, everything is now accessible due to many travel options, and each
Ar. Archana Van Gils: AVG Architects
Being a part of this endlessly mutable field for almost more than a decade, I can attest to the remarkable evolution of the profession in response to global trends and technological advancements, while also adapting to the needs of
Architect Mr. Arpan Johari: AW Design
India has a rich history of building design trends that have cross influenced across borders and have slowly transformed over the centuries. In fact, the transformative phase in Indian Architecture has always been ongoing. Sometimes it