Architects are emphasizing volume, scale, and materiality to create a thoughtful design, intertwining contemporary architectural trends with timeless design principles.
Rajkumar Kumawat, Founder & Principal Architect
Materials like enviro-board, which is composed of fiber cloth, sawdust, and magnesium that resists fire, are being commonly utilized for underlay systems, wall linings, and roof linings. Because the boards are water resistant, these environmentally friendly fire boards are stronger than traditional boards and do not deform over time.
Another environmentally friendly building material is timbercrete, which is created by combining concrete and sawdust. Timbercrete is a green material since sawdust substitutes the most energy-intensive ingredients in the concrete. It is significantly easier to transport because it is lighter than clay or concrete.
Modern architecture is often characterized by glass facades and advanced materials; however, a movement that aims to blend the appeal of classic materials with the aesthetics of contemporary design has surfaced in recent years. This fusion opens the door for architectural solutions that are sustainable and deeply ingrained in culture.
Elements like arches, columns, and artistic mouldings, when used with contemporary building materials and methods, can be modified to create a fusion of traditional cum modern design, evoking a sense of authenticity, craftsmanship, and history.
A popular traditional material is the Rajasthan sandstone. It is versatile, strong, and has great aesthetic appeal with its red and buff white colours. Some varieties like Khatu sandstone, which is fine-grained and suitable for carving and intricate details, is widely used in facades, where it adds a unique element and ruggedness to the design.
Contemporary designs also get a traditional touch through the integration of patterns and motifs, textiles, wallpaper, and decorative accents like geometric patterns, floral patterns, and detailed carvings. For instance, traditional textile designs when added in rugs, curtains, and upholstery, create a unified and culturally rich look in the interiors.
Modern furniture design is still influenced by classic furniture designs like art deco, rustic farmhouse, and mid-century modern – all of which add a sense of artistry, practicality, and visual appeal, while tapered bases, traditional carvings, and ornate motifs, resonate with the idea of heritage and craftsmanship in design.
