Abstract:
Architecture inevitably becomes the physical manifestation of the intangibles and
tangibles it is designed to cater to, based on human perception. These occasionally clinical
structures, aesthetic as they may be, often loose the essence of human scale and well-being.
Caging man rather than nourishing him, as mere robots following tight schedules, deprived
of breathing space and the essential connection with the environment for him to thrive.
Similar yet distinct, deterioration can be observed in the environment as well, with today's
uncontrolled GHG emissions, and impervious urban sprawl, leading to environmental
degradation due to unsustainable design practices.
This narrative, calls for a dire need to tackle detrimental design practices, based on
structural resolution and architectonics, through hybridized multi-story structures, with
complementary programmatic basis, centered around the relationship between human
scale and environmental relevance. Improving density and diversity within and in
equilibrium with the environment.
This thesis will explore, modularity and certain parameters of passive design,
through a lens of selective, placemaking attributes, as a possible solution. Accentuating the
relevance of human scale, on the micro level and using passive design strategies as a tool,
on the macro scale, to produce an architectural model, that resonates with the people it is
meant to serve and is in harmony with the natural environment it inevitably becomes a part
of. Functioning as a communal and social node, with enhanced pedestrianization and
accessibility. This thesis will incorporate passive design strategies, including maximized
natural ventilation and daylighting, while keeping in vision micro details including double
skin facades and solar powered louvers to frame the elevations where relevant.
Design for people as the center of focus, with ample of green spaces, courtyards,
green terraces and communal voids, creating pedestrian axis and connectivity with the
context will be catered to, for a holistic, functional and optimum resolution of various layers
under consideration.
