Tribhuvana: “The Art of Building Responsibly” – Crafting futures utilizing new vernacular building that weaves tradition and innovation. “Architecture of Happiness” by Alain de Botton (2006) delves into the deep connection between architecture and human well-being. De Botton posits that our physical surroundings profoundly impact our emotions and happiness. He argues that our architectural choices are guided by our personal stories and inner states, seeking to harmonize our environment with our inner selves.
Editor’s Note: “Embracing the ethos of its design philosophy, d6thD design studio exemplifies vernacular design tailored for contemporary needs. Renewing the bond with nature and creativity, the office resonates with timeless echoes of village life. Guided by Vastu principles, complemented by courtyards, trees, and thoughtful spatial dynamics, it embodies a harmonious, climate-conscious approach.” ~Simran Khare
Vernacular Building Emphasizes The Harmony Of An Office In Nature | d6thD design studio
This book aligns beautifully with this studio’s philosophy, emphasising the importance of architectural harmony with the environment, culture, and history. It seeks to create structures that seamlessly blend with their surroundings, promoting contentment for users and creators alike. This philosophy underscores the profound influence of architecture on emotions, translating “Architecture of Happiness” ideals into tangible, thoughtful design.
As an integral part of the rural fabric, Tribhuvana is Himanshu Patel’s d6thD design studio workspace located in a village called Khanderaopura near Ahmedabad, Gujarat. For Himanshu, creating vernacular buildings and spaces are a timeless endeavor. The design not only nurtures the creative process but also invites a renewed connection with nature and tradition.
The very presence of this studio serves as a reminder that the village way of life, with its inherent authenticity and simplicity, can be a wellspring of inspiration for modern ways of building. In every detail, the approach for this vernacular building reflects the harmonious coexistence of heritage and innovation. It speaks of the designer’s reverence for their roots. From a professional standpoint, embodying the philosophy you preach through your own lifestyle is a powerful and authentic way to connect with clients and build trust.
This alignment showcases authenticity, affirming that your design principles aren’t just concepts but integral parts of your own life. This congruence adds a layer of credibility to your work, demonstrating that you not only propose ideas but genuinely believe in their transformative power.
Nestled within a farm, the building group exists alongside the ongoing farming activities that flourish across the surrounding expanse. Situated in proximity to an expansive lake and a road, this unique environmental tapestry serves as a catalyst for our building orientation. The studio’s entrance, which follows Vastu principles, leads to a captivating journey.
A slender corridor opens into the courtyard at the building’s core, a narrative of spatial dynamics. This space, framed by two guardian trees, exudes balance, seamlessly connecting indoors and outdoors. It offers a verdant sanctuary, providing respite and conversing with the architectural cosmic language.
The courtyard adapts during gatherings, becoming a dynamic canvas filled with pebbles, resonating with celebration and collective spirit. On the east side of the courtyard’s wall, a temple niche stands as a celestial narrative woven into the architecture. A Ganpati placed in a jharokha-like niche window engages in a silent dialogue with tradition and nature.
As the sun’s earliest rays grace this element, it becomes a beacon of spiritual illumination, casting its radiance upon the heart of the dwelling. The spatial progression is dramatic, immersing visitors in the building’s expanse, although the views vary. Unlike typical designs with outward vistas, ours takes an introverted approach, focusing on an inner courtyard. This courtyard becomes the centerpiece, offering an immersive experience within its intimate setting.
The departure from the outside to a very inclusive inside encourages a change in perspective, blurring the external environment and shifting from passive observation to active engagement, where light, shade, and movement tell compelling stories. As the name Tribhuvana suggests, there are essentially three building blocks.
The architectural configuration takes shape as a dynamic L-shaped plan formed by three interconnected building blocks, each with its own distinct purpose. With a climate-conscious design approach, the studio and residence blocks align north-south to combat heat gain. The multipurpose hall adapts easily, transitioning from presentations to communal discussions and events.
Despite diverse functions and varied walls, a unified character emerges through a consistent material palette of this vernacular building featuring local stone, bricks, and terracotta tiles. Colored glass in windows adds vibrancy, striking a balance between aesthetics and cohesion. Adjacent to this configuration stands a solitary building, which is entirely the studio space, creating a unique triad that captures the essence of spatial diversity and functional versatility.
The studio space comprises a workspace and an office next to it. There is a small khadki that visually connects these two spaces. The south side openings face the lake, which also brings in a calm, soothing breeze in late evenings. At the intersection of the studio block and the multipurpose hall, there is seating beneath trailing creepers, where daily chai sessions promote a sense of community at the studio.
The vernacular building emphasises climate responsiveness with carefully curated, smaller openings that reflect sustainability and introverted planning. These openings offer a balance between flexibility and function, fostering a tactile connection with the environment.
Recycling finds its place, with repurposed jaalis and materials redefining the architectural essence. Time-honored window designs celebrate a harmonious balance between control and openness, giving the choice to connect with the outside or cocoon within. The architect feels a certain sense of thoughtfulness in these traditional elements.
The narrative of these openings is further enriched through the incorporation of recycled triplet windows, which bestow an ability to modulate light and air as per comfort. The western façade of the multipurpose hall uses terracotta jalis instead of regular windows to filter harsh sunlight and create a gentle connection between indoors and outdoors. This blend of traditional design, sustainability, and climate sensitivity enhances the overall experience.
Objects in the courtyard have been thoughtfully sourced over the years from nearby villages, travels, and even homes. For instance, the steps are made from stone chakki, or grinders, once used in the domestic lives of villages. This selection honours heritage and ingenuity, preventing their neglect or discard. This curation serves a dual purpose: being cost-effective and infusing a tactile essence into the surroundings.
Each item holds a historical narrative, now brought to life, fostering connections and inviting stories. In the spaces, objects celebrate resourceful ingenuity. Triangular jaalis, storage niches, a repurposed copper wash basin, and subtle brick embellishments creatively utilize available resources. The architect believes that the emotional quality of the space transcends its physical boundaries, infusing even the walls.
These walls become canvases that absorb and reflect the surroundings, serving as storytellers that echo experiences, memories, and connections, fostering a sense of familiarity and belonging that goes beyond the material realm.
Incorporating local crafts and techniques not only reduces costs but also fosters local appreciation for their way of life. Himanshu’s sincere intention to dignify and empower craftsmen plays a vital role in infusing the building process with the human spirit and heritage.
Each artisan’s hand reflects the close bond between creator and creation. This collaboration results in an architecture that transcends physical form, shaped by the craftsman’s identity, skill, and the profound impact of human involvement on the building’s essence.
Amidst these intricacies of spatial narration, we find the embodiment of a philosophy that transcends architecture as a mere physical construct; they become vessels of emotion, connection, and well-being. This is architecture that breathes life with the power of design to shape not only spaces but the very essence of the human experience.
Fact File
Designed by: d6thD design studio
Project Type: Office Architecture
Project Name: Tribhuvana Office
Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Year Built: 2022
Project Size: 2690 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Himanshu Patel
Photograph Courtesy: Inclined Studio
Source: Archdaily
Consultants for the Project: Structure Engineer: Nishtha Consultant / Landscape Design: Gopinath / Interior Design: Gokalgai / Design Development: Hetal Patel / Drawings: Jainil Shah / Graphics: Pradhanya Tilekar / Renders: Niyati Shetty / Sketches: Tridipa Deka / Technical Support: Nitin Panchal
Firm’s Instagram Link: d6thD design studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: d6thD design studio
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