A Clever Design Responding To Climate Change And Fragile Ecosystem | Architecture brio
Architecture brio has completed part of an artist retreat in India that seeks to create resilient cultural infrastructure in a world threatened by climate change. the project is located on a coastal plot facing the Mumbai peninsula with the city’s skyline visible across the bay. during monsoon season the land floods, an event that is happening more often and with more intensity as a result of rising sea levels. the project explores solutions for building in remote, coastal areas by using materials and construction techniques that have a minimal impact on fragile ecosystems.
Visit: Architecture brio
The projects form part of a larger masterplan that will eventually include multiple outdoor spaces for working, relaxing, and contemplation. by starting with the artist workshop, the retreat can start to organize events and workshops on its premises. located on a low-lying coconut palm plantation near a beach, the site of the ‘Mumbai artist retreat’ suffers from saline groundwater in summer months. in order to replenish the groundwater table with sweet water, a water harvesting pond in the middle of the site recharges the groundwater table. Architecture brio decided to raise the building off the ground and support it on boulders that were leftover from another project the firm completed nearby.
Rather than supporting the building, the heavy boulders act more as anchors to hold the structure in place. the architects explain that the concept is loosely based on the ‘Ambalama’, places constructed for pilgrims, traders, and travelers to rest, meet, and share stories in Srilanka. the buildings are typically sited on a modest rock outcrop, an island within a sea of paddy fields.
conceived as a ‘tropical shed’, the artist workshop comprises two pyramid-shaped roofs that are each topped with skylights. meanwhile, an adjacent storeroom with screen printing equipment creates an additional loft with a workspace on top of it. while the stilts, columns, and beams are made from galvanized steel, the roof structure is built from V-shaped bamboo beams. solar panels have been integrated into the skylights, which can be opened in order to encourage a natural flow of air.
As the project had to be as flexible as possible, movable wall panels — which keep out rain and direct sunlight — can connect to each modular bay of columns, allowing the spaces to be modified as required. consequently, the artists’ workshop can be used as a single large workshop, multiple simultaneous workshops, or even an exhibition space.
FACT FILE:
Architect: Architecture brio
Size: 150 sqm / 1,615 sqf
Program: Artist retreat
Location: Alibag, India
year: 2019
Type: cultural, landscape, educational
photography: randhir singh & edmund sumner
Source: Designboom
Website: http://architecturebrio.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArchitectureBRIO/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architecturebrio/
Brick houses have been a cornerstone of architecture for centuries, celebrated for their durability, aesthetic versatility, and timeless appeal. In modern design, architects continue to explore innovative ways to incorporate brick into residential spaces, blending traditional materials with contemporary needs. While the design of each brick house is unique, there are several ways to incorporate […]
Nestled in the serene embrace of a quiet residential colony, Charcoal Charm stands as a testament to modern architecture home innovation, seamlessly blending with its surroundings. Designed for a prominent businessman’s family, this 4BHK residence not only caters to the family’s need for privacy and comfort but also provides a rejuvenating retreat from the bustling […]
Plants for home garden, apart from making houses look more beautiful and inviting, add health and calmness to them. Having any kind of indoor plant, a herb plant or a flowering plant adds some value to your decor and the quality of the space. Always choose plants that will flourish in your space and climate. […]
The initial impression of this contemporary residence design is one of striking visual interplay, where bold architectural gestures redefine conventional aesthetics. A diagonally laid brick veil, its textured surface meticulously arranged to capture the shifting light throughout the day, becomes a dynamic façade element, casting ever-changing shadows that animate the exterior. Editor’s Note: “The yellow […]
Namana is an east-facing home situated on a compact 60’x50’ plot beside a serene vineyard. Designed for a family of three, the single-story residence emphasizes spatial fluidity, natural illumination, and a tactile material palette that evokes warmth and simplicity. Editor’s Note: “Namana, a quiet dialogue between light, material, and space, is a home that listens […]
“We want a modern oasis to retire to with our little boys on the weekends” was a brief given to us by our clients who are busy medical professionals with a very hectic life in the city. Inspired by the essence of prairie-style homes, the couple wished to cherish and recreate their favourite moments from […]
AADHYA is a thoughtfully designed three-bedroom home for a family of three, blending introverted and extroverted spaces in harmony. This modern tropical house design goes beyond mere functionality to become a sanctuary where design elements tell personal stories. With reclaimed terracotta roofing, exposed cement, and brick walls, the residence fosters a tactile connection to its […]
Nestled between the bustling residential and industrial edges of Bengaluru, Ihita stands as a bold architectural statement, embodying a harmonious blend of traditional Indian house design and modernity. The home challenges conventional urban residential design by prioritizing openness, natural light, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Through the strategic use of large […]
Architecture is a field that is wider than the construction of a single building; it represents culture, history, and human aspirations. From the ancient wonderlands of Bhutan to contemporary ones like Morphogenesis, architecture narrates tales of innovation, perseverance, and change. Whether you are a practicing architect, a student, or an enthusiast in quest of inspiration, […]
This rustic farmhouse for a family aims at re-defining tradition to blend in modern thought. Make it contemporary but traditional, was a brief given to the Architect by the client to redesign and build a century-old farmhouse sprawling across 3500 square feet on a 3-acre site in Morbe, Panvel. Editor’s Note: The redesigning of this […]