In the dynamic landscape of urban development, sculpting the urban fabric by integrating green and blue infrastructure stands as a pivotal concept for creating sustainable and livable cities. Moderated by Ram Khandelwal, CEO at Urban Moderation Lab, the panel featured refining presentations from Dr. Mansee Bal Bhargava, Water- Women Rights Activist, Ar. Suneet Mohindru from Oracles, and also Ar. Habeeb Khan, each bringing unique perspectives on shaping urban environments.
As a modifying tool, landscape architecture transforms cities by combining stylized natural elements. Thus, making a bold statement about the forgotten power of nature. Architect Suneet Mohindru emphasized the transformative role of landscape architecture in urban planning. He stressed the need for a cohesive approach that integrates planning, urban design, and landscape architecture.
The obsession with urbanization has created a stark divide, leading to severe discrimination between urban fabric and rural fabric. Dr. Mansee Bal Bhargava highlighted the often-overlooked issue of urban water management in architectural education. Our approach must evolve to see water not just as a utility, but as a critical resource.
Architect Habeeb Khan delved into the cultural nuances influencing community-based planning in India versus Western countries. Enhancing rural infrastructure in order to reduce urban migration highlights the importance of inclusive planning that takes into account local culture and ecology.
The symposium emphasized the importance of revitalizing existing urban areas (brownfields) and developing new ones (greenfields). It focused on preserving natural features and incorporating sustainable practices. Emphasizing community involvement ensures that developments align with local needs and values. Thus, it promotes a harmonious blend of functionality and environmental stewardship. An ongoing motif present throughout was the utilization of community-centered planning strategies, incorporating the desires of the local community into urban initiatives.
As cities continue to evolve, embracing these principles will be crucial in sculpting urban environments. These are not only aesthetically pleasing but also resilient, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come. The symposium served as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and action, inspiring professionals and stakeholders to collaborate towards building cities that thrive in harmony with nature and community.
To watch the complete panel discussion, head to our YouTube channel.
In a landscape where aspiration quietly waits, Granthalay emerges as a circular building and sanctuary for learning—gathering people, knowledge, and place into a shared civic moment. Granthalay is conceived as a civic institution that extends beyond the conventional idea of a library, responding to the acute lack of educational and community infrastructure in the district […]
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This residence is a sincere exploration of how architecture can remain simple, climate sensitive, cost-effective, and emotionally grounded, without compromising on spatial quality or design intent. Conceived as a 3BHK modest home for a small family, the project stands as a testament to what is possible when thoughtful planning, craft-oriented construction, and material intelligence come […]
Design, when it emerges as a living tapestry, turns the experience of living into a vibrant everyday narrative. Baldota House in Alandi, Pune by ARCHOS accommodates three generations under a single roof in the area spanning 7500 Sq. Ft. Spearheaded by the family’s desire for a generous space and a theatrical essence along with balanced […]
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Project 1374 is located in one of the plotted developments in the north of Bangalore, characterized by well-demarcated plots, open spaces, spacious roads, and organized infrastructure. Trees flank the wide streets, dividing the plots with dense canopies offering shaded avenues. Abutting the plot stood a cluster of trees- a quiet presence. We borrowed these trees […]
‘Roots’ was an experiment to build sustainably but not confer to the design language typically associated with sustainable buildings. This residential project re-considers the expression of sustainable architecture through a minimalist and materially grounded lens. Located on a 4,000 sq.ft. plot, the designers conceived the house for a family of three and their pet, organizing […]