In this masterclass, Neelam Manjunath redefines architecture through the lens of bamboo, presenting it as a highly intelligent, fast-growing, and renewable material. She addresses common misconceptions about material, highlighting its longevity and strength, which can even surpass steel in tensile strength.
Bamboo as a Plant and Material: Manjunath debunks myths about the material, clarifying that its roots do not typically invade buildings. She also explains that bamboo is regenerative, meaning it doesn’t need to be replanted after harvesting.
Traditional vs. Advanced Building Systems: The speaker showcases traditional bamboo buildings, some as old as 400 years. She also discusses how modern, value-added bamboo products are shaping new construction systems. She emphasizes the importance of proper design and construction to ensure durability.
Cost and Infrastructure: Manjunath addresses the misconception that bamboo buildings are only for low-cost housing or luxury resorts. She provides examples of how the material can be used in various infrastructure projects, including airports and bridges.
The Bamboo City Concept: Neelam Manjunath introduces her “Bamboo City” project, a regenerative ecosystem development. It proposes a minimum 30% inclusion of the material in all development sectors. The initiative aims to plant 15 million bamboo plants in Bangalore over the next seven years to promote ecological benefits and material production.
Manasaram and CGBMT: She highlights her architectural practice, Manasaram, which exclusively undertakes bamboo projects. She also mentions the contributions of organizations like the Centre for Green Building Materials and Technology (CGBMT) in promoting the material.
Publications: She also refers to her books, “Let’s Build with Bamboo, Volumes 1 and 2,” which document the journey of the material’s architecture.
In conclusion, Neelam Manjunath’s masterclass passionately advocates for bamboo as a transformative and sustainable material in architecture, challenging prevailing misconceptions and showcasing its vast potential. Through her work with Manasaram she not only demonstrates the material’s versatility and durability in various construction and infrastructure projects but also champions a regenerative approach to design that harmonizes development with ecology. Her vision, documented in “Let’s Build with Bamboo”, emphasizes the critical role of mindful material use and a shift towards local wisdom in building a sustainable future.
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 […]
A dilapidated old manor house in Jaffna peninsula, with warped roof beams, warped door windows and many structural defects were presented to the architects for refurbishment- by clients- to be refurbished as a retirement home for themselves who were returning to Sri Lanka after escaping to overseas due to the 25 years old North East […]
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 […]
Few homes are celebrated for their iconic interiors, while some are celebrated for their open layouts. True to its unique context and subtleties, this home with a monochromatic palette, designed by Ar. Saumya Khanna & Ar. Sudhir Ambawata Co – founders & principle architects of SSDA Architects brings the essence of volumetric design and a […]
Adopting sustainable living today, both in design and daily life, is crucial for reducing our environmental footprint and preserving resources for future generations. In the design of this bamboo pavilion, this means using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and creating spaces that harmonize with natural surroundings. In daily living, sustainability involves mindful consumption, reducing waste, conserving […]
Tucked into the lush landscape of Thiruvananthapuram, Aashiyana is a residence that balances context, climate, and craft. Designed by architect Srijit Srinivas, this bungalow is conceived as more than a tropical retreat-it is a spatial journey where bold colour, filtered light, and thoughtful materials orchestrate a distinctive atmosphere. Nestled Amidst Lush Landscape Aashiyana Balances Craft […]
Situated on a compact 1200 sft south-west corner plot, this residence was conceived as an inward-looking sanctuary for a family of four — a home that balances privacy and openness, light and enclosure, within the dense urban fabric. This Residence Was Conceived As An Inward-Looking Sanctuary For A Family Of Four | The Insideout Studio […]
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 […]