The SRM School of Environment, Architecture, and Design (SRM SEAD), was formally instituted by Dr. B.V. Doshi, on July 17, as part of an event organised by Confluence Ten.
Curated by Artes Foundation, Confluence Ten is an inter-disciplinary platform for discourse on contemporary society, environment, cities, architecture, water, arts and culture. Doshi shared his experiences and insights on architecture and future cities to a packed audience of architects, designers, artists, scholars, students and faculty.
Titled ‘Harnessing the Intangible’, the talk focussed on his journey over the last 60 years and, how architecture defines him. He said, “Architecture is an essential part of life; it is something that you learn and acquire from. A building is an extension of us — it depends on how we view it and perceive space.” Linking architectural elements and the environment, Doshi said there has been a drastic change in Indian architecture from the post-independence era to today. “Architecture has a context, and discovering that very context is what we need to do.” You can’t imitate designs and the architecture we see today needs to be questioned: Are buildings conserving energy? Do they suit local climatic conditions? Will they last? All these elements cannot be measured; they are intangible.
Architecture is celebrated when a building becomes an extension of our life and when its form, space and spatial rhythmic expression, changes our mood and brings back memories and dreams. Speaking of his experiences with architect Le Corbusier, he says, “Corbusier changed the concept of architecture. He realised the importance of nature even more and the integration of habitat, climate and lifestyle, was evident as he ensured large, open courtyards and terraces in his designs.”
Doshi’s journey began when constructed his house in Ahmedabad, and realised the importance of simple elements such as the breeze, light, etc. “Creating flexible plans along with technology and, working around existing conditions and building laws is important. I learnt how to transform nature and give it dignity. Playing with light and making spaces speak is important.” These principles have been applied in the design of homes he created for each of his daughters.
He stressed on the need to think minimum: Utilise minimum energy, resources and ensure minimum maintenance of the spaces you create. Heighten interactions with external elements and include nature in your designs.
“It’s all about creating magic and fun.” What survives in the end? Only that which doesn’t have a single identity.
