Moving Ground

Experiencing a moulded earth

The initial part of the studio focused on making quick design options through various approaches. The design ideas were depicted through line diagrams and then translated to loose plans and sections. Taking cues from readings and films, the next phase of the studio is explored primarily as a site-based and autobiographical approach. The site is a part of the CEPT campus, located next to the workshop, leading one to the space in front of the Kanoria Art Centre. One experiences various movement patterns and different volumes created by the scale of the lanes, vegetation, and the surrounding buildings, while traversing from the lane to the Garba Ground. The main idea underpinning the design is to enhance the movement in the lane, which can be achieved by creating different volumes and enhancing existing ones. Permutations and combinations of volumes are explored which generate movement in different spaces. Volumes are created by modulating the ground, using colours, canopies, vegetation, and stacked and scooped seatings. All the elements in the design are stitched through a wave depicting “flow”. Planting, material, and lighting follow a palette that also contributes to this enhancement of volumes. This creates a very playful experience for the users where a series of landscapes can be used as well as experienced.