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Karan Nayan Patel

UR3005

RetroFort : reimagining the fort and its extensions

The RetroFORT project is focused on revitalizing the dilapidated fort located at the Sant Sarovar Dam site, transforming it into a vibrant public space. This historic fort, which has suffered from years of neglect, is now in a state of decay, with eroded walls, crumbling structures, and a loss of its former grandeur. Despite this, the site still offers stunning views and attracts visitors. However, over time, it has become a hotspot for illicit activities, diminishing its potential as a historical and cultural landmark. The goal is achieved through a strategy of repair and rejuvenating the fort while respecting its historical integrity. This is achieved through basic structural repairs, retaining walls at the eroded edges, and the addition of contemporary structures, such as follies and other architectural elements, to enhance the space without overwhelming the original fort. The focus is on creating new connections between the fort and its surrounding areas, including the steep slopes and nearby locations like Indroda Gaam. In addition to the fort itself, the project also uplifts the broader landscape. This is achieved through the introduction of trails, urban design elements, and vegetation that enhance the environment, making it more accessible and engaging for visitors. Ultimately, RetroFORT aims to transform the fort into a vibrant cultural and historical landmark that not only showcases its rich past but also serves as a place for modern-day reflection, relaxation, and social cohesion.

View Additional Work

Report Content

Site Introdcution

Mapping

Process sketches and diagrams

Form exploration

The concept for reviving the fort began with a vision to seamlessly integrate contemporary design while respecting its historic essence. Initially, the idea focused on creating new structures within the fort’s existing boundaries, aiming to rejuvenate its interior spaces. However, as the design process evolved through extensive iterations and explorations, the approach shifted toward a more harmonious solution extending the fort’s presence outward rather than confining the intervention within its walls. This evolved design strategy envisions the fort as the central anchor of the site, with new architectural elements radiating from it, the design effectively connects the fort to all areas of the site, while preserving the heritage of the fort.

Proposed Masterplan

part plans of the site

sectional persepctive view

sectional persepctive view

axo view