Riya Sanjay Pai

AR2011

Old walled city (pols) of Ahmedabad, is one such culture in itself. Pols have drawn multitudes of travelers from across the globe, who come and spend a few days (or even weeks!) here, to experience life in a pol. Pols have been a subject to romanticize about - for architects and students of architecture for many decades. Its uniquely woven urban fabric is also the reason why the city has earned the title of ‘World Heritage City’ from UNESCO. It is a reality though, and unfortunate that an old city is no longer a preferred place of residence for the locals. More and more people are moving out from their homes in the old city, and their houses are either abandoned or converted into dead warehouses or are pulled down to be replaced by commercial boxes made of ‘cold’ cement & concrete. Ask anyone from Ahmedabad, if they would like to relocate there; and the answer will be a ‘NO’! In such a scenario, as architects, it is our responsibility to contribute towards the conservation of this legacy and preserve it for future generations. What we are proposing through this studio, is one such attempt at how we could retain the habitable character of the place and make sure it doesn’t lose its essence. You will propose a ‘Bed and Breakfast’ (tourist facility) along with a public (community) activity, keeping in mind the lives of local people residing in the vicinity. The area of the site is approx. 169 sq. mts. You will interpret local building bye-laws and propose your design in accordance. Project is to include: 4 nos. twin sharing rooms with attached bathroom 4 nos. single occupancy rooms with attached bathroom Reception / administration area (occupants: 1 receptionist, 1 manager) Store for linen & housekeeping items Pantry for smaller meals + wash area Laundry Lift- 4 persons