Ayushi Sharma

AD4005

In ancient times, the first planned city of India- Jaipur came into existence in 1727 as one of the late medieval trade cities. The city is socially and culturally vibrant, and even after the drastic modernization, is still tied to its roots. 
Gradually, the expanding city faced a predominant need for an industrial area. Consequently, 22 godowns and a railway station came into existence which then over the years got engulfed by the expanding residential areas around. Over the years, due to various reasons, the elements present on the site have been undergoing either a state of abandonment, misuse or negligence, but still subjected to constant changes. This urban void amidst the dense setting around is somehow completely different to how one conventionally perceives abandonment. 
In the early, 18th century, the city of Jaipur was called the House of 36 Industries, for being a historic trade city largely supported by crafts and fold art. Articulating and taking forward the idea of craft with respect to the future, and introducing it as a way of thinking, living and working as it delivers a sense of timelessness in the fast moving world. 
Bringing the activities and the art of craft-making outfront, instead of hiding it behind the backdoors, by interweaving the existing elements on the premise, that is able to maintain a continuous flow of activities and functions can merge into one another, providing multiple opportunities for innovations and chance encounters. And further, tying the past, the present and the future of crafts, with respect to the need of the city, that would anchor and aim at bringing a positive potential experience to the users in their journey of something that was once abandoned.