Ghervato - Where the shelter follows the herd

Ishika Rajit Choksi

AR2065

Possesssing a lifestyle deeply rooted in movement, the Maldharis of Gir perceive their dwellings, not as static spatial constructs but rather spaces, strongly governed by the terrain, seasonal changes, and enduring traditions.
With identities embedded in the cultural occupation of the community,the impermanence of their shelters arises due to the interaction between their livelihood, seasonal movement pattern and varying landscapes.
Imagined through the lens of a 15 year old Maldhari teenager, the design of the two seasonal settlements draws from the routine activities that help shape the spatiality, guide the materiality and portability of the shelters, embodying dwelling as a lifestyle.

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A2 narrative collage: Speculating the life of an individual in the Maldhari community, through the perspective of a 15 year old boy

Case study on the Gabra community, Northern Kenya : Analysing the portability of shelters in a nomadic community

Intuitive carving of light in multiple thermocol slices: Creating sectional models that capture different spatial qualities

1:50 scale inked drawings of the thermocol model : Showcasing the mass and void, degree of enclosure and spatial organization

1:50 scale frame model : Translation of inked drawings into frame structures to understand spatial configurations

On-site sketches in Gir : Capturing the essence of the place

Arriving at the monsoon site: Conceptualizing the program brief, initial explorations through sections and plans

Monsoon settlement : Drawings of the final concept guided by the narrative

Moving shelter : Drawings of the final concept guided by the narrative

A visual narrative of the Maldhari movement across the year, influenced by varying landscape and seasonal transitions