Radhika Maitra

UR3012

Paradigm Shift: Iskcon-Ambli 2050

The project aims to integrate cultural and ecological aspects as the forefront of a transit-oriented development framework, by developing the ISKCON Temple precinct - a religious icon of Ahmedabad. Using such well-utilised spaces in the city’s network helps to ground the project into the context of the site, and makes it an accessible, pedestrian-oriented and versatile public space. Accommodating both daily activities and large gatherings during festivals like Janmashtami is the vision of the project, and relying on public transportation nodes for this is a way of managing crowds efficiently. Seamlessly integrated these public transport nodes with the temple precinct encourages community engagement and draws in visitors as well. Throughout the project, the green loop has also been kept in focus and the community level garden has been integrated into the axis of the temple, which creates a variety of spaces including space for commerce, recreation and worship.

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Module 1A: Beginning with understanding the past of the site, this module delved into deconstruction of the various characteristics of this upcoming complex site.

The site was studied through many lenses, such as land parcels, publicness and job centres

Module 1B: Developing a vision and framework plan for the site

Aim: to create a vibrant commercial hub incorporating more amenities and cultural activities for all user groups, as well as dynamic public spaces that enhance the overall experience of the precinct.

Module 2: Ideating the CBD of the future, while keeping the city's heritage, culture and ecology intact

Layering the masterplan and retaining essential characteristics

The difference in building heights, materiality and built use was envisioned in this isometric view. The buildings in blue represent commercial and mixed uses, and have glass facades, while the buildings in orange are more residential and institutional, using brick as the primary material. The building heights are higher towards the main SG Highway and Iskcon-Ambli road, and taper down till they reach the green loop.

Block 1: The Cultural Precinct of ISKCON Temple was detailed out to show a more site-specific response of the framework plan developed

Block 2: Institutions and Green Loop was detailed out to visualise the working of other blocks of the masterplan

Open Spaces, Streets and other guidelines that make the masterplan cohesive, along with the physical models made to understand the built form and facades