Architecture Thesis 2023
"TO-GATHER"
"TO-GATHER"
An encompassing environment has the potential to influence, enchant and to allow the context to hold a significant Identity. “TO-GATHER” an Experiential and Development Center for Rural Craft in Pushkar is a visionary project situated on a sloping site embraced by picturesque hills and a serene lake.
Due to the large number of international, domestic, and local tourists visiting Pushkar, the city has a strong handmade tradition and uses craft as a powerful economic instrument, The center will act as a hub for artisans from nearby communities, Providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and engage with visitors to bridge the communication and recognition gap between them.
The most popular tourist destination in India, Pushkar, is commonly referred to as Tirtharaj, which means “the king of pilgrim places.” In order to experience the Pilgrim center, city’s Craft culture (such as block printed and tie-and-dye textiles, paintings, finely cut precious stones, carved wood and ivory items, lacquer work, enameled jewelry, and pottery), and Desert experience, both domestic and foreign tourists commonly visit.
“The aim of the design is to understand how the user visual experience both from inside and outside the building can be enhanced & acknowledged through considering and incorporating the surrounding context”, and to achieve that The design of the center is inspired by the natural surroundings, with a focus on integrating the building harmoniously into the sloping landscape.
The sloping terrain of the site is utilized to create levels within the center, offering visitors a dynamic journey through various craft spaces and experiential zones, while enjoying the stunning views and vistas. The design includes areas such as working spaces, studios, and accommodations for women artists. Additionally, there should be gathering spaces for events, as well as welcoming areas for tourists, such as a bazaar, art galleries, exhibition areas, and food courts, it becomes a challenge to create a space that caters to two distinct and primary user groups. It is vital to strike a balance between providing privacy and segregation while also facilitating interactions and ensuring accessibility and smooth movement for a large number of tourists and the general public.
Pushkar is known for its stunning sunsets over the surrounding hills and lake, the skyline of the building will impact the experience of tourists around the city, the design is such that an eye-catching and visually striking silhouette has been drawn to the city and serve as a focal point for the surrounding landscape, as the site sits on the top of a Ridge.
A Recognizable skyline could help to attract visitors and promote the destination as a must-see location.
A Recognizable skyline could help to attract visitors and promote the destination as a must-see location.
Vaulted ceilings or structures can draw the eye upward, creating a sense of height and openness. When strategically positioned to face the direction of the sunset, vaulted shapes can frame and emphasize the sky, making the sunset the focal point of the space.
The project aims to be a catalyst for economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism. By fostering an environment of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and experiential learning, this center strives to revive and promote the rural crafts of the region, while offering visitors an enriching and immersive experience that celebrates the unique character of Pushkar’s landscape.
