I have always been very sensitive towards my surroundings and the adverse effects of human intervention into this balanced eco-system. One such landforms affected by human activities are mines. After their purpose is exhausted these mines just become a large hole in the ground. These mines can be revived ecologically as well as are the perfect example to create awareness among people about environmental balance.
Centre for Eco-Linked Tourism and Research
LOCATION
Sarcoda, Goa, India
DURATION
30 weeks, 2017
PROJECT
Architecture design thesis
GOAL
Redevelopment of an abandoned mine.
It is well said, to the effect of man, he finds forest but leaves behind deserts.
Mines should be seen as complexes, fitting into a dynamic landscape where tradition, ancestry, memory, symbolism and information about territorial ownership coexists and to see how these landforms can help the society in a different way than before. They should also be seen as a valuable resource. Abandoned quarries can be scenically very attractive architecture and can enhance the countryside, producing wonderful habitats for birds, animals and plants, providing a heaven for fish and fishermen.
The objective of this thesis is to redevelop an abandoned mine by integrating architecture with nature which would help in upliftment of the nearby communities whose lives were affected during mining.
The thesis is based on a government project to generate Eco-Tourism in the Western Ghats of Goa. The site, an abandoned iron ore mine located in Sacorda district, South Goa surrounded by rich biodiversity and historic monuments aiming to promote tourism and introduce tourists a Goa, beyond the beaches. The primary aim of the project is to manage tourism, preserve and explore biodiversity while educating people about its importance.
Process
ANALYSE
Studying different aspects that have an impact on the design
CONCEPTUALIZE
Generating a conceptual idea for the project.
DESIGN
Transforming the conceptual idea into drawings
EXECUTE
Transforming the conceptual drawings into 3D visualizations
Analyzing site to understand topography
SITE ANALYSIS (in order)
1 - Site location with context and nearby settlements.
2 - Vegetation Layout to study the empty and dense pockets.
3 - Ridge and Valley Layout to mark buildable zones.
4 - Slope Zoning Layout to demark slope gradients that help to mark buildable zone and for structural analysis.
PROGRAM INTER-RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM
The program aims to connect research, entertainment and information. The diagram helps to understand different aspects of each section and what role it would play.
Beautiful aerial images of this majestic landform from the time it was abandoned (left) to how it has started to transform itself over the years (right).
Design Development
The design is developed in a systematic process. The abstract models are inspired from the topography to develop into built masses from stage wise alterations suitable for the contoured landform.
Connecting the dots
Connecting all the diagrams to develop the design of the museum, helping in creating a journey through the forests at different levels. Also one gets to experience different paths which gives different experiences at the same time educate and make people aware about the environment.
MATERIAL
Local red laterite stone to be used. It merges well with the surroundings.
Economic- available in abundance around the site.
Concrete for the roofs and flooring. Glass and truss frames to support the hanging structure.
Visually building engages in a process, as the boundaries between inside and outside, architecture and landscape are dissolved.
Final Drawings