BY THE RIVER
A tour of Ganga Kutir in Kolkata, where vernacular Sri Lankan architecture meets Indian aesthetics
Iwas introduced to Ambuja Neotia by his cousin from Bangalore who knew my work and thought there may be a resonance with what he was planning. This was in 2004. After an initial presentation of my work, I was invited to design a retreat for him, which he could use for sessions with his core team at the company. This morphed into the Ganga Kutir we see today.
ARCHITECTURAL PRINCIPALS
Timeless, simple architectural principles are what have always defined my work. A functional space with ample natural light and ventilation, with a balance between what is public and private, is what I aim for. Besides this balance, Ganga Kutir stands out for the use of sustainable design practices. Context was considered before selecting the materials which are locally sourced. That’s not all, local construction skills were also employed.
THE VISION
My idea was to design a place that appeared to have been in its location forever with a due consideration of it eventually wearing out but still remaining elegant. It was an endeavour to bring Sri Lankan vernacular architecture to the banks of the Ganges at Raichak. So, you have low-rises, slanting roofs and terracotta here.
KEY FEATURES
This was really the first time I used exposed brick as part of the palette of materials. The layout from the point of arrival in a pavilion and the movement towards the pool court and river view hemmed in by buildings to open up to the gently flowing Ganga is very distinct here.