EVOLVING TRENDS OF ARCHITECTURE IN INDIA
During the period of the 1990s, the construction industry started facing tremendous changes. The conventional way of design is being replaced by the upcycling of materials, collaborative design, less emphasis on the division between private and public spaces and more importance to green pockets. Only a true architect can foresee the needs of the future and design spaces ahead of their times.
Zoning in Cities: Recently a large of number of cities, which initially had fixed designated areas for residential, commercial and industrial zones started reducing with the advent of micro cities that consist of all above- mentioned amenities in a shorter radius. These micro- cities take care of the waste disposal, composting and recycling. They also offer public facilities which reduce the traffic to a great extent.
Collaborative Design: Design methodology as we are probably aware of is going to vanish, and the role of architects in the industry might be altogether different from what we see today. Pros in, for instance, the various fields in architecture will end up being a team in design studios, taking out complex ventures that require learning from various fields.
Starchitects: The idea of starchitects is probably going to arrive at an end, as the clients started demanding for spaces that are more eco- friendly, energy- efficient, rather than luxurious eye catchy structures, that are difficult to maintain.
Influence from the Past: Traditional architecture is playing a major role not only in the field of architecture but also the lifestyle and culture in the built form. Traditional materials are used in modern techniques and vice versa. It
is reflected in addition of antique crafts, furniture, colonial design and influences on design and culture from other countries is an offshoot to this trend.
Vertical Zoning: One of the main challenges faced by urban planners is the scarcity of land in cities. It is due to a large amount of migration of people happening from rural to urban areas. We need policies to increase affordable urban housing. As people find expensive to find housing within the city, they were forced to move to the suburbs. This creates a large amount of traffic from the city to the suburban areas. One of the solutions to the issue is by promoting affordable vertical growth and mixed- used development.
Sustainable Homes: The term ‘ sustainable home’ is heard quite a bit recently. It is more than just recycling of waste materials, true sustainability is made up of many facets, from building materials to the use of renewable energy sources to design that strives for efficiency and harmony with the surrounding environment. A sustainable building is designed, constructed and operated to minimise the impacts on the environment. It is achieved through practices like reduced energy consumption, water conservation and waste recycling. In recent years, increasing numbers of Indians have started making efforts to minimize both environmental impact and financial outlay by outfitting their homes with sustainable technology. The
resulting boom in sustainable building is driving new levels of architectural innovation.
Smart Homes also known as home automation allows the users to control their house with a single swipe or a tap. It can control the lighting, temperature, appliances and even maintain the security. The smart home system often operates together, sharing customer usage and data among themselves, actions are based on users’ preferences.
Skylights: Doubling up as an overhead shading system and reducing the need for artificial lighting, the shadows– these shades cast make them look very stylish. The passing sun adds on to the beauty of this architecture trend.
Open Spaces: Open spaces have changed over the period of time. They are essential for leisure activities, organized sports and cultural endeavours. It is widely seen in the modern plans where kitchens extend to other common space in the house, even dining areas extending into the porticos. These multifunctional designs not only benefit everyday living but also add depth to small spaces.
Incremental Housing: It is a well- ordered process which the owners or the users control the expansion of their houses based on their needs and resources. Incremental housing is also known as a starter house, phased- development house and owner- driven house. It provides a secure title and maximum flexibility in housing decisions. City expansions will become more predictable and funds issued for this development are effectively used.