BHAKTI LOONAVAT
The architect known for her research-based approach to design is currently experimenting with mycelium based products.
MARKET ON WHEELS HAS BEEN ONE OF MY MOST FULFILLING PROJECTS. IT WAS A RESPONSE TO A PROBLEM THAT WAS IMMEDIATE AND CRITICAL. WE STRIVED TO PROVIDE A SOLUTION FOR THE ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH COVID-19 SUCH AS FOOD SHORTAGE, SUPPLY CHAIN FAILURE AND LOSS OF LIVELIHOODS. MARKET ON WHEELS IS INSPIRED BY THE HUMBLE HAND CART THAT IS AN ACCEPTED FORM OF DELIVERY IN MOST OF SOUTH EAST ASIA.”
Bhakti Loonavat uses architecture as a tool to solve problems with research driven design. She believes that architecture is borne out of an amalgamation of necessity and artistic ingenuity while simultaneously impacting the social, environmental, political, cultural and technological fabric of a place and its people.
During her tenure with MuseLAB, she worked on multiple research-based projects including the concept for Market on Wheels as a response to the pandemic. “Market On Wheels has been one of my most fulfilling projects. It was a response to a problem that was immediate and critical. We strived to provide a solution for the issues associated with Covid-19 such as food shortage, supply chain failure and loss of livelihoods. Market On Wheels is inspired by the humble hand cart that is an accepted form of delivery in most of South East Asia.
The reformed cart is a compact modular mobile system that transforms into a stand-alone kiosk. It also has refrigerated containers that will allow for the supply of dairy products and help in keeping the produce fresh,” informs Loonavat.
Equipped with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from
L.S. Raheja, Mumbai, a Masters in Advanced Architecture and a Post-Graduate Diploma in 3D Printing in Architecture from
IaaC (Barcelona), Loonavat has varied experiences working on projects ranging from large-scale installations to innovative architecture and masterplans to every day products. Her work has been displayed as a part of ‘Auto-matic’ at Arts’ Santa Monica and ‘Free-hand Automization’ at Cercle Artistic de
Sant Lluc, Barcelona. “I believe that we live in a time when we need to evaluate our ecological footprint. I’m currently working towards establishing a practice that embodies these values. Alongside my design projects, I’m actively working towards developing mycelium based composites and products,” concludes the designer who is also improving on her drone flying techniques and flute playing skills.