TALKING SPACES

Human diversity

In a world saturated with colour, shapes and sounds, human beings seldom lack an avenue for expression – be it through art, music or literature. Drawing inspiration from these spheres of personalised design, architect Hirante Welandawe seeks to harmonise diverse personalities within differing spaces to create unique abodes.

Q: How has urban design changed with consumer trends?

A: The individualistic nature of modern lifestyles has a strong bearing on changes in consumer requirements.

Entertainment choices and increasing vehicle ownership among many households partly account for the distinct use of household space, which perpetuates the demand for new ways of allocating it.

Another primary change in urban design is the impact of increasing land prices on redirecting growth to vertical living and construction of homes on smaller plots of land – of six to 10 perches.

I believe that densification of the city is beneficial, as it reduces the suburban sprawl and saves the countryside.

Other changes are reflected in individual construction, from older bungalow type buildings to more introverted houses as plot sizes shrink.

Q: What are the challenges of integrating ecological design in projects?

A: Incorporating alternative energy systems is the most challenging factor as the comparative cost is high. It’s important for Sri Lanka to address these issues at policy level and create the right climate for the development of alternative energy sources.

There is no shortfall in sustainable national construction materials – this is proven by traditional construction methods. However, it’s important to establish research systems to identify how these traditional building materials can be repurposed for newer types of construction.

Q: How is the inside-outside relationship in traditional architecture retained?

A: The inner and outer spaces of traditional buildings are clearly defined, and usually connected by a verandah and partial indoor or outdoor spaces. This is a play on spatial ambiguity.

I love experimenting with spatial ambiguity wherever it is permitted by the design brief, by connecting these spaces through courtyards, light wells and verandas. The solution is never repeated, as it’s always tailor-made for a particular project and its special circumstances.

Q: What policy changes would you like to see in your field?

A: Sustainable practices are currently left to individual choices. While some corporates have adopted sustainable measures, I’d like to see more state intervention through policies and incentives for a broader reach, and government support for individual efforts towards sustainability.

Q: And what other measures need to be taken for long-term eco-efficiency?

A: We also need wide media support particularly aimed at village communities through TV. This will ensure that age-old sustainable practices, which are embedded in rural life, aren’t discarded in the name of modernisation.

One such example is the emergence of asbestos in the market in the 1970s, when more sustainable alternatives like roof tiles and thatch existed.

While several government agencies are engaged in research, a majority of their findings are still unavailable to the public. It’s very important to develop industry research and create public awareness to facilitate long-term efficiency.