Minnette de Silva was Srilanka’s first female architect who spearheaded the rebuilding of a country’s infrastructure after independence. Known as Tropical Modernism, her style was the combination of nature, landscaping and traditional workmanship. This style was also followed by Geoffrey Bawa who came to be known as the father of Tropical Modernism. They created a style that infused the traditional craftsman’s ship and modernist methods when it was least thought of.
The concept of sustainable living has broadened its seams from energy efficiency or consumption habits to being embedding it deeply in our thoughts so that we act cautiously. With reduce, reuse and recycle being the baby steps, constructions that go in tune with the ecology of a particular place could be measured as commonsense architecture. The minimalist designs which does a clever play of light and air, would cut the usage of energy intensive materials. With upcycling, recycling and the use of sustainable building materials cycling their way up among the concepts of an ideal living space, SPACES fest features discussions on architectural sustainability.
Palinda Kannangara, an architecture based in Srilanka, who believes in nature and buildings, will be in conversation with Meena T Pillai. The session will shine light on Srilankan architecture and its relationship with natural and cultural landscapes. The concepts of designs catering to the tropical climate needs, by rethinking about the traditional labels for living spaces will be in focus.
Sustainable constructions can be classified under what is known as commonsense architecture. This could be simplified as the common man’s architecture which shaped up without relying on textbooks, but a straightforward response to human needs and environmental forces. With a balance of beauty and purpose, these constructions should make a comeback among the ornamental abodes which fall short of eco sensitivity.
The revival of unselfconscious architecture which will decrease our dependence on resources will be a topic in focus at the SPACES fest. The panel discussion will feature the architects Satyaprakash Varanashi, Neelam Manjunath and Eugene Pandala, the pioneers working for eco-friendly designs and advocates sustainable spaces.
Revitalizing commonsense architecture, a result of the vernacular architecture which shaped the past and offering solutions that fits the aspirations of the urban population, is a possible way out for a sustainable future.