Innovative Designs Reshaping South Asia’s Urban Landscape
Explore ‘Architectures of Transition’ in Chennai, an exhibition highlighting how South Asia’s urban design fosters social connections and community collaboration. Discover how architects are innovating with traditional materials and reshaping the region’s dynamic landscapes.
South Asia has seen major urban and climatic shifts. “Rapid urbanization and growing populations are reshaping the cultural landscape,” notes architect Rahul Mehrotra, co-curator of ‘Architectures of Transition’ which recently launched in Chennai. This change is driving young architects to innovate with traditional materials and techniques, adapting them for modern needs.
The 2015 Gorkha earthquake showcased the strength of bamboo and stone, inspiring designs like the Kopila Valley School in Karnali, which uses rammed earth and bamboo for both structure and play. The Madan Puraskar Library, Nepal’s first large bamboo and earth library, features a striking spider web-like ceiling and houses a significant collection of Nepali literature.
Become a Premium Member to access our exclusive contents: https://authindia.com/premium-community-membership/ “Architects are key in managing these changes,” notes Mehrotra. *Architectures of Transition* presents 41 emerging South Asian firms—across Bhutan, Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan—addressing common urban challenges.
Organized by Mehrotra, Shah, and Thole, *Architectures of Transition* explores diverse ‘transient projects’ across South Asia. From Gujarat’s community housing and Afghanistan’s multi-use mosque to Bhutan’s hospitals, bamboo schools, and a family-like hostel in Ahmedabad, the exhibition highlights how architects are fostering community bonds and empathy through innovative design.
