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In the light of the Hall of Nations demolition, award winning Malayali Architect George Mathai Talks About Iconic Architecture And Its Significance

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FWD Life Award winning Malayali architect George Mathai talks about iconic architecture and its significance

The richness of a society is not determined by its economic powers and sufficiency alone, but is also derived from its cultural legacies retained and its architectural heritage preserved

Words by: Ar. George Mathai    Photographs from: Various Sources

George Mathai

Architect and educationist at Terrafirm

FWD Life In the light of the Hall of Nations demolition, award winning Malayali architect George Mathai talks about iconic architecture and its significance

Whether it is a built structure or a designed open space, the very purpose of its existence rests purely and completely on the needs and aspirations of its end-user, the human being. Spaces and buildings we create aspire to the unseen dimensions and craves to engage in romance with the heart of the generation that is consuming the richness of the existence of that structure. This engagement could be cultural, philosophical or meeting any contemporary societal wave or paradigm shifts that are blowing its winds of influence with the result of making an imprint on the collective psyche of the nation or a region. Every country or region invites its people to relish these realms by creating or letting remain its slice of iconic architecture or open spaces. This is vital as history amply proves, when one witnesses the multitudes of people that throng such spaces and environments only to partake in the historical flavor of a yesteryear event or to feel the surge and dynamic of a cultural sway.

Curating Kerala

Kerala, an enriched state by virtue of its historical embellishments and cultural and artistic forays, has its slice of iconic architecture and spaces. The examples are many and the capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, boasts of some very noteworthy and iconic architecture in the vicinity of or within the city itself. The Padmanabhapuram palace , the Padmanabhaswamy temple, the Napier museum, etc. lend their own music and cultural anchorage to the generations savouring its feel and presence. Can we do away with and remove any of these structures? Absolutely not , since these memorials of a certain cultural period are not only exemplars of great architectural sensibilities, but also storytellers of a bygone era and a social framework which every passing generation would want to relate to and momentarily possess the aura and feel as they experience it. ‘Iconic’ simply does not mean that which is imposing in terms of scale or pomp and grandiose, but also that which bears the reflective splendour of a period and a cultural phase of noteworthy credentials. Kochi, the commercial capital of Kerala has its own portion of iconic architecture, like the Bolgatty palace, he Hill palace museum, the symbolic emblems and sculptures in the Marine drive and the Durbar Hall ground, to name a few.

But sadly, the fact also remains that we have collectively bargained for the worst by choosing to ignore the criticality of creating modern iconic architectural creations and spaces. The airports we create, the huge commercial city nerve centers we call supermalls that are being set up, the hotels and the convention centers that are being constructed, all have the potential to be key iconic structures that eventually remain as the pride and purpose of a region. The irony is that we believe we are an intellectually elite society, in possession of an immense amount of information, but in reality, have become a generation who knows the price of everything but not the value of anything.

Safeguarding Heritage

The latest in this fiasco is the pulling down of the Hall of Nations in Pragati Maidan. This icon of modern architecture designed by Architect Raj Rewal was, in a way, the face of modern India heralding the departure of thought from just a mindless copying and aping of tradition and oft repeated and imitated symbols of past architectural styles. The Hall of Nations made a collective appeal to the nation in the throes of change and invited designers and architects to foray into uncharted territories in design language. Its structural logics and almost graphical web of structural frames invited minds to think about technology and its possibilities, for an aesthetic expression.

If responsible public institutions and organizations like the Indian Institute of Architects, Institution of Engineers, INTACH, ARCASIA, and the Union of International Architects have expressed their concerns and raised the issue at the right forums, it only points to the mindlessness of the gesture of pulling down such iconic landmarks. The curators of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the Pompidou Centre in Paris are well qualified to opine on such matters and they have done so in full earnestness, voicing their concern at this act that razed to ground the Hall of Nations. The richness of a society is not determined by its economic powers and sufficiency alone, but is also derived from its cultural legacies retained and its architectural heritage preserved. India will remain on course to be a developed nation in its season, only if this is deeply etched in the minds of this nation on the move.

George Mathai is a prominent architect practicing in Kerala. He has many landmark designs to his credit many of which are green rated buildings. He is also a design educationist and is the chairman of Terrafirm Global Academy of Design and Innovation, based out of Kochi.

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Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

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As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

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Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

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In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

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Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

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