Aranya low-cost housing

Description

This project by Indian architect B.V. Doshi explores the understanding of the habitat in its different dimensions and scales. His commitment to the creation of a post-independence democratic India led him to ask what architecture could do to improve the lives of most of the population. Far from being inspired by modern urbanism, Doshi’s neighbourhood projects are based on a deep understanding of Indian idiosyncrasy and the cultural aspects of living. In this sense, his Aranya low-cost housing project stands out. Each housing unit is articulated around an energy and sanitary core in an organic way and according to the specific needs. Doshi’s urban-scale projects are based on the development of spatial processes that include the empowerment of residents, with the aim of strengthening neighbourhood networks for mutual support and, ultimately, collective identity. The architect’s work, concerned with shaping the landscape with its people, materials and spatial knowledge, gave rise to a new way of doing architecture that inspires the best architecture of today. A living architecture that integrates human activity into the metabolism of nature.