VitaVersity: interdisciplinary human habitat design hub

Abstract

The Futurist Design Hub emerges by embracing interdisciplinarity, equipping architects with the diverse expertise as a pioneering model for architectural education, transcending conventional boundaries of designing human habitats across terrestrial and interterrestrial realms. Envisioned as a catalyst for innovation, it integrates research and academic rigor with public outreach, embodying a paradigm shift towards shaping the future of architecture in celestial frontiers. This literature study explores the convergence of ecological principles and architectural design examining the co-existence of various ecosystems (humane and non-humane), focusing on Attakanitippa, a locale nestled within the biodiverse Pullicat Lagoon of Andhra Pradesh, India. Emphasizing symbiosis between built environments and nature, particularly the avian ecosystem, it advocates for a transformative shift in architectural ethos. Through rigorous analysis of ecological dynamics and case studies of pioneering research institutes like ISRO, CBRI, and IISC, this study lays the foundation for design strategies rooted in ecological sensitivity and sustainability, poised to shape the future of interterrestrial and terrestrial habitat design. The project's holistic approach embraces eco-futurism, deconstructivism, and responsive architecture as guiding principles. It seeks to communicate progress through architectural language by seamlessly integrating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient solutions, and innovative green technologies. The design ethos merges futuristic aesthetics with a steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability, embodying a vision for a harmonious coexistence of advancement and ecological balance. Through responsive architecture, the project aims to create dynamic spaces that adapt to environmental conditions, user needs, and specific stimuli, fostering a symbiotic relationship between inhabitants and their surroundings. The building's design is informed by a deep understanding of the island's fragile ecosystems and user needs. Its compact footprint minimizes disruption to the rich soil ecosystem, crucial for preserving the delicate balance of the island's freshwater ecosystem. Utilizing a pile system ensures stability while minimizing ecological impact and enhancing stability against coastal hazards. Vertical programming optimizes ventilation and minimizes ground disturbance, with the central core serving as the building's anchor. To accommodate the avian ecosystem, the design integrates avian-friendly features, fostering habitat growth within building acting as vertical forests. Sky gardens provide spaces for humans and birds to coexist harmoniously while aiding in cooling the building in the tropical climate. The building's form is optimized for solar exposure, with decreasing cantilevers to mitigate the equatorial sun's intensity. Floorplates maximize daylight and views, enhancing comfort and reducing energy consumption. Landscape areas act as rain buffers during monsoons, further harmonizing the building with its environment. The tower's design, centered around an upright tree-like core, symbolizes the integration of human and natural elements in a sustainable architectural vision. The central core functions as a light and wind tower, promoting airflow to combat the region's high humidity. It also incorporates evaporative cooling techniques when needed, reflecting the project's focus on sustainable climate control strategies. The project represents a fresh approach to architectural design, focusing on harmonizing with nature while meeting and addressing the evolving futuristic needs of human society also resulting in eco-resilience. By blending innovative design with environmental consciousness, it aims to set new standards in sustainable architecture.