Adaptive reuse of historical building of Chanderi between 17th and 18th AD

Abstract

Heritage buildings have undergone various transformations, including reuse, destruction, reconstruction, abandonment, loss, and restoration. In this dynamic process, the purpose and function of a building constantly shift, often accompanied by additions and alterations that can have positive or negative effects on the structure. Chanderi, a town renowned for its silk weaving, rich history, and architectural heritage, is home to numerous buildings with immense potential for beneficial use. In order for these buildings to survive and thrive, it is essential to develop economically viable plans for their preservation and adaptive reuse. Chanderi boasts a unique architectural style that harmoniously blends indigenous and provincial techniques, resulting in a distinctive historic fabric that characterizes the town. The thesis on Adaptive reuse of historical buildings of Chanderi between 17th and 18th AD: A case of Purani Taksal is a study about the five buildings in Chanderi which have no use and in past have been reused as public buildings. These building are old and historic but there is no data about the past use and its history. These buildings do share commonalities in various architectural aspects. The objective of thesis is to study the historical buildings in Chanderi with a specific focus on the Purani Taksal building, proposing its adaptive reuse as a pilot project. The three buildings located in Katra Bazar which is adjoining Sadar bazar, are stone buildings around which were used as public buildings (purane daftar) for some time and were insensitively altered according to the new function, and in present times these heritage buildings in the vicinity are in a condition of decay and not maintained and not put to any economic use. There is no regard for them, putting building to not suitable to use and waiting for them to die is the concern that needs to be addressed by the town. This process of identifying a new function for a building through the exploration of various adaptive reuse approaches. The research methodology involves a comprehensive study of existing literature, interviews with individuals from diverse backgrounds including stakeholders, authorities, and experts, and an indepth analysis of the building's spatial language. The analysis of the building's Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings in Chanderi of 17th and 18th AD- A case of Purani Taksal Page iii spatial language plays a crucial role in determining the possibilities for adaptive reuse. By evaluating the existing layout, structural elements, and architectural features, the research explores how these characteristics can be leveraged to accommodate different functions effectively. The thesis intent to reuse the historic buildings and introduce functions in them so as to help use the dead space in the fabric. These buildings have survived the test of times by standing for more than 200-300 years and are used by the people. The thesis focuses on one building, and propose adaptive reuse of Purani Takshal, which will become a pilot for reuse of other) buildings. This thesis explores the repurposing of Taksal building as a youth hostel, by examining the potential benefits and requirement of the town taken. The design transforms the building into a vibrant and functional space that meets the specific needs of young travelers without disturbing the original fabric of the building. This thesis makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the buildings in Chanderi during the 17th-18th AD period, offering valuable insights into their spatial and architectural aspects. By shedding light on the lesser-known historical buildings in Chanderi, which hold a crucial place in the town's architectural fabric and have deeply impacted the lives of its inhabitants; this thesis aims to address their current state of abandonment and decay. Furthermore, it provides a solid foundation for further exploration and the adaptive reuse of these buildings, ensuring their preservation and revitalization. The proposed adaptive reuse of the Taksal building serves as an economical and effective model for repurposing, demonstrating the potential for breathing new life into these historic structures.