Earthen Harvest

Concept: Vernacular Architecture
Location: Kunigal
Climate: Central Dry Agro
Population: 46,000
Area: 15,000 sqft

This project is intended to harmonize design and space by including sustainable components, enhancing natural lighting and ventilation and optimizing natural resources through alternative renewable and recyclable solutions. As this project optimizes the use of natural resources, the goal is to achieve an end goal of achieving a low carbon footprint. Architecture is a simple art form and the works speak for themselves.

Kunigal, known as Narthana Puri, is located in Tumkur District, Southern Karnataka. The lush scenery is dotted with undulating hills, valleys, paddy fields and acres of plantations interwoven with trees strewn here and there. The “Maize Doubled Haploid Facility – CIMMYT” at Agriculture Research Station, Kunigal, is situated on a 1.63-acre campus that houses the administrative building, laboratory block and seed work block.

Client background

CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit worldwide agricultural research organization with operations in 12 countries. Except for those in India, all facilities follow a standard model, with structures made of concrete and steel. 

Project Components

1. Office Building
2. Community Hall
3. Lab Building
4. Herbal and Fruit Garden
5. Eco STP
6. Rainwater Harvesting Pond

Design concept

The design concept is a clever combination of zoning and planning, with building masses that integrate harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The design emphasizes the natural elements of the undulating hilly terrain, turning them into an asset rather than a hindrance. The master plan’s meticulous zoning follows a bioclimatic approach to natural ventilation, lighting and passive cooling. A staggered layout along the contoured terrain reduces soil erosion and saves valuable topsoil, improves cross-ventilation and gives enough daylight while sheltering the building from direct heat radiation. 

Office Building Components

1. Manager Room
2. Workstation
3. Reception
4. Conference Room
5. Pantry
6. Panel Enclosure
7. Restroom
8. Lab Room
9. Central Courtyard

The classical vernacular design accomplishes natural cross-ventilation and stack effect through open landscaped courtyards surrounding the structures and inside central courtyards, known as “Thotti Mane” in traditional Kannadiga dwellings. The entire structure is made of earth materials, like the interlocking mud blocks for the walls made from soil extracted from the site itself.

Community Hall & Other Facilities

The community hall and other structures use interlocking blocks. Stone foundations and terracotta tiled roofs improve the ambient temperature while maintaining durability and aesthetics. The utilization of reclaimed water via STP and renewable energy in active areas reduces carbon footprints to insignificant levels.

Sustainable concepts

1. Building Orientation: Designed to enhance energy efficiency while considering the local climate.
2. Envelope Insulation: Minimizes energy loss while maintaining indoor comfort.
3. Daylighting and Natural Ventilation: utilization of natural light and airflow to lower dependence on artificial lighting and HVAC systems.
4. High Window-to-Wall Ratio: Provides sufficient natural light and ventilation.
5. High-Performance Glazing: Improves insulation and lowers energy usage.
6. Sustainable Materials: Interlocking mud bricks (made from site-sourced dirt), reused timber, stone arch foundations and other sustainable materials.
7. Energy Efficiency: Making the best use of energy-efficient equipment to reduce energy usage.
8. Renewable Energy Systems: Installation of renewable energy systems to power the facilities.
9. Bioclimatic or Passive Architecture: The use of features that promote passive heating and cooling, hence lowering the need for mechanical systems.
10. Construction trash Management: Reducing construction trash and garbage to nearly insignificant levels.
11. Water Management: Effective water management includes rainwater collecting and greywater recycling.

The Earthen Harvest project demonstrates the possibility of vernacular architecture mixed with modern sustainability principles. By embracing the site’s natural features and using eco-friendly materials and techniques, the project not only decreases its environmental impact but also fosters a pleasant living and working environment. This method sets a precedent for future advances, demonstrating that sustainable design can be both beautiful and functional.

The utilization of locally sourced materials, such as interlocking mud blocks and salvaged wood, helps to reduce the carbon impact of transportation while also supporting local businesses. The bioclimatic design principles ensure that buildings are pleasant all year round, avoiding the need for artificial heating and cooling. The use of renewable energy systems and smart water management measures strengthens the commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

This project illustrates the seamless integration of indigenous architecture and current environmental ideas. Utilizing local materials and bioclimatic design reduces the project’s environmental effect while providing a comfortable and visually beautiful setting. The use of interlocking mud bricks, reused wood and renewable energy sources, and efficient water and waste management, demonstrates a dedication towards lowering carbon footprints and encouraging sustainability.