Architecture and Design! - V.N. Giritharan -

[ Digital Art (Google Nano Banana technique) by VNG.]

The main aspect of architecture is design. Architecture, in short, can be described as designing the built environment. A city is filled with buildings. Architecture is the creation of this environment filled with buildings. How does architecture create buildings? This is where design becomes crucial. Architecture is not just about constructing buildings. Before constructing and designing these buildings, many factors must be considered.

Initial Steps and Their Importance in Building Design!

If a client wishes to build a structure, an architect must consider the following: What is the purpose of the building? Without understanding the objective, a building cannot be designed. For example, a client might want to create a home to live in, or an educational institution, or a library. Clearly understanding the client's objective is the first step in terms of design activities.Beyond understanding the client's objective, there must also be a clear understanding of the budget the client can allocate for the project. This can be obtained through conversations between the architect and the client.

A clear understanding of the client's objective and their budget for that purpose is essential for creating an excellent design.

Buildings and the Environment

When designing buildings, an understanding of the impact of the environment where the buildings will be located is very important. The local climate and geography must be taken into account, and the design should be created to withstand them. For instance, if we consider the Jaffna district, our ancestors, embracing its climate, built houses, and among them, the 'Natchara Veedu' (four-sided courtyard house) is famous. They created these houses with courtyards in the middle, ensuring good ventilation. Natchara Veedu is an important feature of our traditional architecture.

 

 

In places where there is snowfall, flat roofs are not usually built on ordinary houses. Instead, sloping roofs are constructed to prevent snow from easily accumulating and freezing. These are good examples of how houses should be built according to the environment.

Furthermore, studies on the land structure and soil type where the buildings will be located are also factors that determine the design of a building.

Local Natural Resources

Knowledge and research about naturally available local building materials play a significant role in the design of a building. By using locally available building materials, the cost of construction materials can be greatly reduced. A prime example of this is the skill demonstrated by Jaffna Tamils in their traditional architecture.

The palm tree is called the 'Karpaga Tharu' (celestial tree). Palm trees protect the environment. They thrive even in severe drought. Each part of it is useful to people in various ways. They are used as building materials, various food items, and for various needs like fans and fences. Their uses are manifold. It is very important to grow a large number of palm trees, which also serve as habitats for various living beings.

 

 

In Southern Sri Lanka, 'Wattle and Daub' type houses, built by poor people using locally available wood and earth, are another example of houses created by utilizing local natural resources. In these types of houses, wooden frames are set up crisscross, and mixed earth is plastered onto the frames to form the house walls. These are quite sturdy and durable for long-term use.

Architects should learn from these examples. That's why a clear understanding and knowledge of traditional architecture are very important for good architects. Just as our ancestors created traditional buildings, architects, when designing modern buildings, should also investigate whether there are possibilities to use locally available natural resources. If possibilities exist, they should explain them to clients and incorporate them into their building designs.

Design and Social Life

 

 

The social life of buildings also holds an important place. For this, we can refer to the 'Natchara Veedu' and 'Thinnai' as main components of the traditional architecture of Jaffna Tamils.  The 'Natchara Veedu', built due to climate in those times, gained importance in another way. The 'Thinnai' area around the 'Natchara' courtyard served as an important space for women. They greatly supported the lifestyle of women in that era. At the same time, the 'Thinnai' located in front of the house supported the social life of men. These are good examples of how social life impacts the design of a building.

Natural Disasters and Building Design

In areas prone to frequent natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones, buildings must be designed to withstand, resist, and stand strong against these events. When designing such buildings, architects must work together with structural engineers. This is essential to design robust buildings that align with the client's financial situation.

Cultural and Historical Background and Design

Cultural and historical elements greatly influence building design. In Hindu homes, the principles of 'Vasthu Deva Sasthiram' play an important role. Similarly, in Islamic buildings, their cultural and historical aspects play a significant role. It is important for architects to incorporate all these when designing buildings for their clients.

In addition to these, thorough studies must be conducted on building regulations of government departments that oversee new buildings and urban development, as well as the availability of necessary electricity, water, and drainage facilities in the area where the building will be located.

Aesthetics and Design

Any art, while serving people, should also provide joy. To provide joy, the artwork must incorporate aesthetic elements. Architecture is no exception. Why do millions of people still visit the Taj Mahal building today? It's for its beauty located by the river and its architectural design that reflects that beauty. Its aesthetics draw large numbers of people there, bringing satisfaction and joy, making them utilize it extensively.

To skillfully use aesthetics in design, an architect needs knowledge of architecture, its history, local and global architecture, architectural theories, along with imagination and creativity. Users will happily use beautiful buildings designed in this manner.

Thus, a building must be designed considering the environment, climate, building codes, cultural and historical elements, social life, and natural resources, and be able to withstand natural disasters. When designing in this way, it must meet the client's preferences according to their financial situation.

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