Buildings: A Study of Regional Assertions in The Architecture of Delhi From The 1970s To The Present

buildings
Article
A Study of Regional Assertions in the Architecture of
Delhi from the 1970s to the present
Sanyam Bahga * and Gaurav Raheja
Department of Architecture and Planning, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India;
grdesfap@iitr.ac.in
* Correspondence: sbahga@ar.iitr.ac.in; Tel.: +91-9876-870-121

Received: 15 March 2019; Accepted: 17 April 2019; Published: 1 May 2019
Abstract: Critical regionalism is an architectural approach that seeks to correct sterile and abstract
modernism by using contextual forces that focus on local needs and potential. As globalisation
disrupts and displaces local building traditions in India’s metropolitan cities, critical regionalism
offers resistance to the homogenising forces of global modernism. This paper analyses five key
architectural works realised in Delhi in the past four decades that incorporate the ideas of critical
regionalism in their designs. The different approaches adopted by regionalist architects in dealing
with local climate, topography, materials and sociological complexes have been presented. By limiting
itself to regionalist works in Delhi, the paper attempts to highlight that critical regionalism is not a
set of aesthetic preferences but a philosophical framework capable of producing diverse forms of
architecture despite analogous external influences arising from similar site conditions.
Keywords: critical regionalism; modern regionalism; Indian architecture; Indian modernism; Delhi;
local urban context; climate responsive architecture; socially-engaged architecture
1. Introduction
Contemporary architecture in India’s metropolitan cities is being subjected to the homogenising
forces of global capitalism [1]. The resulting ‘corporate architecture’ with its free-standing boxes
wrapped in glass and aluminium façades makes little sense in India’s climate and social conditions [2].
However, as the impact of globalisation has surged, there has been a greater inclination amongst
local architects to resist its standardising forces by embracing the ideas of critical regionalism [3,4].
Practitioners of critical regionalism absorb the progressive lessons of modernisation and reconcile
them with the natural forces and cultural realities of the place [5]. Thus, critical regionalism holds the
promise to culturally enrich Indian architecture without hindering its advancement towards a bright
and progressive future [6].
In this study, five critical regionalist projects realised in Delhi in the past four decades were
identified and subsequently researched; their designs were analysed to assess how well they integrate
the determinants of critical regionalism which the author has delineated as a result of this study. The
different approaches adopted by different architects in response to the different aspects of critical
regionalism have been presented. The philosophy of critical regionalism is rooted in local conditions
such as climate, topography, architectural heritage, availability of materials and culture. By limiting itself
to the Delhi region, the study attempts to highlight that despite similar site conditions resulting from
close proximity of building sites, critical regionalism is able to generate diverse forms of architecture.
2. Critical Regionalism: Definition

The term ‘critical regionalism’ was first used by Uruguayan painter Pedro Figari in the 1920s [7].
The term first appeared in architectural discourse in essays by Alexander Tzonis and Liane Lefaivre
Buildings 2019, 9, 108; doi:10.3390/buildings9050108 www.mdpi.com/journal/buildings

Buildings 2019, 9, 108 2 of 28
(1981) and Kenneth Frampton (1983) [8,9]. As an architectural approach, critical regionalism attempts to
find the right balance between the universal lessons of science and locally rooted traditions of particular
regions [10]. It is essentially a variant of modern architecture that shows greater respect towards
the climate, topography, local materials and sociological complexes of a place [11] (p. 453). Critical
regionalism is vital in contemporary times as it resists the homogenising force of global capitalism by
using contextual forces that impart a sense of place and meaning to architecture.
Critical Regionalism: Determinants

Scholarship on critical regionalism reveals key determinants that an architectural work should
assimilate in order to be critically regionalist:
1. Contextual response: The design should relate to its urban context by stressing upon certain
site-specific factors [12].
2. Historical knowledge: The design should interpret lessons from traditional architecture of the
region and blend them with contemporary architectural language [11] (p. 568).
3. Climate responsiveness: The form and organisation of the building should respond to the
local climate minimising the need for mechanical controls like air-conditioning and artificial
lighting [13] (p. 57).
4. Ecological sensitiveness: The design should minimise its impact on the natural environment of
the place [13] (p. 29).
5. Local materials and construction: The design should make use of local materials and construction
techniques that allow local workforce to participate in the construction process [14].
6. Technological sustainability: The design should adapt modern technology to meet the needs of
the local community [15].
7. Cultural appropriateness: The architecture should take care of the way of life of the people who
will be inhabiting the building [16].
Based on the determinants of critical regionalism, the study identified five architectural works
realised in the Delhi metropolitan region in the past four decades that integrate the ideas of critical
regionalism in their designs:
1. Yamuna Apartments (1980) by The Design Group;

2. Central Institute of Educational Technology (1988) by Raj Rewal;
3. India Habitat Centre (1993) by Joseph Allen Stein;
4. Development Alternatives Headquarters (2008) by Ashok B Lall;
5. Dilli Haat Janakpuri (2014) by Sourabh Gupta.
The above-mentioned architectural works have been analysed to assess how they integrate the
determinants of critical regionalism in their designs. By analysing each determinant in each of the
identified regionalist works, the study attempts to highlight that critical regionalism is not a formula
or a fashion, but a process that authentically seeks to answer specific problems of a place. Moreover,
by limiting itself to the Delhi region, the study tries to show that despite similar site conditions due to
close proximity, critical regionalism is able to produce varied architectural responses due to the discretion
it affords architects in selection of external influences and the final amalgamation between them.
3. Critical Regionalism in Delhi
3.1. Yamuna Apartments (1980)

The Yamuna Apartments are a low-rise medium-density housing scheme located in the Alaknanda
neighbourhood of south-east Delhi (Figure 1). This cooperative group housing scheme was one of the
first to be commissioned by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Although DDA had been one of
the largest builders of housing in Delhi since 1961, it relied on byelaws and building codes that gave
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 3 of 28
little importance to architectural innovation [17]. Due to limitations arising from the building codes,
Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 29
the architects
Buildings 2019, 9,of Yamuna
x FOR Apartments had to accommodate two hundred dwelling units in a small
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of 3.75 acres with building height restricted to four-storey. Despite these limitations,
limitations, the architects Ranjit Sabikhi and Ajoy Choudhury of the Design Group have been able to the architects
limitations,
Ranjit
create anSabikhithe and
architects
integrated Ajoy Ranjit Sabikhi
Choudhury
community ofand
settlement Ajoy
theby Choudhury
Design
drawingGroup of the
uponhave Design
been
principles fromGroup
able to have
create
traditionalanbeen able to
integrated
built-forms.
create
communityan integrated
settlement community
by drawing settlement
upon by drawing
principles from upon principles
traditional from
built-forms.
Sabikhi’s education at the University of Liverpool and Choudhary’s work experience in Milan traditional
Sabikhi’s built-forms.
education at
Sabikhi’s
the
brought a education
University
Western at thetoand
of Liverpool
rigour University
their design ofinLiverpool
Choudhary’s work
form and lines
clean Choudhary’s
ofexperience in Milan
and work experience
brought
a minimalist Western in
aappearance, Milan
rigour
whileto
brought
their a
design Western
in form rigour
of to
clean their
lines design
and a in form
minimalist of clean lines
appearance, and
whilea minimalist
their years
their years of upbringing and practice in the Delhi region has rooted their work in the tangible appearance,
of upbringing while
and
their
practiceyears
realities in of Delhi
of the
the upbringing
locale.regionand practicetheir
has rooted in the
work Delhi region
in the hasrealities
tangible rooted oftheir
the work
locale.in the tangible
realities of the locale.
Figure 1. Yamuna Apartments, New Delhi (1980) by the Design Group (Photo: Author).
Yamuna Apartments, New Delhi (1980) by the Design Group (Photo:
Figure 1. Yamuna (Photo: Author).
3.1.1. Contextual
3.1.1. Contextual Response
Response
The challenge
The challengefaced
facedbyby thethe architects
architects in responding
in responding to thetourban
the urban
contextcontext
of the ofsitethe sitefrom
came came thefrom
fact
The
the fact challenge faced
that the Apartments by the
Yamuna Apartments architects
werein responding
the first to
housing the urban context of the site came from
that the Yamuna were the first housing scheme to be scheme to be
built in the built in the
Alaknanda Alaknanda
neighbourhood
the fact that theofYamuna
neighbourhood south-east Apartments
Delhi. were
There wasthenothing
first housing scheme tothe be built at inthethe Alaknanda
of south-east Delhi. There was nothing existing aroundexisting
the sitearound
at the timesite to which time to which
the architects
neighbourhood of south-east Delhi. There was nothing existing around the site at the time to which
could respond to. Nonetheless, considering the allocation of neighbouring plots for future plots
the architects could respond to. Nonetheless, considering the allocation of neighbouring housing for
the architects
future housing could respond to. Nonetheless, considering the allocation of neighbouring plots for
schemes (Figure schemes (Figure
2), the design 2), the Apartments
of Yamuna design of Yamuna
respondsApartments responds
to the generalised to the architectural
modernist generalised
future
modernist housing schemes vocabulary
architectural (Figure 2), the design of
prevalent in Yamuna
urban Apartments
India at the responds
time. As a to the generalised
consequence, the
vocabulary prevalent in urban India at the time. As a consequence, the Yamuna Apartments have been
modernist
Yamuna architectural
Apartments vocabulary prevalent in urban India at the time. As a consequence, the
able to visually blend have
in withbeen
the able to visually
housing blend in
developments in with the housing developments
the neighbourhood that came up in in the
the
Yamuna Apartments
neighbourhood that camehaveupbeen
in able
the to visually
following years.blend in with
However, the the housing
security developments
concerns of the in the
residents
following years. However, the security concerns of the residents led to creation of a gated community that
neighbourhood
led to creation ofthat
athecamecommunity
gated up in the following years. However,
that hasscheme
compromised the security concerns of the residents
has compromised linkages of the housing with thethe linkages
surrounding ofneighbourhood
the housing scheme
[18]. with
led to creation of a gated community
the surrounding neighbourhood [18]. that has compromised the linkages of the housing scheme with
the surrounding neighbourhood [18].
Figure 2.2.Satellite image

Satellite of theofYamuna
image Apartments
the Yamuna complex located
Apartments in the
complex Alaknanda
located neighbourhood
in the Alaknanda
Figure
of 2.
south-eastSatellite
Delhi image
(Image of the
courtesy ofYamuna
Google Apartments
Earth). complex
neighbourhood of south-east Delhi (Image courtesy of Google Earth). located in the Alaknanda
neighbourhood of south-east Delhi (Image courtesy of Google Earth).
3.1.2. Historical Knowledge
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 4 of 28

The housing units of Yamuna Apartments have been grouped into eight building blocks. These
blocks have been organised
The housing around aApartments
units of Yamuna network of have
narrow pedestrian
been grouped streets while
into eight the vehicular
building traffic is
blocks. These
blockstohave
limited been organised
the periphery of thearound a network
site (Figure of narrow
3). The design pedestrian streets
concept draws while
upon thethe vehicular
layout traffic
of traditional
is limitedquarters
residential to the periphery of thecities
of north Indian site (Figure
having 3). The design
a lively network concept draws
of short upon
streets thethe
where layout of
residents
cantraditional
spend time residential quarters
sitting and of north
mingling withIndian cities having[19].
their neighbours a lively network of short streets where
the residents can spend time sitting and mingling with their neighbours [19].
(a) (b)
Figure 3. (a) Site Plan of Yamuna Apartments with housing blocks placed along four radially-converging
streets [19];
Figure (b) Site
3. (a) housing units
Plan of overlooking
Yamuna the narrow
Apartments pedestrian
with housing streets
blocks in along
placed Yamuna
fourApartments
radially-
(Photo: Author).
converging streets [19]; (b) housing units overlooking the narrow pedestrian streets in Yamuna
Apartments (Photo: Author).
In addition, these narrow pedestrian streets converge onto a central square in a manner similar to
In addition,
a traditional Indianthese narrow
village. pedestrian
In a typical streets
village converge
setting, onto aconverge
the streets central square in acentral
onto the manner similar
square that
to a traditional
houses a market or Indian village.
a village In athus
well, typical village
acting as asetting, thecommunal
place for streets converge onto the
interaction. Acentral
similarsquare
concept
hasthat
beenhouses
adopteda market or a village
in Yamuna well, thus
Apartments as the acting as square
central a place containing
for communal interaction.
recreational A similar
facilities, shops,
concept has been adopted in Yamuna Apartments
a community club and a canteen forms the focus of the housing scheme. as the central square containing recreational
facilities,
Other shops, a community
elements assimilated club
fromandthe
a canteen
region’s forms the focus
traditional of the housing
architecture scheme.
include use of balconies
Other elements assimilated from the region’s traditional architecture
for shading external walls from the harsh sun and provision of terraces for outdoor sleeping include use of balconieson forhot
shading
summer nights. external walls from the harsh sun and provision of terraces for outdoor sleeping on hot
summer nights.
3.1.3. Climate Responsiveness
As use of air-conditioning in households was quite uncommon in India in the 1970s, the architects
As use of air-conditioning in households was quite uncommon in India in the 1970s, the
of Yamuna Apartments prioritised cross-ventilation in unit designs to provide thermal comfort.
architects of Yamuna Apartments prioritised cross-ventilation in unit designs to provide thermal
Well-distributed openings on two sides of each unit have been supplemented by internal ventilation
comfort. Well-distributed openings on two sides of each unit have been supplemented by internal
shafts to ensure adequate cross-ventilation (Figure 4). Space for installing desert coolers has also been
ventilation shafts to ensure adequate cross-ventilation (Figure 4). Space for installing desert coolers
provided in the internal ventilation shafts [20].
has also been provided in the internal ventilation shafts [20].
Other measures in response to the local climate include projection of deep balconies for protecting
Other measures in response to the local climate include projection of deep balconies for
theprotecting
external walls from incident
the external walls sunrays. Squaresunrays.
from incident and rectangular-shaped balconies alternate
Square and rectangular-shaped between
balconies
floors to break the monotony in façades and also to ensure sufficient daylighting
alternate between floors to break the monotony in façades and also to ensure sufficient daylighting in adjoining rooms.
in adjoining rooms.
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Figure 4. Floor plans of the three unit types with arrows depicting cross-ventilation [19].
Figure
Figure4.4.Floor
Floorplans
plansofofthe
thethree
threeunit
unittypes
typeswith
witharrows
arrowsdepicting
depictingcross-ventilation
cross-ventilation[19].
[19].
3.1.4. Ecological Sensitiveness
3.1.4.
3.1.4.Ecological
EcologicalSensitiveness
Sensitiveness
The site located in south-east Delhi is flat and even, gently rising about one metre from the eastern
edgeTheThe site
site
to the located
located in
western. insouth-east
the siteDelhi
south-east
Thus, Delhi
did notisisflat
flatand
pose and even,
even, gently
a significantgently rising
rising about
ecological about one
concern metre
onefor the from
metre fromthethe
architect.
eastern
eastern
As edge
mandatededge byto
to the western.
theplanning Thus,
Thus, the
western.regulations the site
site did
did not
applicable nottopose
pose aa significant
the site,significant ecological
the architects had to concern
ecological concern
leave an for
for the
area the
of
architect.
architect.
0.5 acres in As
As mandated
the mandated by
north-easternbythe
the planning
planning
corner of theregulations
regulations applicable
site as a greenapplicable totothe
space (Figurethesite, the
site,The
3). architects
architectshad
theremaining hadto
3.75 toleave
leave
acres of
an
anarea
the of
of0.5
areahad
site to acres
0.5 acresin inthe
accommodate thenorth-eastern
north-eastern
two hundred corner
corner
dwellingof
ofthe
the site
site
units as
asaabuilding
with green
greenspace
space
height (Figure
(Figure 3).
3).The
restricted The remaining
remaining
to four-storey.
3.75
3.75acres
acresof
Therefore, ofthe
not the site
sitehad
much had
roomto accommodate
towas
accommodate
afforded by two
twothehundred
buildingdwelling
hundred codes tounits
dwelling unitswith
preservewith building
anybuilding height
existingheight restricted
restricted
vegetation on
to
tofour-storey.
the four-storey. Therefore,
Therefore,
site. Nonetheless, thenot
not much
muchroom
architects havewas
room was afforded
managedafforded bybythe
thebuilding
to provide building codes
sufficientcodes to
topreserve
vegetationpreserve
coverany
any existing
existing
along the
vegetation
vegetation
internal on
on the
streets site.
thethe
in site. Nonetheless,
site plan (Figurethe
Nonetheless, 5). architects
the architects havehave managed
managed to to provide
provide sufficient
sufficient vegetation
vegetation
cover
coveralong
alongthetheinternal
internalstreets
streetsininthe
thesite
siteplan
plan(Figure
(Figure5).5).
Figure
Figure Vegetation
5.5.Vegetation
Figure5. Vegetationcover
coveralong
alongthe
thepedestrian streetsininYamuna
pedestrianstreets YamunaApartments
Yamuna Apartments(Photo:
Apartments (Photo:Author).
(Photo: Author).
3.1.5. Local
3.1.5. Local Materials and and Construction
3.1.5. LocalMaterials
Materials andConstruction
Construction
The
The choice of materials for the Yamuna Apartments has been influenced by the exigencies of local
Thechoice
choiceofofmaterials
materialsfor forthe
theYamuna
YamunaApartments
Apartmentshas hasbeen
beeninfluenced
influencedby bythetheexigencies
exigenciesof of
economics.
local For the purpose of finishing the external walls, exposed stone aggregate plaster has been
localeconomics.
economics.For Forthethepurpose
purposeof offinishing
finishingthe
theexternal
externalwalls,
walls,exposed
exposedstone
stoneaggregate
aggregateplaster
plasterhas
has
applied
been in situ. Aggregate plaster is an economical and maintenance-free material composed of simple
beenapplied
appliedin insitu.
situ.Aggregate
Aggregateplaster
plasterisisan
aneconomical
economicaland andmaintenance-free
maintenance-freematerial
materialcomposed
composedof of
ingredients:
simple CementCement
ingredients: and crushedand local stone.
crushed Despite
local stone. being an being
Despite inexpensive
an material, stone
inexpensive aggregate
material, stone
simple ingredients: Cement and crushed local stone. Despite being an inexpensive material, stone
plaster
aggregatelends a richlends
granular texture to the building.
aggregateplaster
plaster lendsaarichrichgranular
granulartexture
textureto tothe
thebuilding.
building.
The
The structural components are fabricated in in reinforced cement concrete, and cast in situ. Being
Thestructural
structuralcomponents
componentsare arefabricated
fabricated inreinforced
reinforcedcement
cementconcrete,
concrete,andandcast
castin
insitu.
situ.Being
Being
labour-intensive,
labour-intensive, the in situ construction resulted in an increased involvement of local workforce in the
labour-intensive, the in situ construction resulted in an increased involvement of local workforcein
the in situ construction resulted in an increased involvement of local workforce in
construction
the process.
theconstruction
constructionprocess.
process.
3.1.6.
3.1.6.Technological
TechnologicalSustainability
Sustainability
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 6 of 28

3.1.6. Technological Sustainability
Being
Being aa low-rise
low-rise medium-density
medium-density housing scheme, the Yamuna Apartments Apartments did not require
require
considerable technological advancements
considerable technological advancementsfor foritsitsconstruction.
construction. Nonetheless,
Nonetheless, wherever
wherever necessary,
necessary, the
the architects
architects havehave adopted
adopted thethe latest
latest technologies
technologies ofof thetime.
the time.Waffle
Waffleslab
slabhas
hasbeen
been employed
employed to span
the
the community
communityclub clubtotofurnish
furnisha column-free
a column-freespace.
space. Besides,
Besides,thethe
housing scheme
housing schememakes aggressive
makes use
aggressive
of
usecantilevered balconies
of cantilevered and staircases.
balconies This bold
and staircases. Thisexpression of structure,
bold expression however, lends
of structure, significant
however, lends
Brutalist overtones
significant Brutalisttoovertones
the housing scheme,
to the thus
housing subduing
scheme, thusitssubduing
regional its
qualities.
regional qualities.
3.1.7.
3.1.7. Cultural
Cultural Appropriateness
Appropriateness
The
The design
design of of Yamuna
Yamuna Apartments
Apartments benefited
benefited from
from thethe fact
fact that
that the
the architects
architects knew
knew beforehand
beforehand
the
the group
group of of residents
residents forfor whom
whom they
they were
were designing
designing for. for. The
The residents
residents comprised
comprised aa close-knit
close-knit group
group
of civil servants of South Indian origin who shared similar living requirements.
of civil servants of South Indian origin who shared similar living requirements. Keeping this in mind, Keeping this in
mind, the architects
the architects have have designed
designed an integrated
an integrated community
community settlement
settlement thattakes
that takesits
its inspiration
inspiration from
from
traditional residential quarters of Indian cities. The housing blocks are compactly
traditional residential quarters of Indian cities. The housing blocks are compactly clustered around clustered around
narrow
narrowpedestrian
pedestrianstreets
streetswith
withthethesemi-private
semi-private areas
areasof housing
of housingunits overlooking
units overlookingthese streets.
these As the
streets. As
concept of privacy
the concept in Indian
of privacy neighbourhoods
in Indian neighbourhoods is not is as
not strong as it is
as strong asin it the
is inWest, each unit
the West, eachhasunitbeen
has
designed to opentotowards
been designed the pedestrian
open towards spine. This
the pedestrian has resulted
spine. This hasinresulted
creation of in acreation
convivial ofpublic space
a convivial
between the housing blocks for the residents to interact with and the children
public space between the housing blocks for the residents to interact with and the children to play, to play, undisturbed by
the vehicular by
undisturbed traffic.
the vehicular traffic.
The access staircase
The access staircase to to
each housing
each housingunitunit
formsforms
an extension of the street
an extension of the[21] (p. 153).
street [21] The entrance
(p. 153). The
to each house
entrance to eachis house
through balconies
is through that help
balconies thatinhelp
transitioning from the
in transitioning fromshared public
the shared spacespace
public to theto
private areas of each unit. The internal layouts of units adhere to the traditional
the private areas of each unit. The internal layouts of units adhere to the traditional relationship relationship between
different rooms [22].
between different roomsEach house
[22]. Eachishouse
divided into a semi-private
is divided zone consisting
into a semi-private of a living
zone consisting of a room,
living
kitchen and dining
room, kitchen and room,
diningandroom,a private
and a zone consisting
private of bedrooms
zone consisting and terraces
of bedrooms and(Figure
terraces 6).(Figure
As all the
6).
residents share an orthodox Hindu lifestyle, due care has been taken in
As all the residents share an orthodox Hindu lifestyle, due care has been taken in preserving thepreserving the sanctity of the
kitchen—considered a holy place—by
sanctity of the kitchen—considered keeping
a holy it awaykeeping
place—by from the toilets.from
it away The the
semi-open terraces
toilets. The to the
semi-open
rear sidetoare
terraces theaccessible
rear side arefrom the bedrooms
accessible from theto facilitate
bedroomsthe practice of
to facilitate theoutdoor
practicesleeping
of outdoor during hot
sleeping
summer nights.
during hot summer nights.
Figure 6. Floor plans showing the internal layouts of the three unit types [19].
Figure 6. Floor plans showing the internal layouts of the three unit types [19].
3.2. Central Institute of Educational Technology (1988)
The Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET) is a public-sector establishment primarily
involved in multimedia production for use as educational tools (Figure 7). The building’s 10,500 square
metres of covered area comprises of television studios, sound studios, production rooms, seminar halls
and projection areas along with ancillary facilities. Architect Raj Rewal makes use of traditional north
Indian morphology to respond to this relatively unique institutional programme. His education at
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 7 of 28
the Architectural Association School in London and work experience in London and Paris instilled in
him progressive lessons of modernisation, while his upbringing in Hoshiarpur, Punjab and Delhi has
sensitized his work to the nuances of local culture.
Figure 7. Central Institute of Educational Technology, New Delhi (1988) by Raj Rewal (Photo: Author).
Figure 7. Central Institute of Educational Technology, New Delhi (1988) by Raj Rewal (Photo:
3.2.1. Contextual Response Author).
Figure 7. Central Institute of Educational Technology, New Delhi (1988) by Raj Rewal (Photo:
The CIET building is located on the southern
3.2. Central Institute of Educational Technology (1988)edge of the 70-acre campus of the National Council
of Educational Research and Training (NCERT,Author). Figure 8). The various buildings situated within the
The Central Institute of Educational Technology
campus have been designed by different architects and the (CIET) is a public-sector
only common establishment
feature between them is
3.2. Central
primarily Institute
involved of Educational
in the
multimedia Technology
production (1988)
for use as educational tools (Figure 7). The building’s
their height. Besides CIET building, the other buildings in the NCERT campus do not have a
10,500
strong square
The Centralmetres
architectural of covered
Institute
character area of
comprises
ofasEducational
most them areof
Technologytelevision
poor (CIET)studios,
imitations isofathe sound studios,
public-sector production
establishment
exposed-concrete vertical
rooms,
slab seminar
primarily involved
buildings halls
inand
popularised projection
multimedia
in India areas
by Lealong
production forwith ancillary
use as
Corbusier facilities.
educational
through his toolsArchitect
Chandigarh(Figure RajThe
7). Rewal
Secretariat makes
building’s
building.
use of square
10,500 traditional
Therefore, metres
instead north
of Indian
of covered
relating morphology
the design of the to
area comprises respond
of
CIET television
building to tothis relatively
studios,
buildings sound unique
studios,
in the NCERT institutional
production
campus,
programme.
rooms,chooses
Rewal His education
seminartohalls
respondand to at the
projectionArchitectural
areas
the national along
park Association
andwith ancillary
the historic School in London
facilities.
Qutab Minar and
Architect
monument work experience
Raj located
Rewal makes
on the
in London and
use of traditional
south-west Paris instilled
north Indian
of the building. in him progressive
Framedmorphology lessons
to respondand
views of the woodland of modernisation,
to the
thisdistant while
relatively his
Qutabunique upbringing
Minar are in
institutional
provided
Hoshiarpur,
programme.
from the upper Punjab
His and
education
level Delhi has
terracesat[23]. sensitized
the Moreover, his
Architectural work to
the Association the nuances of local
School inasLondon
use of red sandstone culture.
primaryand work experience
cladding material is
in London and Paris instilled in him progressive lessons
a common feature between the CIET building and the Qutab Minar. of modernisation, while his upbringing in
Hoshiarpur, Punjab and Delhi has sensitized his work to the nuances of local culture.
Figure 8. Satellite image of the Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET) building located
on the southern edge of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) campus
(Image courtesy ofimage
Google Earth).
8. Satellite
Figure 8. Satellite imageof ofthe
theCentral
CentralInstitute
InstituteofofEducational
EducationalTechnology (CIET)
Technology building
(CIET) located
building on
located
the southern edge of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT)
on the southern edge of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) campus campus
3.2.1.(Image
Contextual Response
courtesy
courtesy ofof Google
Google Earth).
Earth).
The CIET building is located on the southern edge of the 70-acre campus of the National Council
3.2.1. Contextual
of Educational Response
Research and Training (NCERT, Figure 8). The various buildings situated within the
campus have been designed by different
The CIET building is located architects
on the southern and
edge ofthe
the only common
70-acre campusfeature between Council
of the National them is
their height. Besides the CIET building, the other buildings in the NCERT campus do
of Educational Research and Training (NCERT, Figure 8). The various buildings situated within not havethe
a
strong
campusarchitectural characterby
have been designed as different
most of them are poor
architects and imitations of the exposed-concrete
the only common feature between vertical
them is
slab buildings popularised in India by Le Corbusier through his Chandigarh
their height. Besides the CIET building, the other buildings in the NCERT campus Secretariat
do notbuilding.
have a
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 8 of 28
3.2.2. Historical
Therefore,
Buildings 2019,instead Knowledge
9, x FOR of relating
PEER REVIEW the design of the CIET building to buildings in the NCERT campus, 8 of 29
RewalRewal’s
choosesarchitecture
to respondhas to the national park and the historic Qutab Minar monument located
been highly influenced by the urbanscape of historic Indian towns like on
Therefore,
the
Jaisalmer instead
south-west
[22]. Inoftheof relating
thecase
building. the design
Framed
of the CIET of the CIET
viewsRewal
building, of the building
woodland
attempts to buildings
and the
to recreate in the
thedistant NCERT
Qutab
traditional campus,
Minar
street are
patterns
Rewal
provided chooses
from to
therespond
upper to
levelthe national
terraces park
[23]. and
Moreover,the historic
the use of Qutab
red Minar
sandstone monument
as primary
of historic Indian towns within the circulation spaces of the building. Thus, the corridors on the upper located
claddingon
the south-west
material
levels is a common
frequently ofbreak
the feature
building. Framed
between
into seating theviews of the the
CIET where
enclosures building woodland
and thecan
users and
Qutab the distant
Minar.
gather Qutab Minar
for socialising are
with each
provided from
other (Figure 9). the upper level terraces [23]. Moreover, the use of red sandstone as primary cladding
material is a common feature between the CIET building and the Qutab Minar.
(a) (b)
(a) (b)
Figure 9. (a) Seating enclosure adjoining the corridor on the second floor level of the CIET building;
Figure
(b) (a) Seating
view9.from enclosure
underneath adjoining
a chhatri the corridor
(canopy) on the on the second
uppermost flooroflevel
level of the building
the CIET CIET building; (b)
(Photos:
view from
Figure
Author). underneath
9. (a) a chhatri adjoining
Seating enclosure (canopy) onthethe uppermost
corridor level
on the of thefloor
second CIETlevel
building
of the(Photos: Author).
CIET building;
(b) view from underneath a chhatri (canopy) on the uppermost level of the CIET building (Photos:
The central courtyard in the CIET building has corridors surrounding on all sides with enclosed
3.2.2.Author).
Historical Knowledge
rooms beyond (Figure 12). According to Rewal this setting has deliberately been influenced by the
Rewal’s of
architecture architecture has(traditional
been highly influenced by[24].
the urbanscape of historic Indian towns like
3.2.2. Historicalthe madrasa
Knowledge Islamic school)
Jaisalmer
Another device in the CIET building that seeks an attempts
[22]. In the case of the CIET building, Rewal to recreate with
indirect connection the traditional street
the architectural
Rewal’s
patterns architecture
heritage of historic
the regionIndian has
is thetowns been highly
within the
contemporary influenced
circulation
chhatri by the
spaces
(canopy). urbanscape
of the
Chhatris of historic
building.
have Indian towns
Thus, theoncorridors
been provided like
on
the terraces
Jaisalmer
the upper
of the [22].
levelsInfrequently
uppermost the case
level to act of asthe
break CIETseating
into
covered building,
look-out Rewal(Figure
enclosures
points attempts
where9).thetousers
recreate the traditional
can gather street
for socialising
patterns
with eachofother
historic Indian
(Figure 9). towns within the circulation spaces of the building. Thus, the corridors on
3.2.3.
the Climate
upper Responsiveness
The central courtyard inbreak
levels frequently into building
the CIET seating enclosures
has corridorswhere the users on
surrounding canall
gather
sides for
withsocialising
enclosed
with each
rooms other(Figure
beyond (Figure12). 9). According to Rewal this setting has deliberately been influenced by the
As Delhi lies in a climatic zone that is categorised as hot-and-dry for most part of the year, it is
The centralthe
architecture courtyard in(traditional
the CIET building has corridors surrounding on all sides with enclosed
important toofensure madrasa
that heat is delayedIslamic school)
from reaching [24].
the interior of the building [25]. In the CIET
rooms beyond
Another (Figure
device 12).
in the According to Rewal this setting has deliberately been influenced by the
building, Rewal has clad theCIET building
exterior that seeks
brick in-fill walls an
withindirect connection
sandstone thickeningwiththe
the architectural
external skin of
architecture
heritage of the
of the madrasa (traditional Islamic school) [24]. Chhatris have been provided on the
the building andregion
delaying is the
the contemporary
heat transfer into chhatri (canopy).
the building (Figure 10).
Another
terraces of thedevice
uppermostin the CIET
level building
to act that seeks
as covered an points
look-out indirect(Figure
connection
9). with the architectural
heritage of the region is the contemporary chhatri (canopy). Chhatris have been provided on the
terraces of the uppermost level to act as covered look-out points (Figure 9).
(a) (b)
Figure 10. (a) Sandstone clad external skin delays heat transfer into the CIET building; (b) balconies
(a) (b)
and jaali
Figure 10.screens protect the
(a) Sandstone cladrooms of the
external CIET
skin building
delays from direct
heat transfer intosun
the (Photos: Author).
CIET building; (b) balconies
and jaali screens protect the rooms of the CIET building from direct sun (Photos: Author).
Figure 10. (a) Sandstone clad external skin delays heat transfer into the CIET building; (b) balconies
and jaali screens protect the rooms of the CIET building from direct sun (Photos: Author).
direct sun (Figure 10).

The site located within the NCERT campus is flat and even, and therefore did not create a major
ecological
Buildings concern
2019, for the architect. The challenge to the architect, however, arose from a large9 tree
9, 108 of 28
located in the middle of the site. Instead of treating the tree as a hindrance, Rewal turned it into a
focal point of his design. He created a large courtyard around the tree and wrapped the built-up areas
The central courtyard with a large shading tree within also helps in establishing a cooler
around this courtyard (Figure 11). The tree continued to flourish for years after the completion of the
micro-climate with improved humidity (Figure 11). The circulation corridors around the central
CIET building further proving that due care was taken to protect the tree and its roots during the
courtyard are wide creating an additional buffer from the incident sunrays.
construction process.
Figure 11. Central courtyard in the CIET building (Photo: Author).

Figure 11. Central courtyard in the CIET building (Photo: Author).
On the outer edge of the building, deep balconies project out from the sides that are exposed to
3.2.5.
directLocal Materials
sunrays. and Construction
Furthermore, jaali screens are provided on the balconies to protect the rooms from
directThe
sunpredominant
(Figure 10). material used in the CIET building is Agra stone, a variety of red sandstone.
The material is plentifully available in the region and has been historically used in prominent
monuments in Delhi such as the Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort. Other than red sandstone,
Dholpur
The stone, a variety
site located of yellow
within sandstone,
the NCERT campusis used
is flatfor
andhorizontal
even, andstripes on the
therefore didbuilding’s
not create exterior
a major
(Figure 10).concern
ecological For thefor
purpose of flooring,
the architect. marble mosaic
The challenge to theand Kota stone,
architect, however,a greenish-blue
arose from a variety of
large tree
limestone, have been used. All these materials are abundantly available in the nearby Rajasthan
located in the middle of the site. Instead of treating the tree as a hindrance, Rewal turned it into a state
and
focalhave
pointbeen used
of his for construction
design. He created apurposes in Delhi
large courtyard for many
around centuries
the tree now. the built-up areas
and wrapped
Thethis
around CIET building(Figure
courtyard also benefits
11). Thefrom
treelocal craftsmen
continued for thefor
to flourish production
years afterofthe
jaalicompletion
screens that
of
enclose
the CIETthe balconies
building (Figure
further 10). Traditionally
proving that due careawas
jaalitaken
screentoisprotect
a perforated
the treestone latticed
and its roots screen
duringthat
the
construction process.
3.2.5. Local Materials and Construction

The predominant material used in the CIET building is Agra stone, a variety of red sandstone.
The material is plentifully available in the region and has been historically used in prominent
monuments in Delhi such as the Humayun’s Tomb and the Red Fort. Other than red sandstone,
Dholpur stone, a variety of yellow sandstone, is used for horizontal stripes on the building’s exterior
(Figure 10). For the purpose of flooring, marble mosaic and Kota stone, a greenish-blue variety of
limestone, have been used. All these materials are abundantly available in the nearby Rajasthan state
and have been used for construction purposes in Delhi for many centuries now.
The CIET building also benefits from local craftsmen for the production of jaali screens that
enclose the balconies (Figure 10). Traditionally a jaali screen is a perforated stone latticed screen that
provides shade from the sun while allowing air to flow through. Rewal, however, has modernised the
intricate design of traditional jaalis into a more geometric pattern achieved by modern tools. Thus,
local craftsmen not only got involved in the production phase, they also advanced their skills [26].
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 10 of 28

Throughout his work, Rewal has relied heavily on the structural abilities of technological
advancements in the building industry [27]. This approach has served him well in creating high-rise
structures such as the State Trading Corporation building (1989) in New Delhi as well as large-span
structures like the Pragati Maidan Permanent Exhibition Complex (1972), also in New Delhi.
The design of the four-storeyed CIET building, however, did not require considerable technological
Buildings
advancements. 2019, 9, xNonetheless,
FOR PEER REVIEW
Rewal has employed prefabricated waffle slabs in conjunction 10 of 29 with
circular reinforced concrete columns to achieve a grid having a clear span of 10 metres by 10 metres.
provides shade from the sun while allowing air to flow through. Rewal, however, has modernised
This sufficiently large clear span allows a free plan that accommodated varying floor area requirements
the intricate design of traditional jaalis into a more geometric pattern achieved by modern tools. Thus,
of studios, production
local craftsmen rooms,
not only gotseminar
involvedhalls,
in theoffices and classrooms.
production However,
phase, they also the their
advanced structural competency
skills [26].
of the CIET building is not flaunted by Rewal in its external appearance where local red sandstone
remains
3.2.6.at the forefront.
Technological Sustainability
Throughout his work, Rewal has relied heavily on the structural abilities of technological
3.2.7. Cultural Appropriateness
advancements in the building industry [27]. This approach has served him well in creating high-rise
structures such asinthe
The courtyard theState
CIETTrading Corporation
building not only building
acts as a(1989) in New Delhi
climatological as well
device but as large-span
also acts as a focal
structures like the Pragati Maidan Permanent Exhibition Complex (1972), also in New Delhi.
point for communal interaction between the users of the building (Figure 12). The in-built steps in the
courtyard The design
invite of walking
users the four-storeyed CIET building,
in the surrounding however,
corridors did not
to gather andrequire considerable
sit in the courtyard [21]
technological advancements. Nonetheless, Rewal has employed prefabricated waffle slabs in
(p. 176). In addition to the courtyard, Rewal has provided roof terraces on the uppermost level.
conjunction with circular reinforced concrete columns to achieve a grid having a clear span of 10
Traditionally, roof terraces in India have been used for outdoor sleeping on hot summer nights. In the
metres by 10 metres. This sufficiently large clear span allows a free plan that accommodated varying
CIET building,
floor roof terracesofhave
area requirements been production
studios, provided for enjoying
rooms, the mild
seminar halls, summer evening
offices and breeze with
classrooms.
views of the surrounding
However, the structuralnational
competencyparkofand the distant
the CIET Qutab
building is notMinar [26].
flaunted byThe roof
Rewal in terraces serve an
its external
additional purpose
appearance whereaslocal
theyred
allow users remains
sandstone to enjoyatthe
thewinter sun.
forefront.
Figure 12. Central courtyard acts as a focal point in the CIET building (Courtesy: Raj Rewal Associates).
Figure 12. Central courtyard acts as a focal point in the CIET building (Courtesy: Raj Rewal
Associates).

Buildings 2019, 9, 108 11 of 28

3.3. India Habitat Centre (1993)
The
The courtyard in the
India Habitat CIET (IHC)
Centre building
is anot only
large acts as that
complex a climatological
accommodates device
30 tobut40also acts as a
institutions
focal
dealing with diverse issues related to habitat and environment (Figure 13). The 9-acre campus ofsteps
point for communal interaction between the users of the building (Figure 12). The in-built IHC
in the courtyard invite users walking in the surrounding corridors to gather and sit in the courtyard
comprises of office workspaces, conference facilities, library, exhibition areas, auditorium and a variety
[21] (p. 176). InThrough
of restaurants. additionthis
to the courtyard,
project Rewal
architect hasAllen
Joseph provided roofdemonstrated
Stein has terraces on the uppermost
that level.
it is possible to
Traditionally, roof terraces in India have been used for outdoor sleeping on hot summer
attain humanist values even in large-scale projects having densities over 1000 persons per acre. Stein’snights. In
the CIET building,
upbringing roof terraces
and architectural have been
education provided
in the for enjoying
midwestern the mild
United States summer
followed evening
by more thanbreeze
thirty
with views of the surrounding national park and the distant Qutab Minar [26]. The roof terraces
years of practice in Delhi has combined in his design a response to the local with certain universality. serve
an additional purpose as they allow users to enjoy the winter sun.
Figure 13. India Habitat Centre, New Delhi (1993) by Joseph Allen Stein (Photo: Author).
Figure 13. India Habitat Centre, New Delhi (1993) by Joseph Allen Stein (Photo: Author).
3.3. India Habitat Centre (1993)
In comparison to the other buildings in the Lodi Estate, the IHC building is much larger in scale
and has aIndia
The Habitat Centre
very different (IHC)
character due is
to aitslarge
uniquecomplex that accommodates
programme 30 to the
(Figure 14). Despite 40 larger
institutions
scale,
dealing with diverse issues related to habitat and environment (Figure 13). The 9-acre
the IHC building shows respect for the character of the surroundings by foregoing overindulgence. campus of IHC
comprises of office
In its simplicity, workspaces,
the building’s conference
demeanour facilities,
shows library,
humility whileexhibition areas,without
seeking beauty auditorium and a
ostentation.
variety
Theoflarger
restaurants.
scale ofThrough this project
the IHC building alsoarchitect
prompted Joseph
SteinAllen Stein has
to transform hisdemonstrated
design approach thatfrom
it is
possible to attain humanist values even in large-scale projects having densities over
‘building in a garden’, that he mastered in the nearby India International Centre (1962), to a new 1000 persons per
acre. Stein’s
approach upbringing
of ‘garden and architectural
in a building’ education
[28]. Shaded gardensin at
theground
midwestern United the
level between States followed
building blocksby
more than thirty years of practice in Delhi has combined in his design a response to the
act as an oasis of quietness and greenery amidst the traffic and bustle of the city. The introverted nature local with
certain
of the IHCuniversality.
building is further reflected in the fenestration designs as the outer façades have narrow
vertical slits while the inner façades have wide horizontal ribbon windows. Despite its introversion to
the chaos of the city, the IHC complex is accessible on foot from all sides. Free pedestrian access along
with In comparison togarden
interconnected the other buildings
courtyards in theanLodi
create open Estate, the IHC
pedestrian building is
continuum much
that helpslarger in scale
linking and
and has athe
unifying very different character due to its unique programme (Figure 14). Despite the larger scale,
neighbourhood.
the IHC building shows respect for the character of the surroundings by foregoing overindulgence.
In its simplicity, the building’s demeanour shows humility while seeking beauty without ostentation.
The larger scale of the IHC building also prompted Stein to transform his design approach from
‘building in a garden’, that he mastered in the nearby India International Centre (1962), to a new
approach of ‘garden in a building’ [28]. Shaded gardens at ground level between the building blocks
act as an oasis of quietness and greenery amidst the traffic and bustle of the city. The introverted
nature of the IHC building is further reflected in the fenestration designs as the outer façades have
narrow vertical slits while the inner façades have wide horizontal ribbon windows. Despite its
introversion to the chaos of the city, the IHC complex is accessible on foot from all sides. Free
Buildings
pedestrian 9, 108 along with interconnected garden courtyards create an open pedestrian continuum
2019,access 12 of 28
that helps linking and unifying the neighbourhood.
pedestrian access along with interconnected garden courtyards create an open pedestrian continuum
that helps linking and unifying the neighbourhood.
Figure
Figure 14. Isometricview
14. Isometric viewofofLodi
LodiEstate
Estatecomprising
comprising of of
thethe
(a)(a) India
India Habitat
Habitat Centre;
Centre; (b) (b) WWF;
WWF; (c)
(c) UNICEF; (d) Ford Foundation; and (e) India International Centre buildings [29]
UNICEF; (d) Ford Foundation; and (e) India International Centre buildings [29] (p. 114).(p. 114).

Stein’s understanding of India’s traditional architecture was not merely skin-deep. He recognised
the continuing feature that linked the architecture of the region from traditional forms to recent works
was the seeking of a space in shade. In particular, he was influenced by the shade-giving elements
and spatial arrangements in the imperial palace at Fatehpur Sikri [29] (p. 131). The sixteenth-century
palace complex integrates many shade-giving devices like jaalis, chaajjas and pavilions, intertwined
with gardens, courtyards, pools and trees. The various monuments, palaces, assembly halls and public
offices in the complex are laid on multiple axes and are interlinked by the shaded courtyards (Figure 15).
The design of IHC also makes use of similar-sized internal courtyards and garden courts that are
shaded by multiple devices and are interconnected to form a continuous public space. The overhangs
at Fatehpur Sikri have been reinterpreted in the IHC building by projecting out the top two floors, while
overhead
Figurescreens above view
14. Isometric the courtyards further
of Lodi Estate protectofthe
comprising theCentre from
(a) India excesses
Habitat of tropical
Centre; (b) WWF;sunshine.
(c)
Thus,UNICEF;
by embodying
(d) Fordlearnings from
Foundation; andthe
(e) past,
India the IHC is able
International to offer
Centre a high
buildings quality
[29] of repose.
(p. 114).
(a) (b)
Figure 15. Interlinked shaded courtyards in the site plans of: (a) Fatehpur Sikri Palace [30] and (b)
India Habitat Centre [31].

Stein’s understanding of India’s traditional architecture was not merely skin-deep. He
recognised the continuing feature that linked the architecture of the region from traditional forms to
recent works was the seeking of a space in shade. In particular, he was influenced by the shade-giving
elements and spatial arrangements in the imperial palace at Fatehpur Sikri [29] (p. 131). The sixteenth-
century palace complex integrates many shade-giving devices like jaalis, chaajjas and pavilions,
intertwined with gardens, courtyards, pools and trees. The various monuments, palaces, assembly
halls and public offices in the complex are laid on multiple axes and are interlinked by the shaded
courtyards (Figure 15).(a)The design of IHC also makes use of similar-sized (b) internal courtyards and
garden courts that are shaded by multiple devices and are interconnected to form a continuous public
space. TheHabitat
India overhangs at[31].
Centre Fatehpur Sikri have been reinterpreted in the IHC building by projecting out
India Habitat Centre [31].

Stein’s understanding of India’s traditional architecture was not merely skin-deep. He
recognised the continuing feature that linked the architecture of the region from traditional forms to
high quality of repose.

The design of IHC, to a great extent, relies on non-mechanical means for climate control. In order
toBuildings
reduce2019,
solar heat gain, the building volumes are organised around shaded courtyards. These
9, 108 13 of 28
courtyards are covered by sun-screen pergolas suspended from a space frame structure (Figure 16).
The sun-screen pergolas contain angled panels designed to block the summer sun while letting in the
3.3.3. sun
winter Climate
[32].Responsiveness
As a result, the courtyards have acquired a unique microclimate which is conducive
for repose. Moreover,
The design of IHC, theto
pergolas
a great shade
extent,not only
relies onthe courtyards below
non-mechanical means but
foralso the inner
climate façades
control. of
In order
the
to building volumes.
reduce solar heat gain, the building volumes are organised around shaded courtyards. These
Other passive
courtyards are covered climate-control
by sun-screenmeasures
pergolas include projecting
suspended from aout theframe
space top two floors(Figure
structure for self-16).
shading,
The sun-screen pergolas contain angled panels designed to block the summer sun while letting floor
use of cavity walls and a controlled use of glass. To ensure adequate daylighting, the in the
plates
winter have
sunbeen
[32]. limited to a the
As a result, width of 15 metres
courtyards haveso that no aindividual
acquired is more thanwhich
unique microclimate 7.5 metres away
is conducive
from a window. However, the climate responsiveness of the IHC building could have
for repose. Moreover, the pergolas shade not only the courtyards below but also the inner façades ofbeen further
improved hadvolumes.
the building the fenestrations on each of the outer façades been designed differently as per their
specific solar orientation.
(a)
(b)
Figure 16. (a) Isometric drawing depicting variable shading of internal courtyards by sun-screen
pergolas
Figure 16. during summers
(a) Isometric and winters
drawing [29]variable
depicting (p. 131);shading
(b) photograph of an
of internal internal courtyard
courtyards of the
by sun-screen
India Habitat Centre (IHC) building with an overhead sun-screen pergola (Photo: Author).
pergolas during summers and winters [29] (p. 131); (b) photograph of an internal courtyard of the
India Habitat Centre (IHC) building with an overhead sun-screen pergola (Photo: Author).
Other passive climate-control measures include projecting out the top two floors for self-shading,
use of cavity walls
3.3.4. Ecological and a controlled use of glass. To ensure adequate daylighting, the floor plates
Sensitiveness
have been limited to a width of 15 metres so that no individual is more than 7.5 metres away from a
Stein often
window. expressed
However, his concern
the climate about the
responsiveness ofnegative impact on
the IHC building earth’s
could haveecology from the
been further ever-
improved
increasing human population [29] (p. 53). Although the IHC had to accommodate a high density
had the fenestrations on each of the outer façades been designed differently as per their specific of
approximately 1000 persons per acre, Stein strove to make amends for the ecological impact of the
solar orientation.
building’s construction. First and foremost, Stein has tried to recover the lost green cover on the
ground by creating
3.3.4. Ecological roof terrace gardens. Moreover, an abundant use of planter boxes has been made
Sensitiveness
throughout the complex in an attempt to introduce green wherever possible. On the ground level, a
Stein often expressed his concern about the negative impact on earth’s ecology from the
number of garden courts have been created between the building volumes and above the basement
ever-increasing human population [29] (p. 53). Although the IHC had to accommodate a high
car parking (Figure 17).
density of approximately 1000 persons per acre, Stein strove to make amends for the ecological impact
of the building’s construction. First and foremost, Stein has tried to recover the lost green cover on the
ground by creating roof terrace gardens. Moreover, an abundant use of planter boxes has been made
throughout the complex in an attempt to introduce green wherever possible. On the ground level,
a number of garden courts have been created between the building volumes and above the basement
car parking (Figure 17).
Furthermore, Stein has introduced the concept of vertical hanging gardens in the design of IHC.
Planter boxes have been integrated with the vertical faces of building volumes, which are additionally
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 14 of 28
supplemented by a watering system [31]. Collectively, all these measures are able to alleviate the
Buildingsecological
building’s 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW
impact. 14 of 29
Figure 17. Garden

Figure courts
17. Garden between
courts betweenbuilding
buildingvolumes ofthe
volumes of theIndia
IndiaHabitat
Habitat Centre
Centre (Photo:
(Photo: Author).
Author).

Furthermore, Stein has introduced the concept of vertical hanging gardens in the design of IHC.
Planter
The boxes have
structural been of
frame integrated
IHC has with the fabricated
been vertical facesfrom
of building volumes,
reinforced whichconcrete
cement are additionally
cast in situ.
supplemented by a watering system [31]. Collectively, all these measures are able to alleviate
Popularised by Le Corbusier in India, in situ concrete takes advantage of the availability of relatively the
building’s ecological impact.
cheap manual labour in the country. In his earlier works realised in Delhi, Stein had left the concrete
structural frames exposed. However, by the 1980s, Stein had become dissatisfied with the quality of
exposed concrete often achieved by local contractors [29] (p. 126). Therefore, Stein chose a continuous
cladding system for the IHC building instead.
Stein had originally envisioned the cladding in brushed stone aggregate plaster, but had to later
switch to brick as the client felt that brick better symbolised ‘habitat’, which was central to the theme
Figure 17. Garden courts between building volumes of the India Habitat Centre (Photo: Author).
of the Centre [21] (p. 213). Local kilns were approached to manufacture special Lakhori bricks—a thin,
flat variety popular during
Furthermore, theintroduced
Stein has Mughal era the(Figure
concept18). Variegated
of vertical courses
hanging ofin
gardens Lakhori bricks
the design envelop
of IHC.
the building’s outer
Planter boxes façades
have while brushed
been integrated stone
with the aggregate
vertical plaster has
faces of building not been
volumes, completely
which discarded
are additionally
as it clads the building’s
supplemented inner façades.
by a watering system [31]. Collectively, all these measures are able to alleviate the
building’s ecological impact.
Figure 18. Special Lakhori bricks used for cladding the IHC building (Photo: Author).

The structural frame of IHC has been fabricated from reinforced cement concrete cast in situ.
Popularised by Le Corbusier in India, in situ concrete takes advantage of the availability of relatively
cheap manual labour in the country. In his earlier works realised in Delhi, Stein had left the concrete
of the Centre
Figure [21]
Figure (p.Special
18.
18. Special213). Local
Lakhori kilns
Lakhori were
bricks
bricks usedapproached
used for cladding
for to
themanufacture
cladding the IHC
IHCbuilding
building special
(Photo: Lakhori
Author).
(Photo: bricks—a
Author).
thin, flat variety popular during the Mughal era (Figure 18). Variegated courses of Lakhori bricks
3.3.6.envelop
Technological
3.3.5. Local Sustainability
theMaterials
building’s and Construction
outer façades while brushed stone aggregate plaster has not been completely
discarded
The to
In order as it clads
structural
effectively the
frame building’s
of IHC
shade inner
the has façades.
been
courtyards fabricated
betweenfrom
the reinforced cement concrete
building volumes, cast in overhead
Stein needed situ.
Popularised
screens to cover by Le Corbusier
them in India,
up. Covering theincourtyards
situ concretewas,
takeshowever,
advantagebyof the
no availability
means an easyof relatively
task as the
cheap manual labour in the country. In his earlier works realised in Delhi, Stein had left the
overhead screens were required to span a width of 30 metres. As a consequence, Stein developed three concrete
of the Centre [21] (p. 213). Local kilns were approached to manufacture special Lakhori bricks—a
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 15 of 28
large sunscreen pergolas, one for each courtyard, made up of hundreds of panels suspended from
large space frames (Figure 19). Made from sailcloth, these panels are dexterously angled to block the
summer sun9,while
Buildings 2019, x FOR letting in the winter sun.
PEER REVIEW 15 of 29
Figure 19. Sailcloth panels suspended from space frame to shade courtyards below (Photo: Author).
3.3.6.The innovationSustainability
Technological of sunscreen pergola significantly improves the enclosure qualities of the
courtyards [21] (p. 213). However, instead of fetishizing his innovation, Stein has used light
Figure
In 19. Sailcloth
order panels suspended
to effectively shade the from space frame
courtyards to shade
between courtyards
the buildingbelow (Photo:Stein
volumes, Author).
needed
blue coloured panels and space frames to blend them with the sky up above.
overhead screens to cover them up. Covering the courtyards was, however, by no means an easy task
3.3.6.
as theTechnological
overhead Sustainability
screens were required to span a width of 30 metres. As a consequence, Stein
developed three large sunscreen
In order to effectively shade pergolas, one for each
the courtyards courtyard,
between made upvolumes,
the building of hundreds
Steinofneeded
panels
The IHC complex hosts a variety of public and private sector enterprises under one roof. In this light,
suspended from large
overhead screens space
to cover themframes (Figure 19).
up. Covering Made fromwas,
the courtyards sailcloth, these
however, bypanels are an
no means dexterously
easy task
the complex has been designed in a way so as to encourage easy interchange of information amongst
angled to block the summer sun while letting in the winter sun.
as the overhead screens were required to span a width of 30 metres. As a consequence, Stein
professionals working in diverse habitat-related fields. The building volumes are organised around
The innovation
developed three largeofsunscreen
sunscreen pergolaone
pergolas, significantly improvesmade
for each courtyard, the enclosure qualities
up of hundreds of the
of panels
shaded atrium-like courtyards that are interlinked to form a series of pleasant civic spaces. Seatwalls
courtyards
suspended from [21] (p. 213).
large However,
space framesinstead
(Figureof fetishizing
19). Made from hissailcloth,
innovation, Stein
these has are
panels used light blue
dexterously
are spread throughout these courtyards to further accentuate the communal setting (Figure 20) [33].
coloured
angled to panels
block theandsummer
space frames to blend
sun while them
letting with
in the the sky
winter up above.
sun.
Moreover, to evade the tyranny of motor vehicles, all traffic has been directed into two levels of
The innovation of sunscreen pergola significantly improves the enclosure qualities of the
basement parking. Thus, the IHC complex is able to provide proximity to different institutions
courtyards [21] (p. 213). However, instead of fetishizing his innovation, Stein has used light blue
facilitating a synergetic interrelationship between them.
coloured panels and space frames to blend them with the sky up above.
Figure 20. Seatwalls provided in the courtyards of India Habitat Centre (Photo: Author).

Figure 20. Seatwalls provided in the courtyards of India Habitat Centre (Photo: Author).
Figure
The IHC 20. Seatwalls
complex hosts aprovided
variety in
ofthe courtyards
public of Indiasector
and private Habitat Centre (Photo:
enterprises underAuthor).
one roof. In this
light, the complex has been designed in a way so as to encourage easy interchange of information
3.3.7. Cultural
amongst Appropriateness
professionals working in diverse habitat-related fields. The building volumes are organised
around
The IHC complex hostscourtyards
shaded atrium-like a variety ofthat are and
public interlinked
private to formenterprises
sector a series ofunder
pleasant
onecivic
roof.spaces.
In this
Seatwalls are spread
light, the complex throughout
has these courtyards
been designed in a way sotoasfurther accentuate
to encourage theinterchange
easy communal ofsetting (Figure
information
20) [33]. Moreover,
amongst to evade
professionals the tyranny
working in diverseof habitat-related
motor vehicles,fields.
all traffic
Thehas been directed
building volumesinto
are two levels
organised
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 16 of 28
3.4. Development Alternatives Headquarters (2008)

Development Alternatives (DA) is a non-governmental organisation established in 1983 to
promote environmentally-appropriate technology that fosters socioeconomic development in India.
The six-storey headquarter building of DA provides 4500 square metres of usable area for the 200
employees of the organization (Figure 21). Through his design architect Ashok B Lall demonstrates how
conventional parameters of sustainable architecture can be fulfilled while relying on low-cost solutions
basedBuildings
on fundamental lessons
2019, 9, x FOR PEER in local tradition. Lall’s education at the Architectural Association
REVIEW 16 of 29
School in London exposed him to Western building techniques and methodology, while his upbringing
of basement
and more parking. Thus,
than twenty-five yearsthe
of IHC complex
practice is able
in Delhi hastosensitised
provide proximity
his work to
to different institutions
locally rooted traditions.
facilitating a synergetic interrelationship between them.
Figure 21. Development Alternatives Headquarters, New Delhi (2008) by Ashok B Lall (Photo: Author).
Figure 21. Development Alternatives Headquarters, New Delhi (2008) by Ashok B Lall (Photo:
Author).
3.4. Development
The DA building Alternatives
is locatedHeadquarters (2008)
on the south-western corner of the Qutab Institutional Area in South
Delhi (Figure
Buildings 9, 22).
x FORThe
Development
2019, PEERprecinct
REVIEWof this
Alternatives (DA)institutional area largely organisation
is a non-governmental consists of sizable free-standing
established in 1983 17tooffice
of 29
buildings thatenvironmentally-appropriate
promote symbolise corporate power through that
technology theirfosters
architecture (Figuredevelopment
socioeconomic 23). Being on the corner
in India.
building
of theThe does not contrast
six-storey
institutional area, thewith
headquarterDA the
siteforest
building of as
DA
is also much as
bythe
provides
bound neighbouring
a4500
densesquare curtain
metres
forest onglass
of usable
reserve buildings
twoarea
of forsides.
its (Figure
the 200
23). employees of the organization (Figure 21). Through his design architect Ashok B Lall demonstrates
how conventional parameters of sustainable architecture can be fulfilled while relying on low-cost
solutions based on fundamental lessons in local tradition. Lall’s education at the Architectural
Association School in London exposed him to Western building techniques and methodology, while
his upbringing and more than twenty-five years of practice in Delhi has sensitised his work to locally
rooted traditions.

The DA building is located on the south-western corner of the Qutab Institutional Area in South
Delhi (Figure 22). The precinct of this institutional area largely consists of sizable free-standing office
buildings that symbolise corporate power through their architecture (Figure 23). Being on the corner
of the institutional area, the DA site is also bound by a dense forest reserve on two of its sides.
Rather than responding to the corporate architecture of the adjacent buildings, Lall instead
chooses to address mainly two determinants: The old DA building and the adjoining forest.
Completed in 1988 and situated on the same site, the old DA building had to be replaced as it had
outgrown the functional requirements of the organisation. During consultations with the DA staff in
the initial
Figure
Figure 22.stages
22. of image
Satellite
Satellitethe project,
imageofof the
thethe architect
Development discovered
Development that(DA)
Alternatives it was
Alternatives crucial
building
(DA) to thelocated
located
building DA staffon
on the that
thethe new
south-western
south-
building
corner of evoked
Qutab the memory
Institutional of
Area the old
(Image one [34].
courtesy Therefore,
of Google the new
Earth).
western corner of Qutab Institutional Area (Image courtesy of Google Earth). building uses elements, forms
and materials that recall those of the old building: Domes, vaulted ceilings and compressed-earth
blocks.
The DA building’s relationship with the adjoining forest is not very strong but it does take care
of views towards the forest in its window designs. Moreover, the earthy material palette of the DA
Figure
Buildings 2019, 22. Satellite image of the Development Alternatives (DA) building located on the south-
9, 108 17 of 28
western corner of Qutab Institutional Area (Image courtesy of Google Earth).
Figure 23. Earthy finish of the DA building in contrast with the neighbouring curtain-glass buildings
visible in the background
background (Photo:
(Photo: Author).
3.4.2.Rather thanKnowledge
Historical responding to the corporate architecture of the adjacent buildings, Lall instead chooses
to address mainly two determinants: The old DA building and the adjoining forest. Completed in
1988 Even though on
and situated thethe
primary
same focus of old
site, the the DA
DA building
building hadwas toto be
fulfil the parameters
replaced as it had of sustainable
outgrown the
architecture [35], Lall has demonstrated that it is possible to achieve sustainability
functional requirements of the organisation. During consultations with the DA staff in the initial goals without
stages
breaking
of awaythe
the project, from the past.
architect The DAthat
discovered building
it wasincrucial
its design
to theinterprets
DA staff traditional
that the new building
buildingelements
evoked
the memory of the old one [34]. Therefore, the new building uses elements, forms and materialsbrick
such as domes, courtyards, verandas, terraces, balconies and screens. Shallow domed ceilings in that
span many
recall those of of the
theoldspaces instead
building: of flatvaulted
Domes, reinforced concrete
ceilings ceilings that are blocks.
and compressed-earth usually employed in
modernTheconstructions
DA building’sofrelationship
similar scalewith
(Figure 24).
the adjoining forest is not very strong but it does take care
Despite the constraints of a restricted
of views towards the forest in its window designs. plot size, the architect the
Moreover, has earthy
managed to provide
material a narrow
palette of the
central
DA courtyard
building does(Figure 25). The
not contrast courtyard
with the forest is helpful
as much inas
visually connecting the
the neighbouring different
curtain glassoffices and
buildings
meeting rooms
(Figure 23). located across different floors of the building.
Another device in the DA building seeking a connection with the region’s traditional
3.4.2. Historical
architecture Knowledge
is the baoli. Baolis are subterranean stepwells unique to the Indian subcontinent [36].
Although baolis come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles, the modernised baoli in the DA building
Even though the primary focus of the DA building was to fulfil the parameters of sustainable
is drum-shaped having arched clerestory windows (Figure 25). Located on the northern corner of the
architecture [35], Lall has demonstrated that it is possible to achieve sustainability goals without
plot and accessible only from the basement level, the baoli, however, seems neglected in the overall
breaking away from the past. The DA building in its design interprets traditional building elements
scheme of the building.
such as domes, courtyards, verandas, terraces, balconies and screens. Shallow domed ceilings in
brick span many of the spaces instead of flat reinforced concrete ceilings that are usually employed in
modern constructions
Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER ofREVIEW
similar scale (Figure 24). 18 of 29
Figure 24. Shallow domed ceilings span the interior spaces of the DA building (Photo: Author).
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 18 of 28
Despite the constraints of a restricted plot size, the architect has managed to provide a narrow
central courtyard (Figure 25). The courtyard is helpful in visually connecting the different offices and
meetingFigure
rooms24.located
Shallowacross
domeddifferent floorsthe
ceilings span ofinterior
the building.
spaces of the DA building (Photo: Author).
(a) (b)
Figure 25. Traditional building elements such as the (a) courtyard and (b) baoli reinterpreted in the DA
building
Figure 25.(Photos: Author).
Traditional building elements such as the (a) courtyard and (b) baoli reinterpreted in the
DA building (Photos: Author).
Another device in the DA building seeking a connection with the region’s traditional architecture
is the baoli. Baolis are subterranean stepwells unique to the Indian subcontinent [36]. Although baolis
come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles, the modernised baoli in the DA building is drum-shaped
having Lall has taken
arched a string
clerestory of measures
windows (Figure to
25).ensure
Located that
onthe
the DA building
northern responds
corner diligently
of the plot to the
and accessible
climate
only from ofthe
Delhi. To ensure
basement better
level, the baoli,thermal
however,performance,
seems neglectedmasonry
in thecavity
overallwalls
scheme areofused on the
the building.
exteriors and less than twenty percent of the building envelope consists of glazing. Fenestrations on
3.4.3.façade
each Climate areResponsiveness
designed differently as per their solar orientation (Figure 26). Balconies provided on
the south-east and north-west
Lall has taken a string offaçades
measures further help in
to ensure shading
that the DAthebuilding
windows below them.
responds In addition,
diligently to the
the surface of the roof is finished in white mosaic flooring so as to reflect as much of
climate of Delhi. To ensure better thermal performance, masonry cavity walls are used on the exteriors the sun’s energy
as
andpossible.
less than twenty percent of the building envelope consists of glazing. Fenestrations on each façade
The DA differently
are designed building employs a hybrid
as per their air-conditioning
solar orientation system
(Figure that usesprovided
26). Balconies both evaporative cooling
on the south-east
and refrigerant-based cooling so as to reduce the energy consumption by thirty
and north-west façades further help in shading the windows below them. In addition, the surface percent [37] (p. 12).
of
Moreover,
the roof2019, the DA
is finished building maintains an indoor maximum temperature of 28 °C at 60% relative
Buildings 9, x FOR in white
PEER mosaic flooring so as to reflect as much of the sun’s energy as possible.
REVIEW 19 of 29
humidity, which is higher than the norm of 24 °C temperature maintained in corporate buildings.
The provision of ceiling fans and a liberal dress code for DA employees ensure adequate thermal
comfort in the DA building even in 28 °C (Figure 29). Operational costs are further reduced by the
building’s narrow floor plates as the workspaces are comfortably illuminated by daylighting.
Window on
Figure 26. Window on the west façade having a prism-shaped protrusion to block the afternoon
summer sun (Photo: Author).

In the DA building, Lall has prioritised the use of recycled materials over virgin materials.
Earthen blocks recovered from the demolished old DA building were recycled into new compressed-
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 19 of 28
The DA building employs a hybrid air-conditioning system that uses both evaporative cooling
and refrigerant-based cooling so as to reduce the energy consumption by thirty percent [37] (p. 12).
Figure the
Moreover, 26. Window on themaintains
DA building west façade
anhaving
indoora maximum
prism-shaped protrusion to
temperature 28 ◦ Ctheatafternoon
ofblock 60% relative
summer
humidity, sun (Photo:
which Author).
is higher ◦
than the norm of 24 C temperature maintained in corporate buildings.
The provision of ceiling fans and a liberal dress code for DA employees ensure adequate thermal
3.4.4. Ecological
comfort in the DASensitiveness
building even in 28 ◦ C (Figure 29). Operational costs are further reduced by the
building’s
In thenarrow floor plates
DA building, Lallashas
theprioritised
workspaces areuse
the comfortably illuminated
of recycled materials by daylighting.
over virgin materials.
Earthen blocks recovered from the demolished old DA building were recycled into new compressed-
earth blocks for the new building. The building also uses industrial wastes such as fly-ash for blocks
usedIn inthe
interior and exterior
DA building, walls,
Lall has waste expanded
prioritised the use of polystyrene to insulate
recycled materials cavitymaterials.
over virgin walls andEarthen
broken
white ceramic
blocks recovered tilesfrom
for mosaic flooring on
the demolished oldthe
DA roof top. Although
building the building
were recycled into new does not use recycled
compressed-earth
timber for
blocks for the
woodwork and furniture,
new building. the timber
The building used
also uses is sourced
industrial from such
wastes certified managed
as fly-ash plantations
for blocks used
[37]
in (p. 40).and exterior walls, waste expanded polystyrene to insulate cavity walls and broken white
interior
A unique
ceramic tiles forfeature
mosaicinflooring
the external
on thewalls of the
roof top. DA building
Although is the insetting
the building does notofuseclay pots (Figure
recycled timber27).
for
Inserted randomly
woodwork into the
and furniture, theexternal walls,
timber used is these
sourcedclay pots
from offer nesting
certified managed places for birds,
plantations [37]bees and
(p. 40).
squirrels from feature
A unique the adjoining forest. walls of the DA building is the insetting of clay pots (Figure 27).
in the external
All rainwater
Inserted randomlythat intofalls
theon the DAwalls,
external site is these
collected
clayfor recharging
pots the ground
offer nesting places aquifer. In bees
for birds, addition,
and
the wastewater
squirrels from thefrom the DAforest.
adjoining building is treated, filtered and reused for watering plants and flushing
toilets.
Figure 27. Clay pots inserted randomly into the external walls of DA building offer nesting places for
birds and bees (Photo: Author).
3.4.5.All rainwater
Local thatand
Materials fallsConstruction
on the DA site is collected for recharging the ground aquifer. In addition, the
wastewater from the DA building is treated, filtered and reused for watering plants and flushing toilets.
The predominant materials used in the DA building are compressed-earth blocks (Figure 28)
and fly-ash
3.4.5. Local lime gypsum
Materials andblocks. Although these materials are relatively new to the region, they have
Construction
been chosen for their low cost and eco-friendly properties. The compressed-earth blocks have been
The predominant materials used in the DA building are compressed-earth blocks (Figure 28) and
fly-ash lime gypsum blocks. Although these materials are relatively new to the region, they have been
chosen for their low cost and eco-friendly properties. The compressed-earth blocks have been recycled
from the earthen blocks of the old DA building while fly-ash blocks have been produced from fly-ash
sourced from a local power plant. For the purpose of flooring, unpolished granite and sandstone
quarried in north India have been used.
Although the DA building is a complex ensemble of a variety of materials and forms, the elements
comprising the whole have been kept simple. As a result, a variety of local craftsmen, small-scale
contractors and daily wagers had the opportunity to be involved in the construction process. Plastering
of the shallow domes with dung (Figure 24), filling of terracotta jaali screens with vermiculite plaster
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 20 of 28
recycled from the earthen blocks of the old DA building while fly-ash blocks have been produced
(Figure 28), teak wood carpentry and laying of brick pavers are some of the construction processes that
from fly-ash sourced from a local power plant. For the purpose of flooring, unpolished granite and
benefited from the abilities of the local workforce.
sandstone quarried in north India have been used.
(a) (b)
Figure 28. The material palette of the DA building consists of earthy materials such as (a)
cement-stabilised
Figure compressed-earth
28. The material blocks
palette of the and (b) terracotta
DA building tiles
consists of (Photos:
earthy Author).
materials such as (a) cement-
stabilised compressed-earth blocks
3.4.6. Technological Sustainability and (b) terracotta tiles (Photos: Author).
In the DA building,
Although Lall has managed
the DA building to findensemble
is a complex appropriateof combinations of using modern
a variety of materials materials
and forms, the
like steel comprising
elements and glass with naturalhave
the whole materials like mud
been kept and
simple. Aswood (Figure
a result, 29). This
a variety hybrid
of local character
craftsmen, has
small-
evolved
scale despite the
contractors andfact that
daily Lall has
wagers hadsparingly used materials
the opportunity like glassinand
to be involved thesteel that possess
construction high
process.
Buildings
embodied
Plastering2019,energy.
of9, xthe
FORshallow
PEER REVIEW
Glass anddomes
steel have
withbeen
dungused efficiently
(Figure 24), and only
filling of where their jaali
terracotta use isscreens21 with
of 29
pertinent.
vermiculite plaster (Figure 28), teak wood carpentry and laying of brick pavers are some of the
construction processes that benefited from the abilities of the local workforce.

In the DA building, Lall has managed to find appropriate combinations of using modern
materials like steel and glass with natural materials like mud and wood (Figure 29). This hybrid
character has evolved despite the fact that Lall has sparingly used materials like glass and steel that
possess high embodied energy. Glass and steel have been used efficiently and only where their use
is pertinent.
Lall has even pushed the boundaries of existing technology in adopting a hybrid air-
conditioning system that uses both evaporative cooling and refrigerant-based cooling to reduce
energy consumption by thirty percent. Another innovation in the DA building is the use of vaulted
precast-concrete deck elements for spanning most spaces (Figure 29). Use of vaulted ceilings resulted
in reduction of steel consumption by half in comparison with conventional structures of comparable
(a) (b)
size.
The
FigureDA29.building’s appearance,
(a) Combination however,
of natural masks
and modern its technological
materials innovations
forming a balcony andbuilding;
in the DA emphasises
on the (b)traditional
Figureintimate wisdom inherent
29. (a)workspaces
Combinationin the DA in it. More
building
of natural and importantly,
(Photos:
modern the building
Author).forming
materials demonstrates
a balcony that a green
in the DA building;
building need not necessarily be a high-technology-centred
(b) intimate workspaces in the DA building (Photos: Author). creation but can rather develop from the
Lallof
heritage has evenofpushed
ideas the boundaries of existing technology in adopting a hybrid air-conditioning
the place.
system
3.4.7. that uses
Cultural both evaporative cooling and refrigerant-based cooling to reduce energy consumption
Appropriateness
by thirty percent. Another innovation in the DA building is the use of vaulted precast-concrete deck
The design
elements processmost
for spanning for the DA building
spaces involved
(Figure 29). Use ofavaulted
highly participatory process
ceilings resulted as viewsofofsteel
in reduction the
client and users were taken at various stages of design development
consumption by half in comparison with conventional structures of comparable size. [37] (p. 14). These structured
consultations helped in building a consensus as to how the DA building would fulfil the needs and
aspirations of all user groups. A notable outcome of this process is the privacy afforded to workspaces
in the building (Figure 29). Unlike conventional office buildings, the DA building avoids having large
open-plan workspaces. The workspaces instead have a degree of privacy and intimacy resulting in
an almost domestic scale to the office environment. Small separate balconies and verandas (on
ground level) attached to the workspaces further add to this sense of domesticity [34].
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 21 of 28

The DA building’s appearance, however, masks its technological innovations and emphasises
on the traditional wisdom inherent in it. More importantly, the building demonstrates that a green
building need not necessarily be a high-technology-centred creation but can rather develop from the
heritage of ideas of the place.

The design process for the DA building involved a highly participatory process as views of the
client and users were taken at various stages of design development [37] (p. 14). These structured
consultations helped in building a consensus as to how the DA building would fulfil the needs and
aspirations of all user groups. A notable outcome of this process is the privacy afforded to workspaces
open-plan workspaces. The workspaces instead have a degree of privacy and intimacy resulting in an
almost domestic scale to the office environment. Small separate balconies and verandas (on ground
(a)
level) attached to the workspaces (b)
further add to this sense of domesticity [34].
In addition to balconies and verandas, a variety of other informal spaces like cafeteria, courtyard,
amphitheatre and baoli have been included to serve the anthropological needs of the users. Furthermore,
Figure 29. (a) Combination of natural and modern materials forming a balcony in the DA building;
the choice(b)ofintimate
natural materials
workspaces in lends
the DAabuilding
sense of solidity
(Photos: to the building while adding to the design’s
Author).
tactile experience.
3.5. Dilli Haat Janakpuri (2014)
The design process for the DA building involved a highly participatory process as views of the
client and users
Dilli Haat were taken
Janakpuri at various
has been stages as
modelled of design
an urban development
bazaar that [37]accommodates
(p. 14). These structured
an elaborate
consultations helped in building a consensus as to how the DA
programme consisting of craft shops, a music museum, workshops, an exposition building would fulfil the an
hall, needs and
auditorium,
aspirations of all user groups. A notable outcome of this process is the privacy
an open-air amphitheatre and a large food court (Figure 30). Commissioned by the Delhi Tourism afforded to workspaces
and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), the six-acre complex of Dilli Haat provides
open-plan workspaces. The workspaces instead have a degree of privacy and intimacy resulting in
a seamless link between artisans and consumers to transact. Architect Sourabh Gupta of Archohm
an almost domestic scale to the office environment. Small separate balconies and verandas (on
Consults
groundin level)
his design
attachedmanages to maintain
to the workspaces a add
further certain tension
to this sense ofbetween
domesticity modern
[34]. and traditional,
and universal and local.
In addition Gupta’s
to balconies andarchitectural education
verandas, a variety of otheratinformal
the Centre
spacesforlike
Environmental Planning
cafeteria, courtyard,
and Technology (CEPT) in Ahmedabad and Technical University Delft in the
amphitheatre and baoli have been included to serve the anthropological needs of the users. Netherlands has enabled
him to blend the local
Furthermore, and the
the choice universal
of natural whilelends
materials avoiding
a sensethe
of limitations ofbuilding
solidity to the each. while adding to
the design’s tactile experience.
Figure 30. Dilli

Figure Haat
30. Dilli Janakpuri,
Haat Janakpuri,New
NewDelhi
Delhi (2014) byArchohm
(2014) by Archohm Consults
Consults (Photo:
(Photo: author).
author).
3.5.1.3.5.
Contextual
Dilli Haat Response
Janakpuri (2014)
The six-acre plot of Dilli Haat is located in a complex urban milieu of western Delhi’s Janakpuri
district (Figure 31). The plot is bound by the Tihar prison complex, a bus depot, a huge green belt
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 22 of 28

and a densely populated middle-class residential colony. Despite a diverse mix of urban development
Dilli Haat Janakpuri has been modelled as an urban bazaar that accommodates an elaborate
Dilli Haat
in Janakpuri, theJanakpuri has beenofmodelled
overall landscape asbanal
the area is an urban bazaar that
and infamous foraccommodates an elaborate
the country’s largest prison
programme consisting of craft shops, a music museum, workshops, an exposition hall, an
programme
Tihar consisting
Jail. Therefore, the of craftofshops,
design a music
Dilli Haat museum,
consciously workshops,
overlooks an urban
the chaotic exposition hall,
context an
of the
auditorium, an open-air amphitheatre and a large food court (Figure 30). Commissioned by the Delhi
auditorium,
prison complexan open-air
and the amphitheatre and a large
haphazard residential food court (Figure
neighbourhood, and 30). Commissioned
instead by theon
chooses to focus Delhi
the
Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), the six-acre complex of Dilli Haat
Tourism
surroundingand green
Transportation
belt (FigureDevelopment
32). The greenCorporation
belt is made(DTTDC),
up of tallthe six-acre
trees complex
of mainly of theofEucalyptus
Dilli Haat
provides a seamless link between artisans and consumers to transact. Architect Sourabh Gupta of
provides a seamless
variety. Sourabh Guptalink
hasbetween
designedartisans
the Dilliand
Haatconsumers to transact.
as an extension of this Architect
green belt.Sourabh Gupta
The existing of
trees
Archohm Consults in his design manages to maintain a certain tension between modern and
Archohm Consults
in the site have been in his design
retained and tallmanages to structures
basket-like maintain clad
a certain tension dominate
with bamboo between themodern
skylineand
of
traditional, and universal and local. Gupta’s architectural education at the Centre for Environmental
traditional, and universal and local. Gupta’s architectural education at the Centre for Environmental
Dilli Haat. In addition, much of the built-up area in the site is covered with green roofs or creepers
Planning and Technology (CEPT) in Ahmedabad and Technical University Delft in the Netherlands
Planning
resulting inand
theTechnology
continuation (CEPT)
of theingreen
Ahmedabad
cover. and Technical University Delft in the Netherlands
has enabled him to blend the local and the universal while avoiding the limitations of each.
has enabled him to blend the local and the universal while avoiding the limitations of each.
Figure 31. Satellite image of Dilli Haat Janakpuri (Image courtesy of Google Earth).
Satellite image
Figure 31. Satellite image of Dilli Haat Janakpuri (Image courtesy of Google Earth).
Figure 32.
Figure Tall bamboo-clad
32. Tall bamboo-clad structures
structures respond
respond to
to the
the green
green belt
belt surrounding
surrounding the
the Dilli
Dilli Haat
Haat site
site
Figure
(Photo: 32. Tall bamboo-clad structures respond to the green belt surrounding the Dilli Haat site
Author).
(Photo: Author).
(Photo: Author).
A haat bazaar is a traditional trading venue for local people in villages and small-towns of South
The six-acre plot of Dilli Haat is located in a complex urban milieu of western Delhi’s Janakpuri
Asia.TheHeldsix-acre plot ofbasis,
on a regular Dilli haat
Haatbazaars
is located in craftsmen
enable a complexand urban milieu
artisans toof western
sell Delhi’s Janakpuri
their handicraft products
district (Figure 31). The plot is bound by the Tihar prison complex, a bus depot, a huge green belt and
district
directly(Figure
to their31). The plot isFrom
consumers. bound thebyconception
the Tihar prison
of the complex, a busthe
project itself, depot,
DilliaHaat
hugeJanakpuri
green belt was
and
a densely populated middle-class residential colony. Despite a diverse mix of urban development in
arequired
denselytopopulated middle-class
reinterpret and recreateresidential
these haatcolony.
bazaars.Despite a diverse mix of urban development in
Janakpuri, the overall landscape of the area is banal and infamous for the country’s largest prison
Janakpuri, the overall
The informal zonelandscape
of the DilliofHaat,
the area is banal
consisting andcraft
of 100 infamous
shops,for the country’s
interprets largest prison
the traditional spatial
Tihar Jail. Therefore, the design of Dilli Haat consciously overlooks the chaotic urban context of the
Tihar Jail. Therefore,
arrangement of Indianthe design
bazaars of Dilli
(Figure Haat
33). consciously
Craft overlooksinthe
shops are arranged chaotic
clusters ofurban context
5–6 shops andof the
these
prison complex and the haphazard residential neighbourhood, and instead chooses to focus on the
prison
clusterscomplex
are furtherandcomposed
the haphazardin an residential neighbourhood,
organic layout and Paved
to form a bazaar. insteadallies
chooses to focus
meander on the
along
surrounding green belt (Figure 32). The green belt is made up of tall trees of mainly of the Eucalyptus
surrounding green belt (Figure 32). The green belt is made up of tall trees of mainly of the Eucalyptus
variety. Sourabh Gupta has designed the Dilli Haat as an extension of this green belt. The existing
variety. Sourabh Gupta has designed the Dilli Haat as an extension of this green belt. The existing
trees in the site have been retained and tall basket-like structures clad with bamboo dominate the
trees in the site have been retained and tall basket-like structures clad with bamboo dominate the
A haat bazaar is a traditional trading venue for local people in villages and small-towns of South
Asia. Held on a regular basis, haat bazaars enable craftsmen and artisans to sell their handicraft
products directly to their consumers. From the conception of the project itself, the Dilli Haat
Janakpuri was required to reinterpret and recreate these haat bazaars.
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 23 of 28
The informal zone of the Dilli Haat, consisting of 100 craft shops, interprets the traditional spatial
arrangement of Indian bazaars (Figure 33). Craft shops are arranged in clusters of 5–6 shops and these
clusters
craft shopare clusters
further composed
and small in an organic
green patcheslayout
lendingto form a bazaar.
an intimate Paved allies
character meander
to this along the
zone (Figure 37).
craft shop having
However, clusterstoand small greena wide
accommodate patches lending
range an intimate
of functions character
mandated by thetoelaborate
this zonedesign
(Figure 37).
brief of
However, having to accommodate a wide range of functions mandated by the elaborate
the project, the overall design of Dilli Haat ends up diluting the spirit of a crafts bazaar [38].design brief
of the project, the overall design of Dilli Haat ends up diluting the spirit of a crafts bazaar [38].
Figure 33. Floor plan of the informal zone having craft shops (Courtesy: Archohm Consults).
Figure 33. Floor plan of the informal zone having craft shops (Courtesy: Archohm Consults).
The built forms in the Dilli Haat have been clad in stone that delays heat from reaching the
The built
interiors due to forms in the Dilli
its thickness andHaat havemass
thermal been[39].
clad The
in stone
craft that
shopsdelays heat from
are covered withreaching
canopiestheof
interiors due to its thickness and thermal mass [39]. The craft shops are covered with
translucent tensile membrane allowing toned daylight into the shops. Floating above the circular walls canopies of
translucent
of the craft tensile membrane
shops, these allowing
canopies toned daylight
also enhance into the shops.
the air circulation within.Floating above
The large the circular
overhang of the
walls
tensileofcanopies
the craft shades
shops, these canopies
the craft shopsalso enhance
against harshthe airwhile
sun, circulation within.
the ceiling The
fans large overhang
installed underneathof
the tensile
the canopies
Buildings canopies
2019, 9,further shades
improve
x FOR PEER REVIEWthe craft shops against harsh sun, while
the thermal comfort in the shops (Figure 34). the ceiling fans installed
24 of 29
underneath the canopies further improve the thermal comfort in the shops (Figure 34).
The 46 air-conditioned shops and the auditorium are covered with green roofs while the
exposition hall is covered with creepers to help reduce the heat flux through the roofs (Figure 34).
(a) (b)
Figure 34. (a) Tensile canopies with ceiling fans cover the craft shops; (b) large usable green roofs above
air-conditioned
Figure shops canopies
34. (a) Tensile (Photos: Author).
with ceiling fans cover the craft shops; (b) large usable green roofs
above air-conditioned shops (Photos: Author).

Although the original site of Dilli Haat was more or less flat, it had plenty of green cover on it.
The challenge for the architects therefore was to retain or replenish the green cover despite having to
accommodate an elaborate building programme. Accordingly, the existing trees on the site have been
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 24 of 28
The 46 air-conditioned shops and the auditorium are covered with green roofs while the exposition
hall is covered with creepers to help reduce the heat flux through the roofs (Figure 34).

Although the original site of Dilli Haat was more or less flat, it had plenty of green cover on it.
The challenge for the architects therefore was to retain or replenish the green cover despite having
to accommodate (a)an elaborate building programme. Accordingly,(b) the existing trees on the site have
been retained in the layout and most of the built-up areas are covered with a layer of greenery to
somewhat restore the initial green cover (Figure 34). Rainwater harvesting is another eco-sensitive
Figure
feature 34. (a) Tensile
incorporated canopies
in the with ceiling
site planning fansHaat.
of Dilli cover the craft shops; (b) large usable green roofs
above air-conditioned shops (Photos: Author).
The idea of Dilli Haat Janakpuri was based on two other Dilli Haats developed by the same
Although
client the original
in other parts siteone
of Delhi, of in
Dilli Haat
1994 andwas morein
another or2007.
less flat,
The itmaterial
had plenty of green
palette in bothcover on it.
the earlier
The
Dillichallenge
Haats is for the architects
dominated therefore
by exposed was to retain
brickwork. or replenish
In order to create the green cover
a unique despite
identity having
for Dilli to
Haat
accommodate an elaborate building programme. Accordingly, the existing trees on the
Janakpuri, Sourabh Gupta had to opt for other locally-available materials besides brick. Therefore, site have been
retained
differentin the layout
varieties and most
of stone suchofasthe built-up
Delhi areasKota
quartzite, are covered with
stone, red a layer
Agra of greenery
sandstone to somewhat
and slate are used
restore the initial
for cladding green (Figure
and paving cover (Figure
35). 34). Rainwater harvesting is another eco-sensitive feature
incorporated in the site planning of Dilli Haat.
(a) (b)
Figure 35. Cladding materials used in Dilli Haat Janakpuri: (a) Delhi Quartzite Stone and (b) bamboo
(Photo:35.
Figure Author).
Cladding materials used in Dilli Haat Janakpuri: (a) Delhi Quartzite Stone and (b) bamboo
(Photo: Author).
Another natural material used throughout the complex is bamboo. It is a renewable,
environment-friendly
3.5.5. material
Local Materials and available abundantly in India. Besides screening the four 8-metre high
Construction
towers, bamboo is also used for fencing the site boundary (Figure 32).
The idea of Dilli Haat Janakpuri was based on two other Dilli Haats developed by the same client
3.5.6.
in other Technological Sustainability
parts of Delhi, one in 1994 and another in 2007. The material palette in both the earlier Dilli
Haats is dominated by exposed brickwork. In order to create a unique identity for Dilli Haat
In Dilli Haat Janakpuri, the architect has efficiently combined natural materials with industrial
Janakpuri, Sourabh Gupta had to opt for other locally-available materials besides brick. Therefore,
materials. The use of technologically-advance canopies above the craft shops is the centrepiece of Dilli
different varieties of stone such as Delhi quartzite, Kota stone, red Agra sandstone and slate are used
Haat’s design (Figure 36). A combination of steel and translucent tensile membrane allows the canopies
for cladding and paving (Figure 35).
to have large overhangs in addition to letting in diffused daylight into the craft shops. The architect,
however, balances the use of technologically-advance canopies in the craft shops with walls clad in
conventional natural stone masonry.
Another advanced material used in Dilli Haat is hollow structural steel tubes (HSS). HSS are
used to fabricate linear vaults that span the 18-metre width of the large exposition hall. These steel
vaults are not, however, flaunted in their external appearance as they are covered with creepers on the
exterior instead. As evident, advanced technology is used in a functionally optimal and sustainable
manner by the architect in the design of Dilli Haat Janakpuri.
Another natural material used throughout the complex is bamboo. It is a renewable,
Another natural material
environment-friendly used throughout
material available abundantly inthe complex
India. Besides is bamboo.
screening It is
the four a renewable,
8-metre high
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 25 of 28
environment-friendly material
towers, bamboo is also available
used for fencingabundantly in India.
the site boundary Besides
(Figure 32). screening the four 8-metre high
towers, bamboo is also used for fencing the site boundary (Figure 32).
Figure 36. Tensile canopies covering the craft shops at Dilli Haat (Photo: Author).

Figure 36. Tensile canopies covering the craft craft shops
shops at
at Dilli
Dilli Haat
Haat (Photo:
(Photo: Author).
In Dilli Haat Janakpuri, the architect has efficiently combined natural materials with industrial
3.5.7.materials.
Cultural The use of technologically-advance canopies above the craft shops is the centrepiece of
Appropriateness
Dilli Haat’s design (Figure 36). A combination of steel and translucent tensile membrane allows the
Being
canopies
In a cosmopolitan
to have
Dilli Haat city,the
thearchitect
large overhangs
Janakpuri, demographic
in addition
has to ofletting
Delhiinconsists
efficiently diffusedofdaylight
combined people
natural belonging
into the crafttowith
materials a wide
shops. variety
The
industrial
of economic
architect,
materials. and
The social
however,
use backgrounds.
balances the use In order tocanopies
attract people
of technologically-advance
of technologically-advance from
abovecanopies allinstrata
the craft the of society,
craft
shops shops
is thewalls
the with design of
centrepiece of
Dilli
Dilli Haat’s design (Figure 36). A combination of steel and translucent tensile membrane allowswith
Haat
clad inJanakpuri
conventional provides
natural for
stoneoutdoor
masonry. craft shops, selling reasonably-priced goods, along the
air-conditioned
canopies to haveshops largethat
Another advanced cater toin
material
overhangs more
used in upscale
addition customers.
Dilli Haat
to letting
is hollow structural steel tubes (HSS). HSS are
in diffused daylight into the craft shops. The
used to fabricate
The built-forms linear vaults
consisting that span the 18-metre width of hall,
the large exposition hall.around
These steel
architect, however, balances theofuseshops, food court, exposition
of technologically-advance etc. are
canopies inorganised
the craft shops a variety
with walls
of vaults
open are
spaces not,
like however, flaunted
courtyards, in their
amphitheatre, external
paved appearance
allies as
and they
green are covered
patches with
(Figure creepers
37). on has
This
clad in conventional
the in
exterior natural
instead. stone masonry.
resulted
Another warm intimateAs
advanced
evident,
spaces builtadvanced
usedinto human technology
scaleis[40].is used in a functionally optimal and
sustainable manner bymaterial
the architect in
theDilli Haat
design of Dillihollow structural steel tubes (HSS). HSS are
Haat Janakpuri.
used to fabricate linear vaults that span the 18-metre width of the large exposition hall. These steel
vaults are not, however, flaunted in their external appearance as they are covered with creepers on
the exterior instead. As evident, advanced technology is used in a functionally optimal and
sustainable manner by the architect in the design of Dilli Haat Janakpuri.
Figure 37. Built-forms organised around paved allies and green patches at Dilli Haat (Photo: Author).
Figure 37. Built-forms organised around paved allies and green patches at Dilli Haat (Photo:
Author).
The project also seems to fulfil the role of a neighbourhood park as residents of the nearby
residential colonies frequent the complex, despite an entrance fee, to savour the warm atmosphere
created by the green roofs, the amphitheatre and the various courtyards.
4. Discussion
Figure 37. Built-forms organised around paved allies and green patches at Dilli Haat (Photo:
Despite
Author).
a common identification criterion, we can observe that the buildings differ substantially
in their methods of fulfilling the fundamentals of critical regionalism (Table 1). Regionalist architects
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 26 of 28
have adopted different approaches to respond to the urban context of their respective sites. While the
CIET building and the Dilli Haat choose to relate their built-forms to certain neighbouring elements
such as the Qutab Minar and the woodland respectively, the DA building on the other hand recalls the
old building that it had replaced. The IHC building on the other hand uses simplicity and humility in
its expression out of respect for the surroundings.
Table 1. Comparison of different approaches to each aspect of critical regionalism.
Yamuna Development Dilli Haat

CIET India Habitat Centre
Apartments Alternatives Janakpuri
Responds to
Use of red Foregoes Responds to the
generalised Bamboo-clad
Contextual sandstone relates over-indulgence to design of the old DA
modernist structures respond to
Response to neighboring compensate for larger building located on
architecture of urban the nearby woodland
Qutab Minar scale the site
India
Interprets traditional Organic layout of
Organisation of Interlinked shaded
Central courtyard elements such as craft shops interprets
Historical housing blocks based courtyards influenced
is reminiscent of a domes, courtyards, traditional spatial
Knowledge on layout of typical from Fatehpur Sikri
madarsa verandas, terraces, arrangement of
Indian village palace
balconies and screens Indian bazaars
Self-shading from
Wide corridors and Large sun-screen Fenestrations on Roof canopies shade
deep balconies;
Climate deep balconies pergolas shade the each façade designed against harsh sun
well-distributed
Responsiveness create buffer from building volumes and differently as per while allowing air
openings for
sun courtyards solar orientation circulation
cross-ventilation
Roof gardens, vertical
Courtyard created Retains existing trees
Vegetation cover gardens, planter boxes
Ecological around a Use of recycled on site; built-up
provided along the and garden courts
Sensitiveness pre-existing tree to materials areas covered with
internal streets recover lost green
preserve it green roofs
cover
Local Stone aggregate Compressed-earth Bamboo and Delhi
Red sandstone Lakhori bricks
Materials plaster (grit) blocks quartzite stone
Hybrid
Aggressive use of Large sunscreen
Prefabricated air-conditioning Use of translucent
Technological cantilevered pergolas have sailcloth
waffle slabs create system developed to tensile membrane
Sustainability balconies and panels suspended from
a clear span of 10m reduce energy canopies
staircases a space frame
consumption
Housing units Courtyards and Intimate spaces built
Privacy afforded to
overlook each other’s roof terraces Pleasant civic spaces to human scale and
Cultural workspaces;
semi private areas to facilitate encourage interaction organised around
Appropriateness domestic scale in
enable communal communal between professionals courtyards and
office building
interaction interaction paved allies
A wide variety of sources have influenced architects in their interpretation of lessons from the
past. From organisation of building blocks based on layouts of typical Indian villages or bazaars to
interlinking of courtyards based on sixteenth-century Mughal imperial palaces, ideas from traditional
architecture have helped architects in dealing with contemporary conditions. Each architect has chosen
the past on which he wishes to draw upon as per the exigencies of each design problem.
Even though advance mechanised devices for climate-control have been available, regionalist
architects have largely relied upon passive means of climate-control. Thick walls, deep balconies,
sunscreens, pergolas and carefully-designed fenestrations have been frequently used in regionalist
designs in Delhi for climatic mediation.
As most of the building sites located in the Delhi region are flat and even, the topography of sites
has not posed a significant challenge to regionalist architects. Wherever possible, regionalist architects
have tried to conserve the existing trees on site. As the building codes have not afforded enough
room for preserving the existing vegetation on site, the architects have reclaimed the green cover by
providing features such as garden courtyards, green roofs and vertical gardens.
As a variety of indigenous materials are readily available in the Delhi region, regionalist architects
have been able to choose from an array of building materials to fulfil the economic, aesthetic and
ecological concerns specific to a building programme. Labour-intensive construction methods using
local materials have also improved employment opportunities at the regional level.
Buildings 2019, 9, 108 27 of 28
Critical regionalism extends the discourse on sustainable architecture beyond the prevailing
technocratic approach by adequately addressing qualitative issues of regional and cultural
appropriateness. While technological advancements may accelerate progress, critical reflection
is required to understand the capabilities and culpabilities of new technology. Regionalist designs
in Delhi reveal how imported technologies have been effectively localised to suit the needs of the
community. Another important consideration for sustainable architecture is that a building should
‘remain relevant and functional for as long as possible’ [41]. Without cultural awareness, energy
efficient buildings are likely to ‘suffer premature obsolescence and invite major modification or outright
demolition and replacement, undermining ambitions for sustainability’ [42]. As due care has been
taken in the regionalist works in Delhi to address the cultural needs and values of users, they are
destined to last longer and be more sustainable in the long run.
In conclusion, it can be said that critical regionalism is not a set of aesthetic preferences but a
philosophical framework permissive of a wide variety of viewpoints. Even within a region having
uniform climatic conditions, culture, historical context and availability of materials, critical regionalism
is capable of generating diverse forms of architecture.
Author Contributions: Conceptualisation, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology,

Visualisation and Draft Writing by S.B.; Project administration, Supervision and Writing Review by G.R.
Funding: This research was funded by the Government of India’s Ministry of Human Resource Development
through the IIT-Roorkee Doctoral Scholarship to the main author, grant number 14902005.
Acknowledgments: Special thanks to the two anonymous reviewers of this manuscript for their helpful comments
and suggestions.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Buildings: A Study of Regional Assertions in The Architecture of Delhi From The 1970s To The Present

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Buildings: A Study of Regional Assertions in The Architecture of Delhi From The 1970s To The Present

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buildings

2. Critical Regionalism: Definition

Buildings 2019, 9, 108; doi:10.3390/buildings9050108 www.mdpi.com/journal/buildings

Critical Regionalism: Determinants

1. Yamuna Apartments (1980) by The Design Group;

3. Critical Regionalism in Delhi

3.1. Yamuna Apartments (1980)

Figure 2.2.Satellite image

3.1.2. Historical Knowledge

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 29

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 29

3.2.4. Ecological Sensitiveness

Figure 11. Central courtyard in the CIET building (Photo: Author).

3.2.5. Local Materials and Construction

3.2.6. Technological Sustainability

3.2.7. Cultural Appropriateness

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of 29

that helps linking and unifying the neighbourhood.

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 29

3.3.2. Historical Knowledge

3.3.2. Historical Knowledge

3.3.2. Historical Knowledge

3.3.3. Climate Responsiveness

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 14 of 29

Figure 17. Garden

3.3.5. Local Materials and Construction

3.3.5. Local Materials and Construction

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 29

3.3.7. Cultural Appropriateness

3.4. Development Alternatives Headquarters (2008)

3.4.1. Contextual Response

3.4.4. Ecological Sensitiveness

3.4.6. Technological Sustainability

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 21 of 29

3.4.7. Cultural Appropriateness

Figure 30. Dilli

Buildings 2019, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW 22 of 29

3.5.4. Ecological Sensitiveness

3.5.4. Ecological Sensitiveness

3.5.6. Technological Sustainability

Table 1. Comparison of different approaches to each aspect of critical regionalism.

Yamuna Development Dilli Haat

Author Contributions: Conceptualisation, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology,

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