Charles Correa (1930-2015) was an influential Indian architect and urban planner known for his Achyut Kanvinde

yut Kanvinde was born in 1916 in Achara, Maharashtra. He was an Indian Architect, Teacher,
innovative and contextually responsive designs. His work reflects a deep understanding of the
cultural, social, and environmental aspects of architecture. Correa's design philosophy was rooted
in the idea of creating architecture that responds to the specific needs and identity of its context,
blending modernity with tradition. Design Concept Philosophy:Contextual Modernism: Correa was a
proponent of contextual modernism, blending modern design principles with a deep understanding
of local culture, climate, and traditions. His architecture aimed to be rooted in its context,
responding to the specific needs and conditions of the site.
Climate-Responsive Design: Recognizing the diverse climate in India, Correa emphasized the
importance of designing buildings that respond to local climate conditions. His designs often
incorporated passive cooling strategies and sustainable practices.
Human Scale: Correa was known for designing spaces that were human-centric. His projects were
often characterized by a concern for the user's experience and an emphasis on creating humane,
comfortable environments.
Writer and a Committed Modernist. He is considered as one of forefathers of modern Indian
Architecture. Education: a. Sir J.J. School of Art Studied architecture under Claude Batley in 1935 b.
Harvard for Master degree, with a thesis on science laboratories in 1945. c. Appointed as the Chief
Architect of CSIR in 1947 Lifetime achievements: a. Awarded Padma Shree in 1976. b. President of
Indian Institute of Architecture (1974-75) c. Co-Authored book “Campus Design in India”. d. IIA’s
Babu Rao Mhatre Gold Medal for life time achievement in 1985 e. Great Masters Award from JK
Industries Ltd. in 1993. Design philosophy All his creations were in strict conformity with the
following three principles: 1. Functionalism: The buildings were always conceived with first priority
given to its functions, and the social values when designing spaces. He rejected symmetry. 2.
Brutalism: Brutalism is a child of modern architecture. Typically, very linear. Developed to create
functional structures at a low cost. 3. Regionalism: Inevitably based on the exigencies of local
climate, building materials and social conditions. Design concepts: He believed that an art can be
used to nourish the senses and art is purely an aesthetic exercise. b. He treated his building with
“VASTU SHASTRA”. c. His designs were slender, balanced, proportionate, neat and well crafted.

Integration of Arts: Correa believed in the integration of art and architecture, often collaborating
with artists to incorporate artistic elements into his designs. This approach aimed to enhance the
overall aesthetic and cultural value of his projects.
Achievements: Charles Correa was awarded the Royal Gold Medal by the Royal Institute of British
Architects (RIBA) in 1984 for his significant contributions to architecture. Received the Aga Khan
Award for Architecture for several projects, including the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial at Sabarmati
Ashram in Ahmedabad. Correa was honored with the Padma Shri in 1972 and the Padma Vibhushan
in 2006 by the Government of India for his exceptional contributions to architecture.
List of Notable Works:
Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (Sabarmati Ashram), Ahmedabad, India (1963)
Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur, India (1991)
National Crafts Museum, New Delhi, India (1975)
Kanchanjunga Apartments, Mumbai, India (1983)
British Council, New Delhi, India (1992)
Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal, India (1982)
MIT Brain and Cognitive Sciences Complex, Cambridge, USA (2005)
Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi, commonly known as B.V. Doshi, is an Indian architect who is known for
his significant contributions to modern architecture and urban planning. Born on August 26, 1927,
in Pune, India, Doshi has played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape in India and
beyond.
Design Concept Philosophy:
B.V. Doshi's design philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of modern architecture while also
drawing inspiration from traditional Indian architecture and culture. His approach involves a holistic
understanding of architecture that goes beyond just creating buildings but also focuses on creating
environments that are in harmony with the users and the surrounding context.
Some key elements of Doshi's design philosophy include:
Sustainability: Doshi emphasizes the importance of sustainable design, taking into consideration the
environmental impact of buildings. He integrates traditional design principles that promote natural
ventilation, daylighting, and energy efficiency.
User-Centric Design: Doshi places a strong emphasis on understanding the needs and lifestyles of
the people who will inhabit the spaces he designs. His architecture is user-centric, aiming to create
spaces that enhance the quality of life for the occupants.
Contextual Integration: Doshi believes in integrating his designs with the cultural, social, and
physical context of the site. He often draws inspiration from traditional Indian architecture,
adapting and reinterpreting elements to create contemporary and contextually relevant structures.
Spatial Relationships: Doshi is known for his mastery in creating meaningful spatial relationships
within his designs. He carefully considers the flow of spaces, the interplay of light and shadow, and
the overall sensory experience of the built environment.

INFLUENCE OF LE CORBUSIER:

About le Corbusier: Charles Edouard Jeanerette now popularly known as le Corbusier was born on
6th October, 1887 at La Chaux de fonds in Swissjura Mountains located 4kms from French border. At
the age of 13 years, he left school and prepared himself for manual occupation. He started working
under a contractor named Perret. Later he joined an art school.

An introduction to Chandigarh: During partition of India and Pakistan, Punjab was divided into two
parts. The then capital of Punjab was now on the side of Pakistan and the Punjab in India required a
new capital. The government of India had no choice other than constructing a new capital city. And
for this purpose, the then Prime Minister of India and the Government of Punjab approached Le
Corbusier. When Le Corbusier assumed control of the Chandigarh project in 1951, the design of the
city had already been devised. A New York based firm of Mayer, ‘Whittles and Glass’ had received
the contract for the master plan of Chandigarh in 1950. The master plan was being handled by a
team of architects that also consisted of Maxwell fry, Jane drew and Pierre Jeanerette.

Albert Mayer - The master plan: Mayer was the first one to get the Chandigarh project. His duties
were to take the form of architectural control. The basic aim, stated Mayer, was a beautiful city.
Matthew Nowicki was also invited to join the staff assembled to plan Chandigarh. But the death of
Nowicki necessitated the selection of a new architect for Chandigarh. It was the Minister of Planning
who suggested le-Corbusier and who also recommended the inclusion of Pierre Jeanerette whom
he termed a’’ good detail man.’’

Three disciplines The discipline of money: Le Corbusier once remarked that “India has the treasures
of a proud culture, but her coffers are empty.” And throughout the project the desire for grandness
was hampered by the need for strict economy. In working up his designs, le Corbusier consulted the
program for each building as given in the budget and then prepared the initial project. The discipline
of technology: Available in quantity, however, was good clay stone and sand, and, above all human
labor. The materials of which Chandigarh has been constructed are rough concrete in the capitol
complex and the central business district and for most of the city, especially in housing, locally
produced brick. The discipline of climate: Besides the administrative and financial regulations, there
was a law of the sun in India. The architectural problem consisted of: a. To make shade, b. To make a
current of air [to ventilate], c. To control hydraulics.

Plan of the city The Chandigarh city is a bold experiment in modern civic design. It has been planned
on the scientific principles and to apprise the coming generation of these principles. The design
provoked fresh thinking and in fact shown new way of life. The main features of this principle are: i.
Human scale ii. Self sufficient sectors iii. Roads system iv. Areas of special interest v. Architectural
control

Timeline of his works: • 1954 – 1964: Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. • 1954 – 1964:
Ahmedabad Textiles Industries Research Association. • 1954 – 1964: Council of Scientific and
Industrial Research. • 1960 – 1964: Harivallabdas House, Ahmedabad. • 1965: Gandhi Krishi Vigyan An exemplary project that illustrates Charles Correa's design philosophy is the
Kendra, Bangalore. • 1966: IIT Kanpur Campus. • 1975: Institute of Rural Management. • 1985: "Jawahar Kala Kendra" in Jaipur, India. Completed in 1991, this cultural center is a
Nehru Science Center, Mumbai. • 1992: National Science Center, New Delhi. • 1992: National manifestation of Correa's ideas about blending tradition with modernity.
Insurance Academy, Pune. • 1998: ISKCON Temple, East of Kailash, Delhi. IIT Delhi: The campus area Design Concept:
IITR Kanpur has has been divided into four functional zones: a. Residential zone for students. b. Cultural Context: Correa drew inspiration from the architectural traditions of
Residential zone for the faculty and staff. c. Academic zone for academic buildings and workshops. d. Rajasthan, incorporating elements like chhatris (domed pavilions), jharokhas
Cultural-cum-social and recreational zone for students. Each department is a separate entity with a (overhanging enclosed balconies), and courtyards, which are characteristic of the
courtyard. The main academic building accommodates various teaching and research activities. Two region's architecture.
outer residential zones are separated from the central academic zone by canals. The plan Modularity and Grid: The design is based on a modular grid system, reflecting
anticipated the capacity of 5000 students. To balance the horizontality of building, vertical columns modernist principles. The grid allows for flexibility and expansion, aligning with the
were added in the front facade. Conclusion: His works are generally raw and unemotional. Yet he evolving needs of a cultural center.
managed to make his designs appealing and welcoming. His designs were distinct and unique yet Climate Responsiveness: The building's design takes into account the harsh desert
having one thing similar - functionalism. His designs appear to be built with a large amount of climate of Jaipur. The use of jaalis (perforated screens) and courtyards helps in
thought having been given to making them functionally efficient and practically feasible. passive cooling by allowing natural ventilation while filtering harsh sunlight.
Integration with Nature: Correa's design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding
landscape. The use of open spaces, water features, and greenery creates a
harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature.
Example - Aranya Low-Cost Housing: Multifunctional Spaces: The Jawahar Kala Kendra is designed to house various
One of the notable examples of B.V. Doshi's design philosophy in action is the Aranya Low-Cost cultural activities and events. Correa envisioned a space that could adapt to different
Housing project in Indore, India. Completed in the 1980s, this housing development is designed to functions, promoting cultural exchange and community engagement.
accommodate a wide range of income groups while maintaining a sense of community and
sustainability. Charles Correa's Jawahar Kala Kendra stands as a testament to his design philosophy, showcasing
Features of Aranya Housing: how architecture can be a bridge between the past and the present, tradition and modernity. The
Community-Oriented Design: project is not merely a physical structure but a cultural symbol that reflects the spirit of its context.
The housing complex is designed to promote a sense of community. It includes a variety of
communal spaces, such as courtyards, plazas, and gathering areas, encouraging social interaction
among residents.
Variety in Housing Types:
Doshi designed a variety of housing types to accommodate different family sizes and income levels.
This diversity in housing options promotes inclusivity within the community.
Environmental Sustainability:
The design incorporates sustainable features such as passive cooling, natural ventilation, and the
use of local materials. These elements contribute to energy efficiency and reduce the
environmental impact of the complex.
Adaptability and Flexibility:
The design allows for adaptability and flexibility, enabling residents to customize and expand their
homes as needed. This feature reflects Doshi's belief in architecture that evolves with the changing
needs of its inhabitants.
Through the Aranya Low-Cost Housing project and many others, B.V. Doshi has demonstrated how
architecture can be a powerful tool for addressing social issues and improving the lives of people,
all while being environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive.

The sector Taking Chandigarh is an example of the democratic idea which allows us to devote an
equal care to housing all the classes of the society while seeking new social groupings, new patterns
of education and public welfare. It was made possible by practical application of the scientific idea
which every class was benefitted with piped water, electricity and cheap transport. At present there
are 30 sectors in Chandigarh, of which 24 are residential. 70% of the building would be private in all
the sectors. The flat roof was employed throughout in Chandigarh housing because of its usefulness
as a sleeping area. Small windows openings have been consistently employed The most economical
and readily available material for building at Chandigarh was locally made brick. It became the
material construction in all type of housing, partly because of the glazing expense, partly to keep
out sun.

Master plan: In 1951, it was given to Le Corbusier who devised a system of self-supporting
neighborhood unit known as a sector. A sector which is introverted in character communicates only
at 4 junctions with the adjoining neighborhood units. The planning was done in a manner that
everything was easily clear about the routes and sectors. a. The roads were classified as V1, V2, V3,
V4, V5, V6 and V7 b. Grid planning was done c. All the houses open up inside Projects that Le
Corbusier handled were capitol complex, housing, museum, city plaza etc

The capitol complex The area of the greatest symbolic significance in Chandigarh was the capitol
complex, which in its final form was based on the design of a great cross axis. The most important
group of buildings constituted the capitol complex, the parliament, the secretariat and in the
foreground, the pool of the palace of justice. The artificial hills in the front of the secretariat have
not been created and laid out in accordance with Le Corbusier’s conceptions

The secretariat: a. The secretariat, the longest building in Chandigarh, 254m long, and 42m high
forms the administrative center, with ministerial offices grouped in the center and offices for
employees arranged on either side. Its design established the building form as a long, horizontal
concrete slab. b. The building, completed in 1958, is composed of six eight storey blocks separated
by expansion joints. A plastic emphasis is given to the building by free standing exterior ramps
enclosed in rough concrete walls c. Approach to the building is through roadways below ground
level to a large parking area in front of the central block, and a floor is left open at this level to form
an entrance hall d. Block 1 and 2 rises directly from the ground. Block 3, 4 and part of 5 faces on the
excavated area of the parking lot and have the lower storey open between pilotis. The rest part of
block 5 and whole of 6 the level goes till plaza height, and lower portion of these blocks are left
open to a height of two storeys. e. For supplementary communication within the building, each of
six blocks is equipped with interior stairways and limited elevator service. Horizontal circulation is by
means of a central corridor. For minister’s block the bay size is increased and the column is
thickened. f. The top of the building is developed as a roof garden containing the service blocks and
cafeteria for employees.

An exemplary project that illustrates Charles Correa's design philosophy is the

"Jawahar Kala Kendra" in Jaipur, India. Completed in 1991, this cultural center is a
manifestation of Correa's ideas about blending tradition with modernity.
Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur, India: