Proceedings of the IIA International Research Conference 2024- Anveshan, 29-31 August, Thiruvananthapuram, India

Maritime trade has influenced the historic growth trajectory of many Indian cities. Spices, along with scents and silks, were central to world trade for thousands of years. The urban landscape of the cultural regions of Kozhikode (Calicut) and Kolkata on India's Coast demonstrates its maritime global trade history which in turn contributed to the making of these Cities and the pluralistic expression. Both of these maritime cities have played a significant role in the wider Indian Ocean history through their prominent roles in international trade. This deep hybrid history associated with trade has led to a heterogenous city fabric which was produced over centuries of socio-economic transactions contributing to the evolution of the urban form of these port cities. On a closer analysis, the cosmopolitan expression is evident through the evolution of its market streets, ethnic community neighbourhoods, inter-diasporic exchanges and socio-cultural institutions. The historic market streets of these city cores act as memoirs of global spice and goods trade, events and exchanges. The paper aims to explore the urban evolution of these cultural landscapes through two important historic wholesale markets namely Valiyangadi in Kozhikode and the Bara Bazar in Kolkata. These markets have been important trading posts of the colonial powers witnessing the trading relations of spice, silk and other goods. The inquiry sets out a comparative spatial reading of urban form evolution and changing dynamics of these important market streets within the inner-city cores. Findings reveal that the port and trade relations along these markets were the catalysts in the transformation of the city and the evolution of its present urban form. The present situation also points towards the changing urban dynamics of these market networks within the city which are still anchoring the cultural expression of these cities.

The paper examines the decline of tribal culture within ashram shalas (residential school) and cultural preservation through tribal children-centric design (TCCD) in ashram shalas. Emphasizing culture as vital to any community, the early age at which cultural knowledge can be instilled in students during their school years plays an important role for overall and cultural development of students. Modern educational trends prioritize new-age learning, inadvertently contributing to the erosion of tribal culture, particularly notable in Gadchiroli. Survey data from tribal children, parents, and teachers underscore the absence of cultural preservation efforts in schools, necessitating the development of culturally relevant educational environments not alien to tribal communities. Site observations reveal deficiencies in policies, infrastructure, built and unbuilt spaces within ashram shalas and schools, further undermining efforts to support and sustain tribal culture. The paper advocates for TCCD, advocating for the integration of tribal architecture style, landscape (an important aspect of tribal culture) community spaces like ghotul (dormitory for training purposes) and mandap (hall), planning, use of vernacular materials and construction techniques and innovative teaching methods. These strategies are essential for safeguarding the rich tribal Gond culture within school settings, fostering a sense of cultural belonging and identity among tribal students. Adopting TCCD is posited as crucial to effectively integrating tribal cultural values into educational practices.

This paper delves into the socio-historical dynamics of Teyyam cults in correlation with the maritime history of Kolattunāṭu region. Teyyam, deeply entrenched in the tribal culture of Kolattunāṭu, a region spanning between the Perumba and Vaḷapaṭṭaṇam rivers, the Western Ghats, and the Arabian Sea, encompasses various liturgical practices such as mother goddess worship, serpent worship, and canoe cults. The transient nature inherent in Teyyam worship and its ritual spaces signifies the ‘transmigration’ of its deities, particularly evident in the littoral shrines dotting the coastal belt of Kolattunāṭu. These ‘canoe cults,’ believed to have journeyed to the region via sea canoes, intertwine the coastal landscape and maritime symbols with their liturgy, notably reflected in their canoe songs, locally known as Marakkalap̅āṭṭu, which recount the deities’ sea voyages. The theoretical framework of this investigation draws upon Carl Sauer’s conception of landscape as a nexus between human activity and the natural environment, emphasizing the role of intangible cultural elements in shaping cultural landscapes. The western coast of India, marked by a rich tapestry of cross-cultural interactions due to successive waves of foreign influences, served as a hub for global trade. The region’s navigable rivers facilitated trade networks connecting maritime and inland markets, gradually shaping its cultural and sacred landscapes. Through mapping the spatial trajectories of divine journeys, this paper aims to knit enduring links between canoe cults in Teyyam and the socio-cultural milieu of a specific historical epoch. Employing an exploratory methodology, the research draws on literature reviews and ethnographic surveys among the participants of Teyyam to unravel the intricate narratives embedded in canoe cult ballads. These narratives not only illuminate the region’s geographical features but also offer insights into social structures, economic activities, religious practices, and political dynamics of the era, underscoring their role as repositories of historical, geographical, and anthropological knowledge.

Sacred tanks are an important typology of open spaces associated with religious historic precincts in India. They have architectural, recreational as well as ecological significance, pertaining to each region. Kerala too has had a tradition of constructing tanks/‘kulams’ associated with ancient temples. Laterite temple tanks/‘kulams’ of northern Kerala—are distinct from granite temple tanks of the south and central parts of the state. They are unique examples of designed historic open spaces—combining aesthetics and engineering, through its definite geometry, vaastu based planning and the versatility of indigenous laterite stone as a building material visible in details and minimal decoration. The tradition is still prevalent in several areas, with variations in detail and scale over time, keeping the basic principles more or less unchanged. This research paper is a preliminary enquiry towards identifying and understanding the continuing laterite kulam making practices of North Kerala as an indigenous knowledge system. The chosen region of study is Vadakara, a municipality and Taluk in Calicut district, approximately 24 km² region possessing many historic as well as new kulams, being built and repaired over many years, in vicinity to each other and actively used. The research intends to examine their geographical distribution, evolution of types and construction systems, adaptations in the newer kulams, and the role of current determinants like material availability, site context, use patterns and costs. This will be done through exploratory methods, which includes connecting inputs from master masons who construct kulams, vaastu experts who provide initial guidelines and through architectural documentation and analysis.

Indo-Islamic architecture emerged in the Indian subcontinent showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship through intricate carvings and decorations, artistic creativity by integrating Islamic and local styles, and applied mathematical precision in geometric patterns and structural layouts, marking its distinctive cultural synthesis. Akbar, the Mughal emperor, fostered Indo-Islamic architecture's golden age and gave rise to monumental structures personifying the opulence of Mughal architectural innovation. The tomb of Mohammad Ghaus in Gwalior built in 1563 under the reign of Akbar is a stunning example with its sophisticated details specifically on the lattice screen enclosure called ‘jaali’. The study focuses on a detailed analysis of the underpinned geometry that forms the foundation of the patterns integrated in the architectural narrative and visual coherence of the monument. Further highlighting the evolution and repetition of the geometric patterns to generate different compositions emphasizing mathematical precision. The research aims to explore the dual aspects of functional and decorative elements particularly highlighting the role of geometrical forms. The methodology consists of a detailed on-site examination of the lattice screen enclosure, documenting its geometric patterns and analyzing using principles of Islamic geometric design and architectural context. Additionally, a comparative analysis with similar architectural elements in Indo-Islamic monuments will be conducted to contextualize and further understand the significance of the geometric tapestry within the tomb of Mohammad Ghaus. The findings of the study show that these jaalis, carved from sandstone, display an intriguing arrangement of geometric patterns and floral motifs, creating an eloquent symphony for the enclosure. Geometry being one of the inherent elements of the Islamic iconography along with calligraphic and arabesque patterns enhances the visual and spatial quality of architecture and reflects a deep interconnection between art and the cosmos.

The temples in the Konkan region of India are not merely religious structures but repositories of traditional knowledge in construction and resource management. They symbolize a harmonious relationship between natural resources, revered as deities and demonstrate sustainable building practices. This research paper aims to explore the multifaceted significance of these temples through an interdisciplinary lens, with a focus on their role in sustainability. This paper analyses three temples as case-studies to understand the architecture of the Konkan temples and construction techniques, architectural elements and use of local materials such as laterite stone and wood. Moreover, temples serve as community hubs, accommodating various social activities and festivals that foster cultural cohesion and identity. By highlighting these aspects, the paper argues that temples in the Konkan region are more than religious symbols, reflecting both environmental consciousness and cultural continuity. They embody a sustainable ethos rooted in local ecology. Understanding their construction technology and architectural intricacies offers insights into natural resource management practices and provides lessons for contemporary sustainable practices. Thus, temples emerge not only as spiritual landmarks but also as tangible embodiments of sustainable practices and communal resilience in the face of changing environmental and social dynamics.

Thazhathangadi, once a bustling trade centre through its waterways, is a historic stretch along the banks of the River Meenachil in Kottayam, Kerala, and is rich in culture and architectural heritage. This paper aims to explore the potential of heritage tourism in Thazhathangadi and identify the opportunities that promote heritage conservation and tourism and benefit the community. The present tourism landscape is assessed, and the existing infrastructure and amenities are analysed to identify conservation challenges as Thazhathangadi’s assets prove its potential as a heritage tourism attraction. The study focuses on these heritage structures’ historical and architectural significance, showcasing a blend of Hindu and foreign styles unique to the region. Most religious structures and residences date back to more than five hundred years of rich architectural heritage and craftsmanship. The study found Thazhathangadi’s unique heritage underutilized due to improper infrastructure, lack of planned tourism strategies, and community involvement. This research proposes infrastructure augmentation, improvement of accommodation and transportation facilities, provision of better amenities, heritage packages, heritage walks, guided tours, and engaging local communities through training programs. This paper underscores the importance of branding for destination marketing and promotion, attracting visitors, and enhancing image and competitiveness. The paper suggests green and eco-friendly practices for better management, monitoring visitor masses, and protection of heritage sites, through case studies that have adopted tourism initiatives with conservation. The study concludes with the significance of a holistic approach to heritage conservation and tourism initiatives in Thazhathangadi, to preserve its rich legacy of a glorious past.

The research article, titled “Finding a New Life through adaptive reuse for the Old Railway Terminus Complex, Kochi, Kerala,” examines the historical and cultural importance of the original and still existing railway station complex in Ernakulam. This station, which symbolized the arrival of the initial train to Cochin, was constructed during the zenith of the Kochi kingdom in partnership with the British, making a substantial contribution to the region’s progress. Over time, the station’s original role steadily diminished, leading to its abandonment and subsequent deterioration. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of adaptive reuse as a strategy for conserving this valuable urban asset. The objective of the research is to reuse these neglected structures with the goal of reintegrating them into the vibrant urban landscape of Kochi, thus ensuring a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the city. The approach involves a thorough analysis of the historical context, current condition, and potential utilization of the precinct. The main findings emphasize that adaptive reuse is an effective method for optimizing space to meet modern requirements while maintaining the historical essence of the built environment. The study highlights the significance of preserving cultural assets by creatively repurposing decommissioned railway historical structures, demonstrating their potential to contribute to sustainable urban development. The research highlights the importance of finding a balance between preserving historical elements and incorporating modern practicality. It provides a framework that can be used by other communities dealing with similar challenges.

The Himalayan state of Uttarakhand is known for its landscapes and cultural diversity, housing various Indigenous tribal communities. However, there is a complex interplay between tradition and modernization as these communities confront the impacts of globalization, climate change, and economic challenges. These tribes possess extensive traditional knowledge that influences their lifestyles, food, economics, and architecture, adapting to their environment and developing a unique social fabric contributing to their sustainable living. Yet, despite their rich knowledge, some communities thrive while others perish over generations. This research aims to uncover key environmental and economic factors driving changes in lifestyle and social fabric within the Indigenous community of the Bhotiya tribe at Mana village in Chamoli. It seeks to understand the adaptation strategies that help them sustain their lifestyles and livelihoods in response to modern development, climate change, and resultant economic shifts, providing insights into how this community is thriving. In contrast, others face the threat of extinction. Comparing these learnings with the situation of the Bakusa tribe at Kukraun in Pauri Garhwal will help propose a framework for the sustainable development of the Indigenous tribe there, which is currently facing an existential crisis due to ongoing development and its impacts. Primary studies provided a foundation for understanding the historical and socio-cultural context of these communities. The literature review highlighted the need for sustainable development initiatives in the Himalayan region, advocating for community resilience and indigenous cultural preservation. Employing a qualitative approach for comparative thematic analysis of secondary data, the study explored how these Indigenous communities navigated modernization while maintaining socio-economic resilience and cultural identity. In conclusion, the research highlights the resilience of Indigenous communities amidst modernization in the Himalayan region, integrating the insights into sustainable development policies for this region. This approach fosters resilience and inclusivity aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal no. 11 for Sustainable Cities and Communities.

This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for crime mapping to pinpoint hotspots within the Museum police station’s jurisdiction in Trivandrum, Kerala, which saw the highest number of crimes reported in 2022, as per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), making it an important issue to be tackled. Trivandrum was chosen for its high population density, aligning with criminological theories linking dense urban areas to increased criminal activity. The jurisdiction of the Museum police station area was explicitly selected due to its significant incidence of various crimes as per the data available from the Kerala police website while comparing it with the overall 21 jurisdiction boundaries. Data collection encompassing seven crime categories as per the analysis of previous literature studies, which includes—rape, theft, molestation, kidnapping, murder, hurt, auto theft, and robbery—was meticulously gathered from the Museum police station and organized using Excel, then analysed through GIS techniques. These methods included Average Nearest Neighbours Analysis to identify crime pattern types, Kernel Density Estimation to visualize crime density maps, Choropleth mapping to highlight wards with heightened crime rates, and Standard Deviation Ellipse Analysis to explore trends in crime distribution. These analytical approaches and their comparison with buffered maps facilitated a comprehensive spatial examination, uncovering distinct crime hotspots and illuminating factors contributing to their concentration. The study concludes by pointing out the main vulnerable areas of the study with the help of the previously mentioned mapping analysis, helping in providing suitable areas to be focused on to provide design strategies to curb crime.

With the growing aging population worldwide, demand for adaptable housing solutions that cater to the unique needs of older adults is increasing. The proportion of the elderly population aged 60 years and above increased from 5.5% in 1950 to 8.6% in 2011 and is projected to reach 19.5% by 2050 according to the UN Population Division (2019). In Kerala, this percentage is higher at 20% as per longitudinal survey of India 2020. Traditional housing designs often fail to accommodate the changing physical and cognitive abilities of the elderly, limiting independence and diminishing quality of life. This study investigated the key design principles of adaptable housing to support aging in place and independence focusing on residential spaces for the elderly in Kumbanad in Kerala, a region with high elderly population due to youth migration. The paper explores different approaches and points out the importance of the adaptability of residences to meet the varying needs of elderly. Using observational methods, the research evaluates existing homes in terms of safety, accessibility, and comfort. Through literature reviews, field observations, interviews with elderly residents, and architectural analysis, the research explores flexible design and spatial adaptations, highlighting gaps. Findings propose recommendations for modifications and policy reforms which also addresses the concept of sustainability. The study underscores the importance of adapting homes to support the aging population effectively taking Kumbanad as a case study along with challenges faced and the broader implications for developing culturally appropriate and sustainable elderly housing solutions.

Smart City Mission, launched by the Indian government in 2015, aims to promote sustainable and inclusive cities by transforming existing areas through redevelopment and retrofitting. After almost a decade of its initiation, the mission has started to significantly improve infrastructure and citizen-centric services. Urban streets serve as key intervention points aligning with Smart City objectives and democratic spaces accessible to all, round the clock, promoting cohesion and interaction among diverse communities. Scholars have stated that the streets, the city’s primary public spaces, are its most vital organ. Hence, streets highlight the importance of urban design in a cityscape for fostering inclusivity and addressing social aspects. Pune is blessed with a conducive climate for outdoor living and is also a culturally vibrant city. The research aims to investigate how smart city interventions have helped and supported the cultural activities of its people and also made the public space inclusive in terms of functions and users. The methodology involves case studies of 4 streets developed under the initiative in Pune, using activity mapping at different times of day to find out user types and activities and photographic documentation to gather data. The research demonstrates that streets in Pune serve as vital public spaces for interaction among diverse user groups. Surrounding land use influences street activities, fostering social interactions and cultural engagement. Activity generators on these streets catalyse social inclusion and cultural interactions, reinforcing the city’s cultural fabric. These interventions not only promote inclusivity but also support and enhance cultural activities, underscoring the significance of well-designed public spaces in nurturing community and cultural life in Pune. The study highlights how culturally sensitive smart street interventions in Pune have reclaimed public spaces, transforming them into vibrant “urban living rooms.”

Thermal comfort refers to psychological satisfaction with the thermal environment. Urban Heat Island (UHI) and global warming pose significant challenges to comfort levels. This study investigates the relationship between thermal comfort, occupant activity behaviour, climatic parameters, and psychological perceptions in Kanakakkunu Park, Trivandrum—a vital green space for diverse age groups, renowned as the city’s lungs. The study segmented the park into zones based on features like shading, paving materials, and tree density. Each zone underwent separate analysis to ensure precision. The research comprised two main sections: the first involved observational analysis and activity mapping to understand occupant behaviour non-intrusively. Thermal variations in each zone were recorded using thermal imaging. The second section conducted field measurements using TESTO 440 instruments to capture air temperature, humidity, and wind speed-the parameters influencing thermal comfort. Simultaneously, a quantitative survey gauged occupants’ perceptions. Thermal comfort indices, particularly the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage Dissatisfied (PPD), were evaluated using the PET scale. Results indicated that 50% of respondents prioritized thermal comfort in their choice of location, with some zones also valuing place quality. The study underscores thermal comfort as a primary determinant of occupant behaviour, while acknowledging the role of place quality. Future research should explore behavioural changes stemming from discomfort exposure.

This paper on the transformation of vernacular in villages discusses the case of changes in Rohi. Development-induced land acquisition results in the relocation of settlements and communities and disconnects the dislocated people. This leads to the loss of the vernacular knowledge system, landform, geography, ecology, community, society, and local economics. A case of loss of the vernacular knowledge system and social disarticulation of communities is in progress with the relocation of the five villages by the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) for the Noida International Airport (NIA), through the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR Act 2013). Compensation is by the allotment of land in a colony on the outskirts of Jewar. Villagers do not know how to deal with their newly transformed life. In the new planned areas, buildings, and economics are segregated. The land-use controls and bylaws separate built and open spaces based on public and private ownership. Village communities have a social history, and land ownership for ages, and their vernacular-spatial structure is different. This research methodically discusses the communities through vernacular built-form typology by studying houses of surrounding villages and identifying what has gone missing in the new colony. The spatial and use-based organization of the village houses is missing in the new planned colony. Research views the village house as a strength of the people-vocation-land connection, leading to the identification of an Agrorbanization model of sustainable urbanization. Findings help conclude an outline for Agrorbanization that can be used for a better settlement, thus making the resettlement planning more suitable for village life when the R&R Act is used.

This study investigates the happiness and depression levels of architecture students at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology during the 2023–2024 academic year. Using the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), initial findings revealed that 50% of students reported higher happiness levels upon joining the program compared to the average college student. However, happiness levels generally declined in higher semesters, with the exception of the third year (S6), where peer support, positive attitudes, and excitement about internships led to increased well-being. Despite graphical trends suggesting variations, ANOVA results showed no statistically significant differences in happiness and depression scores across semesters. CES-D Depression Scale findings revealed consistently high depression rates, peaking in the final year. To validate these observations, in-person interviews were conducted with five recent graduates, providing insights into happiness fluctuations throughout their academic journey. A survey incorporating activities validated by psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky identified acts of kindness and gratitude as universally effective in enhancing happiness, resonating with students across all years. This study highlights the need for integrating tailored happiness activities and institutional support systems within architectural education. By addressing both happiness and depression, these interventions can foster a supportive academic environment, improving student well-being and enabling a balanced educational experience. Ultimately, such measures can enhance the holistic development and success of architecture students.

Architecture education refers to the academic and professional training required to prepare individuals for the practice of architecture. It addresses the needs of both the society and individuals while tackling some of the world’s most significant environmental and professional challenges. Graduate attributes are specific to each profession and can be defined as a combination of knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviour that students acquire through their experiences in the course of a program. Attaining graduate attributes in architecture education involves the development of specific competencies that encompass not only technical and professional skills but also critical thinking and ethical sensibilities. A pilot study was undertaken to understand the significance of the thirty-seven graduate attributes as defined by the Council of Architecture, New Delhi via the interim report—Architecture Education way ahead in pursuit of Education reforms. This paper explores the perception of recent architecture graduates; fresh and up to five years of experience, who studied in Kerala. The survey questionnaire attempts to understand their perception about the thirty-seven graduate attributes. It enquires the quality of architecture education, the suitability to professional requirements, and the level of their confidence across the various attributes. The pilot study was undertaken by 150 recent architecture graduates. Torgerson’s Law of categorical judgment has been applied to the various responses on a five-point Likert scale to understand the relative importance of the graduate attributes. It is found that students develop confidence with respect to the graduate attributes only after a few years of professional experience. Statistical analysis helps to analyse the effectiveness of the program and make informed decisions for improvement. It is found that a transformative curriculum review is required to lessen the gap between professional practice and education.

There is a resurgence of introducing meditation-based practices into educational pedagogy for their proven advantages of facilitating personal introspection and fostering qualities such as compassion, mindfulness, and resilience. However, growing research claims that meditation-based practices impact cognitive abilities such as creative thinking, problem-solving, learning, etc. This paper explores the impact of meditative practices on the perception of students’ performance during creative tasks. First-year university undergraduates pursuing a Bachelor of Architecture were trained in guided visualization meditation for two weeks, followed by creative tasks in 2D and 3D modes. Self-assessment questionnaires were filled out by the students both pre-and post-intervention. The study results indicate an overall increase in the students’ satisfaction with their creative performance. A reduction in psychological and social fears was most prominently observed in the students. This study indicates a need for a formal introduction of meditative practices in creativity education realms to facilitate better development of creativity and obviate stress and anxieties amongst college-level students.

Construction workers in India, usually migrants, are commonly found to be living in employer provided temporary accommodation facilities, the conditions of which commonly depend upon various contextual factors such as geographical location, type, scale, ownership of project, etc. As per secondary studies, they are vulnerable to various health hazards due to exposure to poor housing conditions. These claims however are not adequately supported with evidence-based study, failing to provide a clear understanding about the exact housing conditions prevailing under different contextual backgrounds or the health hazards associated with them. There is also a dearth of information related to the architecture / built environment of workers’ housing facilities which could be used to understand the causes behind the existing housing conditions. In order to take appropriate measures for improving the worker’s housing conditions, the above discussed information is highly essential and can be acquired only through a physical assessment of the workers’ existing housing facilities. Considering the unique logistical background of construction worker’s housing, the existing assessment frameworks/tools were found to be unsuitable for this task, leading to the need of developing a special assessment framework, which was then developed in the following 4 stages viz: (1) Understanding the various contextual factors influencing the workers’ housing facilities; (2) Identifying housing conditions having impact on the health of users and the attributes of built environment leading to same; (3) Enlisting attributes of built environment to be used as parameters for physical assessment and (4) Through correlation of the assessment parameters and housing conditions, develop the final assessment framework and tool. Following paper presents this process of framework development, concluding with a discussion of its use, benefits, and further scope.

In this research project, we look into innovative possibilities of adaptable or convertible furniture, to determine how they can transform urban interior design. With more people living in confined spaces due to urbanisation, designers have struggled to address the issue of how to maximise practicality while retaining visual charm within the same spatial constraints. Adaptable furniture that can be used for multiple purposes has the potential to solve this urban conundrum. This concept's trends and practical applications are investigated to better understand how this type of furniture has influenced urban living. This research project aims to better understand user preferences, expectations, and perceptions of convertible furniture. A quantitative survey was conducted using Google Forms, yielding a total of 162 responses. In addition, other research papers on this topic were reviewed. The survey provided a comprehensive overview of user preferences and perceptions of adjustable furniture in interior spaces, as well as data collection and analysis. The survey results revealed a diverse range of opinions and preferences, including a fondness for adjustable furniture and preference for customisation. Most respondents said they would consider adjustable furniture if it saved space and was affordable. Potential users were drawn to these furniture pieces because of their multifunctionality. This research project reveals that convertible furnishings still have the potential to make a positive impact on urban interior architectural design. Such multifunctional solutions offer practical solutions for optimising space and addressing spatial issues in small living spaces. The findings of this research project indicate several potential areas for further investigation. Future research could look into a variety of avenues to better understand the global potential of convertible furniture, including exploring innovative designs and sustainability implications, examining novel materials and technologies, assessing the economic impact of incorporating such furniture into urban living spaces, and analysing adaptability across diverse cultural contexts.

Perception of safety is a crucial factor that influences the use and activity of an urban public space. This study explores multiple methods and approaches to identify the perception of safety and usage of a park within the context of Bengaluru, India. Systematic observations were carried out in the park to assess the age group, gender, and level of physical activity of park users at different times of the day (morning, afternoon, evening, and night). Activity mapping for all the different observation times was prepared separately to analyse the park's activities. A Perception mapping method was conducted with the park users to identify their perceptions of feeling safe. This study was further validated using the Brain EEG measurement, which helped to identify the areas in the park that were perceived as safe and unsafe. The study involved a comprehensive assessment of the park's physical features and safety measures, providing additional credibility to the findings. Activity mapping of the different zones at different observation times clarified how space's movement pattern and functionality are directly related to reducing fear. The results from the perception mapping identified different hotspots for feeling unsafe. The Brain EEG analysis results were further used to validate activity-mapping and perception-mapping findings. From all the above methods, it was identified that the sight of vision and observation a region gets for itself is the vital built environment factor for achieving the perception of safety. Multiple-method approaches could be used to analyse the perception of safety in urban parks and validate the findings.

A lot of research has been done on the sustainability of buildings, but since neighbourhood frameworks offer a more all-encompassing approach, with features like shared amenities, common streets, and interactive open spaces, this paper explores how neighbourhoods have adapted to the social and economic aspects of sustainability and what efforts can be made at the policy level to meet UN Habitat proposed principles for sustainable neighbourhood, goals. The populace in the medium and lower income categories cannot afford to acquire a home due to soaring real estate prices in urban areas. In contrast to other generations who would buy a home and settle down permanently in one location, millennials prefer to invest in travel and other assets and value flexibility and mobility. In order to investigate how the community reacts to social and economic sustainability in the existing physical setting, a qualitative investigation of a neighbourhood in Madhapur, Hyderabad, is conducted using case studies, interviews, and observations. A combination of in-person interviews and cluster sampling surveys are used to gather quantitative data in order to assess the neighbourhood’s sustainability against the UN Habitat Principles. The characteristics of sustainable communities as advocated by UN Habitat are used to evaluate the obtained data. In order to protect resources and ensure that they are available for future generations, conclusions are reached and it is concluded that Greenfield and brownfield development can be analysed. Attention must be paid towards upgrading and maintenance of existing infrastructure to make the neighbourhood a liveable space. It's been observed that as rentals are in higher demand and the rental market has expanded over the past few years, businesses’ business models and consumers’ attitudes towards consumption need to alter. Since the study is limited to UN Habitat principles further research can be extended to other parameters of sustainability like health, wellbeing, financial independence etc.

The Vitruvian Triad of Firmitas, Utilitas and Venustas has long guided the architectural thinking process. While utilitas and firmitas are comprehended as scientific and objective facets of the architectural design process, venustas is often troubled by an air of subjectivity. Architecture is a blend of art and science, and yet, the definition, description or discussion on aesthetics is found wanting. This paper attempts an overview of the role of aesthetics in architecture throughout history and highlights how the approach to aesthetics needs to be redefined in contemporary times. While venustas may have been used as a tool for inspiring awe in the onlooker, ‘Everyday architecture’ of the modern world is not about the building, but about its people. Architecture is expected to contribute beyond mere aesthetics-function-structure. Aesthetics is often seen as ‘the’ formula for great architecture amongst students and architects alike. This paper embarks on reasons for such assumptions, highlighting the lacunae in architectural pedagogy methods. It undertakes a study of the curriculum of the major universities in India, offering the undergraduate program in architecture with the objective of understanding how aesthetic sensibilities are appreciated, evaluated, or imparted in architectural pedagogy. The paper attempts to forward an alternate holistic view on aesthetics that incorporates knowledge from interdisciplinary fields and places people and their perception, the semiotics and context as the primary generator of aesthetic experiences instead of the prevalent understanding of aesthetics being intrinsic to surface characteristics and form of the architectural object. The paper also brings to fore, projects that have demonstrated alternate ways of understanding aesthetics.

In India, transitional spaces such as verandahs, stairways, and courtyards have always been cherished for their multi-functional social and recreational roles. However, with rapid urban development, these versatile living and recreational areas have become increasingly limited. Consequently, people are often restricted to using designated spaces for a single purpose, which has led to the formation of insurgent spaces. This research aims to explore how public spaces originally intended for mono-use transform into multi-use areas through the dynamic interactions of the public. The study focuses on streets in Mumbai, which emerge as insurgent and vibrant public spaces. Although these streets are designated primarily for traffic and pedestrian use, they exhibit a variety of uses, including religious ceremonies, recreational activities, cultural events, and more. These activities may occur on a daily, monthly, or annual basis, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. The research methodology includes detailed case studies of such streets in India. By observing and analyzing these spaces, the study identifies and categorizes the various ways they are repurposed by the community. This process involves mapping activities, conducting site inventory analysis, and carrying out surveys with users of these spaces. Through a comparative analysis of these insurgent spaces, the study aims to recommend strategies for urban planners to better incorporate multi-use potential in public spaces. The objective is to develop more equitable urban environments that effectively address the needs and behaviours of the communities they serve. This research aspires to contribute to the creation of public spaces that are functional, dynamic, and inclusive, thereby supporting a wide range of social, cultural, and recreational activities.

This study examines the evolving landscape of urban design in historic cities through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis. Utilizing the Web of Science database and bibliometric analysis software, we analysed 9221 articles published between 1994 and 2022. Research reveals trends, identifies key contributors, and uncovers research gaps in the field. The study highlights the interdisciplinary nature of urban design in historic cities, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that balance preservation with modernization. Research found a growing focus on sustainability, public spaces, and cultural heritage in urban design strategies. However, analysis also reveals limited research on the holistic application of urban design principles in historic city contexts. This paper contributes to the understanding of urban design challenges in historic cities and provides direction for future research and practice in this critical field.