NEWS Their task was to design market hall - a place for social interaction. With the design “Chhaya”, Sangram Shirke and Leena Naqvi got a special mention by the jury and will be exhibited at the Architecture Biennale in Venice 2012.
-We are very satisfied. It couldn’t be better!
They made the decision to participate in the Gaudi European Student competition during springtime. After one month of intense work they reached a design they both found satisfying.
Leena: - We choose to place the “Chhaya”
in a site in Austria, next to the harbor,in an existing urban context. We looked at the theoretical thinking of how markets have been looking. Out of that we created modules with spaces around them. In that way the market hall can be transformed and creates room for public activity such as street performance.
Sangram: - We got inspiration from the trees – the tree doesn’t occupy the space, they create a shaded place (as in “Chhaya”) and it doesn’t take away the light. The design also tries to be environmentally sustainable by reusing materials as tires and cardboard. It is also socially sustainable at an urban scale. As the public spaces in the cities are shrinking, the “Chhaya” integrate the need for urban green along with the space for various public activities.
Leena: - We actually have a totally different approach to architecture. But when you are thinking fast thoughts, as we needed to do in the initial phase of the project, it’s a good thing not to think alike. Eventually we could see patterns and found a common idea, as in this case - the tree.
Leena: - A lot! We know where we stand and look forward to more competitions.
Sangram: - It’s good to be mentioned in this context. Our names will be recognized in Europe.
Leena - We will start on our thesis and be busy.
Sangram: - But we will think of something for a competition next year. And hope to get some time to work on our project for the exhibition in September next year.