FinalThesisReport22 6 15-Lowver PDF

UNDERGROUND DESIGNING OF
AN URBAN SPACE
INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTURE,
HEMCHANDRACHARYA NORTH GUJARAT UNIVERSITY,
PATAN - 384265
(2010-15)
INTERNAL GUIDE SUBMITTED BY

AR. KAUSHIK PANCHAL PREYAN MEHTA
21/AR(CT)/10
CERTIFICATE
The present Design Thesis is hereby approved as a credible work on the

approved subject carried out, presented in a manner sufficiently satisfactory
to warrant its acceptance as a prerequisite to the degree for which
it has been submitted. It is to be understood that by this approval the
undersigned does not necessarily endorse or approve any statement made,
opinion expressed or conclusion drawn therein. But approves the study only
for the purpose for which it has been submitted and satisfy him as to the
requirement laid down by the Institute Of Architecture, Hemchandracharya
North Gujarat University, Patan.
THESIS TITLE: Underground Designing of an Urban Space
STUDENT NAME: Preyan Mehta

I.D. NO.: 21/AR(CT)/10
_______________________ ___________________________
INTERNAL GUIDE HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT
(Ar.Kaushik Panchal) (Ar. Mayank Patel)
Underground Designing of an Urban Space
Thesis,Bachelor of Architecture Submitted by: Preyan Mehta
Internal Guide: Kaushik Panchal 21/AR(CT)/10
UNDERGROUND DESIGNING OF AN URBAN SPACE- Preyan Mehta
Abstract
The main objective of this thesis paper, is to Recent typologies evolving for the need of
shatter the paradigm of Human perception for efficient land usage 95% of the time talks
an Underground Space. The Design challenges about the Super Structures and not the Sub
addresses to the Myths and Problems faced Structures. Especially, the Trending Skyscrapers,
by an Underground Space, Architecturally. The whose negative impacts on the environment
radius of the Thesis enclosures the Architectural are many as compared to the positive
Challenges(planning of spaces, space impacts/advantages. Few of the problems of a
distribution, element placing et al), Human Scale, Skyscraper are, No Human Scale, No Respect
Building Sustainibility and Contextual Influence for Mother Earth, false perception of an Iconic
of the Project. And on other hand, the Thesis building. Trend studying leads to an Inference
wont be covering the Engineering(Technical) that in the year 2100, the height achieved by
details and internal planning of spaces like us, the Great Creators would be 3kms(Vertically).
shops/cafes. Though an attempt to try and This was one factor, other factors leading to
resolve the Engineering fleats will be considered the Topic are, Population Increase, Commuting,
but will be only at a Conceptual Stage and Solitary Confinement, Sustainibility et al.
not a Detailed stage. An understanding of
Underground Public Spaces shall be attained The methodology leads from the Understanding
and should serve a purpose for an awareness of an Underground Space to understanding
towards the most Neglected building typology. of it's function i.e. an Urban Space. After this
establishment a solid and non-flexible Framework
The thesis revolves around the concept will be made based on the Understanding
of Utilising the land Efficiently by going of the topics. Based on the framework, two
Underground. The concept evolved with the major parts of thesis will be done for. First, Case
increase in the demand for the land and the Studies of Underground and Urban Spaces and
recent trends and solutions to utilising land. After Secondly, Site Selection from the identified sites.
studying the pattern of land use, and building This will lead to the next stage of detailed Site
typology it was oberserved that the most Analysis, and then Program Formulation. Program
efficient way in today's context to utilise land, Formulation is again an Important step towards
to increase the green cover on the land is by the next few stages. Program therefore will
Going Underground. evolve out of all of the stages above. Finalising
tentatively the Program for the Designing, next
stage deals with the Concept generation and
the Philosophies behind it. Concept generation
directly leads to the next stage of Design
Solution. After completion of this stage, the Thesis
comes to a climax and last stages involves a
Vision Statement based on what learned and
as an Architect a Future Perception, Conclusion
of the Thesis, List of the refered mediums/material,
and lastly the Process/ the Appendix.
1
Acknowledgement
First and foremost, I would like to thank my internal guide Kaushik Panchal sir. Words can't express how
much support and help he has given throughout the thesis. His constant presence, and guidance was
the main reason the thesis is what it is right now. His precision, and the way he finds order even in chaos
is one of the key elements which made this thesis possible. Then, I would like to show my gratitude towards
Meera Chetwani ma'am. Even though she wasn't my internal guide, her constant appreciation, guidance
and optimistic nature helped sail through some tough turns in thesis. This two faculty's or mentor's if I may
say, presence throughout has acted as one of the main column of support. Then I would like to show
my gratitude towards Hemantwala sir, a senior faculty whose crash-course sessions regarding
Architecture and it's philosophies, and his way of teaching through constant criticism was indeed very
eye opening. Even though his methods may have been time consuming and new for us, it was factual
and straight forward. I would also like to thank all the commitee members Prof. Rajesh Mehta, Umang
Goswami sir, Bhavesh Patel sir, Mayank Patel sir, Vikas Patel sir and Tapan Shah sir. Then I would like to
thank the whole staff of Institute of Architecture, Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, Patan.
Coming to thanking people, if I forget thanking friends and collegues how will I be able to submit this
thesis? To those memorable times we had, be it while travelling to Patan with Shailee Dave, or critisizing
and appreciating her work, be it the times where we argued for hours, or teamed up against someone
else'e arguement. Thank You. Then, the journey of this 5 years of Graduation and college wouldn't have
been possible without my idiot roommates and best friends Ragin Shah, Kevin Dalia and Tonoy Sarma.
Kevin Dalia thank you for all the discussions we had while travelling to Palanpur when we used to go
to discuss with Kaushik sir. Ragin for your honest and unfiltered reviews and Tonoy for your hilarious mimics.
And collegues, thank you for constantly critisizing and supporting all the works throughout this 5 years.
Last but not the least, this are the persons who were present not just for this 5 years but since my
existence. My parents, thank you for the support throughout, thank you for all the scolding, criticisms,
appreciations, hustle and bustles to Patan, and everything which you have done for me up untill now
and will do for in the future. And can't forget the idiot brother without whose Engneering skills and
knowledge on many technical and non techncial aspects, and brainstorming sessions for hours. Then I
would like to thank Er. Pankaj Gandhi, for without whose support, guidance and insight regarding not
just the thesis, but for life as well.
Thank You to everyone who has supported, guided, appreciated, criticized and pushed me throught
this 5 years Directly or Indirectly.
2
Table of Contents
Abstract............................................................................................ 1
Acknowledgement...................................................................... 2
Table of Contents....................................................................... 3
Chapter 1- Introduction......................................................... 5
1.1 Thesis Statement
1.2 Objectives
1.3 Methodology
1.4 Scope and Parameters
1.5 Expected Results
1.6 Use of the Study
Chapter 2- Literature Review.............................................. 8

2.1 What is Underground Architecture, what are it's types and archtypes?
2.2 What is the difference between Underground and AboveGround
architecture?
2.3 Why Underground Architecture and it's advantages and
disadvantages?
2.4 What is an Urban Space and why do we need it, Underground?
Chapter 3- Case Studies...................................................... 17

3.1 Framework for Case Studies for Underground buildings and Urban
Spaces.
3.2 Primary Casestudies of Underground architecture
3.3 Secondary Casestudies of Underground architecture
3.4 Primary Casestudies of Urban spaces
3.5 Secondary Casestudies of Urban spaces
3.6 Inferences
3
Chapter 4- Site analysis and Programme.................... 30

4.1 Site identification
4.2 Site Selection
4.3 Site Anallysis
4.4 Programme formulation
Chapter 5- Design Solution................................................. 39

5.1 Concept Formulation
5.2 Site specific Design Framework
5.3 Drawings-
Design Solution
5.4 Design Case Study-
Plan, Section analysis
Landscape Elements
Rain Water Harvesting System
Lighting Techniques
Possible Structural & Engineering Details
Activity & Connectivity
Chapter 6- Observations and Conclusions.............. 63

6.1 Observational Notes/Architectural Narration
6.2 Conclusion/ Fulfillment of the Thesis Statement
Chapter 7- Design Appraisal............................................. 74

7.1 FAQs raised by the Jury Members
7.2 Avenues for further Exploration on the topic.
Architect's Vision........................................................................ 79
Works Cited................................................................................... 80
List of Figures................................................................................ 83
Appendix........................................................................................ 84
4
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
1.1 Thesis Statement
There are always two sides of everything, including Architecture. Full/Empty, Light/Dark, God/Demons, Up/
Down et al. So, the focus is to make the Design Solution an Examplar Solution and hence shall become
the Foundation for studying Underground Architecture futher. The focus is to Increase the Natural Open
Land, and still give Justice to the precious piece of land by designing an Urban Oasis beneath us. The
thesis shall sum up by Extraction of few Guidelines which could be helpful to study other Underground
Spaces/Buildings & Make new ones.
1.2 Objectives
The Main or Primary Objectives are:
1- To keep or maintain the Already existed Natural Land of the Site by minimum of 50% of the Total Area
2- To make an Urban Oasis Beneath us.
3- Extract Site Specific Guidelines and try and Generalise it.
1.3 Methodology
1- Digging down the Roots of Underground Architecture, "Needs Then Needs Now.".
2- Understand and Compare Underground Architecture with Aboveground Architecture.
3- Understand Urban Spaces and It's need in society.
4- Understand the Relationship Between Underground Spaces & Urban Spaces
5- Establish a Framework for Case Studies for Underground Space & Urban Spaces
6- Study the Cases, and Finally Draw Inferences from it.
7- Different Sites will be Identified, Then One Site will be selected and Hence Site Analysis would be
done.
8- Programme, general Programme for the Project shall be formed
9- Conceptual drawings and sketches should be produced
10- Site Specific Programme shall be made
11- Design options shall be explored based on the Concept and Programme.
12- Hence, a Design Solution for the Programme shall be Selected and Drawings of such be produced
13- After making Design Solution, Design Analysis shall be done
14- Finally, the Thesis Conclusion whereby the Objectives and or Thesis Statement must be fulfilled.
15- The Thesis will be Concluded by Showing the Future Vision of the Architect towards the Subject.
1.4 Scope and Parameters
Detailed Guidelines
Structural Connection
Human between
System
Scale Underground &
Open Aboveground
Quality Land
Mass-Void
Detailed
Form Light & Relationship
Internal
Exploration Ventillation
Planning
6
1.5 Expected Results

Expected results include Fulfillment of Atleast 2/3 Primary Thesis Objectives, i.e. it will
1- Maintain the Already existed Natural Land of the SIte by minimum of 50% of the Total Area
2- Create an Urban Oasis Beneath us.
1.6 Use of Study

The Thesis shall be use to General Body of Knowledge by-
1- Will act as a Data Collection for Underground Architecture, whereby references can be made to
Understand the basics of Underground Architecture
2- The Design Solution will act as an Examplar/ or will act as a Foundation for Further Design
explorations. and will be useful guide to make a working Underground Urban Space
3- Will help see Underground Architecture as the New Future for the Architecture.
7
LITERATURE
REVIEW
8
Literature Review
2.1 What is Underground Architecture? and it's
Types and Archtypes?
To begin the understanding with, I would like to start with this quote
"You tend to Overestimate things, which you dont fully understand".

Truelly said, We have a tendency of Overestimating things we dont see, feel or Understand. Which is
usually the case with Underground Architecture. When we say Underground Architecture people relate
it to the much obviously seen "Basements". Is it or is it not Underground the Basements are? Yes, they are
Under-Ground. But is it Architecture? Is it a designed Space? If not what is a designed space? What is
actually Underground Architecture?
Quoting,
"How underground must a building be, to be an underground building?"- www.subsurfacebuildings.com

Requoting it for the Skyscrapers,
"How aboveground must a building be, to be a Skyscraper?".

To answer to this dillema I bring in the expert of Skyscrapers, T.J. Gottesdiener an architect and managing
partner of the New York office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) says
" I dont think how many floors you have, I think it is an attitude".
So, putting a structure Under-ground simply doesnt mean it is Designed Underground Space. It
simply means people are fighting for tight corners in a tight Urban fabric. Then, what is Underground
Architecture
or Underground Designing of a Space?
It is an Attitude.
Designing a space Underground is an Attitude. Attitude of going against all the present norms and
montonous life. It is an Escapism, a way of running from the current Urban life, a cool place to be in harsh
summers, shelter like caves, an attempt to save the nature land and so on so forth.
Defining Underground Architecture is like Defining Nature. Words are not Suffice.
Caves Earth Berrmed Container
Pre-casted Conrete Earth Sheltered Submarines
Dugouts Underground Missile Sillos

Types of Underground Architecture
9
*Underground Building:More than meets the eye-Loretta Hall
*http://www.underground-homes.com
ArchTypes of Underground Architecture

Caves and Caverns
"Caves, the earliest habitations of man, contain the origins of human kind. Man used them as temporary
shelters, while they migrated with the seasons. Yet it wasn’t until the discovery of fire that the true
potential of the Cave was fully exploited, as it provided shelter for cooking. The enclosure also offered
a feeling of protection, where the strength of the structure and the single point of entry allowed the
inhabitant to rest peacefully without fear from attack. It is these primitive inhabitations that are the basis
of the rich connotations associated with the cave.
Alongside these physical feelings, the Cave and more importantly its enveloped darkness present a
metaphor for knowledge. In Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, the Cave is a prison, in which matter and
understanding are concealed in shadow. The Cave becomes both the “organiser and constraint of
human functions, an active agency in the formation of experience and morality in a goal to reach
utopia” (Plummer, 1987, p.24). Utopia is therefore considered to be when one is exposed to the natural
light and has the ability to see, “for seeing is linked to knowing and knowing is linked to power” (Plummer,
1987, p.21). "- Ammie Wright, Underground Architecture, Master Thesis.
Caves and Caverns
Dungeons and Cellars
Dungeons and Cellars

"Dungeons and Cellars developed in the Middle Ages were often cages constructed within the
subterranean portions of fortresses, castles or public buildings. Many of these submerged Dungeons
connected to a series of passageways that acted as a vast hidden underground network, connecting
the main elements of the castle together. Dungeons and Cellars were often crude structures that were
not initially built to house criminals (Johnston, A Brief History of Prison Architecture, 1973). Instead they
were used for storage of perishable goods, where the earth’s constant temperature was utilised to
create cool rooms. With the advent of many of these storage rooms converted to house prisoners,
dungeons often lacked humane living conditions. The conditions within Dungeons and Cellars, along with
histories of torture and torment, consequently saw them gain a sinister and disturbing reputation, leaving
permanent marks on our memories. It is in these underground spaces that “darkness prevails both day
and night” (Bachelard, 1994, p.19), exaggerating the inhabitants fears and letting their imagination
run free with terrifying thoughts. The inhabitant experiences “buried madness” (Bachelard, 1994, p.20)
knowing that “the walls of the Cellar are buried walls, that they are walls with a single casing, walls that
have the entire earth behind them (Bachelard, 1994, p.20), creating a dramatic and volatile situation."-
Ammie Wright, Underground Architecture, Master Thesis.
10
*Underground Architecture:Connections Between Ground-Level Public Space and Below-
Ground Buildings- Ammie Wright

Bunkers
"The Bunker, designed to protect its inhabitant’s from incoming bombs, flying shrapnel and other attacks
was extensively used in World War I and World War II. Its ‘aerostatic’ form was purely concerned with
survival; it provided “shelter for man in a crucial period, the place where he buries himself to subsist”
(Virilio, 1994, p.46). Its characteristics, a monolith shell constructed from heavily fortified concrete walls
with only a narrow slit for the observer to spot the enemy were all adopted to ensure survival. It was
partially submerged into the landscape allowing the earth to conceal the main portion of the structure
while offering a sense of stability and assurance. The camouflage potential of the Bunker “nestles in the
uninterrupted expanse of the landscape and disappears from our perception” (Virilio, 1994, p.44), the
structure becomes linked to the surrounding earth providing the inhabitant with a sense of fortification
and concealment. The powerful notions of War, and therefore the Bunker also reversed the associated
connotations of light and shadow, for being in the path of light means that you could be seen and
exposed to possible attack. It was not until you were concealed in shadow that you were protected
and sheltered. However, shadow only protects the inhabitant to a certain degree. It only acts as a
partial screen, for you were only screened from what you could not see, yet allowing sounds, feelings
and images of the war raging outside to still affect the inhabitant taking refuge inside the Bunker."- Ammie
Wright, Underground Architecture, Master Thesis.
Bunkers
Grottoes
Grottoes
"The Romantic Movement emerged during the second half of the 18th century as a reaction to the
industrial revolution. It saw a noticeable increase in primitive constructions that were not meant just for
living, but for reconnecting the enlightened, wealthy classes to something they had a lost; “a civilisation
of nature, or their own bodies” (Betsky, 2002, p.58) . The Grotto was a predominant type within these
constructions. It was designed to integrate into its natural surroundings, becoming an embellishment in
many parks and public places, where its form was dictated by the natural arrangement of the
surrounding earth and rocks. Functionally, the Grotto provided an escape from the harsh rays of the
summer sun. Exploiting the earth’s natural insulation to maintain lower temperatures along with the cooling
affect from flowing water collected from the surrounding landscape, a shady retreat was created.
This constant cool temperature of the Grotto and the subtleness of illumination and shadow entering
from above allowed for the inhabitant to partake in “delight, mediation, rest, and relaxation” (Sullivan,
Subterranean Rooms, 2002, p.11), as nature provided the backdrop for many sociable activities. "-
Ammie Wright, Underground Architecture, Master Thesis.
11

Cryptoporticus
"The Cryptoporticus is a long, narrow, subterranean corridor that’s function is to connect and provide
access between individual villas on a site. Its depth utilizes the earth’s natural cooling features while
offering protection from the direct summer sun, providing a comfortable environment for circulation.
Developed by the Romans purely for function purposes, it was a completely submerged underground
space, often built as a network of corridors, mainly used by the family and their servants to move around
the villa (Sullivan, Subterranean Rooms, 2002). However, its full potential was not fully harnessed until
the Renaissance period, where it became subterranean and high vaulted ceilings, along with clerestory
openings, were incorporated. These simple features created a microclimate through the stimulation of air
movement (Sullivan, 2002), while also allowing natural light to subtly illuminate the interior, and provide
views to the gardens above. The comfortable environment that was created saw the Cryptoporticus
become “more than just a mere passage way, but discrete living places in their own right”. (Sullivan,
2002, p. 34). The original concepts of earth and exposed rock walls and ceiling, were now adorned by
marble mosaics and paintings, transforming the Cryptoporticus into a gallery displaying the talents of the
wealthy"- Ammie Wright, Underground Architecture, Master Thesis.
Cryptoporticus
12
2.2 What is the difference between Aboveground

Architecture and Underground Architecture?
ABOVEGROUND ARCHITECTURE
The Aboveground architecture, is the common and taken up 99% of the time by the Architects, Builders
or even Clients. The major drawbacks includes, less Open Quality Urban Space, Unused Land Resources
like Terraces, monotonous and repetetive architecture, and the most Important of all, Detoriation of the
Natural Land.
UNDERGROUND ARCHITECTURE
The Underground Architecture, is the least or last resort people take for designing spaces. The
major advantages over aboveground are, Saving Natural Land, Retreat from the above Urban life,
Commuting, creating an Open Quality Urban Space on the ground with the uses beneath it, and
utilizing the Terrace spaces of the building by connecting them to the public transportation and many
more.
13
*IA&B - May 2015
2.3 Why Underground Architecture and state it's

advantages and disadvantages.
Out of the total space on Earth, 29.2% is land and the rest Water i.e.
70.8%. In that 29.2% of land there are 6.5 million species living on it.
But strangely, and factually out of that 6.5 million species, We Humans
are just 0.00018%. But this isnt that strange or weird, what is more
strange is even though we are just 0.00018% we use 20% of the land.
20% by 0.00018%. Just too hard to digest. But what does 0.00018%
mean? nothing. The figures of number of humans is 7 billion. I frankly dont
understand millions and billions. It just simplifies and eases the way we
say it. Let me write in core number of digits., 7 Billion means-
7,000,000,000. And no, I'm not exxagerating, It is a fact. Last Fact is
that, this ridiculous number is supposed to reach as high as 10.8 Billion
by 2050. Now, i dont need to write 10.8 billions in
digits because that is too big a number and will take "SPACE".
Energy Efficiency Buildings, that is another reason why people opt for
Underground Buildings. Thesis by Chris van Dronkelaar- Underground
Buildings. His study revolves around how the Energy is consumed less
in Underground buildings in comparison with Aboveground buildings.
He concludes by comparing the worst example of an Underground
Building and Best example of Aboveground building, and what he
concluded is The undergound building consumes less energy even in
this case by 53kW/h. He studies other factors as well, but it is not to be
discussed in this section.
Shelter, this is the most basic of all. Caves and Caverns the Archtype
we discussed in the earlier section 2.2- Archtypes of Underground
Architecture states the uses and reasoning. It is related to our ancestors.
It leads to our conneciton with the advancement and evolution of
Humans.
Meditation, because of it's properties of Isolation. This Underground

buildings when isolated from the above surface helps people meditate
and connect with themselves. It is simply the purpose why many Saints go
into the Caves and just meditate there.
Commuting, it is the increased usage for Underground Buildings people

have started to take for. More and more subways, metros and public
transportation and infrastructure is going underground because of the
first reason mentioned above. Land shortage, and pollution and other
factors.
Solitary Confinement, or simply putting Jails. This usage of Underground

architecture. There are many advantages of doing so, as we are taking
the criminals away from the normal public. We are cutting them down. It
also has the principle of taking the bad elements down because the
downside is considered as hell.
14
*Census of Marine Life
*World Population- www.wikpedia.com
Advantages:
Temperature
Land Utilization Variation
Energy Efficient Less Carbon

Footprint
Disaster Sustainable
Resistant Buidling
Less Maintainence Privacy
Disadvantages:
Natural Light Natural Ventillation
Views and Vistas Flooding
Water drainage
15
*http://www.underground-homes.com
2.4 What is an Urban Space and why do we need it,

Underground?
Urban Spaces, Open Quality Urban Space is a space where people gather around to socialise,
interact, recreate themselves. It is that voids in Urban fabric which defines the people's lives, their culture,
their social life. In the current scenario of High Density, High pollution, dynamic but static life, monotonous
life, hectic life people need a Retreat, they need a a gateway and Urban Spaces provide just that.
But that is possible aboveground only right? Well, we can but till what time? As the data stated in the
section 2.3, land utilisation we cant say that for sure. So, taking the Urban space Underground will
actually solve many problems. It will not only solve Urban Problems but also the land problems.
Usually, urban spaces are two dimensional or many a times even one dimensional. But actually the real
time Urban spaces, the spaces which we require now are three dimensional. They should react not just in
one direction but in all the three dimensions making it connect at all the levels. This aspect can truelly be
solved when we go Underground. Other aspects revolves around different elements.
FACT FILE:
SKYSCRAPERS
1872-2004- i.e. 111 years, Increase in Height for Skyscrapers was 1530ft. 2004-2010- i.e. 6 years, increase in Height for Skyscrapers was 1046ft.
Within next 105 years 2115, increase would be by 9500ft since 1872, roughly being 3kms upwards.
Height of a Human 1700mm- 0.0017kms, i.e. the

Ratio between Height of the Human : Height of the Skyscraper-- 1 : 1750; i.e.
the Skyscraper is 1750 times the Human.
RECENT TRENDS:
TERRACES AS AN URBAN PUBIC SPACE
The Terrace Alive Competition by Indian Architect & Builder and Dr. Fixit from Pidlite, invited the Architecture fraternity to select an URBAN ROOF
STREETS BELOW is channelised in a VERTICAL fashion... This competition aimed at CREATING
and trasnform it such that the spilling over to the
a SECOND REALM of PUBLIC SPACES, where the SKY was the ROOF.
Terms like “RECLAIMED GROUND PLANES” by
Le Corbusier are used.
16
*www.wikipedia.com
* Google Images
CASE
STUDIES
17
Case Studies
3.1 Framework for Case Studies for Underground
buildings and Urban Spaces
Framework for Underground Spaces
Tangible:
- Section
- Area
- Typology
- Function
- Lighting
- Ventillation
- Materials
- Land Above Usage
InTangible:
- Views & Vistas
- Ambience/Experience
Framework for Urban Spaces

- Section
- Area
- Location
- Context
- Elements
18
3.2 Primary casestudies for Underground

Architecture
SECTION:
NAME: Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal.- Ar.Charles Corea

AREA: 11,150 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Public Building
FUNCTION: Art Gallery, Exhibitions, Dance & Music shows
LIGHTING: Skylighs- Singular and Edged.
VENTILLATION: Courtyards- 20x20m, and AC ducts.
MATERIALS: Brick Masonry, RCC frame, Fibre glass
LAND ABOVE USAGE: Terrace Garden
VIEWS & VISTAS: The Terrace garden showcases nice riverfront, city skyline
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience is very varying. Beginning from the
start, the entrance doesnt give away what the
building has to offer, slowly slowly when you
descend into the Human Scaled spaces, and go
towards the end, i.e. an amphitheatre where the
horizon meets the river where the amphitheatre is
the fine Line between them. Mesmerizing
experience, where a person doesnt really observe
being underground.
19
*Live Case Study-Preyan Mehta
SECTION:
NAME: Science City, Ahmedabad- Govt. Initiative

AREA: 1750 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Public Building
FUNCTION: Entrance, lounge to the Imax theatre, and exhibition space
LIGHTING: Skylighs- Suntubes
VENTILLATION: AC ducts
MATERIALS: ACP cladding, concrete, steel
LAND ABOVE USAGE: None
VIEWS & VISTAS: None
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience is like being inside a tight closed
basement, where natural light and air is not to be
found. It is a suffocative experience with lots of
humidity. The kind of spaces where people wont
like speding time in.
20
3.3 Secondary casestudies for Underground

Architecture
SECTION:
NAME: Disco House, London- Ar. Ian Hogarth

AREA: 241 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Residence
FUNCTION: A house for the whole family, underground being a retreat
LIGHTING: One 3x3m courtyard cum water body & Artificial
MATERIALS: Brick Concrete, glass, steel
LAND ABOVE USAGE: Garden, bedrooms, kitchen and living room
VIEWS & VISTAS: The neighbourhood, garden
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience is good, but it is because of the
fact that the underground space is not
architecturally but technologically handled. The
artificial lights, and Disco floor takes the breathe
away. But nothing which connects it to the above
ground.
21
*Grand Design- Disco House: Series- www.youtube.com
SECTION:
NAME: Santa fe mall, Mexico- Santa fe Group

AREA: 9232 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Mall
FUNCTION: A shopping retreat for the people in an Urban context
LIGHTING: Glass Lightwells
MATERIALS: Concrete, glass, steel
LAND ABOVE USAGE: Garden and Landscaping
VIEWS & VISTAS: The tight Urban context
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience is classy, with all the glass and
concrete. The shopping experience is really
taking with all the natural lighting flushing in. But
if the ventilation would have been natural as well
then the whole experience would have been
different.
22
*Santa fe Mall- www.youtube.com
SECTION:
NAME: PATH system Toronto- Urban Planning initiative

AREA: 371,600 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Commuting and street shopping
FUNCTION: A shopping retreat for the people in an Urban context
LIGHTING: Entries and Exits
MATERIALS:
LAND ABOVE USAGE: Existing City Infrastructure
VIEWS & VISTAS:
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience is like walking inside a Mall, no
difference. It doesnt feel as if people are walking
underground, except that it is much warmer
compared to the roads above. It has it's own
color coding for navigation.
23
*PATH system-www.youtube.com
SECTION:
NAME: Earthscraper, Mexico-Estaban Suarez,BNKR arquitectura

AREA: 775,000 sqm
TYPOLOGY: Public building
FUNCTION: An urban space, offices, museums
LIGHTING: Central Glass Skylight
MATERIALS:
LAND ABOVE USAGE: Public square
VIEWS & VISTAS: Public square, sky
AMBIENCE/EXPERIENCE: The experience would be something new, as this
is a highly hypothetical design where architects
have integrated nature with the building in an
unique way. It is truelly a futuristic project.
24
* http://www.archdaily.com/156357/the-earthscraper-bnkr-arquitectura/
3.4 Primary casestudies for Urban Spaces
SECTION:
NAME: Municipal Market

AREA: 5,500 sqm
LOCATION: Between Nehrunagar jn and Dr. Umashankar Joshi Marg Jn,
CGRoad, Ahmedabad
CONTEXT: Mixed Use- Eateries, Parking, Street Shopping
URBAN ELEMENTS: Eateries, Parking, Street Shopping, Toilets, Street Furniture,
Public Trasportation Connectivity
25
3.5 Secondary casestudies for Urban Spaces
SECTION:
NAME: La Rambla Street

AREA: 34,800 sqm
LOCATION: Between Barri Gòtic, to the east, and El Raval, to the
west, Barcelona
CONTEXT: Cafe’s, Shops, Museums, Pet Stores, Residential,
Restaurants, City’s Opera House
URBAN ELEMENTS: Cafe’s, Restaurants, Shops, Museums,
Street Paving, Street Furniture, Pedestrian Friendly,
Shaded with Trees, Mixed Use, Squares,
Strong Connectivity, Equiped with many Services,
26
*www.barcelonatourisme.com
*"Barcelona:harbor city of resistance,paths to the sea"-Tom Bosschaert
SECTION:
NAME: Superkilen
AREA: 33,000 sqm
LOCATION: Copenhagen, Denmark
CONTEXT: Highly Diverse- 60 different culture’s Residencies
URBAN ELEMENTS:
27
*www.big.dk
3.6 Inferences
UNDERGROUND ARCHITECTURE:
28
URBAN SPACES:
ENCLOSURE SHOPPING
CAFES SELFIE GREENERY

BACKGROUND
LANDMARKS/SILHOUETTE
CONE OF VISION SPORTS OPEN WORK ENVIRONMENT
VIBRANCY FRAMING
29
*Bharat Bhavan-Live Case Study-Preyan Mehta
*Urbanized-Documentary
*google images
SITE &
PROGRAMME
30
Site and Programme

4.1 Site Identification
SITE A:
Sabarmati Riverfront
SITE B:
Income tax Bus stop
SITE C:
Municipal Market
SITE D:
Shiv Theatre
31
*Google maps
4.2 Site Selection
A B C D
SABARMATI INCOMETAX MUNICIPAL SHRI THEATRE,
RIVERFRONT BUS STOP MARKET OPP. VALLABH SADAN
CONTEXT
(30)
-linkages/accessibility 1 1 1 1
-landmarks 1 1 0.9 0.5
-geographic location 1 0.9 1 1
-land usage 0 0.8 1 0.8
-activity 0.2 1 0.8 0.5
-recreational spaces 0.6 0.2 0.6 0.5
-utilities/services 0.8 0.1 0.9 0
-nearest open space 1 0.5 1 0.7
-open vs built 0.8 0.5 0.5 0.6
-quality open vs built 0.5 0.3 0.3 0.3
6.9/10(207) 6.3/10(189) 8/10(240) 5.9/10(177)
SHAPE 7/10(56) 8/10(64) 7.5/10(60) 8/10(64)
(8)
SIZE 4/10(24) 8/10(56) 8.5/10(59.5) 8/10(56)

(7)
POSSIBILITIES
(15)
-activity 3 5 5 4
-design 4 4 4 5
7/10(105) 9/10(135) 9/10(135) 9/10(135)
POTENTIAL 7/10(140) 7/10(140) 6/10(120) 8/10(160)
(20)
LIMITATIONS 5/10(100) 6.5/10(130) 5.5/10(110) 3/10(60)

(-20)
TOTAL 31.9/50 31.8/50 33.5/50 35.9/50

536/800 454/800 504.5/800 532/800
SELECTION MATRIX::
The aspects, Context, Shape, Size, Possibilties, Potential, Limitations were given weightage out of 100
total. Then they were further divided into subcategories and each had marks respectively. The next
weightages were given to the sites, and they had been given 10 for each aspect. Hence for sites
aspects carry 10-10 marks each. Then whatever marks shall be awarded out of 10 will be multiplied by
the weightage carried by the individual Aspect ouf ot 100. For example, Context carries 30/100, and in
Site A it gets 6.9/10, hence the total would be 6.9 x 30= 207/300. After this all the aspects had to be
totalled, out of 800.(1000-200(limitations)).
Calculating the datum, Site A and D had the most marks out of 800. Hence,Personally selecting
Site D
32
4.3 Site Analysis
Site location and Linkages with the City

This Plan helps in studying the exact location of the site, and it's connections with the city and it's various
places. It also shows the accessibility of the site from various points as well as pedestrian connectivity.
Site Plan/Contextual Plan

This Plan helps in understanding the nearby landmarks and context. This helps in understanding the urban
context present around the Site. And also the fact that the site has 3 side roads.
33
*google maps
Sun Path Diagram- Locational

The Site plan and this Sunpath diagram helps in understanding that because of the fact that we have
three sides open i.e. roads, we can utilize Sunlight from East, South and West without any hindrance.
Activity pentagon
This pentagon, helps understanding that the site lies in between 5 major activity producing structures
and hence also shows potential. But it also shows that the Site right now is introvert.
34
*google maps
DYNAMIC 5-10am
STATIC SCALE: 1UNIT=1M
SH : SV : DH : DV
0.5 : 0.5 : 1 : 2
DYNAMIC
10-3pm
STATIC SCALE: 1UNIT=1MT
SH : SV : DH : DV
1:1:2:3
DYNAMIC 3-5pm
SH : SV : DH : DV
2 : 3 : 3.5 : 4
DYNAMIC 5-8pm
SH : SV : DH : DV
3 : 3 : 4.5 : 5
DYNAMIC 8-10pm
SH : SV : DH : DV
2 : 2.5 : 3 : 4
DYNAMIC 10-12am
SH : SV : DH : DV
0.5 : 1 : 0.5 : 2
Activity Mapping/ Detailed Activity analysis

This sections, which shows the contextual building and the site cut through Ashram road, studies the
activity patterns. It suggests at what time the activity is maximum and what type of activity. Also shows
the neglectance of the site from the road throughout the day.
35
Soil Distribution
This section shows how the soil has been distributed as we go down the area. It will help in further
surveying of the soil, when the actual construction will begin.
Price Analysis
This data or table shows which
areas of Ahmedabad are the
costliest and by how much. As
visible, Ashram Road comes
amongst the costliest lands.
36
*ISR data
*ICICI property services
VIEWS & VISTAS
View A View C
View D View E
View B
A G
B
E
D
View G Key Plan

37
4.4 Programme Formulation

U - tilization of U - tilitarean &
N - ot so R - recreationally
D - eveloped B - inded - An Underground Space
E - cological A - rcological - The Roof should be an Urban
R - egions by N - est
G - etting a
& Natural Space of Dynamic
R - oof nature
O- f - Equal or a proper ratio of Utities
U - rban & & Recreational spaces
N - ature’s
D - ynamics - An Arcological design Approach
UTILITIES: QUANTITY: CAPACITY: AREA:

Escalators 8x3 600-800persons 300sqm
Elevators 6X4 240-360persons 200sqm
Ladies Toilet 4X2 160-180persons 400sqm
Gents Toilet 4X2 160-180persons 400sqm
P.D. Toilet 2X2 40-60persons 300sqm
Parking 1X1 500cars 8000sqm
Shops 25X2 3000sqm
Stairs 2X3 300-400persons 100sqm
Wifi Server 2X1 100sqm
Ducts 2000sqm
Solar Heating System 1 0.75MW 6000sqm
Rain Water Harvesting System 1 4,00,000L 100sqmx4=400m^3
Grey water purifier 1 100sqm
TOTAL 20,000sqm
RECREATIONAL:
Garden/OpenSpace 800sqm
Sculptures 100sqm
Open Work Environment 500sqm
Open Gym 500sqm
Children’s Play Area 1000sqm
Vendors 500sqm
Cafes 25 1250sqm
Indoor Gaming 500sqm
Basketball Court 1 500sqm
Tennis Court 1 300sqm
Cycling Track 1 1000sqm
TOTAL 15,000sqm
38
DESIGN
SOLUTION
39
Design Solution
5.1 Concept Formulation
Connectivity of the City with the River

The first section shows what already is the existing seciton. It shows the disrespect of the City for the River.
And also that the land we have is a tremendous resource. The second section then Physically connects
the City or The Urban Fabric with the River by getting a slope throughout from the Ashram Road to the
Sabarmati River. But, just connecting the RIver with the Urban Fabric Physically isnt enough, hence the last
section comes up with a solution of how the Place has to act as a Transition rather than a Destination.
It also show the way, that by introducing Portals(Doors which helps connect two different spaces in an
instant). This Portals shall help not just for the framing of the whole space, and dividing it in to segments
but how the place becomes a transition because of that is important.
The Portals are: Public, Semi-Public, Isolation, Ultimate Islolation, Relief and last but not the least
Nature. This completes the transition from the Current Urban Fabric till the Natural Fabric of the City.
40
Portals/Modules
The part "Connectivity of the City with the RIver" above talks about how the Urban Fabric can be
connected with the River through a Sloping path Towards River and Portals. Now, the portals shall be
Public, Semi Public, Isolation, Ultimate Isolaiton, Relief and Nature. Public Spaces are the spaces where
People are informally together in a tight space where the individual zones of their's are neglected.
The next Portal, Semi Public spaces describes the spaces where People are amongst the Crowd but still
their own individual/group's zones are preserved. A hint of Formality has been Introduced. The next
portal, Isolation talks about people's individualness being very strong and are contemplating through
activities. Here the formality has become Rigid. The next portal, Ultimate Isolation is where it is just the
People and their ownself with the Rigidity and Formality at it's maximum level. It is just a space and the
person. The next portal, Relief is a space where after such indulging spaces people got to just relax,
they will just take breathe in with other people but now are connected with themselves, they are blank
now. The last Portal, Nature comes after the Voidness of relief. Now people can actually grasp what is
nature and what it is made up of. It feels how Majestic it is, how mesmerzing it can be and how freshning
can it be. Because now they have seen the smallest spaces, the biggest spaces with people and now
they will realise the Retreat and Importance of nature.
41
Conceptual Section & Plan

The two parts above this part talks about the whole space in words and sketches. But how this will
transorm into a space, or in Architectural Drawings can be understood by this Section and Plan.
Where, in the section it shows that how the sloping path will be connected with the Portals/modules
i.e. Z axis and Plan shows how the modules and path will be in X-Y axis..
42
5.2 Site Specific Design Framework

Public Spaces: 24 x 38m
Informal Market- G-1 & G-2: walking market, street shopping, small eatries
Informal Market- G-3 & G-4: small shops, cafes, sitouts
Swimming Pool- G-4
Children's Play Area- GroundFloor
Semi-Public Spaces: 24 x 21m
Open Library- G-1 & G-2
Art Galleries- G-3 & G-4
Open Work Environment- GroundFloor
Isolation: 24 x 38m
Art Display- G-1 & G-2
Workshops- G-3 & G-4
Tennis/Badminton Open Court- GroundFloor
Ultimate Isolation: 24 x 21m
Meditation Chambers- G-1, G-2, G-3 & G-4
Semi Open Yoga Spaces- GroundFloor
Relief:
Tunnel- G-4
Nature:
Dense Mountain- GroundFLoor
Valley- G-4
Water Reservoir- G-4
GROUNDWORK:
ACTIVITES AND URBAN SPACES ANALYSIS AHMEDABAD
ACTIVITY- TIME WISE ACTIVITY- DAY WISE ACTIVITY- MONTH WISE

OUT OF 26 NATIONAL HOLIDAYS, 18 ARE THE MOST ACTIVE IN AHMEDABAD..
ACTIVITIES PEAK:: MAY-JUNE; FRIDAY; 6-9PM :: MAY-JUNE; SATURDAY; 6-2AM; EATING, FORMAL SHOPPING, MOVIES, SPORTS, WALKING, GARDEN SITOUTS.
ACTIVITIES LOWEST:: DECEMBER-JANUARY; TUESDAY-THURSDAY; 8PM-6AM; WALKING, EATING, SHOPPING, WORKING.
ACTIVITIES AT FESTIVALS/HOLIDAY:: GATHERED CROWDS, COMMON SCREEN GAZING, EATING, SHOPPING, TRAVELLING
SPACE REQUIREMENTS:
MULTIFUNCTIONAL/REUSABLE SPACES; PUBLIC SERVICES; TECHNOLOGICALLY APT SPACES, COMFORTABLE SPACES; NATURE RESPONSIVE ARCHITECTURE; BIGGER AGE GROUP;
BALANCED INERLOCKING OF DIFFERENT SPACES.
43
5.3 Drawings
Design Solution Design Exploration before the final Design is given in Appendix A: Design Explorations
Sabarmati
Sabarmati
Riverfront
upper pavilion
City Gold Shiv Theatre
Rd
View A View C
View B
Sabarmati
Riverfront
lower pavilion
ati
Sabarm
Ashram
Rd
Rd
Sabarmati
River
SP Rd
View D View G
SP Rd
Gujarat Chamber of Sabarmati A G

Commerce & Industry Riverfront
Vallabh Sadan ati upper pavilion
F
Sabarm
Ashram
Rd
Rd
B
E
D
Jaldarshan flats
R3S C
Mall Key PLan
Contextual Plan
Scale: NTS
44
1 10
SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

45
1 10
G-1 PLAN
46
1 10
G-2 PLAN
47
1 10
G-3 PLAN
48
1 10
G-4 PLAN
49
Section (Ashram Rd-Entrance of the Site)
Section (Public Spaces)
Section (Semi-Public Spaces) Section (Ultimate Isolation)
Section (Nature)
SECTIONS
50
5.4 Design Case Study

Plan, Section Analysis
SECTION- PHYSICAL FORM

GROTTOE
CRYPOPORTICUS
SECTION- SPATIAL IMAGE: GROTTOES & CRYPTOPORTICUS
SECTION- LIGHT LINES: LIGHT ENTRIES
SECTION- SIGHT LINES: HUMAN VISIBILITY
SECTION- ACCESSIBILITY: VERTICAL & HORIZONTAL CIRCULATION

EXPOSED
CONCEALED
SECTION- CONCEALED AND EXPOSED: VISIBLE FROM THE GROUND & NOT VISIBLE
SECTION- EXTERIOR OF THE SPACE: ELEMENTS CONNECTING BOTH THE SPACES, NEEM
TREE, GULMOHAR TREE, ASHOKA TREES, STREET
LIGHTS, LIFTS; ABOVEGROUND UTILIZATION; ASHOKA
TREES DEFINE THE EDGES OF THE SITE
51
*Underground Architecture- Ammie Wright
SECTION- SPACE ENTRANCES: HORIZONTAL AND SLOPED ENTRANCES
SECTION- INTERIOR CONFIGURATION: ATRIUM AND CENTRAL MEETING SPACES
SECTION- SCALE: HEIGHT VS WIDTH

MASS
VOID
SECTION- SCALE: MASS VS VOID

NATURE
DYNAMIC
STATIC
SECTION- VERTICAL LAYERS: NATURE>DYNAMIC HUMANS>STATIC HUMANS
SECTION- SPATIAL HIERARCHY: SMALLER SPACES>BIGGER SPACES
SECTION- Z AXIS RELATIONSHIP: SITE RESPONDING WITH THE CONTEXT IN Z AXIS
SECTION- THERMO-SCOPY: TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS, CONTEXT AND WITHIN SITE
52
*Underground Architecture- Ammie Wright
PLAN- EXTERIOR OF THE SPACE
PLAN- SPACE ENTRANCES
PLAN- SCALE
53
PLAN- X & Y AXIS RELATIONSHIP
PLAN- SPACE DISTRIBUTION: SEGREGATION OF SPACE TYPES
PLAN- SPATIAL ORIENTATION: ORANGE LINES SIDES ON WHICH ACTIVITIES ARE PLACED
54
Landscape Elements
Ashoka tree:
Function: Noise Reduction, Shade,
Edge Demarcation, Reduce Air pollution, Clean air
Neem Tree:
Function: Purity, Shade, Insect Repellant,
Clean air, Large dense influence as a tree
Gulmohar tree:
Function: Space Identification due to it's colors,
Shade, Clean air, asthetic purposes
Jambu tree:
Function: Vibrancy, violet color associated with
meditative properties, Shade, Nutritional Fruits,
Clean air
Working Module:
Function: Solar charged tables with a shaded
umbrella, the table incorporates latest charging
technique of surface charging for the ever on the
go working Men/Women.
Street Light:
Function: Light for aboveground as well as
underground spaces. Solar powered.
Ulta Fulta Structure:

Function: Act as a landmark, depicts the Concept
Underground Architecture and about the space.
55
*www.wikipedia.com
Rain Water Harvesting System
Water Realisation:
The section, and the data besides shows FACT FILE:
the Facts and Harsh realities about
current scenario of the water table in WATER TABLE IN AHMEDABAD
Ahmedabad. It shows the need for the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)-
concerns of Natural Water found inside
the ground of Ahmedabad. It says “the groundwater level in the city was 63 meters in 1997. The level
that, Water is available at as far as
100m down the ground level. This pose kept declining at fluctuating rates to touch 105 meters underground
a major threat to current Urban schemes
and strategies applied to improve the in 2006. In 2007, the water level rose to around 94 meters.
quality of life of People.
However, the level has dropped again to around 100 meters now.”
Rain Water Harvesting System(conceptual):

The schematic section shows how the rain water will be collected. It is a simple system where Gravity
plays a major role. When it will rain, the water will get accumulated inside the Portals/Modules. Making
it an advantage, the system has small water storage tanks beneath all the Modules. This water storages
will finally flow after overflowing into a bigger source of storage which will be beneathe the Mountains.
The biggest storage beneathe the Mountains has 3 major roles: First, to accumulate the water from other
storages as well as collect rain water on it's own; Second, it helps rejuvenate the natural water cycle of
the nature by having the top side of the reservoir open to sky; Third major use of this reservoir is it
instead of just showing the water to the people, it acts as a water body where people can enjoy
themselves. it being a natural body, doesnt just show the water Like Sabarmati River does, but also lets
people enjoy it. The Storage Tanks will be made of materials with Higher Porosity. This will ensure that
the water stored inside it doesnt just stay there but also helps in renewing the water table of
Ahmedabad given the facts above mentioned about the water table of Ahmedabad. Though doubts
may rise about the cleanliness about the water as to people being allowed to use it, other doubts
includes the facts or exact figues of how many storage capacity should the tanks have and what
exactly should be the material. And few others. But the main moto behind this concept is to realise
the importance of the existing scenario and try and help improving it. The system is still in conceptual
stage and needs work on.
56
*Central Ground Water Board
*www.dnaindia.com
Lighting Technique
Lighting Technique:
The plan, sections shows how Inserting Suntubes
strategically improves lighting conditions inside the
tunnels, i.e. Tight Spaces(tight scalewise) and
complex spaces where direct sunlight would be not
be either possible or prefferable. The tunnel like
passages has a compact scale and hence
integrating suntubes will be very Efficient and
Impactfull. Other uses are, Street lights of the space
are kept above the Suntubes hence even for the
Nighttime, no extra lighting except small efficient
lighting would be required. Even for the swimming
pools, the Suntubes are Juxtapositioned efficiently.
Talking about the

modules, for Daylight
large Courtyards are
Sufficient and Efficient.
Cryptoporticus &
Grottoe efficiently
use Suntubes. The
other notable feature
are the FibreGlassed
Roofs of Passages.
57
Possible Structural & Engineering Details
Typical Wall Section
Vertical Soil Layers
58
Water Seapage Levels
59
STEP 1- Existing Ground STEP 2- Cut and Dig Method
STEP 3- Digging the required Site STEP 4- Laying R.C.C. Foot Slab
Laying Supporting Framework
STEP 5- Making Base Retaining wall of R.C.C. fill STEP 6- Using Rammed Earth, block will be
between Polyesterene Reinforced constructed on the base of
Insulation insulated R.C.C.
And Filling the Earth till the level. Earth will be filled till the level.
STEP 7- Repeating Step 6 untill the roof. STEP 8- Spray on Waterproofing will be applied
R.C.C. slab filled for the roof and allowed to dry
Steps 5 & 6 will be repeated for the Framework for the internal Structures will
Other retaining walls as well. be made and constructed
All the formwork will be removed, and
cleaned up.
Construction Method
The Whole proccess of how the space will be
built and made is shown in the Diagrams. Step wise
procedure of how the work will be proceeded on
the actual site. Though it is tentative, it is as
accurate as it can get. The reason why it is
tentative is becaue of the fact that Constructing
STEP 9- The space is ready for utilisaton Underground is very Localised and what problems
Light and ventillation’s main source
is Open To Sky Courtyard or challenges will be faced in the realtime cant be
Extra Lightubes will be provided as expected by just understanding and analysing the
per the use required.
site but requires actual Digging and Understanding.
60
Activity and Connectivity
Activity Pentagon:
Refering to the "Activity Pentagon" from 4.3 Site Analysis, the site Before Intervention and or the Design
showed an Introvert Nature and was lying between different activity generators. Whereas now, after the
Design proposal the Site becomes Extrovert and it becomes the Hub where people will come and
because of that will go to other buildings like a theatre et al.
Current Accessibiity
61
Future Links with the Context:

The site will have Underground Tunnels connecting different spaces present within the Context. The
underground tunnels shall have accessibility by Electric Cars, Bikes and will have a Pedestrian path
as well. The need arises out of the fact that during Summer time it becomes hard for a Pedestrian to
actually cross even this small a distance. By providing the Tunnels connecting different buildings other
advantages are Better connectivity to the context Above as well as Underground. The Electric cars
and bikes facility will be chargeable.
Other important Advantage shall be the Emergency Exits. Underground Spaces has the least fear of
catching or trapped inside fire, but in case of a Fire or Flooding, people need to move out of
the space safely. The challenge here is, when in an Aboveground building or a space in case of
Emergencies people have to run down, which is Easier and more Comfortable than Running Upwards
in Underground Spaces/Buildings. So, to cope with that problem Underground Tunnels connecting to
the surrounding context would be helpful. But, a special service needs to be established so as to
Ensure that during the Emergencies the Utilities like Electric Cars/Bikes must be charged and ready to
use.. Other future link is the coming Project of Vallbh Sadan PLaza besides the Site.
62
OBSERVATIONS &
CONCLUSIONS
63
Observations & Conclusions

6.1 Observational Notes/Architectural Narration
Observational Notes, though I added this topic after a lot of thinking I wonder what actually will come
in this Section.
Observations in Architecture is like the first Step towards understanding any Space. Be it a Building
made by Le Corbusier or Zaha Hadid. Observations are always subjective and thats the main reason
why the writing style of this section may have a Personal touch rather than just a Formality.
Expect Observational Notes regarding the Underground Desing Proposal proposed by me.
"While travelling through Ashram road, one may reaslise the Importance of the road for the city of
Ahmedabad. This road is ever bustling with the people and their toys(vechicles). It goes without saying
that when I pass through the road I almost everytime get stuck in the traffic. So frustrating. On second
notes, on a different note before sometime I asked few friends of mine that I want to get-away to some
place. Can you suggest me a place in Ahmedabad where I can sit, read book, observe people and
let the time pass? Surprisingly all I got was names of some Good Cafes, Gardens, or a Mall. That was
the moment which actually made me think, am I creating the same kind of space in Ahmedabad? I dont
hate Cafes, but Cafes in Ahmedabad is supported by Artificial cooling, and we cant Sit out in the
scorching heat of Ahmedabad. I dont hate Gardens, but at odd timings there the gardens are always
a "recreational" spot for Couples. I dont hate that either, but when you want to observe people and
read book the "recreational" activities may get "distracting". And last but not the least, a Mall, fully AIr
conditioned, where people are always busy shopping or eating i thought this isnt a bad idea. But the
main problem with me was It was Noon, and I wanted to Sit Out!!. There came the idea of Creating a
Realm, a Space for not just Ahmedabadians, but myself as well(selfish nature, maybe). The Ashram Road
is all about Commercial taste of Architecture. It is a Concrete Jungle where people are just a part of
the system. It has theatres, parks, malls and a landmark created by Ar. Le Corbusier "ATMA house". So
as an Architect where I have to be contextual I argued with myself as to what is the Context here? The
concrete and commercial buildings? Or the people wanting and longing for a space where they simply
can enjoy themselves? Should it be a Cafe, a Garden, a Mall, or simply a Space? This question was
indeed very hard to answer to. Because what matters as an Architect was in question. The decision was
taken, concept formed and Design Proposed. I as an Architect considering the Climate, the demands
of the people out of an Urban space in Ahmedabad, the Nature, the Future response, the advantage
of or Usage of the space for the people. In short the current culture of Ahmedabad. The space shall
be Above as well as Underground. Above ground to just let people connect to the space directly
through the context, and Underground so as to let the Nature take advantage of the space created
by an Architect. The biggest advantage of the space was the location. It had a connection with the
major roads of Ahmedabad but also with the major River, Sabarmati River of Ahmedabad. Though river
being besides the site posses great engineering challenges, the risk had to be taken to try and create
something truelly for people."
This was how the decisions were taken. The next fewlines quickly describes how the space is actually.
"Entering from the ever bustling roads of Ahmedabad, the place is a relief in it self. It gives a feeling of a
Garden with an added advantage of this Garden directly, i.e. Physically as well as Visually connectng
with the Road. Having the Street Edge open to public, I had a vadpau and went inside. After entering
the Map provided to me showed me options, like Many Options. I decided upon going to read a
book in the Open Library, then will work on my laptop using the Tables provided and facilitated for
charging(surface charging). After that I decided upon to simply sit at the Children's Play Area and
see the kids play around and also observe the people bargaining down the Informal Market which
represented the true Ahmdabadi Shopping culture. What I noticed was there was a service of Cycles,
and also that i could amost run with it anywhere. So, I simply did that. It was noon, yet it was possible
to do that because of the various regions which were shaded by Neem and Ashoka trees. After that I
was already aware of the people chattering about some kid Made a Wonderful piece of art here and
wished to check it out. What I observed was there were just four Gulmohar trees marking and or acting
64
as landmarks. One such Gulmohar tree marked the space where workshops and display of the work
produced in the workshops was. Pretty easy to navigate, I thought. It was almost around 4:30 now. I
begin to think what to do. I was actually very tired. So, thought to just go to the Meditation chambers
which were also Underground and just sit there and calm myself. But while going till the space, as I had
a lot of idle time to kill, i went there by walking instead of the Elevators. What I observed was te path
leading to all the underground spaces had a mesmerizing effect. Not just the scale was compact and
had a human touch to it, but also it had it's own language of Space. It in itself had a calmness, and to
the contrary of what people tend to think about tunnels this passage had a daylight raining through the
roof, and also through the fibre glassed roof as well. It was more interesting than walking on the ground.
This was about it, I thought. I entered the meditation chambers(chambers because it is just you confined
in one room of 3 x 3m) and filtered and calmed myself out. What I discovered after this was something
extraordinary. There was a passage/tunnel where there was this Street Wall Art, or grafitti. I felt a relief
after so much travelling but the excitement of what was ahead made me walk some more. Because at
the end of this tunnel was this lush green trees and to my surprise I was like four floors down already(12m).
and was standing in a valley of lush green trees and a Mountain? i was confused, because to describe
that space is very tough. There i was in between four Mountains or One big Mountain and there was this
small water body. Though I dont know it was a lake or a pond or a swimming pool I thoroughly enjoyed
being with a water body which i can connect to. I sat there for almost like an hour or so and had some
more things to eat. After this i climbed this mountain with the help of the cycles provided and found
that the whole experience was real. At the top of the mountain I still couldnt believe my eyes because
I have been to Sabarmati Riverfront before, but I never saw Beach there? Yes, Beach. Sand and water
where people were just playing some volleyball. I went there, had Cocunut Water and I thought about
the journey. Is this really Ahmedabad? Though I was always moving from one space to another, I felt
rejuvenated. And replenished with energy. But it was almost 7:30-8. I thought to come here next time,
and hence begin to march upwards by cycle and go towards the place where i initially came from
and parked my vehicle. But, what I missed was there it was. A structure where people were on it, like on
a pavilion experiencing the view of the river from above it. But it got my attention as to the fact that I
saw a Miniature version of Ahemdabad beneath the structure. Like just below it and it was upside down.
I was like, "What is this Ulta Fulta Structure where people are above the city, and so are the trees?". But
unfortunately didnt stop and experience it due to lack of time, I told myself to again visit this place soon.
In the end, I spent more than 5 hours in this space without actually going to any place else. And as I
was cycling through the space towards the begining(though I wonder is there any starting point for this?)
street lights which were fully charged through solar power started to lit. I guess it is called tyndal effect
which I saw. Lights cutting through the trees. I also had few jambus hanging around on the Jambu tree
while going back. A tiring yet a Revitalising Journey is all I can say. Finally drank some colas and joined
the Over-bustling Ashram road yet again with the hope of coming back to this place again.
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Below are the Clicks which he Uploaded on the My Wall(basically a cloud service provided by
the UUS-Underground Urban Space) . His memories, His Journey. The pictures on the left are of
Aboveground and right of Underground Spaces.
Chilren's PLay Area Informal Market
Open Work Environment Open Library
Open Tennis Court Art Display
Semi Open Yoga Spaces Meditation Chambers

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Swimming Pool
Ulta Fulta Structure Relief Tunnel
Top of the Mountain In between Mountains.Valley
Beach
FINISH
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6.2 Conclusion/ Fulfillment of the Thesis Statement

Architectural Design Solution helps Overcome the basic Disadvantages of
Underground Architecture:
Light & Ventillation: The sections shows exactly how the light is penetrated inside the building and also
how the mass vs void ratio, void being 50% of the space helps maintaining natural Ventillation inside
the Underground Space.
Water Seapage/Water Proofing problems: The section clearly shows that firstly, the danger of water
penetrating from beneath the space isnt possible. As the data has been already established in section
5.4 Design case Study- Rain Water Harvesting System, that water table of Ahmedabad is not less than
100m. Secondly, the water penetrating from the Sabarmati river is also not a problem because majorly
the present section has a 10m deep diaphragm which stops water penetrating inside the site, but in the
worst case scenario, what can be observed that in this type of Soil, at the max it can traverse and
penetrate horizontally by 100m. But the design is handled in such a way that the BuiltPart where water
leakage problems may arise starts after 100m of the river horizontally. Hence, simple Water proofing
techniques like Instant Spray on, or Sheet Water proofing can easily solve the problem.
Maintaning Underground Ecology: As per the established system in 5.4 Design case Study- Rain
Water Harvesting System, It is possble not just to Save it, but also to Improve it.
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Views and Vistas: The sections shows how the sight or visibility from above as well as underground
spaces work. The sections also show that how elements like Elevators, Gulmohar trees, Neems trees,
Ashoka trees connect the two spaces visually and also define them from above ground.
Spatial Orientation: The last but not the least, challenge is Disorientation from inside the Underground
Spaces. That is usually because of the factors lack of Daylight, Natural Ventillation, Views and Vistas. But
that parts are handled carefully while designing this space. Another aspect is, an Identification or
Relating certain Element with the Direction. That helps identifying the Direction and Navigate easily
Underground. The Element in this Design Solution is the way Activities are kept. All the activties are kept
Along East, West and North DIrection only. Making it specific that the side on which there is NO activity
or has a Plasma Screen is South. This indicator is very helpful to understand the directions.
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Objectives:
1- To keep or maintain the Already existed Natural Land of the Site by minimum of 50% of the
Total Area
Status: Fulfilled
2- To make an Urban Oasis Beneath us.
Status: Fulfilled
1- Total Area of the Site Aboveground: 19,000sqm

Total Non usable land (voids of underground spaces): 6,000/19,000sqm (31.54%)
Total Land Available for Public Usage/Open Quality Urban Land: 13,000/19,000sqm (68.42%)
Total Available land for Built up (excluding roads): 13,000-1,800(roads)=11,200sqm
Total Built up: 8000/11,200sqm (71.43%)-
Total Open Quality Urban Land/ Landscaped Area: 3,200/11,200sqm (28.57%)
Total Built up On the Land: 100sqm (0.52%)
2- Space involves: Eating (informal, formal)

Shopping (informal, formal)
Open Library
Art Gallery
Workshops
Meditation Chambers
Common Gathering Spaces
Common Screen Gazing
Cycling
Walking
Garden Sitouts
Open Work Environment
Children's Play Area
Outdoor Sports
Semi Open Yoga Spaces
Artificial Mountain
Efficient Rain Water Harvesting System
Technologically Apt Spaces
Wider Age Oriented
Comfortability- visual and physical
Efficient interlocking of spaces
Open to public Street edge
Valley with a Water body
Hence A Complete Gateaway for Ahmedabadians.
Capacity: Comfortably 15,000 persons at a time
50 cars- street and edge parking
Before the Humans Staying on the Site was 5% of the humans passing through the Site,
Now, the Humans Staying on the Site is 85% of the humans passing through the Site.
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Objectives:
3- Extract Site Specific Guidelines and try and Generalise it.
Status: Fulfilled
3- a)SCALE OF THE MODULES- HEIGHT LENGTH WIDTH RATIO AND MASS VOID RELATIONSHIP
Height Width ratio 1:2
Length Width ratio 1:1 & 2:1
Therefore, Width : Length : Height (x : y : z) - 2 : 4 : 1
Mass Void ratio 1:1, where the proportion of Void can increase as per the program. But this defines the
minimum of the Ideal Ratio for the Underground Space to work at it's best for the People, unless and
otherwise specifically required not to have this ratio.
The purpose and Use of this Scale and or ratios is to Maintain and Achieve maximum Daylight, Visibility,
Natural Ventillation and Views and Vistas from the Underground Spaces/buildings. Though the Programs
which WONT require Daylight, Visibility and Natural Ventillaiton may not follow this guideline, but other
programs where aspects mentioned above are required in the design should follow this guideline. Unlike
Engineering guidelines which are Rigid and Stiff, Architectural Guidelines are always allowed to change
here and there. Leading to New guidelines in all the projects. But the essence of this guideline if will be
preserved can help make the underground overcome it's basic disadvantages atleast.
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b) VERTICAL LAYERS- THE VERTICAL COMPOSITION OF ACTIVITIES LAYER WISE.

The activities in Urban context can basically fall into 4 categories: Dynamic Humans, Dynamic Vehicles,
Static Humans, Static Vehicles. With the another Category of Natue which is rarely seen, the aspects are
now 5. The order which was followed in this Design Proposal is from Ground layer to the lowest level of
the Underground Space: Nature ; Dynamic Humans ; Dynamic Humans ; Static Humans ; Static Humans
But that is Site specific in this case. When generalising the Layer
system we have:
Nature
Dynamic Humans
Dynamic Vehicles
Static Humans
Static Vehicles,
again from Ground level till the lowest level of Underground space.
The points to be taken into consideration while applying this Guidelines:

- Climate, this Aspect is very important while applying this guideline. For example, the Design Solution
of this thesis has Hot climate and hence the Static activities will go down, but if it would had to be
designed in Canada(PATH system) then the dynamic activities will be the lowest level as on above
layers it will be colder.
- The actual Compostition of activities of the Site. The four types of activities is very general, but if the
site specific activities differ than this guideline could be moulded. As said before, it isnt an Engineered
Guideline, but Architectural. So, changing here and there is a positive side of it.
- Actual Site conditions, again may change how the layers are to be stacked. For example, if the Site is
a Road or has a Major road in it than the Dynamic Vehicles Layer should be the second ,cost or could
be even first layer to decrease the construciton cost and everything.
- The guidelines doesnt specify or even talk about number of floors. It is Layers and not Floors. It is
conceptual guideline and shouldnt be taken and applied literally. The system could have 2 floors of
Nature, 2 floor of Dynamic Humans, 1 floor of Dynamic Vehicle, 2 floors of Static Humans and 1 floor of
Static Vehicle. Hence comprising of 8 floors. though the layers are 5.
General Model Design Solution of the Thesis Model
Layers in Design Proposal
Thermal Vision
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c) SPATIAL HIERARCHY
This guideline is General to an extent that it can even be applied to the buidings or spaces
aboveground.
This guidelines specifies that -To make realise the Importance how how small or big the space is, it is
neccessary for the person to actually go through exactly opposite space, i.e. If the Architect wants
people to grasp how big the space is, he needs the Users to go through an opposite or smaller space
first and then the actual space.
The guideline is extracted on the basis of the Design Solution. The design solution has Cryptoporticuses
as passages to go till the main Modules and even the Grottoe.
The scale of Cryptoporticus is 3m in width general, and height from 0m to -12m. This actually makes
people walk in a tight and small space to go till the Modules. The hierarchy is such that after tunnel like
passages people stop for a buffer that are the Squares of 10x10m and height -3m to -12m. After the
buffers or squares, comes the main Modules. So the overall system or Spatial hierarchy actually shows
users the Importance of Small Spaces as well as Big Spaces. And makes them realise the importance of
Land as a Resource.
This was local to this Design Solution.
Generally how should it be
Small (Passages/walkways/cycling tracks) -- Medium (Buffer spaces/squares) -- Large (core activities)
Or it could be totally reverse, Larger-Smaller spaces.
A thumb rule could be established that,
When the main or Core Spaces are more Public or has a Public value(extrovert) attached to it, Smaller-
Larger hierarchy should be the Approach as people will be compressed and then released tension free
into Public Spaces. Where as, when the core Space has more Private(introvert) values attached to it,
the hierarchy should be Larger-Smaller as people here will be concentrated into a smaller and
warmer(not literally) spaces.
The purposes of functions as to what could be the functions for Small, Medium and Large spaces may
very greatly as per the programme. But a general layout could be made as to what would be the
scale of each appropriately with respect to each other.
Small- Passages, could be walkways i.e. Pedestrian walkways, or could be for Cycles or could be just
Roads. And if it is a Private project than it could be main residence i.e. bedrooms, kitchen, pooja
room et al.
Medium- Buffer spaces like Squares or chowks. And if for private projects it could be courtyards.
Large- Core activities if public spaces, and spaces like Living Rooms, Verandah for private projects.
73
DESIGN
APPRAISAL
74
Design Appraisal
7.1 FAQs raised by the Jury members
Juries are an Important part of Studies in Architecture. A jury is a Formal way of preparing students how to
present and convince people of What is your Design about. Or how have you done it? Or what was
the approach et al. But even though being a very Important part of Architectual Education, it is never
mentioned. So, the chapter Design Appraisal deals with that aspect of Learning. The questions
mentioned here are not just of the Final Juries but overall FAQs which arose in all the Juries.
FAQs:
Q- Why Underground?
A- Why underground, as I have tried to explain in the 2.2 What is the difference between Aboveground
and Underground Architecture and 2.3 Why Underground Architecture and state it's Advantages
and DIsadvantages is mainly because of few reasons. Though that was after I started exploring
about the topic, I was fascinated to begin with. That teachers always have said there are two
types of Structures, Super Structure and Sub Structure but never have encouraged to take up the
SubStructure. Also with the fact that I found Caves fascinating and my initial research was on Caves
only. After refining it, I understood how Important going Underground is and why should we go down.
Q- Why going Underground has never been tried frequently all over the world and or in Ahmedabad
context?
A- This question could be answered through 2.3 Why Underground architecture and state it's
advantages and disadvantages. The challenges faced for going and making and designing
spaces are Light and Ventillation, Views and Vistas, Flooding, Water drainage. but majorly it has been
human's psychology that it has been tough to design a space underground. Due to lack of
awareness as to what are the advantages and that Underground Architecture is nothing like
Basements, humans have developed a Psychology which makes it harder for Architects to do so.
Other major reasons why specifically it isnt' that an Acceptable method, or approach is the fact
that the Cost is considered more, the Economical Factor is more a concern than what actually
Common public wants. It is taken into consideration that what will be the advantages Cost wise for us,
rather than for Nature, also that What will be the Resale value of the project? But whats not
considered is the Lifecycle Advantages of the Underground Spaces.
Q- How will be the Water Seapage due to the River be handled?

A- This question could be answered with the help of the section 5.4 Rain Water Harvesting System. It can
be clearly established that as far as the Water table of the Ahmedabad is considered, it isn't a
hindrance. because it is as below as 100m. Coming to the point that the site is besides Sabarmati
river, HCP has developed the Riverfront section in such a way that they have kept a 10m deep
diaphragm to keep river waters away from the newly formed or reclaimed land. Hence, worst case
worst case that the 10m deep diaphragm doesnt work, with the given soil conditions and droughtfull
condition of Ahmedabad's soil, maximum distance which is like even if the soil would be porous, it
could travel upto 100m horizontally. But as seen, the main Built up of the Desing Solution starts after
100m from the river. Hence, simple water proofing techniques like the one's where we chemically water
proof it in normal aboveground buildings, or spray on instant waterproofing or Waterproofing sheets
can be used.
Q- How is the Challenges or Disadvantages of going Underground solved?

A- The challenges and or Disadvantages are handled very accurately as can be seen in
6.2 Conclusion/ Fulfillment of the Thesis Statement. The sections, plans and schematic sections clearly
shows how the challenges are resolved. Though Engineering challenges needs to be concrete
rather than just being schematic, efforts and attempts have been done to even resolve them.
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Q- What are other Engineering challenges which will hinder the project? And how have you tried to
solve it?
A- The engineering challenges which will or can hinder the projects are Structural Systems, Details like
Materials which can be used to make that Structural system work, how or what is the actual soil
composition i.e. local conditions of the site for soil, the actual water seapage levels. Majorly this sums
up the engineering challenges which will be faced while actually making this project. I have tried to
solve Structural system, and tried to assume the water seapage levels for the site through the datum
available. Structural system as tried and resolved should be an Exoskeleton rather than Collumn-beam
system because of the fact that the forces exerted by the ground will be the major concern. After
successfully creating exoskeleton the built up part inside it an be any ordinary structural system like
column beam. The exoskeleton can be either made up by using Concrete and Rammed Earth,
staggering wall section, or can be totally Steel and Concrete web like structure.
Q- How going Underground helped the context?

A- The context being a Concrete jungle, where the only access to the most precious resource of any
city River was through the roads. The River was connected only in Plan, that too just in single axis.
Longitudinally was the city connected with the river. That too physically, and that too single
dimensional. Other problem was the area is one of the most densed areas of Ahemdabad, but has
just Commercial values attached to it. There is no existing Natural value added to the Area of
Ashram Road. A faint attempt of one garden, near income tax and few other places could be seen
but because of it's location and rigidity, they are vacant. The next problem of the area was that the
existing old theatres and one new mall, wasnt sufficient to create economy for themselves. They go
neglected most of the time, even though they have been since a long and being on an area where
traffic kills. The Design Solution, firstly connects the Site and hence the city with the precious Sabarmati
river in Three Dimensions, longitudinal, lattitudinal and in Z axis. It doesnt just connect the city
Physically, but because of the Portals created it Actually connects humans with the River. The problem
of no recreational hubs, and unnoticed nearby theatres and malls is solved because this Space acts
as an Activity generator as well as is a Place for Retreat. Because of the number of varrying activities
provided, more number of people from all the age groups will be drawn towards the area and will
recreate themselves. But this also means, that more number of persons will stay in or around the site
creating opportunities for other buildings.
Q- Till what extent is this Project Viable, in terms of Cost, Practicality and Acceptance?
A- The project is viable in all the aspects. Cost, though the initial costs would be huge, including
construction cost, building it, and making it open for public the advantages like because of the fact
that Underground spaces are insulated by Earth, energy is conserved. So, in the life cycle the overall
consumption of electricity would be much less than if the space would have been Aboveground.
Then another strategy used is to make all the gadgets including Streetlights, Charging tables, et al
grid free. Means they will have their own power supply which will be powered through Solar energy.
Next strategy to get the cost covered would be to export and sell the soil hence excavated and
reuse atleast 20-25% of it within this space to make Ottas, building structures, or small small
landscape furnitures. This will show the respect towards the mother Earth and also get us Money
slowly slowly covered. Last way would be by boosting the other existing theatres and mall's economy.
Practicallity, by the sections and Design it is already established that this project is Practical and
people would love to use it. Acceptance comes when people will be made aware of the facts of
going underground and that their Psycological fears are covered for.
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Q- Is this Isolation or the Conceptual Process of your's of making people go through different portals
and make them aware of the nature, Forced or Autogenerated?
A- Answering this question is a very tough job. Even though the nature of the Plan, sections and the
concept in itself may seem Forcefull, what could be observed is People when it comes to the
concepts of Meditation and such activities, requires a push. A push is always required for people to
actually start doing it. So, maybe the space may seem Forcing in nature for starting, or may get tough
to let go the Urban fabric behind, once they start enjoying it they will autmatically Enjoy the Isolation
which once seemed Forceful. What is interesting is, when first Mobile phones started even that idea of
shifting from Landlines to Wiresless Phones seemed forceful to an extent and absurd. But once people
started to use it, they started to enjoy it and that is because they are aware of what are the
advantages of using it, and also the disadvantages. Even though they know how harmful the Mobile
phones are, it's Usage has Increased drastically and is Increasing Exponentially. Though an arguement
could be made as to Where are the Stats, I would like to say that even a Person whose income is
as low as 1Rs per day, and for whom eating is tough he must own a Mobile phone. So, it is just how
much people are made aware of, and how much they enjoy it once forcefull.
Q- How are you Rejoicing going Underground?

A- Phylosophical questions are always tough to tackle. Rejoicing anything is very Subjective. I may love
spending 100rs on shoes and Rejoice it, a poor guy even if can afford it wont Rejoice that 100rs
shoes, because he knows from where does that 100rs comes from. Similarly, Rejoicing going
Underground will vary greatly with person to person, but ofcoarse I have to establish a common
ground here. People will Rejoice the Space and not going Underground. They will know that this
space is Underground, but the way it has been handled they may Ultimately not feel as if it is
Underground just like Bharat Bhavan by Charles Corea. But it is equally important to observe that
The Passages and or the Spatial Hierarchy established through this Design Solution actually
answers this question. The reason for going down through small passages is this that people will
first realise how important any space is, be it small or big. But also will realise that being Underground
is not Dark or Dampy experience rather a Smoothe and Comfortable Journey. After this they will be
thrown or send into the Main modules, where they will see that being Underground doesnt need to
be a Small space either, it can even be very Big space as this. This Spatial variation actually makes
them enjoy being inside an Underground Space. Though Rejoicing it, depends on how they
percieve it.
Q- Dont you think the Design as an Architect have become too Simple? Shouldn't this be more bold
and innovative just like the topic?
A- It is very Important to learn How to Walk before one can Actually Run. Why did I start with that
sentence is very simple. Underground Architecture is totally unexploited and a new Avenue. It has
many limitations and challenges even when we just keep a small rectangular room inside ground and
make it Liveable. So, as a student before I can jump to Innovative or Bold design or Form
Explorations, first I need to Tackle the already existing Limits or challenges by exploiting the simplest
of forms if it has to be. After actually properly understanding all the aspects and resolving it in it's
simplest form can One try and Experiment with it's form. Because when we arent Building anything
inside the Envelope of Air, but Envelope of Earth lots of Variables and Constants changes. Now that
I have actually Understood the Variables and Constants of Underground architecture, the next
step could be Form Exploration, Because as Steven Holls says- "Building isnt an Object, but Form in
Space." Where the space here is the Earth.
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7.2 Avenues for Further Explorations

After doing the whole thesis, and evaluating it one can say that there are many Avenues or Aspects on
which further Exploration or work could be done. Analysing the FAQs and all the Juries, analysing the
Main Objectives of the Thesis, analysing the result of the objectives and the Design Solution we can
jump to the conclusion regarding the topics which needs to be futher Exploited:
1- Structural Systems for Underground Architecture.

2- Effect of Different Materials, for Underground Architecture.
3- Study on different Soil compositions of the same area, and finding different uses of it.
4- New or different Water Proofing techniques for Underground Architecture.
5- Phylosophical Approach towards Underground Architecture.
6- Efficient methods or ways for Emergencies inside Underground Architecture.
7- Methods or techniques to Connect Underground Space with it's Neighbouring buildings except the
known tunnels.
8- Form Exploration for Underground Architecture.
9- How the Services like Water Drainage, Electricity supply et al be handled in Underground
Architecture.
10- Presentation Techniques for Architectural Drawings of Underground spaces.
This were the top 10 topics related to Underground Architecture which could be studied or rather shall
be studied in Detailed. As Underground Architecture is a new Avenue and not much Literature has been
established on it, there could be more than 100 topics related to Underground Architecture on which
Research and Exploration could be done for. So, by hightlighting 10 here, I am showing a positive
attitude for the topic that a lot will be done on it, be it My own Research topic for further exploration
or someone else's.-
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Architect's Vision
BEFORE: AFTER:
SG Road, Ahmedabad. What could be observed SG Road, Ahmedabad. What is proposed here is a
is that the whole stretch has Buildings majorly with Bold and Huge step. It shows how the whole of the
commercial values attached to it, that too Hotels, SG Road, can be converted into a GreenBelt by
Mall and such types. taking all the buildings, majorly malls and hotels
Ahmedabad has 328 malls but only 0.28% open/ Underground. Only untouched buildings would be
greenspaces. religious worshipping places.
And at a bigger picture, if we take 328malls and
the upcoming malls Underground, we can increase
the open/greenspaces from 0.28%-0.48% minimum.
BEFORE: AFTER:
Ashram Road, Ahmedabad. A concrete Urban Ashram Road, Ahmedabad. The proposal or idea
texture could be observed through the plan and talks about interevening how the Roads are in
3d sketch. It shows how less the green cover is in the Ahmedabad. By converting "Patches" of roads, as
whole area around, which is from the starting of the can be seen in the 3D sketch and the plan, we can
Ashram road till it's end. increase the Green cover of the Ahmedabad city.
This are the initial ideas or visions as an Architect. I truelly think if judiciary Used, Underground
Architecture is the Future of Architecture. If not, the Future seems Gloomy. The End.
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Works Cited
Reffered Literature:
1- 03.RFDG-Proposed development plan for riverfront neighbourhoods, 1976
2- Soil temperature regime at Ahmedabad-Girja Sharan, IIM-A
3- 2014 Trends in Travel & Tourism
4- The social value of public spaces-Joseph Rowntree Foundation
5- EARTH SHELTERED BUILDINGS FOR THERMAL COMFORT-Subhash C. Devrath
6- Agriculture Contingency Plan for District :AHMEDABAD
7- Ahmedabad Draft Plan 2021-Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority(AUDA)
8- A PRESENTATION ON LAND USE AND URBAN TRANSPORT-I.P.GAUTAM, IAS, PRINCIPAL SECRETARY,
URBAN DEVELOPMENT & URBAN HOUSING DEPARTMENT,GANDHINAGAR , GUJARAT
9- City Development Plan for Ahmedabad-Chapter 6 Social Amenities
10- Ahmedabad Residential Real Estate Overview March 2012-ICICI Property Services
11- BUILDING WITH EARTH, A guide to Flexible-form earthbag construction-Paulina Wojciechowska
12- Evolution of Shopping Malls:Recent trends and the question of Regeneration-Buket Ergun Kocaili
13- Construction Sequence of Sabarmati Riverfront Development
14- Underground Structures Engineering services for owners and contractors-COWI
15- Going underground A Cumbrian perspective-PHIL REDDY
16- Underground Buildings-Chris van Dronkelaar
17- THE GREEN HOUSE SYSTEM: STUDY OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROPERTIES
18- GREEN INDIA: THE WORLD’S SECOND MOST POPULOUS COUNTRY COMBATS DEFORESTATION
-The Green India Mission (GIM)
19- SABARMATI RIVERFRONT....Socializing a River & Inclusive Development- Sabarmati River Front
Development Corporation Limited & AMC
20- SUBSURFACE PLANNING-To go Underground - Right or Wrong?-H. C. Fischer, B. Jansson, M. Barker, Y.
Watanabe, M. Bergman, C. Fairhurst, J. Rygh, L. Lupiac
21- URBAN UNDERGROUND SPACE AND BENEFITS OF GOING UNDERGROUND-Jean Paul GODARD
Past Vice-president, ITA,France
22- Perception Aspects in Underground Spaces using Intelligent Knowledge Modeling-Proefschrift
23- Hydrologic Studies for Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project- National Institute of Hydrology
Roorkee – 247 667 (Uttaranchal) February 2007
24- Urban Space-Matthew Dobias
25- Sabarmati Riverfront Development Integrated Environmental Improvement and Urban Revitalization
India Urban Conference, Mysore, November 2011- Sabarmati River Front Development
Corporation Limited, HCP Design & Project Management Pvt. Ltd, Ahmedabad
26- Feasibiity Report-SRFD-Environmental Planning Collaborative(EPC)
27- Sun, WInd & Light:Architectural Design Strategies,Second Edition-G.Z.Brown and Mark Dekay
28- Underground Architecture:Connections between Ground-Level Public space and Below Ground
Building-Ammie Wright
29- Possible paper subjects “Underground Space Technology”-TUDelft
30- World Energy Council
31- Why go Underground?-ITA - AITES
32- Underground Buildings:More than meets the Eye-Loretta Hall
33- Identification of Success & Failure Factors of Malls in Ahmedabad City-Sagar Desai MTM-0508
34- Presentation on Sustainable Building-Kaushik Panchal
35- Buildings and Daylighting/Energy Effciency in buildings-CEPT Ahmedabad
36- Metric Handbook:Planning and Design Data-David Littlefield
37- Handbook for Interior Lighting Design
38- Time Saver standards for Architectural Design-Donald Watson
39- Neufert:Architectural Timesavers
40- Our Cities Ourselves:Principles for Transport in Urban Life
41- Our cities ourselves:Vision of Ahmedabad
42- IA&B-May 2015
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43- IA&B March 2015

44- Contextuality in Indian Commercial Spaces: Shopping Malls/Arcades, looking for an Indian Identity
45- Adobe and rammed earth buildings: Design and Construction book
46- Impact of Geotechnical Investigations on Design and Construction of Substructures-
Kaushal S. Sabuwala
47- Invisible Man, Ralph Ellison
48- The Third Level, Jack Finney
49- The Underground House Book, Campbell Stu
50- Earth Sheltered Landscapes, Debord, David Douglas and Thomas R. Dunbar
51- Underground Houses: How to build a low cost home, Roy Robert
52- Earth Sheltered Housing Design, The Underground Space Center, University of Minnesota
Reffered Websites:
53- www.youtube.com
54- www.wired.com
55- www.ecoimagination.com
56- www.reddit.com/r/architecture/comments/1es3ij/
57- www.wikipedia.com
58- www.porousearth.wordpress.com
59- http://www.dezeen.com/2014/10/10/miralles-tagliabue-elizabeth-de-portzamparc-paris-metro-
train-stations/
60- http://www.subsurfacebuildings.com/diggingforthegreen.html
61- http://www.underground-homes.com/underground-homes-disadvantages.htm
62- http://www.earthhomesnow.com/earth-home-advantages.htm
63- https://www.ita-aites.org/en/why-go-underground
64- http://www.candidslice.com/the-raleigh-underground-an-epic-era-sealed-beneath-cameron-village/
65- https://books.google.co.in/books?id=u3iEjXoaRW8C&pg=PA13&lpg=PA13&dq=undergrou
nd+mall+construction+method&source=bl&ots=K00QVbBjfG&sig=6MOaMZ-vJHTgvoZFh2nVF-
H0o2w&hl=en&sa=X&ei=u93hVJmOBcSQuATLsIDoDQ&ved=0CFMQ6AEwCw#v=onepage&q=undergr
ound%20mall%20construction%20method&f=false
66- http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/London-Eye-museums-and-highrises-being-planned-on-
Sabarmati-riverfront/articleshow/36223034.cms
67- http://www.hockertonhousingproject.org.uk/
68- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tallest_buildings_in_Ahmedabad
69- http://www.dnaindia.com/ahmedabad/report-will-giant-ferris-spin-on-sabarmati-soon-1937713
70- http://www.dnaindia.com/ahmedabad/report-realty-makes-22-storey-towers-reality-in-
ahmedabad-1906502
71- http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/surat/-First-skyscraper-in-city-on-way/articleshow/5200908.
cms?
72- http://epaperbeta.timesofindia.com/Article.aspx?eid=31805&articlexml=GUJARAT-AN-EMERGING-
DESTINATION-FOR-SKYSCRAPERS-24082014301007
73- http://www.magicbricks.com/Property-Rates-Trends/ALL-RESIDENTIAL-rates-in-Ahmedabad
74- http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pricey-sabarmati-riverfront-lures-realtors-1383980
75- http://www.ourproperty.co.uk/guides/the_wonders_of_living_underground_guide-p2.html
76- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_population
77- http://www.unep.org/forests/Portals/142/docs/our_vision/Green_India.pdf
78- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_business_district
79- http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Groundwater-levels-in-Ahmedabad-take-
another-deep-plunge/articleshow/10912228.cms
80- http://blog.renewableenergyworld.com/ugc/blogs/2010/04/the-utility-of-the-future-think-shopping-
mall.html
81
81- http://property.sulekha.com/ashram-road-real-estate-price-trend-ahmedabad
82- http://www.thelowline.org/
83- http://www.marketwatch.com/story/10-things-shopping-malls-wont-tell-you-1308954251095
84- http://www.pps.org/reference/placeforparking/
85- http://www.1728.org/gradient.htm
86- https://answersingenesis.org/geology/grand-canyon-facts/when-and-how-did-the-grand-canyon-
form/
87- http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/QandA/rammedearth/structural.htm
88- http://www.counterview.net/2011/12/central-groundwater-board-alarm-over.html
89- http://www.evolo.us/architecture/skyscraper-or-sustainable-underground-society/
90- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Underground_living
91- http://www.biotekt.com/
92- http://www.drtomorrow.com/lessons/lessons7/20.html
93- http://gondolaproject.com/2010/04/06/eyes-on-the-street/
94- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucalyptus_globulus
95- http://indiabiodiversity.org/species/show/31452
96- http://bhudeva.org/blog/2012/01/06/is-it-possible-to-build-an-earthship-in-moist-freezing-
expansive-clay-soil/
97- http://architecture.about.com/od/A-Architecture-Terms/g/arcology.htm
98- http://www.malcolmwells.com/designs.html
99- http://www.fastcodesign.com/3023159/the-case-for-building-cities-underground
100- http://www.architonic.com/ntsht/camouflage-architecture-underground-buildings/7000497
101- http://www.designboom.com/tag/underground-architecture/
102- http://www.dezeen.com/tag/underground/
Reffered Videos/Documentaries:
103- Argentina en Mexico - Underground Mall in Mexico
104- By Ultra MIX 360 - STRIP THE CITY - TORONTO
105- Cave People of the Himalaya _ National Geographic Documentary
106- ETFE, properties, Installation, comparison with glass_HD
107- Garden Santa Fe _ Underground Mall _ KMD Architects
108- GARDEN STA FE AEREAS RYMS
109- Grand Designs - 'The Stealth House' (S10E02)
110- Grand Designs S08E01 - The Underground House
111- Grand Designs S08E11 - The Underground House- Revisited (from series 3)
112- Grand Designs S12E10 - The Disco Home- Revisited (from series 11)
113- Massive Lightbox Acts Like It's Alive - Origin By UVA & Scanner
114- PATH - The World's Largest Underground Shopping Complex _
115- Proyecto Nuevo Aeropuerto Ciudad de México - @AeropuertoMEX I
116- The London Underline
117- The Lost Caves of Tibet (Full Documentary)
118- Visiting The Derinkuyu Underground City In Cappadocia
119- When Infinity Comes To Life
120- World's largest Underground City - Full Documentary
121- BNKR VIDEOS EARTHSCRAPER CNN
122- Batman-Movie
123- IronMan-Movie
124- Resident Evil-Movie
125- UP-Movie
126- The Jetsons-Cartoon
127- Dexter’s Laboratory-Cartoon
128- Urbanized- Documentary
82
List of Figures
List of Figures:
1- "Underground Architecture" A painting by Preyan Mehta, Front Page
2- Page 9,Types of Underground Architecture, 2.1 What is Underground Architecture? and it's Types
and Archtypes?- Sketches by Preyan Mehta
3- Pages 10-12, Underground Archtypes, 2.1 What is Underground Architecture? and it's Types and
Archtypes?- Image source, Underground Architecture, Ammie Wright
4- Page 13, 2.2 What is the difference between Aboveground Architecture and Underground
Architecture?- Sketches by Preyan Mehta
5- Page 14, 2.3 Why Underground Architecture and state it's advantages and disadvantages.
- Vectors from Google Images
6- Page 15, 2.3 Why Underground Architecture and state it's advantages and disadvantages.
- Land Utilization, Disaster Resistant, Natural Ventillation- Sketches by Preyan Mehta,
- The other vectors by Goodle Images
7- Page 16, 2.4 What is an Urban Space and why do we need it, Underground?
- Images by Google Images, Edited by Preyan Mehta
8- Pages 19,20, 3.2 Primary casestudies for Underground Architecture- Sections by Preyan Mehta
9- Pages 21-24, 3.3 Secondary casestudies for Underground Architecture- Sections by Preyan Mehta
10- Pages 25, 3.4 Primary casestudies for Urban Spaces- Plan by Preyan Mehta
11- Page 25, 3.4 Primary casestudies for Urban Spaces- Image source: Everyday Urban Space,
by Jaydip Biniwale, Shaival Gajjar, Gopi Viththani, Darshini Sanghvi
12- Page 26, 3.5 Secondary casestudies for Urban Spaces- Sections & images by Google Images
13- Page 27, 3.5 Secondary casestudies for Urban Spaces- Plan & Images by BIG Architects
14- Page 28, 3.6 Inferences- Plan, sections and diagrams by Preyan Mehta
15- Page 29, 3.6 Inferences- Image "Framing" by Preyan Mehta, Bharat Bhavan
16- Page 29, 3.6 Inferences- Images "Enclosure", "Cone of vision" by "Urbanized" Documentary
17- Page 29, 3.6 Inferences- rest images by Google Images
18- Page 31, 4.1 Site Identification- Plans by Preyan Mehta
19- Page 31, 4.2 Site Selection- Table by Preyan Mehta
20- Pages 33-35, 4.3 Site Analysis- Plans, sections by Preyan Mehta
21- Page 36, 4.3 Site Analysis- Section by Preyan Mehta
22- Page 36, 4.3 Site Analysis- Table by Ahmedabad Residential Real Estate Overview March 2012
ICICI Property Services,
23- Page 37, 4.3 Site Analysis- Photos and Plan by Preyan Mehta
24- Page 40-42, 5.1 Concept Formulation- Sections, Plans and Sketches by Preyan Mehta
25- Page 43, 5.2 Site Specific Design Framework- Activity graphs by Preyan Mehta
26- Pages 44-50, 5.3 Drawings- Plans, Sections, Rendered Photos by Preyan Mehta
27- Pages 51-62, 5.4 Design Case Study- Sections, Plans, Sketches, Diagrams by Preyan Mehta
28- Pages 66-67, 6.1 Observational Notes/Architectural Narration- Rendered Photos by Preyan Mehta
29- Pages 68-69, 6.2 Conclusion/ Fulfillment of the Thesis Statement- Sections, Plans, Sketches
by Preyan Mehta
30- Pages 71-73, 6.2 Conclusion/ Fulfillment of the Thesis Statement- Sections, Plans Sketches
by Preyan Mehta
31- Page 79, Architect's Vision- Images, 3Ds, Plans by Preyan Mehta
83
Appendix
APPENDIX A: Design Exploration-TImeline
7
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85
Sabarmati Riverfront Rd
Ashram Rd Staggerd-Stepped Roof/Ground Cover
Cycling Track Frames Courtyards
Cafes/Eateries
Utilities/
Indoor Shops Multi Level Parking
Cafes/Eateries
TV Screens Gaming
Pavillion-Parking/Drive-In
4
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THANK
YOU
Name: Preyan Mehta

Guide: Kaushik Panchal

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UNDERGROUND DESIGNING OF

INTERNAL GUIDE SUBMITTED BY

The present Design Thesis is hereby approved as a credible work on the

THESIS TITLE: Underground Designing of an Urban Space

STUDENT NAME: Preyan Mehta

Chapter 2- Literature Review.............................................. 8

Chapter 3- Case Studies...................................................... 17

Chapter 4- Site analysis and Programme.................... 30

Chapter 5- Design Solution................................................. 39

Chapter 6- Observations and Conclusions.............. 63

Chapter 7- Design Appraisal............................................. 74

1.4 Scope and Parameters

1.5 Expected Results

1.6 Use of Study

"You tend to Overestimate things, which you dont fully understand".

"How underground must a building be, to be an underground building?"- www.subsurfacebuildings.com

"How aboveground must a building be, to be a Skyscraper?".

Caves Earth Berrmed Container

Pre-casted Conrete Earth Sheltered Submarines

Dugouts Underground Missile Sillos

ArchTypes of Underground Architecture

Caves and Caverns

Dungeons and Cellars

Dungeons and Cellars

ArchTypes of Underground Architecture

ArchTypes of Underground Architecture

2.2 What is the difference between Aboveground

2.3 Why Underground Architecture and state it's

Meditation, because of it's properties of Isolation. This Underground

Commuting, it is the increased usage for Underground Buildings people

Solitary Confinement, or simply putting Jails. This usage of Underground

Energy Efficient Less Carbon

Less Maintainence Privacy

Natural Light Natural Ventillation

Views and Vistas Flooding

2.4 What is an Urban Space and why do we need it,

Height of a Human 1700mm- 0.0017kms, i.e. the

Framework for Urban Spaces

3.2 Primary casestudies for Underground

NAME: Bharat Bhavan, Bhopal.- Ar.Charles Corea

NAME: Science City, Ahmedabad- Govt. Initiative

3.3 Secondary casestudies for Underground

NAME: Disco House, London- Ar. Ian Hogarth

NAME: Santa fe mall, Mexico- Santa fe Group

NAME: PATH system Toronto- Urban Planning initiative

NAME: Earthscraper, Mexico-Estaban Suarez,BNKR arquitectura

3.4 Primary casestudies for Urban Spaces

NAME: Municipal Market

3.5 Secondary casestudies for Urban Spaces

NAME: La Rambla Street

CAFES SELFIE GREENERY

CONE OF VISION SPORTS OPEN WORK ENVIRONMENT

Site and Programme

4.2 Site Selection

SIZE 4/10(24) 8/10(56) 8.5/10(59.5) 8/10(56)

LIMITATIONS 5/10(100) 6.5/10(130) 5.5/10(110) 3/10(60)

TOTAL 31.9/50 31.8/50 33.5/50 35.9/50

4.3 Site Analysis

Site location and Linkages with the City

Site Plan/Contextual Plan

Sun Path Diagram- Locational

Activity Mapping/ Detailed Activity analysis