ECO RESORT

AT WETLANDS
(KESHOPUR, GURDASPUR, PUNJAB)

A
Architectural Thesis Project
Submitted to The Faculty of Physical Planning and
Architecture In the partial fulfillment of the requirements
For the
Degree of Bachelor of Architecture

Supervisor Panel:-PC_MS_AA Submitted by:

Name- 1. Dr. Pankaj chhabrha
(Assistant Professor) Name- Kajal
2. Dr. Meenakshi sinhgal Roll No. 2015ARA016
(Associate Professor)
3. Ar. Ammy arora
(visiting Professor)

Department of Architecture
Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar
CERTIFICATE
The work included in the thesis entitled “ECO RESORT AT WET LAND .”
submitted to the Faculty of Physical Planning and Architecture, Guru Nanak
Dev University, Amritsar, for the degree of Bachelor of Architecture, was
carried out by KAJAL, at the Department of Architecture, Guru Nanak Dev
University, Amritsar, under our supervision. This thesis is fit to be considered
for evaluation for the award of degree of Bachelor of Architecture.

Supervisor Panel: PC_MS_AA

Names: Dr. PANKAJ CHABRA, Dr. MEENAKSHI SINGAL, Ar. AMMY ARORA
Designation: Thesis guide
 DECLARATION/ UNDERTAKING

The work embodied in the thesis entitled “ECO RESORT AT WET LAND ” has been
done by me and not submitted elsewhere for the award of any other degree. All
the ideas and references have been duly acknowledged.

Student Dated: 09/06/2020 Name Roll No. 2015ARA 016

Supervisor Panel: PC_MS_AA

 Acknowledgement

It is not possible to prepare a project without the assistance and

encouragement of other people. This one is certainly no expectations.
I would like to dedicate this thesis to my husband Er. Mohit Dugg.
This thesis would never be possible without the guidance of my
husband.
I extend my sincere thanks to my thesis guides Dr. PANKAJ
CHABRA, Dr. MEENAKSHI SINGAL and Ar. AMMY ARORA
who guided me and help me to take best out of my ability.

I wish to express my heart felt gratitude to Ar. Dinesh Bhagat who

guided me by sharing his immense knowledge.

A very sweet thanks to my bachmates, seniors and for inspiring me

encouraging me and helping me in completion of this thesis.
 INTRODUCTION
A RESORT is a self-contained commercial establishment
that endeavors to provide most of a vacationer's wants,
such as food, drink, lodging , sports , entertainment,
and shopping , on the premises. The term resort may
provides an array of amenities, typically including
entertainment and recreational activities. It is a place for
relaxation recreation , attracting visitors for holidays or
vacations.

ECO RESORT
•A eco resort is basically a tourist resort whose facilities
are intended to have a minimal impact on the local
environment.
•An eco resort, by loose definition would be a lodging
facility that takes steps to reduce its carbon footprint
while giving back to its local community.
E- Environmental friendly
C- Conserves natural resources
O- Optimum use of space and material resources

INTRODUCTION TO WETLAND
KESHOPUR CHHUMB COMMUNITY RESERVE (KCCR) is located at an
altitude of 245 meters above sea level adjoining the town of Gurdaspur, District,
Punjab. Total Area of the reserve is 850 Acres, comprisisng of a fresh water marsh
(Natural Wetland). The entire area of this community reserve (CR) is owned by the five
village panchayats- Maini, Dalla, Keshopur, Matwa and Magarmudian. These Wetlands
once consisted of thousands of acres lying between river Ravi and Beas but have now
shrunk due to increased agricultural practices in the region.
However the ecological boundaries of this ecosystem lie much beyond the notified
boundaries of the CR and this entire tract serves as an important habitat for migratory
waterfowl. Scores of migratory bird species from Central Asia and Siberia have been
using this natural wetland as their winter home since centuries. The wetland has been on
the verge of extinction due to inadequate emphasis placed on protecting this rare bird
habitat and State Heritage.

PAST CONSERVATION EFFORTS- The Forest Department in its earlier attempts

tried to declare the wetland area as Wildlife Sanctuary way back in 1998. Later an
initiative was taken and moved again in 2003. It was after the creation of a separate
wildlife division in March, 2006 that through a participatory approach and a series of
meetings with local villagers and conservationists, the proposal was revived and this
area was declared a Community Reserve under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection
Act in 2006. The Keshopur Wetland was officially notified as the in June 2007 as the
first Community Reserve of the country.
STATE OF SIGNIFICANCE –
The Community Reserve is rich in biodiversity and the most prominent among them
recorded so far have been the avian, fish and floral diversity. As per the existing records
and preliminary surveys undertaken by the planning team, 42 species of fish including
15 endangered have been identified in the wetlands. This landscape is an abode for
migratory birds (about 40,000 birds belonging to about 45 species) that flock the area
during the winter season starting from November till March every year. Wetlands are
also breeding ground for a number of resident water birds. The area also recorded 344
species of plants.
The major source of water for the wetland
is from rainfall and run-off from the
surrounding catchments. This recharged
ground water is critical for sustaining
agriculture in the area which is practiced
throughout the year especially the cash
crops like Lotus and Trapa (Singhar).
This area has a potential to develop as an
important tourism destination and as
a centre for conservation education.

VISION:
To develop Keshopur Chhumb Community Reserve and adjoining landscape as an area
which is paradise for migratory and local birds population, a unique destination for the
national and international tourists, a centre of nature conservation education and an
ideal Protected Area where nature and local people supplement each other. This should
be quoted as an important area where biodiversity conservation and livelihoods of the
local people are interwoven.
The Project shall focus on creating KCCR as an important tourism destination featuring
an Eco-Resort which would stand true to its name . The Eco-Resort shall further feature
guest rooms, suits, cottages, restaurants, conference halls, natural therapies, meditation
facilities, spa’s etc. with special emphasis on the use of Green building techniques,
minimum power consumption and maximum use of renewable sources of energy.
Additional facilities such as bird watching towers, water boats etc shall also be featured
in the complex.
 
Punjab on Fast Track Eco Tourism:
“Seven km from the gushing waters of Beas in Gurdaspur district, the Keshopur
Chhumb community reserve, home to about 40,000 migratory birds of about 45 species
and fish of 42 species , is now preparing to welcome visitors of a different kind. To be
developed as an eco-destination by the Punjab government, the reserve will be spruced
up to attract tourists as part of the government’s grand tourism plan.”
Courtesy: Punjab Heritage and Tourism Development Board ( PHTPB )
VALIDITY
The Keshopur Chhamb Community
Reserve with its marsh lands, fish
ponds, endless stretches of paddy,
fields and the diverse bird species
has a lot of potential for becoming
an important tourist or eco-tourist
destination. And as a result has the
potential of generating alternative
or additional income, and raise the
conservation awareness amongst
the people visiting the local people
as well as the tourist visiting the
place, which would benefit the
community as a whole.
This site has the potential to cater
to the serious tourists (eg: bird
watchers) as well as the general
tourists who just want a tour of
the country side. In a report on the
promotion of eco-tourism in
Punjab, The KCCR has already been
identified as an important site.
The Punjab Heritage and Tourism
Promotion Board (PHTPB) in
association with the Wildlife
Institute of India, Dehradun has
proposed to initiate an innovative
project for developing eco-tourism
destination at the Keshopur
Chhamb Community Reserve.
The site lies at a distance of 70
Kms from the Holy City of Amritsar
where the world famous “Golden
Temple” withdraws around one
lakh tourists every day with the
reaching three-fours lakhs on the
festivals. Hence this can become
an important tourism destination
for the people coming to Amritsar
from rest of India and abroad.
Therefore this would be the first of
its kind project in the state of
Punjab which would make the
state stand at par with the national
and international tourism move.
 
SITE BRIEF

INDIA PUNJAB GURDASPUR

WATER BODY
11 ACRES

SITE- 21 ACRES

TO GURDASPUR N KESHOPUR, DISTRICT

CITY
GURDASPUR
TO BEHRAMPUR

TOTAL AREA- 21 ACRES

SITE PROXIMITY:
6 km from Gurdaspur City ( NH-15)
12 km from Dinanagar (NH-15)
1 km from Keshopur village

The site is strategically located at the Gurdaspur- Behrampur road and is presently used
as an agricultural land.

DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB) in association with the
Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun.
APROACH AND ACCESS
The Site is approachable by air, rail and a good network of roads. The site lies at a
distance of 70 kms from the Religious centre of Amritsar and at the Distance of 40 Kms
from the City of Pathankot. There are airports in Amritsar and Pathankot which are well
connected nationally as well as internationally (Amritsar Airport being an International
Airport). The Maini Village side is approachable from main highway between Amritsar
and Pathankot at Dinanagar (12 kms) to reach Dala or from Gurdaspur to Magarmudian
side. A network of village roads also exist within the area that connect to the
Community Reserve.

TOPOGRAPHY-
The site is flat and is surrounded by wetlands and farmlands.
Wetland Water body Site
RAINFALL- Average rainfall of this area is 618mm

TARGET AREAS FOR THE ECO-RESORT COMPLEX:

•Use of sun and wind
• Rainwater Harvesting and re-using
• Use of Local & Greener materials
• Use of recycled wood.
• Use of biogas.
• Bio-swimming pools.
•Organic Farming
• Herbal and Medicinal plants farming
• Use of more of natural and handmade products.
•Solid waste management & re-use at the site itself

 
AIM

The main aim of Eco-Tourism in KCCR is to ensure ecologically responsible tourism.

OBJECTIVES
•The architectural design shall take the maximum advantage of site potential in terms
of orientation, topography and view establishing man’s relationship with the nature at
an intimate human scale.

•The form and architectural expression of the complex shall be evolved in tune with
indigenous architectural character of Punjab in terms of architectural features/
vocabulary and materials.

•To achieve an eco-friendly design of complex based on energy efficient techniques.

The scope of the project will include the detailed designing of the following:

•To prepare the Detailed site plan keeping in view the complex as the focal point of
the entire community reserve development programme which would act as the base
station for all the activities.

SCOPE
• Administrative Block : Reception, conference hall , accounts room, manager room,
pantry, dining hall, indoor and outdoor restaurants

•Ayurvedic Spa and health centre: swimming pool, sauna and spa, massage and
meditation, yoga hall.

•Restaurants: fine dining and indoor games and bar

•Cottages
•Oat
•Organic farming
•Natural Bio-Swimming Pools
•Adventure Activities

THRUST AREA
To make energy efficient building by using green building techniques incorporated
with the elements of Punjab architecture.
 METHODOLOGY
TOPIC SELECTION

DATA COLLECTION

SITE ANALYSIS LITERATURE STUDY CASE STUDY

TOPOGRAPHY KNOWLEDGE OF
AND CLIMATIC STANDARDS AND THE FUNCTIONAL
DATA TECHNICAL REQUIREMENT
ASPECTS

ALLOCATION OF
POTENTIAL SPACES
AND TO IDENTIFY THE ,STRUCTURE,
CONSTRAINTS PLANNING CIRCULATION
OF THE SITE PRINCIPLES
AND THE
ACCESSIBILIT
Y TO THE SITE
UNDERSTANDING THE VARIOUS
DESIGNS CRITERIA AND
FRAMING REQUIREMENTS

DEVELOP A DESIGN CONCEPT

PREPARING PRELIMINARY DESIGN

FINAL DESIGN

CASE STUDIES
• WESTIN SOHNA AND SPA, SOHNA, HARYANA
• THE KIKAR RESORT, NURPUR BEDI, ROPAR, PUNJAB.
• LITERATURE STUDY- RANN RIDERS RESORT, DASADA, GUJARAT
LITERATURE STUDY
ABOUT WETLAND
A wetland is a land area that is saturated with water,
either permanently or seasonally, such that it takes on
the characteristics of a distinct ecosystem. The
primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other
land forms or water bodies is the characteristic
vegetation of aquatic plants adapted to the
unique hydric soil. Wetlands play a number of roles in
the environment. Wetlands are also considered the
most biologically diverse of all ecosystems, serving as
home to a wide range of plant and animal life. They
have been called the 'nature's kidneys‘ because they
cleanse our environment.
There are many different kinds of wetlands and many
ways to categorize them. National oceanic and
atmospheric administration (NOAA) classifies
wetlands into five general types: marine (ocean),
estuarine (estuary), riverine (river), lacustrine (lake),
and palustrine (marsh).  
FACTS ABOUT WETLANDS

•Wetlands are typically low-lying areas

•They can be coastal or inland
•Floodplains, swamps, marshes, mangroves
•deltas and lakes are some types of wetlands.
•They can be natural or man-made
•Wetlands can contain fresh water, salt water,
or brackish (a combination of the two).
USES OF WETLANDS

•Wetlands store water when it is in excess and

release it to the ground during dry periods.
•They assist in flood control.
•They reduce the momentum of water as it flows to a river or a stream, thereby reducing
soil erosion.
•Wetlands plants and soil store carbon instead of releasing it to the atmosphere as carbon
dioxide. Thus they help moderate global climate.
•Wetlands help retain sediments and increase soil fertility.
•Plants that grow in wetlands are very effective in filtering out water pollution.
•Mangroves can protect shorelines from strong winds and can reduce the impact of
hurricanes and tsunamis.
STANDARDS
1. ACCOMMODATION
•Standard rooms =(15-18) sq.m
•Deluxe rooms = (20-25) sq.m
•Suites = (35-40) sq.m

Queen size= 1.65 m x 2m

King size= 2m x 2m
Single bed= 1m x 2m

PLANNING STANDARD FOR A COTTAGE

2. . RECEPTION & OFFICE
•The reception desk should be visible to the guest immediately on entry.
•The manager’s office is usually adjacent to reception for reasons of control. Other
offices, accounting, records, etc. can be elsewhere as long as communication to
reception is good.
General office: 14- 18.5 sq m

3. MULTI-CUISINE RESTAURANT + KITCHEN (75-100 persons)

•Area per seat = (1.8 – 2.5) sq.m
•Height of dinning area = 3m
•Toilet facilities = 4 WC (she) ,
4 urinals (he) , 2 WC (he)
•Kitchen = 30-40% of restaurant area
•Storage = 20% of the kitchen area0

4. LEISURE FACILITIES

Enclosed leisure areas range from a fitness room to a fully equipped health club with
pool and spa facilities attracting local fee members. In resorts, leisure facilities are
crucial and buildings are planned around landscaped pools and attractions.
Min. size of sauna room= 16m2; 2.5 m high

5. HOUSEKEEPING & LAUNDRY

•Min .Housekeeping room area= 9.5sq

m
•Max – 25 sq. m
GREEN BUILDING TECHNIQUES
SOLAR PASSIVE TECHNIQUES
Passive cooling systems are least expensive means of
cooling a home which maximizes the efficiency of the
building envelope without any use of mechanical
devices. Some of the passive solar techniques to be
used are as follows-

NATURAL VENTILATION
There are several factors which affects the air flow
within the building such as microclimate, size and
proportion of windows, orientation with respect to
wind direction etc.

SHADING
Extend the overhang beyond the sides of the window to
prevent solar gain from the side.
Use slatted or louvered shades to allow more daylight
to enter, while shading windows from direct sunlight.

EARTH AIR TUNNELS

A tunnel in the form of a pipe or otherwise embedded
at a depth of about 4 m below the ground will acquire
the same temperature as the surrounding earth at its
surface.

SITE PLANNING

Arranging resort units in rows parallel A staggered arrangement of resort units

to prevailing wind direction puts most of much improves the situation making
them in wind shadows their effective cross ventilation possible
 Prevailing winds can be directed Vegetation can be used to funnel
towards openings by planting a airflows towards the side of a building
vegetation dam across air paths containing the most openings

TRADITIONAL BUILDING MATERIALS USED IN PUNJAB

•Bricks
•Mud
•Lime
•Bamboo
•Carved wood
•Thatch roofs etc
CASE STUDY 1
THE WESTIN SOHNA RESORT
AND SPA, GURGAON

INTRODUCTION
•Westin Sohna resort offers a relaxing
environment for both business meetings
and leisure visits.

CONCEPT
• Reviving the vernacular idea.
•  A garden retreat set lush greenery,
where each unit is designed
independently over time.
•The architectural expression has
remained consistent by coherent use of
exposed brickwork.

PROJECT PROFILE

CLIENT VATIKA HOSPITALITY PVT. LTD

DESIGN TEAM ASHOK DHAWAN ( PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT)

, SHABNAM DHAR ( PROJECT ARCHITECT )

SITE AREA 37 ACRES (149734 SQ.MTS.)

 
BUILT UP AREA 15000 SQ. MTS.

YEAR OF COMPLETION 2009

http://www.westinsohnaresort.com/
LOCATION
The Westin sohna and spa is located at Vatika
complex p.O. Box Dhaula, karanki road Sohna,
Haryana, India.

APPROACH
•Sohna is located 24 km from the city on the
highway from Gurgaon to Alwar.
•  60 minutes from Indira Gandhi International
Airport. INDIA
• Nearest metro station Huda city centre 37km.
• Gurgaon Bus Stand, Block B, Acharyapuri,
Sector-12A 36.7Km.

SITE ANALYSIS
CLIMATE
•The area has semi-arid climate .
•The average temperature is 25.3 °C.
•Temperature in June averages 34.4 °C and in
January is 14.5 °C

RAINFALL HARYANA MAP

•Average rainfall is 587 mm.
•The driest month is April, with 3 mm of
rain.

SITE ORIENTATION
Site is E-W oriented

SITE SURROUNDINGS
The site is surrounded by Vatika farmhouses.

TO SOHNA
TOURIST TO
ALWAR COMPLEX JAIPUR
23KM

4KM RAJIV
CHOWK
6KM

4KM

IFFCO
RESORT CHOWK
IGI
MAHIPALPUR AIRPORT
 GROUND COVERAGE- 14%
SITE PLAN 19
(20962SQ.M.)
F.A.R ACHIEVED - 0.1
N
19

9
12
20
 

18
SERVICE
4
GATE
11 7
6
3 14
8 19
5
17

SERVICE
ROAD 1 13
10
MAIN 16 15
ENTRANCE
SITE CONSIST OF FOLLOWING:
1. RECEPTION BLOCK 8.THE LIVING ROOM 15. SEWERAGE TREATMENT
PLANT

2. CONFERENCE BLOCK 9. SPA 16. PARKING

3. PLANT ROOM 10. UTILITY ROOM 17. SHOPPING

4. UTILITY ROOM 11. PREMIER VILLA 18. SWIMMING POOL

5. RESTAURANT 12. LUXURY VILLA 19. MAID PANTRY

6. RESTAURANT 13. HOTEL 20. SPORTS

7. CHILDREN’S ROOM 14. PRESIDENTIAL VILLA

ENTRANCE
•There are 2 gates.
1. Main entry gate
2. Service entry gate
ROADS- Main entrance road and Service road are 6m
wide . There is 1.8m wide pedestrian on road side and a
security check post. MAIN GATE
 ZONING AT SITE LEVEL

PUBLIC
N
SEMI PUBLIC

RECREATIONAL

PRIVATE
 

• PUBLIC ZONE- Reception, banquets near the entrance so not affecting

the privacy of guests

• SEMI PUBLIC ZONE- Restaurants, spa and shopping at the middle.

• RECREATIONAL ZONE- Indoor- gymnasium , billiards room and outdoor sports

• PRIVATE ZONE- •Villas in N-E and S-W direction.

•Services at one corner hidden by trees.
•4 maids pantry on site for quick service.

TYPE NUMBER AREA IN SQ.M.

PREMIER VILLA 29 52
TOTAL NO.OF
ROOMS- 97 LUXURY VILLA 15 109
PRESIDENTIAL VILLA 1 730
HOTEL 52(13) 45
 ZONING AT SITE LEVEL PEDESTRIAN PATHWAYS
VEHICULAR PATHWAYS

2.5 M WIDE PATHWAYS

TO BLOCKS

PEDESTRIAN PATHWAYS
•Pathways in resort are of two types- one leading
to all buildings blocks and other leading to the
villas.
•Their main motive is to provide maximum
pathways so that people should not walk on grass.
•Due to long distances electric carts are used.

VEHICULAR PATHWAYS 1 M WIDE PATHWAYS

•Parking area has been
provided near the
entrance which cause
minimum of disturbance.
•For 60-65 Cars.
BUILDING BLOCKS KEY PLAN

1. RECEPTION BLOCK

RECEPTION
CIRCULATION
OFFICES
TOILETS N

MAIN ENTRANCE

ENTRANCE

Spaces between rooms

for natural light
Pedestrian path
Drop off point not
Greenery inside covered
KEY PLAN

PLANNING
•Entrances is not so grand. No porch is there.
• Reception is surrounded by water body which
beautifies the entrance.
•Waiting for around 12 people is provided at the
centre and at the two corners.
•Corridor is well lit during daytime.
•Wooden sloping roof is there. CENTRAL WAITING
•There are total three entrances with wooden
pathways .Two are for the guests and one is for
staff.
•Reception area surrounded by water body.
•Full length glass windows are provided.
•Green space given behind the toilet.

CORRIDOR
2. CONFERENCE BLOCK
KEY PLAN
SERVICES
A.H.U CIRCULATION
Pantry
Store FUNCTIONAL
Service ZONE
entry
TOILETS

N
Banquet Hall
(10x21m) WATER BODY

PANTRY
Meeting
Room
Lobby 8.5x7m

A.H.U

Meeting Board Room

Common
Entrance Room 9.7x9.7
8.5x7m

PLAN 3m

8m

ELEVATION

MATERIAL – Brick,
concrete, glass.
•Exterior is exposed
brick work.(Size-
230x115x50mm).
•Max. Use of natural GLASS BRICKS USED BANQUET HALL
light.
•Glass bricks are used in
lounge area.
•Banquet hall capacity-
180 persons, Meeting
room capacity- 25
persons LOUNGE MEETING ROOM
3. RESTAURANT
Outdoor sitting

Dining N
(165SQM)

KEY PLAN

Planters

FUNCTIONAL
SERVICES
CIRCULATION ZONE
TOILETS
up up

PLANNING
• The restaurant sits in  the heart of the
resort.
• 4m raised from ground with enchanting
water body at the entrance.
• Kitchen area is double the dining area.
• Tower at entrance is an attractive
part of the restaurant.
• Biggest dining of resort.
•The restaurant further extends into a
glass encased intimate lounge cum library
space and a bar where the exhilarating
views of the resort can be enjoyed.
•Takes full advantage of natural light.
•Dining capacity- 60 persons
KITCHEN
•Kitchen area = 380sqm, Ramp 10m
long and 2.5 m wie
•All storage in basement. To basement

KITCHEN
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUE

SECTION

• 11/2 brick thick wall

• Material – brick,
concrete,
glass.
•`Wall exposed from
both sides.
•Concrete pergola and FRONT VIEW BACK VIEW
12m high brick tower
at the entrance.

BRICK ARCH TAPERED BEAM

RAMP TO KITCHEN
STORAGE

LOUNGE BAR
4. RESTAURANT BLOCK KEY PLAN
PLANNING
•Xiao Chi (meaning- small
bites) offers a range of
traditional Chinese cuisine.
•Square block with open
pantry attached to the main
kitchen.
•Area of sitting is 142 sq.m.
•Capacity- 45 persons N
INTERIOR VIEW
Entrance

SIDE VIEW

GLASS BRICK
AT TOP

FRONT VIEW
PLAN

SECTION
 KEY PLAN
5. THE HEAVENLY SPA BLOCK

1. The meditation pyramid

2. Treatment rooms
3. Yoga and meditation hall
4. Administration area Water body
5. Hydrotherapy area
6. Locker rooms
7. Salon area
8. Open space 2 2 N

2
3

5 8
1

7 5
4
6
6

Entrance
LAYOUT PLAN

PLANNING
•Half moon shaped plan.
•Designed as an enclosed
garden setting.
•Surrounded by dense
trees.
•Spinning drums at ENTRANCE
entrance.
•Series of private courts
within functions.
•Meditation and yoga
WALKWAY
pyramid, located at the
centre of the
spa surrounded by water.
•Skylight and narrow slits
slits at three corners MEDITATION PYRAMID
for indirect light.
•Brick wall enveloped
throughout.
•Segregation of private
and public zones.

TREATMENT ROOM
HYDROTHERAPY AREA
6. ACCOMMODATION KEY PLAN
PREMIER VILLA N
Planning
•Pure geometrical plan.
•Strong elevation.
•Private patio with
hammocks.
•Innovative use of patterns FORM
on screen walls.
•Fire place in the living
area.
•Sloping roof with skylight
given in toilet to connect
with nature.
•Total area – 52 sq.m.

SIT-OUT

TOILET

INTERIOR-
Vitrified tiles
Private zone
BEDROOM

Semi public

Toilet

PLAN

SECTION THROUGH FIRE PLACE SECTION THROUGH LIVING

LUXURY VILLA KEY PLAN

Planning N
•Pure geometrical plan.
• Brick dome at
entrance.
•Private patio with
hammocks.
• Luxurious living
room FORM
•Fire place in the living
area.
•Enclosed gardens
provided outside the BEDROOM

washrooms.
•Bathroom with natural LIVING
lighting
•Total area
– 109 sq.m.

BEDROOM

PRIVATE
ZONE
TOP VIEW PLAN
SEMI PUBLIC

TOILET

SECTION
PRESIDENTIAL VILLA KEY PLAN
•The presidential suite offers N
ultimate pampering with two
bedrooms, dining area with
seating for 6, pantry, a discrete
kitchen, a private courtyard with
landscaped gardens, and plunge
pool.
•Entry covered with luxurious FRONT COURTYARD
greens and wooden pathway. 
•Different entry for services.
•Screen wall is provided behind
the bathing for private space.
•Roof is sloped towards circular
pool, towering chimneys into the
sky, act as an aesthetical element.
 
SWIMMING POOL

FIRE PLACE

LIVING AREA
TOILET

PRIVATE
ZONE

SEMI
PUBLIC
BEDROOM

TOILET

SERVICE
LIVING/ DINING

PLAN
HOTEL ROOM KEY PLAN
•Surrounded by
beautifully landscaped
gardens Premier
Room come in sets of
four.
•Area of one room- 45
sq.m.
• Rooms are abundantly
lit and have a little patio. N
FRONT
•G+1 floors.
• Different room for
different families just like
hotel.
•Screen wall in front of
bathing area for privacy.

BEDROOM SIDE VIEW

BACKYARD

PRIVATE ZONE

TOILET

PLAN
 KEY PLAN
7. SERVICE BLOCK

•At the left side of the site N

hidden by trees and
bamboo wall.
•Ground floor - dg set
room 135sq.m., plant room
152sq.m., transformer
room 38sq.m. SERVICE GATE
•Basement -3 water tank
storage - treated water
cap-125kl, fire water cap-
100kl, raw water cap-50kl.
•Service gate at the left of
the building for loading
and unloading.

CONTROL ROOM BAMBOO WALL

Entrance

Garbage
storage

PLAN

OTHER SERVICES
•Small service block is provided
at site level after some distance.
•These blocks are provided near
villas for quick service.
•Sewerage treatment block is
provided in the right corner of the
BACKYARD
site to treat the sewage disposal.
SERVICE PLAN
8. UTILITY BLOCK KEY PLAN
•Just after the service
block there is utility N
block which is basically
a staff block.
•Consists of staff
canteen and food
storage, linen at ground
floor
• Offices and training
centre at first floor.
•Loading of food in
utility
•Linenblock.
storage- 144sqm
•Food storage- 148sqm
•Canteen – 58qsm
CAFETERIA

HORIZONTAL
CIRCULATION

SERVICES

ADMIN

VERTICAL
CIRCULATION

UTILITY BLOCK SERVICE GATE CANTEEN

TRAINING CENTRE LINEN ROOM STORAGE ROOM

ARCHITECTURAL FORM AND CHARACTER
•The overall architectural design gives the feeling
that the building forms have spouted from the
nature itself.
•The sloping roofs, material used and landscaping
gives a natural character to the resort.

MATERIAL
Conventional bricks and R.C.C
External walls- Exposed brick cladding with bricks
on edges, jaali’s, cornice at top, corbelling. RED SANDSTONE FLOORING
Interior- A very rich look with neatly finished
walls, vitrified tile floors, wooden furniture, full
glass windows.

EXPOSED BRICK CLADDING VITRIFIED TILE FLOORING

IN RESTAURANT
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUE

Concrete
corners

SKYLIGHT PLAN
SKYLIGHT SECTION

MS
channel

Rainwater spout
(Sandstone)

RAINWATER SPOUT DETAIL

ELEMENTS

ARCH UNDER STAIRCASE CORNICE TOWER

CORBELLING BRICK AT 45 ANGLE BRICK ARCH

ARCHADE LIGHT SHELVES USED CHIMNEY

IN RESTAURANT FOR
NATURAL LIGHT

GLASS BRICKS SKYLIGHT JAALIS WITH GLASS BRICK DOME

BRICKS INFILL
LANDSCAPING
• SCULPTURES AND LIGHT LAMPS

Lord Buddha sculpture Low height lamps provided Provided in the courtyard of
near spa block along pathways spa area denotes balance and
stability in life
•Complete blend of hard and soft landscape which provides a true sense of space.
•WATER FEATURES

Cross bridge enhance the Falling water from a channel

beauty of pool area with fountain at higher level
enhance the beauty of pool area
•PATHWAYS

Cross pavers Stepping stones in spa block Concrete pathways

•TREES AND SITTING SPACES with grass pockets

Courtyard near for Lawn in front of the Amaltas, Mango, Champa

outdoor sitting 16m wide living (Area 4560 sq.m ) Ashoka, Gulmohar, Palm
INFERENCES

1. SITE PLANNING •All the areas are well segregated from

each other.
•Reception is near the entrance.
•Less scope of expansion.
•Service zone is properly designed.

2. SITE ZONING •All restaurants are placed at the centre

of resort which is good but at the same
time all villas are scattered at longer
distances with no interactive spaces.

3. SITE CIRCULATION •The parking near the entrance cause

minimum of disturbance.
• Drop-off point near the reception is
convenient for carrying luggage.
•Pedestrian paths worked out nicely
along with the landscaping and low
height lighting.

4. SERVICES •Provision of S.T.P for waste disposal

•Services are hidden from guests and
close to service road

5. LANDSCAPING •Dense trees are used to provide privacy

but at the same time it breaks the vision.

6. LOCATION Location of the resort is ideal as it is

away from the city area and is at
peaceful location.
CASE STUDY 2
THE KIKAR LODGE NATURE RETREAT
AND SPA, ROPAR, PUNJAB

INTRODUCTION
The Kikar lodge is located at the northern
periphery of the state Punjab in the
foothills of the Shivaliks. The Kikar Lodge
is India's First Private Forest Reserve
spread over 1800 acres of forest. Carved
out of the lush jungles of Punjab it is
remote
  and secluded but still offers all the
amenities for a comfortable and relaxing
stay.
CONCEPT – Creating a natural environment merging with surrounding.
It is named after the Kikar tree to provide the feel of nature. The Kikar Lodge offers
opportunities to discover wildlife in their natural habitat, walk through nature trails,
lounge near the pools, de-stress with a healing massage or enjoy a quiet evening
around the amphitheatre.
PROJECT PROFILE
TOTAL SITE AREA 1800 ACRES OF PRIVATE FOREST LAND
 

SITE UNDER THE RESORT 13 ACRES APPROX

  ARCHITECTS DESIGN INC., AR. PRASHANT

GABBA,NEW DELHI

OWNER AMARINDAR SINGH CHOPRA

YEAR OF COMPLETION 2007

/html/KikarLodge.htm
 LOCATION
The Kikar Lodge is located at Village Kangar, 5
Kms from Nurpur Bedi (District Ropar, Punjab)
and is about 27 kms from the Ropar city. It is
around 70 Km from Chandigarh and around 320
Km from Delhi.

APPROACH
Nearest railway station- Anandpur Sahib (14
kms)
 
Nearest bus stand – Nurpur Bedi (5 kms)
Nearest Airport – Chandigarh International
Airport.
The resort is accessed from the Nurpur Bedi via
narrow village road (approx.10’ wide ) and
following the signage’s along the road crossing
village habitat and the forest area leading to the
resort.
SITE ANALYSIS
CLIMATE- The temperature ranges from
minimum of 4 °C in winter to 45 °C in summer.
May and June are generally hottest months and
December and January are the coldest months.

RAINFALL-The average annual rainfall in

district is 775.6 mm. About 78 percent of the
annual rainfall is received during the period from
June to September

ALTITUDE- Average altitude of Kikar lodge is

1500 ft.(450m)

 
 SITE PLAN

CENTRAL
GARDEN FOREST VEIW N
COTTAGES

 
FOREST AREA
FOREST POOL SIDE
SPA COTTAGES
PAVED
PATH RECEPTION

HOUSE
KEEPING MAIN
SWIMMING
HOUSE
POOLS
DROP-OFF
FOREST AREA POINT
GARDEN VEIW
SERVICE
COTTAGES
AREA
SECURITY KIOSKS
ROOM

PARKING GARDEN AREA

MAIN ENTRY
The Site comprises of 8 Building Blocks:
1: The Reception Area
2: The Forest Spa
TOTAL SITE AREA 13 ACRES (5,66,280
3: Main House. SQFT.)
4: Swimming Pool
5: The Pool Side Cottages GROUND COVERAGE 25,345 SQFT. (4.48%)
6: The Forest View Cottages
TOTAL BUILT UP 28,700 SQFT.
7: The Garden View Cottages
AREA
8: Kitchen and Service
F.A.R ACHIEVED 0.05

Kikar lodge consists of 30 cottages which are scattered into three groups according to
their location and surroundings.
 
•Parking area is provided near the entrance about 500metres from the drop off point to
avoid disturbance .
•The Main House comprises of a multi cuisine restaurant ,bar ,lounge, kitchen and
amphitheatre.
•Service area and kitchen are placed at the back of the main house.
•There are two organic shape pools and one circular pool surrounded by pool side
 SITE ZONING PRIVATE ZONE – forest view
cottages, pool side cottages
, lake view cottages
SEMI-PUBLIC ZONE – forest
spa, swimming pool
PUBLIC ZONE – reception,
main house
SERVICE ZONE – kitchen,
servant’s quarter, house keeping
 

•All the zones of the resort are well segregated and the zoning of the resort is done
considering the privacy of the guests. Cottages are placed at some distance from the
public areas.
• The service and the staff area is kept in such a manner that the privacy of the private
area is not disturbed.
•Location of the Spa area is very contradictory as one has to go through reception in
order to reach spa area.

SITE ORIENTATION
•Randomly oriented especially the cottages which provide
a sense of nature.
•The Main house is a C-Shaped building forms an enclosed
courtyard
  towards the northwest.
•Most of the sun-shading has been done with the help of
landscaping.

SITE SURROUNDINGS
•The site is contoured and is surrounded by forest cover. FOREST VEIW
 SITE CIRCULATION

ROAD FROM ENTRANCE

TO DROP OFF POINT
STONE PAVED PATH

CEMENTED PATH FOR

SERVICES
EARTHEN PARKING
 

DROP- OFF
POINT

SECOND
GATE

FIRST
GATE

PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION
• Mainly the width is 1m
• Material –stone
VEHICULAR CIRCULATION
•Width of road - 4m
•Guest parking is provided just after the second gate about 500m from the main resort
area having capacity of around 50 cars.
•Rest all the movements in the resort are pedestrianised with the stone paths of varying
widths rolling up and down the slopes of the resort.
•Service parking is provided outside the main gate.

EARTHEN PARKING ROAD LEADING TO RESORT STONE PATHWAYS

 BUILDING BLOCKS

1. RECEPTION
N
•Rectangular shaped single
storey structure.
•Reception block has a
sloping roof and is
  surrounded by thick
  vegetation on all sides INTERIOR- RUSTIC
giving the feel of being KEY PLAN
in a hilly area.
•The reception hall has a
small waiting lounge
having capacity of 9 people. RECEPTION
• It has two doors, the one
entering from the parking OFFICES
and the second leading to TOILETS
the Forest Spa.

ENTRANCE
  TO FOREST SPA

RECEPTION
GENERAL
OFFICE
(3.6 X 3)m

TOILET
WAITING LOUNGE (2.4 X 1.8m
(6 X 8)m

MANAGER’S
OFFICE
(3.6 X 3)m

ENTRANCE

INFERENCE- Although small but gives a very warm and welcoming feel to guests.
 2. THE FOREST SPA
N
•The way across the reception leads to the Forest
Spa. 
•The spa has a Central courtyard building typology
and the courtyard has been planted with various
trees and plants with the bamboo plants giving
a pleasant contrast along with the water feature.
•The spa has two steam rooms , two massage rooms
,changing rooms and a lounge. KEY PLAN

SHETOILET
  VERANDAH HETOILET
(4.7 X 5)m
(6 X 5)m (4.2 X 5)m

  MASSAGE ROOM
(4.2 X 3)m
 
COURTYARD
MASSAGE ROOM
(4.2 X 3)m

STEAM
STEAM ROOM 2
LOUNGE ROOM 1
(4.2 X 3)m
(4.2 X 3)m (2.7 X 3)m

MASSAGE ROOM
ENTRANCE
STEAM ROOM
LOUNGE
CIRCULATION
TOILETS

ENTRANCE MASSAGE ROOM

INFERENCES-
•Size of courtyard is very small with no sitting space.
•Changing room and massage room are not attached.
•No reception is provided.
CENTRAL COURTYARD
3. THE MAIN HOUSE

•Double storey C shaped structure comprising of restaurant, lounge and kitchen on

ground floor and conference hall, recreation rooms, changing rooms on basement floor.
• The windows in the whole building block
has large glasses which offer the best view
of the beautiful nature.
Pheasants Nest
•A multi cuisine restaurant having capacity of 46 persons offers delectable Indian,
Continental and Chinese cuisine.
•The restaurant has windows on all the sides which reduces the need of artificial light
during the day but it increases the dependency on ac in summers.
•The interior flooring is done with rustic tiles which gives a earthy feel along with the
wooden furniture.
•The restaurant is attached with kitchen through a service door.
The Den
•A place to relax, read a book, or hear soft music. This area can also be used as a
private dining for a family or small group. It has a seating for 12 people.
.

KEY PLAN
 RESTAURA
NT
DEN
PHEASANTS NEST RESTAURANT
LOUNGE
KITCHEN
TOILETS

LOUNGE

ENTRANCE

TOILET
THE DEN
(5.7 X 5.1)m
(5.7 X 5.1)m

AMPHITHEATRE

GUEST
ENTRY
DN
STAFF
ENTRY LOUNGE
INDOOR
(5.3 X 5.2)m
RESTAURANT
(171 SQ. M)

KITCHEN
(5.3X 7)m

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

DN
 TOILET
(7.8 X 5)m N

ADVENTURE
SPORTS ROOM
(5.8X5.8)m UP
KEY PLAN
CHANGING
ROOMS
CONFERENCE (5X5)m
ROOM
(10.4X10.2)m
STORE
(5 X 5.7)m
RECREATIONAL AREA
(13.4 X6.4)m
SHED

SHED STAFF
CONFERENCE OFFICE
DINING
HALL 5.3X4.2)m
UP (5.3 X4.2)m
(7.1X15)m

BASEMENT PLAN
SERVICE ZONE
CONFERENCE

MAIN HOUSE BASEMENT RECREATIONAL

Conference rooms TOILETS
• There are two conference rooms and both
adjacently placed ,one has the capacity to
accommodate around 80 people and can
accommodate 24 people.
Kitchen
• Small in size (7x5m) but serves the purpose.
• Kitchen’s store is at lower level.

4. THE SWIMMING POOL AND THE SHACK

•There are two organic shaped pools situated at different
levels.
•The larger pool is at level 1.2m higher then the other
and has a depth of 1.5m whereas the lower pool has a
depth of 1.8m.
•There is also a small circular shaped pool for kids
which is only 0.6m deep.
• Two bamboo thatch roof kiosks are provided towards
the north side of the pool having seating capacity of
SWIMMING POOL
around 40 people and hosts a mini bar named The
 Watering hole.
•The deck around the pool extends into a large lawn
where children can play nearby while adults can swim
nearby.
•The lawn also has an open kitchen where guests can
enjoy cooking themselves.
INFERENCES-

CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA

ACCOMODATION
The resort has 30 cottages in total which are divided into three categories depending
upon their location and surroundings. These are 10 pool view ,12 forest view and 8
garden view cottages.

5. POOL VEIW COTTAGES

• There are total 10 pool side cottages further
comprising of Master Suites, Twin Cottages and N
Single Cottages and all the room have the view of
the pool and the bar area of the resort.
• The twin guestrooms have two single guestrooms
clustered together in a group.
• Flooring is done with premium teak hardwood along
with wooden highlights in the ceiling.
• The sloping roof in the cottage have been retained
  even in the interiors giving the feel of been in a hut. KEY PLAN
• The cottages here are beautifully arranged randomly
so that each one has its own privacy while still
beings closely placed.

 
TOILET
(1.8X2.8)m
FRONT FAÇADE OF
BEDROOM TWIN COTTAGES
(3.6X4.7)m

TOILET
(2.8X1.8)m
INTERIOR VEIW

OUTDOO
R DECK BEDROOM
(4.7X3.6)m
OUTDOOR
DECK

BEDROOM
TOP VEIW OF SLOPING ROOFS TWIN COTTAGE TOILETS
 OUTDOOR
DECK
SITTING
(3X2.2)m
TOILET OUTDOOR
DRESS.
(1.8X2.8)m DECK
BEDROOM (2.5X2.2)m
BEDROOM (8X5.2)m
(3.6X4.7)m TOILET
(2.5X3)m

BEDROOM MASTER SUITE

SINGLE COTTAGE TOILETS
• The Master Suites have separate living area
along with private sit out areas.
INFERENCES
•Cottages are randomly arranged to provide the
view
of the pool area and orientation is not given due
consideration.
N
6. FOREST VEIW COTTAGES

• At a short walk from reception block there are

twelve forest view cottages having there own
private sit out areas, a small garden and a
magnificent view of the forest. KEY PLAN
• All the cottages are placed around the central
  SKYLIGHT
garden having similar typology and furnishing.
• The bathrooms have skylights instead of
windows as a special features which provides a TOILET
lot of natural daylight and bring nature close in (3.6X2.6)m
every possible way.
• This cluster of cottages is best for the family
groups wanting to reside in close proximity.
INFERENCES
• Located far away from rest of the resort’s blocks.
• No privacy given to the outside sitting area.

BEDROOM
(3.6X5.4)m

OUTDOOR
DECK
CENTRALCOURTYARD EXTERIOR VEIW
6. GARDEN VEIW COTTAGES
N
• Double story north facing structure having 8
rooms divided into two deluxe suites and six
rooms.
• One central staircase is provided in each
building block leading to the first floor.
• Master suites have separate living areas with
an earthy feel, overlooking the lush green
meadow.  KEY PLAN
• Room on the upper floor have balcony in the
front facing the garden of the resort.
• The rooms on the ground floor have a
BEDROOM TOILET
verandah sit out in the front to enjoy the view
(4X5.8)m (1.8X2.8)m
of the garden.
• This block have flat roof and ceiling which is
different from the rest of the cottages of the
resort.
• The cottages are finished in a similar way as LOBBY
the other rooms of the resort. (3.6X3m
INFERENCE
•Do not have a very good location as they are VERANDAH SITTING
close to the approach road 1.8m wide

MASTER SUITE

BEDROOM
TOILET
LOBBY

ELEVATION
GARDEN
7. SERVANT ROOM AND SERVICES
• The area behind the main house is where the
N
servant rooms are placed along with the services
like laundry and the kitchen store.
• There is a kitchen court and a open space in the
center used or drying the laundry things.
• The view of entry of this area can be seen from
the drop off point hence spoils the ambience to
some extent.
  • It is not designed properly. KEY PLAN
 COURTYARD SERVANT’S QUARTER

SERVICES
Water supply
• The water used at the resort is harnessed primarily from the ground, as the rainfall in
the area is substantially less.
• The ground water which is pumped from the ground with the help of two
submersibles pumps and is stored in the underground tank and then is pumped into
the individual water tanks.

Waste Disposal
• The organic waste generated at the resort is dumped into a septic tank which is
converted into manure after a certain period of time.
• The plastic and other non-degradable waste is dumped at a separate area. This
dumped waste is taken off in the trucks from time to time and is sent for recycling
and disposing it off.

 Electricity
Due to the adverse climatic conditions of the place, it is required to provide air
conditioning in the summers and mechanical heating in the winters. Hence a large
amount of power is consumed at the resort.
The resort has power consumption of around 100 kVa in the peak summers.
Two diesel powered generators of 50 kVa each have been provided in the of power cuts.
ARCHITECTURAL FORM AND CHARACTER
The overall architectural design gives the feel that the building forms have sprouted
out form the nature itself. The sloping roofs, materials used, landscaping all done to
give a natural character to the resort.

MATERIALS USED
• The construction of the building blocks of the
resort has been done in the conventional brick and
. R.C.C construction.
• Finishing is done to provide rustic and earthy
experience to it so the external walls of the resort
has been given stucco finish. EXTERIOR
• Painted in the earth brown shade which gives it the
experience of mud walls.
• The brick wall in some area have not been
plastered but have been finished with pointing and
then painted in the same mud color giving the look
of stone construction.
• On the contrary the interior have been given a rich
look with neatly plastered and finished walls,
wooden furniture and well equipped rooms.
INTERIOR
SPECIAL DESIGN ELEMENTS
 Pseudo Walls
•Erected at the corners of each of the cottages.
•Finished in stucco in order to distinguish them
from the pointed brickwork of the walls.
•The walls have a wider base and narrow down as
they reach up to the roof.
•These pseudo walls on all the corners of the
buildings of the resort gives the resort a distinctive
special character to the architecture of the resort .

Plaster Highlights around windows and doors

• The windows and doors in the entire resort have
been highlighted with a 60 mm wide and 12 mm
projected plaster band all around.
• These bands have been painted in dark shades of
maroon, rust and brown which contrast very well
with the earthen look of the structure.

BANDS AROUND DOOR ,

WINDOW
Columns
• The columns in the front of the forest view
cottages have distinctive pillars which have a
pedestal at the bottom and a finial at the top all
made in brick work.
• These have been painted in contrasting colors
giving a distinctive look.

SIGNAGE
• Signage in the resort are also made to be as COLUMNS OF FOREST VEIW
associative with the nature as possible. COTTAGE
• These are made out of wooden logs and one can
find them at all the distinct places.
SLOPING ROOF
•Roof are made of RCC which gives the cottages its
true cherished appearance.
•These slopes have an integrated gutter in them.
•The sloping roof in the cottage have been retained
even in the interiors giving the feel of been in a hut.
SLOPING ROOF WITH GUTTER
LANDSCAPING
.
IMPORTANT FEATURE
• Landscaping being an important feature of the
nature resort, landscaping has been well tackled in
the whole resort.
• The entire resort is a crisscrossed by a number of
stone clad paths which connect the various areas of STONE PATHWAY
the resort.
• These paths have a firm foundation which is
around 150mm higher then the immediate
surrounding level over which the naturally
available stone has been put.
• These paths have been well lit with low level
lamps (600 mm ).

TREES LOW LEVEL LAMP

• The path in the resort have been highlighted with
the variety of plants and hedges.
• Various species of plants can be seen with the
bamboo plantation at the important junctions
attracting the attention due to its yellow colour.
• Medicinal plants can be seen in the spa courtyard.
• Flowering plants are spread all over the resort.
• The forest view cottages are located in a jungle of
Kikar Trees.
BAMBOO
WATER FEATURE
• Water fall as a special feature has been provided
between the two pools at different levels.
• Fountain has been provided outside the den of the
main house so that one can enjoy view while
reading or relaxing.

BAMBOO
.
OTHER ACTIVITIES AT THE RESORT

Indoors
One can enjoy the game of billiards and carom and
other board games inside the main house.

Outdoor
NIGHT SAFARI
The Kikar lodge offers a rare opportunity to see the
wild animals and birds in their natural habitat at dawn
or by night in the jeeps.

Adventure
The guest can go for a walk and cycling through the
marked trails in the 1800 acres of the reserved forest.
The guests can enjoy the Rappelling, Quad biking,
Zip line (2.2 km long). MOUNTAIN CYCLING

.
INFERENCES

Site Planning:
1. Site planning has been done taking the maximum advantage of the natural
topography and the surroundings.
2. All the areas are well segregated from each other and at the same time are easily
connected.
3. Natural trails and the scope of adventure activities in the area provide an additional
advantage to the resort.
4. Being situated in the private forest, it has endless scope of expansion.
5. The garden view cottages do not have a very good location as they are close to the
approach road to the resort and also have a view of kitchen court.
6. Service zone is not properly designed.

Site Zoning:
7. All the zones of the resort are well segregated and the zoning of the resort is done
considering the privacy to the visitors occupying the cottages.
8. The location of the Forest view cottages is very far off from the main areas.
3. Location of the Spa is very contradictory. It should have been located in somewhat
more of an informal area.
Site Circulation:
1. Parking area has been provided near the entrance which helps in retaining more of
the natural character and cause minimum of disturbance.
2. However the drop-off point near the reception area is very convenient for carrying
luggage.
3. Pedestrian paths have been worked out nicely along with the landscaping and the
paths are also well guided with signage's.
4. The village road and the parking to get very messy during the rainy season.

Spatial Planning:
5. The cottages are well equipped and the private sit-outs with all the cottages is
perfect for nature conscious guests.
6. The restaurant, bar, shack and the swimming pools have been well integrated in
terms of aesthetics and utility.
7. Provision of small swimming pool along with bigger swimming pool is a good
feature.

Services:
8. Waste disposal at the resort is done in better way thus not spoiling the natural
surroundings.
9. High energy consumption is a serious issue for the nature resort in future.
10. No alternative source of energy has been put to use other then using diesel generator
in case of power cuts whereas natural means of energy consumption should have
brought in use to generate energy.
COMPARITIVE ANALYSIS

PARAMETERS WESTIN KIKAR LODGE ANALYSIS

SOHNA RESORT
RESORT
Concept •Reviving the Creating a natural
vernacular idea environment
•The architectural merging with
expression has surrounding.
remained
consistent by
coherent use of
exposed
brickwork.

Zoning & Proper zoning •Site planning has So as to

planning All restaurants been done taking maintain the
placed at center the maximum privacy proper
which is good but advantage of the zoning is a must
at the same time natural topography
all villas are and the
scattered at surroundings.
longer distances •All the zones of
with no the resort are well
interactive segregated but
spaces. service areas are
exposed.

Circulation •The parking Entire resort is

near the entrance pedestrianized and All areas should
cause the vehicle Easily be
Minimum of movement is accessible
disturbance.. restricted to the From all parts
•Pedestrian paths parking lot near the via ramps,
worked out nicely entrance. Corridors,
pathways etc.
along with the
landscaping and
low height
lighting.

Parking 60-65 car parking 50-55 car parking Proper parking

space was space was acc. To norms
provided which provided
was insufficient insufficient
parking.
COMPARITIVE ANALYSIS

PARAMETERS WESTIN KIKAR LODGE ANALYSIS

SOHNA RESORT
RESORT
Landscaping •The natural •Should be
•Properly topography and the landscaped for
landscaped with mounds provide a harmonious stay
full access of pool multilevel design
and views to all. and the pedestrian
•Levels are pathway along
created which these contours give
gives a pleasant the resort a good
view. aesthetic appeal.

•Barrier free • Not at all. •Barrier free •Should be

•Environment mostly barrier free for
easement
•Architectural •Geometric forms •Mostly
statement have been rectangular shaped •Free flowing
(Form and used( for e.g blocks. for a resort
character) Pyramid shapes •Pseudo walls,
used for plaster highlights
meditation , around windows
suites in form of and doors
rectangles) •Sloping roof to
•Levels have been give feel of hut
created to make it
look more
interesting.

•Material used •Bricks are used •The conventional •Eco friendly

in innovative way construction materials
•Glass used to material have been should be used
give skylights used in the resort. like bamboo,
•Clay tiles are thatch etc
used at sloping
roofs of
restaurants.

•LIGHTING •Skylights are •Large windows •Mostly spaces

given in most of are given. should be
the areas. •Skylight given in naturally lit
forest view
cottages
LIBRARY CASE STUDY
RANN RIDERS RESORT, DASADA, GUJARAT

INTRODUCTION
Rann Riders is an ethnically designed eco-resort, set
among agricultural fields and wetlands, near the
village of Dasada. It is an ideal base to explore the
Little Rann of Kutch Wildlife Sanctuary, picturesque
villages and pastoral settlements, the handlooms and
handicrafts of Surendranagar district, and architectural
masterpieces like Modhera and Patan.
•Rann Riders is family-owned and run.
•The owners descend from Baktiar-ud-din who was given the 24 sq mile Jagir of
Dasada and its surrounding villages in return for military services provided to the Sultan
of Gujarat in the 15th century. 
•In keeping with the tradition of their ancestors, the owners of Dasada assure visitors of
undivided attention and the hospitality of the Kathiawad region.

CONCEPT
The design of the project involved the decoding of the psychological images and the
memories prevalent in the rural areas that of resembling the kooba houses of the Bajania
community of Dasada and the bhunga houses of the Rabaris of the Kutch.

PROJECT PROFILE

TOTAL SITE AREA 20 ACRES

OWNER OWNED BY THE DESCENDENTS OF

THE FORMER RULERS OF DASADA

NO. OF COTTAGES 22
NO. OF RESTAURANTS 1

YEAR OF COMPLETION 1990

http://www.rannriders.com/
LOCATION
Rann riders resort is located in a village named
Dasada which is 90 kms from Ahmedabad and 12
kms from little Rann of kutch.

SITE SURROUNDINGS
The site is surrounded by agricultural fields and
wetlands.

SITE APPROACH
By road
The resort is approached by National highway-18. INDIA
By Air
Ahmedabad is the nearest international and domestic
airport to Dasada. The drive from Ahmedabad airport
to Dasada takes about two and half hours to three
hours.
By Rail
Ahmedabad, 90 km from Dasada, has rail connections
to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and
other cities. Viramgam is the nearest railway station.
It has train connections to Mumbai. Dasada is a 30 km
drive from Viramgam.
GUJARAT MAP
SITE ANALYSIS
CLIMATE- This is one of the hottest areas of India – with summer temperatures
averaging and peaking at 49.5 °C. Winter temperatures can go below 0 °C 
RAINFALL-Average annual rainfall is 355mm.
SITE PLAN
•The site covers an area of 20 acres , of which a
part of land is reserved for horse riding,
agriculture and future expansion.
• Encompassed by wetlands, Rann Riders is an
eco-accommodating resort innovatively composed
utilizing neighborhood materials.
•Facilities are in cabins, taking after the kooba
places of the Bajania people group of Dasada and
the bhunga places of the Rabaris of Kutch,
improved with mirrors, mud-mortar work and
weavings. CREEK FLOWING ALONG
•The resort has a small lake ,lawns, gardens with THE BOUNDARY
sit-outs.

AGRICULTURA
L LAND

COTTAGES

RESTAURANT

RECEPTION

LAWN INFRONT OF RESTAURANT LAKE

ACCOMODATION
•Each of the cottages has a twin-bedroom, with a comfortable cane bed, a dry dressing
area and a tiled bathroom.
•Cottages are decorated with mirrors, mud-plaster work and embroideries.
•Inside, the cottages are a superb hybrid of traditional decor and modern comforts.

PLAN

ELEVATION

PLAN
ELEVATION

DELUXE ROOMS STANDARD ROOMS

•Cottages are traditionally Indian in character.

•Sun dried bricks ,bamboo ,wood and thatch
are used as construction materials.
•This type of house is quite durable and
appropriate for prevalent desert conditions.
•Thatch and bamboo are used as a roofing
material in standard rooms whereas Manglore
tiles are used in deluxe rooms.
SECTION

SITTING SPACE OUTSIDE

INTERIOR VEIW
DELUX ROOMS
FACILITIES
•Flamingo is an open restaurant surrounded by
greenery.
•It offers Continental ,Chinese and Indian cuisine
that can be served on the buffet table or camp-style
around a fire.
•Rann Riders has an attractive dining hall and an
ethnically-designed kitchen using mainly fresh
local produce. FLAMINGO RESTAURANT
•The resort has a small lake, garden with sit-outs
and hammocks.
•Activities include horse Safari, visit to bird
sanctuary ,Jeep and camel cart safaris in the Rann
of Kutch.
•A swimming pool that doubles as an irrigation
tank recycling pool water for agriculture.
•Extensive open areas for outdoor games.
DESIGNELEMENTS NEARBY WETLAND

WOODEN BEAM SWIMMING POOL

MUD PARAPET WITH JALI RURAL ART ON WALLS

PATHWAY MEANDERING SMALL WATER LILY POND

BETWEEN DENSE BUSHES
SITE ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
Keshopur chhamb community reserve
(KCCR) is located around the latitude 32°5’N
and longitude 75°24’E at an altitude of 245m
above sea level situated in Gurdaspur district.
The resort site is at Gurdaspur-Behrampur
road directly connecting to the state highway
(SH)-25.
The resort site is spread in an area of 21 acres
and is a wetland.

TOPOGRAPHY

The altitude of this area is about 245 metres above sea level and the terrain is plain and
flat. The wetlands are depressions formed in the region and are mostly shallow having
depth upto 4’ max. Most of the adjoining area is under intensive agricultural practice and
drainage is good.
The slope of the site is towards the south-west direction.

CLIMATIC
  DATA

The summers extend from April to July and the winter season from November to March.
In the summers the temperature goes as high as 45°C , while in the winters it fall as low
as 4°C.

RAINFALL

About 70% of the rainfall is received from the south-west monsoon which arrives in the
first week of July and continues up to the end of August. The average rainfall received is
800- 1200mm.

FOREST COVER IN KESHOPUR

The overall land being a marshy area, the plantation is scattered in terms of trees. As the
water level fluctuates during the different seasons, there are seasonal herbs, shrubs and
grasses providing excellent habitat for different migratory birds.

SITE ORIENTATION AND WIND MOVEMENT

Site is east- west oriented and wind direction is
North-west to South-east .

N
LOCAL BYE LAWS
•Total site area -84,983.98 sq.m. (21 acres approx.)
•Permissible ground coverage – 40%
•Maximum permissible F.A.R - 3
•Parking – 2 ECS/100 sq.m.
•Width of approach road (m) Front open space (m)
Upto 7.5 - 1.5
7.5 -18 - 3.0
18-30 - 4.5

•Height of building (m) Side and rear open (m)

10 - 3
15 - 5
18 - 6
24 - 8
30 - 10

DETAILED REQUIREMENTS

ACTIVITY AREA(IN SQ.M.)

 

RECEPTION AND 200

ADMINISTRATIVE AREA 20
1. Reception+ Lounge 150
2. Public toilets 10
3. Admin area
4. Pantry 85
RESTAURANT AND KITCHEN 70
5. Lounge (for 60) X 0.8 18
6. Coffee shop(for50)x0.7 20
7. Coffee shop’s kitchen(temp.)25% 170
8. Bar + lounge(for 50)x0.7 85
9. Restaurant(for 100)x1.7 80
10. Restaurant(for 50)x1.7+dining hall 40
11. Main kitchen 20+20
12. Liquor store+1 room for storage 40

13. Toilets

 
 COTTAGES
1. Standard cottage 55
2. Family cottage 100
3. Pool cottage 75
4. Lake villas 60
BANQUET
5. Banquet’s foyer 200
500
6. Banquet hall 80
7. Banquet storage 40
8. Toilets 75
9. Store

 
DETAILED REQUIREMENTS
ACTIVITY AREA(IN SQ.M.)
HEALTH CLUB
1. Gymnasium 125
2. Entrance 35
3. Manager’s room 15
4. Attendant’s room 10
5. Pantry 20
SWIMMING POOL
6. Pool area + shower room + 500+10+10=520
changing room
SPA
7. Changing room 20
8. Toilet + shower 20
9. Sauna 15
10. Steam 15
11. Massage 20
O.A.T 180
SERVICES
12. Staff area
13. Toilet & lockers 70
14. Employee dining area 45
15. Linen 40
16. Laundry  65
17. Furniture storage 25
18. Electrical 10
19. Plumbing 40
20. Generator room 40
INDOOR RECREATIONAL
AREA + OUTDOOR OPEN
SPACE
21. Entrance lobby 80
22. Lounge 40
23. Gaming zone 250
24. Toilets 15+15

 
DESIGN CRITERIA
After the calculation of detailed requirements of the project is the design criteria which
includes various design features that are taken into consideration before designing and
since my site is on a wetland the design criteria needs to address lots of issues. The major
factors that govern the planning are topography, climatic conditions, orientation, traffic
movement, available usable spaces, sources of water supply, natural drains and paths.

ZONING Private
Semi-public
Understanding the aspects of various
Semi-public Private
spaces with the idea of creating the
tourist friendly design one must provide
Public
segregation
  between various zones of
the resorts. Private
Zoning aspect not only segregates
various zones with respect to their use Entry/ Public
but also provides strong connectivity. Exit

ORIENTATION
Since there is wide range of seasonal
variation and hot climate is prominent SW
for most of the year, so for designing the
various blocks of the resort the
orientation (sun movement) aspect plays
a vital role and should be followed to
the maximum extent. The orientation of
the houses is to minimize the
penetration of the sun rays. Green open
spaces should be given in the south-west N
direction to cater the harsh sun.
Similarly wind direction should also be
considered while designing. Water NE
bodies should be given in the wind ward
direction.

CIRCULATION
Segregation of vehicular and pedestrian
movement by providing pedestrian
linkages between various block of the
resort and restricting vehicular
movement to parking lot only and rest
whole of the resort would be
pedestrianized and use of electric cabs
will be made for the movement in the
resort.
ELECTRIC CART
ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER
•CONSTRUCTION
 The soil type at the site is loamy with
clay content below 10%. Although the
soil is not prone to settlement but due to
the high water table in the wetlands, raft
foundation shall be used.
 Raft foundation are suitable on grounds
of low bearing capacity such as wetlands.
 They are ideal for poor ground condition
where normal footings would not cope
well as they cannot spread the load as
effectively.

• MATERIAL
 Materials that have less impact on
environment and do not contribute to the
indoor air pollution.
 Bamboo ,brick earth, thatch, in
landscaping and designing part to give
the feel of being close to nature.

•DESIGNING

 Design the various blocks of the resort

so that they require less energy and are
healthier for the users.
 Proper openings will be designed to
gain maximum daylight reducing load
  on artificial lighting and proper cross
ventilation when required.
 Solar passive techniques will be used
for controlling the internal temperature
at lower cost.
OVERHANGS
 Sloping roofs giving being in a hut
feeling and close to nature.

•SITTING AREAS

These spaces shall be incorporated by

constructing step creating the levels . the
sitting areas shall be facing activities or the
water body.
SITE PLAN
GROUND FLOOR WITH SURROUNDINGS
BIBLIOGRAPHY

www.punjabtourism.gov.in
www.google.maps.com
en.wikipedia.org
http://www.wwfindia.org/about_wwf/critica
l_regions/keshopur_shalapattan/about
http://www.business-standard.com/article/pt
i-stories/develop-keshopur-chhamb-sanctuar
y-as-tourist-destination-114022600912_1.ht
ml
www.kikarlodge.com
http://www.rannriders.com/
http://www.rannriders.com/