Making Sense of Architecture

Sandeep (left) and Sankalp (right)

Sandeep K. Jha and Sankalpa gave a very interesting joint talk on the paradigms of architecture and what it means to be an architect. In this presentation, they broadly explored three themes. They first started with exploring the very genesis of the idea of being an architect and traced it all the way back to his Vidyapith days. The second theme was to explore the potential of architecture as a career. And finally they went on to talk about architecture as a procession which laid out in front of the audience the things which architects actually do. 

Sandeep da pointed out that Vidyapith itself was a model environment in terms of its sustainability and environmental impact.  He argued that our beloved campus is zero waste and self sustainable in addition  to being architecturally very sound. He pointed out aspects such as thick walls, traditional brick tile roofing, lime plaster, cross ventilation etc. which makes Vidyapith such a comfortable and efficient architectural compound. Moving on, Sandeep da went on to talk about aspects which are necessary in order to have architecture as a potential career. He argued that it is very important to have Creativity, Visualisation, Communication, and Drawing as key skills to excel in this field.  He went on to share a number of fascinating quotes on architecture in order to bring out its true essence and beauty. In the third phase, he talked about what architects essentially do. The essential motto, as he pointed out here, “is to create places and spaces which enrich the lives of those who use them.” He then went on to share real life examples of how particular areas have been turned into incredible liveable spaces built on the shoulders of the giant that is architecture. He also went on to share a number of beautiful photographs of architectural masterpieces that he has worked on or collaborated with.

It was a fascinating talk which was thoroughly enjoyed by the participants. To explore the nuances of architecture was quite a new topic, and Sandeep da was able to bring its essence in all its glory. The talk ended with a vote of thanks to the speakers on behalf of the Praktani for his valuable time and energy.