HOLISTIC CENTRE pg.

1
 VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
“Jnana Sangama”, Belgaum – 590 018

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROJECT (THESIS) 2016 – 2017

“HOLISTIC CENTRE, KERALA”

In partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree

Bachelor of Architecture

Submitted by: RAYANA RAJ

Guide: Prof. Ar. KINJAL SHAH

ACHARYA’S NRV SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE

(AFFLIATED TO VTU, BELGAUM, ACCREDITED BY COA, AICTE, NEW DELHI)
Acharya Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Road, Soldevanahalli, Bangalore – 560090

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 2

 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this is a bonafide record of the Architectural Design Project completed by Ms.
RAYANA RAJ of VIII semester [Link], USN number 1AA13AT073 on project titled

“HOLISTIC CENTRE” in Thrissur, Kerala, India.

This has been submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of B. Arch awarded by
VTU, Belgaum during the year 2016-2017.

Dean, Ar. Kinjal Shah,

Acharya’s NRV School of Architecture, Thesis Guide,
Bangalore -560107 Assistant Professor

External examiner 1 External examiner 2

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 3

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Completion of this thesis was possible with the support of several people.

I am grateful to Prof. Vasanth K. Bhat, Prof. Anjana Biradar and our thesis Coordinator Prof. Priya Joseph for
inspiring us to achieve success in all our endeavors. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my thesis guide,
Prof. Kinjal Shah for her constant guidance and support. I am extremely happy to mention my special thanks to our
motivating thesis panel for their encouragement and supervision. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Prof.
Shwetha Mattoo for her advice and motivation.

Visits to the various Holistic Centres in Bangalore and Kerala gave me a better understanding and functioning of such
centres. Thanks are due to the management of these centres for guiding me through their facilities.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Staff members of Acharya’s NRV School of Architecture for their
help and support during my study over the last four years.

My heartfelt thanks to my parents who stood by my side through it all.

Above all, I owe it all to Almighty God for granting me the wisdom, health and strength to undertake this research
and enabling me to complete it.

Rayana Raj

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 SUMMARY

A holistic centre is a unique facility that helps restore the natural balance of your mind, body and spirit by combining
modern medical advancements, ancient medical techniques and complementary therapies used worldwide.

Holistic concepts of health and fitness view achieving and maintaining good health as involving more than just taking
care of all the various components that make up the physical body. Attention must be paid to aspects such as emotional
and spiritual well-being as well. The goal is a wellness centre that encompasses the entire person.

Open spaces located between the buildings and the surrounding environments will provide a sense of direction by
integrating & organizing different spaces and elements. They also provide an aesthetic sense by involving attractive
surroundings and creating visual surprises .The natural scenery and relaxing atmosphere in open spaces provide fresh
air. Direct contact with natural elements as well as views of nature can provide restoration.

The built environment and the spaces it creates should not be seen as only a physical surrounding, but as an
interconnection between conscious and subconscious. The physical surroundings have a direct relationship with how
a person reacts and behaves.

The project aims at creating architecture that enhances healing by acting as a medium between human mind and nature.
The design strives to articulate an architectural language that serves as a catalyst for the built environment to carry its
occupants to a greater existence.

To create buildings that harmoniously connect to the earth as if the architectural form was destined to be there.
Inhabitants will feel like they truly belong on this earth and find purpose in their existence.

Restorative design elements include experimentation with light, creating a healing atmosphere, blending nature with
design.

To sum up the aim of the project, to raise up architectural marvels that mirror the environment and communities they
are born from , a work of architectural excellence that provide the right setting to present to people ,a plethora of
immersive and authentic experiences leading them to increasing wholeness and happiness .

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 5

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page No.
Chapter 1 7
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Site
1.3 Context and scope
1.4 Limitations
1.5 Aim
1.6 Objectives
1.7 Technology
1.7.1 Role of spaces
1.7.2 Role of nature
1.7.3 Role of light
1.7.4 Built form

Chapter 2 : Electives 13
2.1 Ecology and Architecture

2.2 Housing

Chapter 3 : Literature studies 24

3.1 Naman spa, Vietnam
3.2 Kamalaya , Thailand
3.3 Swaswara, Gokarna

Chapter 4 : Case studies 41

4.1 Carnoustie, Alleppey

4.2 Ayurvedgram, Bangalore

4.3. Naamah, Kerala

Chapter 5 :Inference and requirements 55

Chapter 6: Bibliography 56

Chapter 7 : Design

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 CHAPTER 1

1.1 Introduction:

A holistic centre is a unique facility that helps restore the natural balance of your mind, body and spirit by combining
modern medical advancements, ancient medical techniques and complementary therapies used worldwide.

A holistic doctor may use all forms of health care, from conventional medication to alternative therapies, to treat a
patient.

For example, when a person suffering from migraine headaches pays a visit to a holistic doctor, instead of walking
out solely with medications, the doctor will likely take a look at all the potential factors that may be causing the
person's headaches, such as other health problems, diet and sleep habits, stress and personal problems, and preferred
spiritual practices. The treatment plan may involve drugs to relieve symptoms, but also lifestyle modifications to help
prevent the headaches from recurring.

1.2 Site

The selected site is situated in Mudikkode which is located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India .Located on the
outskirts of the city, the site provides a calm, quiet atmosphere and forms the perfect location to house a holistic centre.
The site is surrounded by estates and a water body.

With the vast expanse of green plantations and landscaped spaces rolling to the rhythm of the site, it provides the
perfect opportunity to create spaces that integrate the built structures and natural features present on the site. This aids
the user to develop a deeper connection with nature and find inner peace.

The site includes plantations like coconut, mango, pepper and pineapple .The materials from the plantations can be
used for construction of the structures. Using materials which are native to the site and by incorporating natural
features present on the site will help the users develop a deeper connection with nature. The produce of the plantations
can be consumed as they are organic and free from harmful pesticides. Workshops can be conducted to increase
awareness about these plantations and cultivation of these organic crops.

1.3 Context and Scope

The increase in the number of stress related issues over the recent years have led to majority of the people turning to
holistic centres for treatments. Such centres continue to become popular owing to its natural methods of treatment and
its promising results with minimal or no harmful side effects unlike allopathy.

According to the ancient books of knowledge, health is considered as a prerequisite for achieving the supreme ends
of life consisting of righteousness, wealth, artistic values and spiritual freedom. India’s rich culture and traditions sets
it apart from rest of the world. India is an ideal destination that guarantees holistic experiences like nowhere else.

India has seen a steady increase in medical tourism .Patients from various countries are becoming medical tourists to
India for low-cost and heath-restorative alternative treatments through a combination of Ayurveda , yoga, acupuncture
,herbal oil massage, nature therapies ,and some ancient Indian healthcare methods –such as Vedic care ,an alternate
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 7
health care service. Cost advantage is the attractive aspect of Indian modern medicine which is 10-15 times lower than
anywhere in the world.

Kerala possesses an unbroken tradition of Ayurveda that has surpassed the many invasions and intrusions both foreign
and native. For hundreds of years the Ayurveda Vaidyas were almost the only access for people seeking healing from
every kind of disease in Kerala. Being the only resort of treatment for the people, the Vaidyars of Kerala were
challenged to interpret the theories of Ayurveda and adapt them actively into effective healing systems in everyday
life. Thus almost all the contemporary procedures and protocols of Ayurveda have evolved in and around Kerala.

Its pleasant climate, natural abundance of forests and the cool monsoon season are best suited for Ayurveda's curative
and restorative packages. Kerala is one of the few places on earth where a temperature of 24-28 degrees is maintained
during a period of continuous rain. The presence of moisture in the air and on the surface of the skin makes it the ideal
place for natural medicines to work at their highest levels of potency. The land is also blessed with innumerable
medicinal plants and provides the continuity and consistency of Ayurveda medicines needed for effective treatment
procedures. The same herbs with the same potency are available year after year across every season. The rich alkaloid
content of the soil enhances the intensity and potency of many Ayurvedic medicines when compared to places with
different soil constitution.

The health care business has historically grown at 12 percent per annum and is expected to grow faster in the coming
years. One of the initiatives include AYUSH. The Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha
and Homoeopathy, abbreviated as AYUSH, is a governmental body in India purposed with developing, education and
research in Ayurveda (Indian traditional medicine), yoga, naturopathy, unani, siddha, and homoeopathy. Ayurvedic
medicaments and their by-products constitute an important part of the Indian Foreign Trade. A continuously growing
trend had been observed in India’s foreign trade with respect to Ayurvedic related items with respect to export, import
and net value addition. Indian herbal market is nearly Rs. 5000 crores, which has an annual growth of 14%. 100 crores
worth of herbal product, ingredients, and extracts are being exported. Balanced modalities of integrated medicine, if
well implemented, would make India a global leader in health matters.

1.4 Limitations

Holistic centres that depend on architectural built form and elements of nature along with traditional methods of
healing are catalysts and do not guarantee complete healing .On the other hand alopathy seems to bring about
immediate relief.

Most of these centres have semi open spaces that allow ventilation and natural light to flood in. Fresh air into a building
does have a minor drawback – it may result in a building’s interior environment to become dustier or noisier.

1.5 Aim

Frank Lloyd Wright said that the mission of an architect is to help people understand how to make life more beautiful,
the world a better one for living in, and to give reason, rhyme and meaning to life.

1) The project aims at creating architecture that enhances healing by acting as a medium between human mind and
nature.

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By creating an architectural language that serves as a catalyst as the built environment can carry occupants to a greater
existence. It only makes sense that such centres should be designed with architecture that not only becomes one with
the earth, but embraces and enhances it – a loving experience of wholeness and harmony, creating balance and sense
of oneness. The shapes, colours and incorporation of natural light and forms should be paid careful attention to because
of the impact they have on people.

Frank Lloyd Wright believed “a good building is not one that hurts the landscape, but is one that makes the landscape
more beautiful than it was before that building was built.”

By consciously considering the site’s context when designing the built environment, architecture will unconsciously
affect the people it holds.

2) The result not only aims at the well-being of people but also to promote architecture at a micro –level and macro
level with respect to the site by using locally available materials and styles native to the site.

3) Such centres attract people from around the world and form a tourist attraction .This is turn boosts the economy of
the state and the country as a whole.

1.6 Objective

Holistic concepts of health and fitness view achieving and maintaining good health as involving more than just taking
care of all the various components that make up the physical body. Attention must be paid to aspects such as emotional
and spiritual well-being as well. The goal is a wellness centre that encompasses the entire person. This form of
alternative treatment is now gaining popularity as people choose to bond with the dynamics of nature.

Our understanding of how design influences our mental and physical states is very crude. We are triune beings who
experience the built world primarily on aesthetic terms, but do not yet understand that design elements can also impact
our mental and spiritual beings .Our buildings must not only respond to the site, program and budget, but also help us
to achieve wholeness in spirit, soul and body.

The old dichotomies of body versus mind and nature versus culture are giving way to a far more subtle understanding
of human interdependence. We now possess the tools and the skills to explore and understand our relationship with
the built world as never before. We cannot afford to ignore this inter-relationship with our built environment.

By understanding the biological basis for workplace stress, we understand the potential for induced illness within the
cognitive environment as well as how to induce wellness. By understanding how human brains lead some people to
find their way to wholeness more easily than others, we may be able to provide facilities that stimulate well-being.
Neuro-theology research explores how ritual behaviour elicits brain states that bring on deep spiritual unity.
Understanding how the feeling of "sacred" is present in the mind of a visitor in a religious structure will enable
architects to evaluate more elevating designs.

1.7 Technology

Open spaces located between the buildings and the surrounding environments will provide a sense of direction by
integrating & organizing different spaces and elements. They also provide an aesthetic sense by involving attractive

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surroundings and creating visual surprises .The natural scenery and relaxing atmosphere in open spaces provide fresh
air. Direct contact with natural elements as well as views of nature can provide restoration. The health effect of
exposure to visual landscapes were examined with diverse approaches, such as neuroscience (blood pressure and heart
rate tests), behaviours (days of recovery), perceptions (self –reported emotions and well-being) etc. Study reveals that
natural landscape gives stronger positive health effect compared to urban landscapes.

1.7.1 Role of spaces

Environment psychology research has identified that architecture can affect human health through stimulation.
Architectural stimulation describes the amount of information in a space that is imposed upon users. Human beings
function optimally with moderate levels of stimulation. Lack of stimulation or, insufficient stimulation and too much
of stimulation can cause a sense of deprivation or distraction. For moderate or appropriate stimulation, layout,
circulation, control, flexibility and responsiveness are key architectural factors.

Insufficient spatial resources, inflexible spatial arrangements and lack of climatic controls, all threaten individual
needs to effectively interact with the space. However, the stimulation brought by an open space, must be moderate.
The space must be flexible to embrace individual needs and social interactions.

The built environment and the spaces it creates should not be seen as only a physical surrounding, but as an
interconnection between conscious and subconscious. The physical surroundings have a direct relationship with how
a person reacts and behaves.

Human beings as a whole have developed the physical world as it is today, but without realizing how the world
negatively impacts human beings on an individual level. Humans have affect over the environment, but in tandem,
the environment has affect over humans. When a person is experiencing a mental health issue, they feel like there is
no supporting ground or reason for their existence – metaphorically speaking, a disorder in lived space. It is said that
the phenomenology of the unconscious mind plays a vital role in psychotherapy because several underlying issues lay
within sub consciousness. If repeated flashes of ideas, memories or skewed interpretations of physical reality can in
fact result in poor mental health, then it can be assumed that repeated exposure to physical spaces that create a positive
subconscious response can be used to better mental well-being.

In order to physically get from one room to another, one must go through a doorway or a corridor or a combination or
series of both. The aim is to create spaces that will take the user through a journey and provide an experience through
the sequential relationship of the spaces.

1.7.2 Role of nature

The project aims at creating architecture that enhances healing by acting as a medium between human mind and nature.
The design strives to articulate an architectural language that serves as a catalyst for the built environment to carry its
occupants to a greater existence.

It only makes sense that spiritual centres should be designed with architecture that not only becomes one with the
earth, but embraces and enhances it – a loving experience of wholeness and harmony, creating balance and sense of
oneness.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 10

To create buildings that harmoniously connect to the earth as if the architectural form was destined to be there.
Inhabitants will feel like they truly belong on this earth and find purpose in their existence.

Restorative design elements include experimentation with light, creating a healing atmosphere, blending nature with
design. Certain types of settings that are designed with the intent to uplift the human spirit, and promote healing offers
opportunities to combat stress by providing recovery or rest. Of all the healthy design strategies that can be used,
plants are the most important in bringing nature back. Open spaces draw people outwards to interact with nature
thereby creating a healing environment for the users. Providing diverse architectural & landscaped elements will
encourage the users to discover the environment as part of their treatment.

People perceive their surroundings using the sense of sight, touch, sound and smell. A design that takes into
consideration these sensations will enrich the users experience and awareness of the place. For the sense of sight,
diverse and dynamic composition of colour, texture and pattern of plants can improve the visual quality of the space.
For the sense of touch, the special texture of plants can draw people to touch them, and waxy leaves and fluffy flowers
can encourage direct interaction between people and natural elements. For the sense of sound, soft sounds in an
enclosed area would bring in a sense of serenity and can create a natural symphony that brings relief to people. The
soft sounds include plants that make sound with the rhythms of the wind and rain, birds and small insects that sing in
trees and a fountain of water. For the sense of smell, the scent of plants, varying from musky to fruity, may delight
the users of the space.

In 1984, medical researcher Roger Ulrich examined the hospital records of 46 patients who had undergone gallbladder
surgery in a suburban Pennsylvania hospital. During recovery, half of their beds faced windows that overlooked a
grove of trees. The other half had a view of a brick wall. Ulrich found that patients who could see the trees left the
hospital almost a full day sooner than those with a view of a wall. Studies have found that when people view scenes
that are universally preferred — a beautiful vista, a sunset, a grove of trees — the nerve cells connected to the visual
cortex in the opiate-rich pathway at the base of the brain become active, and the brain’s natural painkillers start
flowing.

Open spaces should make a place for art, design order and quality of space. Foci in space marks a place of significance.
Foci can visually dominate and, make a place distinct from its context and visually label each space for its users. It
can be used for recreational activities or as an assembly point. A meditation or recreational space constructed from
materials native to the site can be made the focus of the open space – built form integrated with the open spaces.

In order to spread the therapeutic healing elements of the garden into the indoor spaces, the design will incorporate
the landscape with the indoor spaces. Built spaces disturbed by courtyards will break the sequence of a series of built
spaces and will hence prevent monotony of space. A sequence of open spaces can connect a variety of places and
integrate these areas into a holistic system. The axial design makes circulation quick and easy and also connects
different parts of the centre together. Circulation space organizes spaces with surrounding buildings.

Courtyards surrounded by buildings produce natural stimulation via offering scenery and views for surrounding
buildings. Window views can effectively facilitate restoration for indoor users. Moreover, visual connection with open
spaces would lead to active use of open spaces. An open space that connects different areas of a campus by an axial
street forms a strong spatial structure in a campus.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 11

1.7.3 Role of light

Temperature and light are two key elements for a microclimate. Natural lighting minimizes the need for artificial
lighting in buildings and reduces electrical lighting loads, which can assist with cooling the temperature of buildings
because electrical lighting releases heat as a by-product. Natural lighting can potentially increase the operational
efficiency of both buildings and their occupants. According to Dr. Alan Lewis, a lecturer in architecture at Manchester
University, light has a physiological impact on people. Research has shown that visible light helps the human body to
regulate the production of the hormone melatonin, which in turn helps to regulate our body clock, affecting sleep
patterns and digestion. Visible light also helps to stimulate the body's production of the neurotransmitter serotonin,
which can reduce the symptoms of depression. Open to sky spaces allow light to pour into the surrounding rooms
without glare. Spaces around the courtyard stay well-lit during the daytime without artificial lighting. Natural
ventilation imports external air to benefit the occupants of buildings.

1.7.4 Built form

Design should be responsive to user needs, behaviours and requirements, offering users a freedom of choice and
control over their environment. The change in level creates individual spaces in a communal setting. Placing different
functions on different levels and by creating interesting spaces the built form takes the user through a journey and
creates various elements of surprise. The built form can be used to create interesting spaces by channelling movement
of the user from one place to another by using a sequence of contrasting spaces. For example, one may move through
a long narrow corridor lit with minimum lighting to a wide, spacious well lit hall which opens into a courtyard.

Interesting spaces can also be created through a play of levels. Placing different functions at different levels and
altering the height of the ceiling can create a positive impact on the user. Research demonstrates that variations in
ceiling height can evoke concepts that, in turn, affect how consumers process information.

Research has demonstrated that the size of a room can have an impact on the level of openness of people who meet
within it. In the research, large rooms were shown to encourage people to be more open and rooms with higher ceilings
were linked to increased levels of free, open, and creative thinking. One theory is that in high ceilinged rooms,
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individuals feel relatively unconstrained. It can therefore impact their thinking styles and cause the user to have a
larger perspective.

It is not just the size of space that has been found to have impacts on psychological functioning—the shape is important
too. Curvilinear spaces have been found to be judged much more beautiful than rectilinear spaces. It has also been
seen that it elicits a more positive emotional impact.

The book, “Healing Spaces: The Science of Place and Well-Being” by Esther M. Sternberg, explains the science and
research vis-à-vis the connection between health and environment, light, colour and nature.

CHAPTER 2 : ELECTIVES

2.1 ECOLOGY AND ARCHITECTURE

Ecology is the branch of biology that deals with the relationship of organisms with one another and with their physical
surroundings. A living system is an integrated whole whose properties arise from the relations between its individual
parts. The biotic components include plants, availability of food (fish and other prey) and parasites. The abiotic
components include temperature of the air, water, climate (rainfall, humidity, wind) the intensity of sunlight and its
orientation, oxygen availability and soil conditions. Irrespective of their size or habitat all organisms need to interact
with other organisms in their neighbourhood and their environment in order to survive. The surrounding environment
consists of biotic and abiotic components.

Ecological design is defined by Sim Van der Ryn and Stuart Cowan as “any form of design that minimizes
environmental destructive impacts by integrating itself with living processes.” Ecological design is an integrative
ecologically responsible discipline. It helps connect scattered efforts in green architecture, sustainable agriculture,
ecological engineering, ecological restoration and other fields. Since the Industrial Revolution, many propositions in
the design field were raised with unsustainable design principles. These principles involved using materials and
processes that polluted the air. For these issues, R. Buckminster Fuller demonstrated how design could play a central
role in identifying major world problems between 1965 and 1975 that included:

1. Review and analysis of world energy resources

2. Defining more efficient uses of natural resources such as metals
3. Integrating machine tools into efficient systems of industrial production

Threatened by the effects of global warming, the increase of the concentration of the greenhouse gases and the
depletion of the natural reserves have led people to consider about using resources, and to take precautions against
climate changes. Thus, the concept of sustainability came into the architectural agenda in order to diminish the
negative environmental impact of the buildings. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, buildings
account for nearly half of the world’s energy expenditures, 40% of greenhouse gas emissions, 25% of the earth’s
potable water, and, in developed countries, over 20% of all solid waste generated including food waste, yard waste
and un-recycled materials. These statistics clearly indicate the necessity to adopt sustainable design strategies as a
method to minimise environmental damage and reduce energy consumption.

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Buildings and their surrounding environment are tightly interconnected in many ways. Thermal comfort is a critical
issue in order to provide comfortable habitable spaces. Effects of production, transfer, storage and use of energy by
buildings affect the environment and ecology. Materials used for construction should be selected such that they are
not harmful to the environment. The origin of the materials used and their management at the end of their life should
be taken into careful consideration.

Eco-construction, also referred to as sustainable construction or green building aims at reducing the environmental
impacts of buildings. It brings together a set of techniques, materials and technologies which when suitably integrated
in a project, enhances its environmental performance. The construction methods in a green building respect the
environment and make efficient use of resources. A green building is a clean, sustainable building that uses little
energy and renewable resources and makes maximum use of recyclable and non-toxic materials. It also generates
minimal waste during the construction process and subsequent occupation. It also includes functional landscape
planning that requires less water and using indigenous greenery that thrives without additional watering.

Sustainable design therefore minimises both the initial environmental cost of building and the long term environmental
impact of the building by constructing efficient buildings that use only a fraction of the energy required to power and
heat traditional buildings. Sustainable design is not limited to new buildings, but can be incorporated into existing
buildings to increase their energy efficiency. Adding insulation, solar panels, and replacing traditional heating
systems with low-energy models are simple, well-known ways to bring any building more in line with principles of
green living.

The most effective buildings are those that are designed by sustainable architects from the conceptual stage. Innovative
green designs can be incorporated into almost every aspect of the construction process, allowing sustainable architects
to create a minimal-energy building that utilises the best that green technology has to offer. Ideal sustainable buildings
are able to promote the health of their occupants through the use of natural, renewable materials, can source their own
water and energy, and operate without polluting the environment.

Eco-friendly buildings - need of the hour:

The growth of cities and the rapid rate of urbanisation have led to increasing number of buildings. However, one of
the major problems posed by rapid urbanisation is the construction of settlements in harmony with nature, always
taking into account a creative dialogue. The end of the 20th century created many notable indications of environmental
technologies and natural landscape transformed into an architecture iconography of the ecological era. An objective
to harmonize this situation is to consider environmental technology as a working tool, and natural sciences as a basic
source of inspiration. Generally, the categories that characterize eco-friendly architecture can be defined as follows:

1. Merging architecture in landscape

2. Combination or link of the object with the garden space or the environment
3. Use of nature symbolism to create relations between architecture and its cultural context
4. Environmental technology studies which create an ecologically responsible and sustainable architecture basis
5. Environmental design and construction techniques that support the acceptance of the new “green
architecture” and integrating objects in the context
6. Urban planning ideas keeping in mind future development and foreseeing future social and cultural patterns
which may influence construction techniques and environmental policy.
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 14
Among the basic factors in the reaction to the so-called ecological model, is to understand the capacity of nature that
allows the building to be incorporated in it, instead of being removed from it.

It is important for us to understand that the environment is equally important as the building, perhaps more so, because
the building should breathe in the surrounding space.

The “garden of cosmic speculation” by Charles Jencks, which is considered to be a masterpiece as well as one of the
rare modern works referred in an astrophysical network. According to Charles, the complex forms present in this
garden show the organic configuration of nature in combination with the chaotic disorders of the universe.

CHARLES JENCKS: GARDEN OF COSMIC SPECULATIONS RENZO PIANO: CULTURAL CENTRE

The view on green architecture begins with the approach to organic architecture, an international movement that brings
together respect for nature and beauty, harmony of natural forms, trends and systems. As a wave, this new and enticing
model is permeating the world; meanwhile it is transforming architecture and design of the 21stcentury.

From the viewpoint of symbolic mechanisms which connect the building with their cultural context and achieve an
architectural poetry, none of the realizations today exceed the cultural centre Marie Tjibaou in New Caledonia,
projected by Renzo Piano. More specifically, in this complex one can note the use of traditional materials and methods
of construction, which in no way ignore the natural elements, such as: wind, light and vegetation. With the completion
of this centre, Piano seems to have achieved an impossible task within modern architecture.

He has created an inhabitable bridge which takes one towards the twenty first century and which materializes the past,
the present and future. One visible data which occurs in the works of the architects mentioned is the compassion
towards the environment, as well as the use of natural materials and flora or vegetation, which is admirable public
health-wise and with reasonable artistic choice.

The buildings aimed at ecological architecture include construction techniques like panels or wall sheets that
accumulate sun-rays very efficiently, allow air circulation at a controlled temperature in the whole interior, as well as
enable the incorporation of flora/vegetation inside. The principles that guide this green solar system are based on the
symbiosis between man and nature.

Sustainability is important as we cannot maintain our quality of life as human beings, the diversity of life on Earth, or
Earth’s ecosystems unless we embrace it. There are indications from the smallest to the largest scale that sustainability
is something we must address. The planet will soon be depleted of its fossil fuels and non- replenishable resources.
Millions of animal species will become extinct. The atmosphere will be damaged beyond repair unless we bring about

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 15

a change in our lifestyle. The root of that change lies in understanding and striving for sustainability in our own homes,
communities and ecosystems.

Sustainable development in Kerala:

Since the late 1970’s, a number of international development scholars have held the Sounth Indian state of Kerala as
a model of development. Kerala’s development has been remarkable during the past four decades. Environmental
sustainability is another aspect discussed in this model. Kerala’s environmental record suggests low level of resource
consumption, low population growth rates and moderate industrial pollution. The model strives to better its sustainable
development goals for the State.

Environmental sustainability includes the upkeep or improvement of essential ecological processes, biological
diversity and the natural resource base. Environmental sustainanbility is important for development because we human
are a part of nature. Thus the environment is an important for our survival, health and social life. Human life relies on
natural capital for food production, water and energy. Inorder to become sustainable, economic and social
development should therefore retain the resources due to its potential to support future generations.

The concept of sustainable development suggests a potentially positive relationship between socioeconomic
develpoment and environment sustainability. Sustainable environmental management can only occur where active
local level support and participation exists. Particularly in less developed countries, community participation is
believed to be the most effective strategy because people depend directly on their local physical environment and thus
have a genuine interest to protect it. Due to their locally adapted technical knowledge, local communities are regarded
appropriate units to restore and mange their local environment. Kerala does not face a severe ecological crisis, but
environmental problems have become more apparent and have started to affect environmental sustainability.

One cannot ignore the traditional architecture that flourished around the world in harmony with environment. Indian
subcontinent produced some of the finest architectural marvels in tune with the environmental sustainability. The
traditional architecture has popularly utilized local indigenous material such as - stone, clay and timber, which are
easy available. Depending on the geographical condition the use of natural material varied.

Sustainable architecture:

Vernacular architecture is the source of essential knowledge for sustainable, energy efficient and climatic responsive
architectural design principle. It is significant and unique in terms of the concept of balance within everyday life. The
direct relation to human need and accommodation of economy, belief and cultural values yields a phenomenological
sense of place that is therefore important value to the study of architectural design.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 16

RURAL HOUSING KERALA VILLAGE HOUSE HOUSE BOAT

Understanding vernacular architecture should not be a study of past traditions but as a contribution to new methods,
solutions and achievements with respect to the structures to be built. The need for understanding vernacular
architecture is becoming more important as climatic conditions and energy consumption of built forms contribute to
environmental degradation. It expresses a higher degree of design sensitivity through their structures. They address
the local climate constraints and show maximum adaptability and flexibility. It is a direct response to context and
resources including materials and techniques using available potentials such as indigenous skills of the locale passed
on from generation to generation. There is a close connection between energy use in buildings and resulted
environmental damage. All the building materials used to construct the vernacular houses are available locally. This
provides an edge on the environmental front as less energy is involved in processing and transportation and henceforth
minimal environmental degradation. The building sector electricity consumption has increased from 14% to nearly
33% over the years. If energy efficiency measures are incorporated in the buildings judiciously then the potential for
energy savings could be 40%- 50%. Climate responsive buildings or solar passive buildings with advanced active
systems prove to be the most appropriate and efficient solution to this problem. The utilization of solar passive
methods in modern buildings to achieve thermal comfort allows the possibility of decreasing the dependence on fossil
fuels for energy as much as possible and hence achieve sustainability. Bioclimatism integrates micro climate and
architecture to human thermal comfort. Studies on vernacular architecture conclude that bioclimatism is an integral
part of vernacular architecture and a deciding parameter towards achieving sustainability in modern architecture.

In many ways Kerala is one of the most appropriate places for developing a network on sustainable development.
Kerala is known for its coconut plantations. Every part of the tree can be used for various purposes. The state of Kerala
is well-known for their typical architectural design. It receives heavy rainfall. Instead of using bamboo unlike north-
eastern states, Kerala uses coconut palm trees and leaves for architectural constructions as well as for other household
products. The roof is usually covered with terracotta tiles with sloped-tiles. Majority of the houses do not use typical
industrial material. Instead they construct with coconut trees-trunk and roofing with baked titles. Kerala having plenty
of back-water uses boats for communication. Houseboat constructed with the indigenous material for tourism earns
significant amount of revenue. The designs reflect strong sustainable design solutions that have lasted for centuries.

Modern Industrial Design has drawn a wide range of experiences from the traditional design concepts. The traditional
design concepts are drawn from the ancient practices that have always harmonized with the nature using indigenous
resource material. The keen observation and understanding of nature has resulted in creating harmonizing relationship
between man and nature has developed a sense of unity that has remained perhaps the greatest source of inspirations.
Until the arrival of modern design philosophy the traditional concepts have shown their close relationship with the
nature in terms of seasonal changes, water-body, flora and fauna and other natural paradigms. The harmonious

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 17

relationship with nature remained the core of man’s aspirations and creative pursuits. Therefore, addressing an
understanding of Sustainable Design concepts would lead to much healthier design solutions.

A natural green building construction must satisfy two additional imperatives: the adaptation of the architecture to the
landscape alongside the use of natural materials, Architectural forms must be inspired by nature, with colours that do
not seem artificial. Natural building techniques use the materials that nature provides. The term “natural materials”
refers to local (renewable) raw materials that can be used according to traditional craft methods or modern techniques.
An environment friendly structure is formed only when the architecture is a product of integration between natural
living processes and cultural and social processes.

Ecology integrated in thesis:

Conforming to the techniques of green building construction, the project aims at sourcing its materials from within
and around the site. The site relies on its contours to allow rainwater to naturally irrigate the land and eventually
collect in the rainwater harvesting tank. Situated in the midst of plantations the built structures are low rises so that
the skyline is not disrupted. Vegetation on the site like coconut trees, cocoa, pepper and mango trees provide food for
its occupants. Semi open spaces are provided that allow natural light and ventilation to flood in thereby making the
facility energy efficient. In addition to providing employment to the locals, the centre acts as a source of revenue for
the state as it becomes a landmark for medical tourism.

Design in its largest sense joins a variety of disciplines. Design is not just about how we make things but rather we
make things that fit harmoniously in an ecological, cultural and moral context. It is therefore about systems, patterns
and connections.

2.2 HOUSING

Shelter has been mans basic need since the origin of [Link] importance of housing was universally accepted
from the dawn of history. The Neolithic man who lived between 10,000 and 2000 B.C. built durable habitation like
pit dwellings, lake dwellings and beehive huts. However, its functions increased manifold over the years. Primitive
men sought some kind of protection against wild animals and natural calamities. India is the home to more than 1.3
billion people. Located in South Asia, it has unique traditions with interesting cultural landscape. The climatic features
such as natural resources, geographical location and topography play a significant role in vernacular constructions.
Indian vernacular architects have developed methods of climatic responsive architecture in the construction of their
structures. The houses are made from local materials and they are inspired by traditions and techniques of local people.

When the institutions of private property came to be recognized, housing received a big boom in the investment sector.
The high rate of growth of urban population and its accumulative nature with a population over one lakh has led to
increasing problem of housing, reducing privacy and over-crowding in small house, steady growth of slums and
unplanned settlements and severe effect on civic services in urban areas. Dwelling conditions continue to worsen due
to inadequacy of water, supply of housing by the combined efforts of private and public. Majority of the houses in
India are constructed by the people themselves with their own resources.A major task facing housing development in
India relates to the provision of required housing to all, mainly to economically weaker sections of the society.
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 18
With modern materials and technology, the buildings of present architectural style result in high energy consumption
in an attempt to provide thermal comfort indoors. On the other hand, the vernacular architecture at any place has
evolved through the ages with efforts to produce efficient solutions. It has evolved over time to reflect the
environmental, cultural, technological, economical and historical context in which it exists.

Housing gap:

Housing gap is the difference between the total requirements and supply of houses, which indicate number of
additional houses that would be required to provide each household with a separate house. The dwelling must conform
to the health needs and socially accepted standard. Generally the housing gap is the outcome of the combined effect
of two sets of factors. One is needs which, because of low income cannot become effective demand and the other is
needs which can subsequently emerge as effective demand. In order to avoid these gaps, the government of India,
state governments and other local governments need to make various policies to improve the housing situation and
construct new houses.

Housing & vernacular architecture:

For more than two millenniums, local people have been developing the architecture of Kerala, which is influenced by
the Vedic and Dravidian traditions. Kerala architecture is impacted by various factors such as the climatic,
geographical and historical factors. As a result, public and private constructions were built keeping the climatic
conditions in mind such as harsh tropical summers and high humidity and rainfall.

The vernacular residential architecture of Kerala is known for its use of natural and passive methods for a comfortable
indoor environment. The orientation of building, internal arrangement of spaces, the presence of internal courtyard,
use of locally available materials and special methods of construction, have together created the indoor environment.

The traditional architecture is typically a rectangular structure where four halls are joined together with a central
courtyard open to the sky. This ensures entry of light into most spaces and a good system of ventilation. Temperatures,
even in the heat of summer, are markedly lower within the naalukettu.

NAALUKETTU – COURTYARD NAALUKETTU - LIVING AREA

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 19

NALLUKETTU – VIEW OF POND TYPICAL KERALA HOUSE

The house was created as a Tharavad type, a system of joint family. The houses of Kerala are characterized by the
boldness and simplicity of forms, dominated by sweeping red tiled roofs. Forms, materials and techniques are basically
similar for all economic levels and classes of local society. Most of Kerala architecture structures are characterized by
long steeply sloping roofs, as a main prominent visual form. It was built to withstand heavy monsoons and also as
protection for walls. Another main feature is an extensive use of wood.

Construction materials:

The natural building materials available for construction in Kerala are stones, timber, clay and palm leaves. The
availability of granite -a strong and durable building stone is restricted mainly to the highlands and marginally to some
hilly zones. Soft laterite available at shallow depth can be easily cut, dressed and used as building blocks. It is a rare
local stone that gets stronger and durable with exposure to the atmosphere. Block of this stone may be bonded in
mortars of shell lime – the classic binding material used in traditional buildings. Lime mortar can be improved in
strength and performance by admixtures of vegetable juices. Such enriched mortars were utilised for plastering and
low relief work. Timber remains the prime structural material abundantly available in Kerala, in many varieties from
bamboo to teak and rosewood. The use of timber and delicate carving of wood work for columns, walls and roofs
frames are the unique characteristics of Kerala architecture, using accurate fit of joints. Clay was used in many forms
– for walling, in filling the timber floors and making bricks and tiles after firing in kilns, tempered with admixtures.
Palm leaves are still used effectively for thatching the roofs and for making partition walls along with mud walls.

One of the most common vernacular type of house in Kerala is Venuu as a tribal community structure. Indian
vernacular architecture is the result of climatic responsive structures built by applying science in its construction
process.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 20

Vernacular buildings, as community-based constructions, are environment-oriented. Local architecture attempts to
implement regional traditions and interesting techniques. Housing is an interesting phenomenon all around the world,
which varies not only from country to country but also between regions in the same country. India is a prime example

where architectural characteristics differ from region to region.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 21

 HOUSE ROOFED WITH MANGALORE TILES HOUSE WITH THATCHED ROOF

Characteristics of settlements in Kerala:

Kerala has a unique settlement pattern where by the function of a settlement cannot be limited to the usual
classification of urban or rural. There exists a character exhibiting a combination of the two which needs to be
explored. Analysis based on land use and plot size shows that there exists a semi urban and semi-rural character. An
area can be classified as semi-urban if there exists both urban and rural activities, but the predominant activity is
urban. If the predominant activity is rural, it is classified as semi-rural.

Ecology and housing:

Organic architecture is a philosophy of architecture which promotes harmony between human habitation and the
natural world. This is achieved through design approaches that aim to be well-integrated into a site. The buildings,
furnishings, and surroundings become part of a unified, interrelated composition.

Since the beginning of the architecture, based on local knowledge and experiences, vernacular architecture has already
been trying to obtain the harmony between nature and buildings. In the traditional housing patterns, all buildings are
compatible with the climate and the geography. Besides, along with the shared culture, using similar materials and
forms create a habitual harmony and integrity between buildings. Everything relates to one another, reflecting the
symbiotic relationships in nature. Vernacular architecture provides ecologic solutions required for living comfort.

Housing integrated in thesis:

Situated in the midst of plantations, the centre includes two types of housing arrangements: multi-storied and single
storeyed dwellings. The multi-storeyed dwelling is located on the west and serves as the staff quarters. Being multi-
storeyed, these dwellings play the dual role of housing a large number of people in a small area of land and casting a
shadow on structures that lie in front of them thereby protecting them from the harsh western light. Single-storeyed
dwellings are provided for the users of the facility. The architectural pattern incorporated here is organic architecture.
The residences are arranged along a curvilinear road that resemble the branch of a mango tree. They are situated on
the east and north of the site so that they receive the benefits of the morning sun with views into the distant of the

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 22

Western Ghats. Similar to the other structures on the site, low rise structures have been used to house the guests so
that the skyline of the site is not disrupted.

Before the 1960’s, field of vernacular architecture (architecture of the commoners) such as houses were considered
negligible to signify cultural importance. Currently it is realized that vernacular art reflect more indigenous, less
historical, less political and more spontaneous living culture than traditional architecture, so as to be able to represent
more natural development of an indigenous living culture.

Shelter must be treated not as an activity to be carried out in isolation but as an important integral factor for attaining
economic growth with stability of the country with special emphasis on the economically weaker sections of the
society. For removing the existing bottlenecks in the housing sector in India and planning for attaining sustained
economic growth with stability in the housing sector in coming years, the policy makers, researchers, academicians,
planners etc. should take into account certain well established norms before making policy decisions.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 23

 CHAPTER 3 : LITERATURE STUDIES
3.1 NAMAN SPA

Project details

Architects :MIA Design Studio

Location : Vietnam

Area : 1600.0 sqm

Project year :2015

Concept :

The architectural design company MIA Design Studio’s ingenious use of natural ventilation keeps the building cool
and gives the guest a refreshing experience.

With use of local plants, each retreat becomes a healing environment where the guest can enjoy a luxurious
wellness in privacy.

Facilities :
• The Pure Spa is an oasis of tranquillity and facilitates the five-star Naman Retreat, Danang. Fifteen
stunning treatment rooms are endowed with lush open air gardens, deep soak bathtub and cushioned
daybed built for two.

• Health club with gym, meditation and yoga sessions held at the open lounge garden.

• The ground floor contains open spaces with relaxing platforms surrounded by serene lotus ponds and
hanging gardens.

• A true space where all senses are touched and the mind comes to peace

Design Technologies:
• The fragmented screens and planting help to shade and naturally ventilate the building, keeping treatment
rooms and exercise areas cool during the heat of the day.

• The network of vertical and horizontal bars that cover parts of the facade are reflected in a palm-flanked
pool in the grounds, helping to soften the distinction between building and landscape.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 24

The latticework also casts a grid of light and shadow across the walkways that connect the internal spaces.

1. Ventiltion by providing openings in the façade and courtyards

2. Use of plants that promote healing

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 25
Design Technologies:
 With use of local plants, each retreat becomes a healing environment where the guest can enjoy a luxurious
wellness in privacy
 A large atrium dominated by a pool and surrounded by hanging gardens forms the focal point of the ground
floor. Planting trails from the green roof and upper floor of the building, creating a vegetated screen around
the water. White platforms create stepping stones across the pool, connecting a gym, and meditation and
yoga spaces that surround the atrium, while locker areas and jacuzzis are secluded in the corners of
the building.
 Different areas flow smoothly into each other and the beautiful landscape creates an amazing journey into a
dream-like experience.
 The facade is composed by lattice patterns alternated with vertical landscapes that filter the strong tropical
sunlight into a pleasant play of light and shadow on the textured walls.
 Various plants are carefully allocated and become a part of the architectural screens.
 Different area’s flow smoothly into each other and the beautiful landscape creates an amazing journey into
a dream like experience.
 White platforms create stepping stones across the pool, connecting
 a gym, and meditation and yoga spaces that surround the atrium, while locker areas and jacuzzis are
secluded in the corners of the building.
 Fifteen treatment rooms with glazed walls, a cushioned daybed and deep bathtubs are set around the atrium
on the upper floor. The trailing planting and latticed louvres filter the tropical sunlight to maintain cool
temperatures, while still permitting views into the resort's grounds.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 26

 3.2 KAMALAYA , KOH SAMUI

 Koh Samui, also known as 'the island of the

coconuts,' is the third largest Thai island, after
Phuket and Koh Chang
 With jungle covered hills and palm fringed bays,
Koh Samui is 22 km at its widest point and 13 km
in length,
 located 700 south of Bangkok.

 Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary and

Holistic Spa resort integrates a diverse range of Oriental and Western healing practices.

 Architect: Robert Powell, Australia born and educated artist and architect, lived and worked primarily in
Asia for 30 years.

 The overall place of Kamalaya in this way is a reflection of its wellness concept, that a connection to nature
is a vital, nurturing element integral to one's overall health and wellbeing.

 Kamalaya's site is a hilltop that overlooks a pristine coastline. Ancient granite boulders, streams, and
tropical vegetation combine to offer an ideal retreat setting.

 To preserve the natural environment, over one hundred and fifty trees were transplanted and an eco-
friendly water purification system was implemented

CONCEPT :
 Artist and architect Robert Powell's concept for Kamalaya was to create a place that integrates with its
surrounding landscape.

 Existing rocks and trees became the defining elements for many of Kamalaya's buildings

 Drawing upon local materials, each building is a balance of raw nature paired with elegant detailing. The
resulting spaces impart a sense of lightness and ease of movement.
The roofs provide a stabilizing balance and shaded refuge. Of locally made cement tiles, chosen for their
durability, they will blend with nature as they age, acquiring a deeper patina with each monsoon.
The cross ventilation system designed for the villas and suites optimizes Kamalaya's valley setting.

 As an alternative to the air-conditioning available in all accommodation, Robert designed wide, sliding
screened doors with opposing windows to maximize the natural breeze flowing up the valley from the
ocean.

KAMALAYA OVERLOOKING THE BEACH RECEPTION

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 27

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 28
 • Kamalaya's pool setting is inspired after the traditional ritual bathing areas of Nepal and India, with their
stone steps and ghats.

• The main pool is set within flowering lotus ponds, waterfalls, and smaller multi-level pools accessed by
stone walkways.

• The stone detailing, as in the meditating Buddha, and the entrance tunnel over the pool, also draw from
Robert's love of Himalayan architecture.

• The overall effect is a welcoming, refreshing oasis.

• The buildings would fit into the site with minimum disturbance and would embrace the rocks and slopes
and trees, not see them as obstacles.

• The buildings were designed to take full advantage of their individual setting; the views, the rocks, the
trees, and their relationship to other buildings.
The mood, the feeling, was to be quiet and peaceful, spacious and expansive, natural and very comfortable,
not extravagant nor over-designed.

STEPS TO RELAXATION POOL STRUCTURES EMBRACING ITSSURROUNDING

NATURAL HEALING WITH NATURAL ENVIRONMENT:

• Kamalaya was carefully designed to embrace the diverse elements of the very special piece of land on
which it rests.

• This considered approach went beyond maintaining the integrity of the land; Kamalaya was created so that
the various elemental themes were available to nourish and inspire the users .

• Within Kamalaya, there are different landscapes – sea, earth, streams, ponds, open skies, bouldered hilltops
– so one can find their place of comfort; a place that resonates with an energy that nurtures and reconnects
you with nature through all of your senses.

STRUCTURES ON A HILL STONE DETAILING OF BUDDHA

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 29

FACILITIES :

• The dining areas

• Wellness facilities

• There are two swimming pools; a lap pool and a leisure pool.

• The art gallery, which hosts exhibitions from some of the region's most inspirational artists, library

• TV Lounge offer avenues for creative stimulation and contemplation

• Areas of inspiration for reflection and meditation

• Rooms

GYM DINING AREA

STORE USED EXISTING CAVES AS MEDITATION AREAS

RESTAURANT LAP POOL

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 30

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 31
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

• The architectural brief for Kamalaya centred on the importance of preserving as much of the natural
environment as possible.

• Environmental care extended to the transplanting of over 150 trees, which were relocated one by one to a
nearby nursery until construction was finished and they could be brought 'home' to Kamalaya.

• Use of eco-friendly detergents.

• Sustainable use of resources is actively encouraged, and accommodations have been designed to allow the
natural air flow to minimise the use of air conditioning.

• Water is recycled and dispersed back in the gardens.

• Organic waste is used for composting.

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 32

3.3 SWASWARA
LOCATION:

located at OM Beach near Gokarna (Karnataka, India) over 26 acres of beach front green hillock.

THE CONCEPT:

Swaswara is a retreat conceptualized to give an opportunity to guests to go back to their mind, body and soul. Four
core offerings of the retreat are Yoga & Meditation, Ayurveda, Painting & Sculpting and Cuisine.

THE ATMOSPHERE:

Swaswara atmosphere is very informal and engages guests in a variety of endeavours and causes.

BUILDINGS MADE OF THATCHED ROOFS

WASTE REDUCTION AND MANAGEMENT:

• Recycled newspaper is used to make envelopes and covers.

• No newspapers delivered directly to rooms -- common reading material is available only at the reception.

• Office policy encourages e-mail and use of double sided papers in the office.

• Recycled paper is used to make ornaments, origami Kitchen waste: Raw and cooked food waste generated
from restaurants and staff mess is added to the biogas plant. The by-product Methane is used for cooking in
the staff mess and the slurry by-product is used as manure.

• Construction material refuse is put to use for the construction of pathways in the property.

• Solid waste is segregated daily into various categories and sent out for recycling on monthly basis.

COCONUT SHELLS USED TO MAKE TREE SKIRTINGS PAPER REUSED TO MAKE ORNAMENTS

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 33

CANE FURNITURE IS USED AS IT IS DURABLE WASTEWATER IS USED FOR GARDENING

WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT

• 100% of wastewater generated is used for the purpose of gardening after going through an anaerobic
wastewater treatment plant.

• The effluent from the various filter methods is reused for gardening and for fire-fighting purposes
throughout the year.

WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES

• Use of banana leaves in staff mess saves up to 4000 liters of water /day.

• no water has to be sourced from the Karnataka Municipal Water Supply. The property has three large
rainwater harvesting lakes which provide the harvested rain water throughout the year.

• The rain water is collected in the lakes as well as throughout the built up area of the property using porous
gravel pits which partially filter the water and empty it into the lakes for storage. This water is further
treated with a sand and carbon filter before consumption to make it potable.

GRAVEL PITS COLLECT RAINWATER RAINWATER HARVESTING LAKE

RENEWABLE ENERGY PRACTICES

Waste-to-energy :

• Food waste is fed into a digester and 100% of the released methane is used as bio-fuel in the staff mess for
cooking.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES

a. Swaswara undertakes various activities for the economic development of the local community.

b. Locally available red stones are used for construction

c. Locally manufactured matkas are used for serving food

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 34

 d. All vegetables bought from local vendors

e. Roof thatching contracted to local community

METHANE TANKS LOCALLY AVAILABLE RED LATERITE STONES

ARCHITECTURAL / CONSTRUCTIONAL EFFICIENCY

a. Naturally lit and naturally ventilated areas provide an elegant and eco-friendly solution to energy
conservation.

b. The restaurant, library and the meditation room at Swaswara are naturally lit and naturally ventilated.

c. In keeping with the eco-friendly theme, the Swaswara provides guest rooms that are naturally lit during the
day and naturally ventilated.

d. The open-air guest bathrooms provide a unique experience.

NATURALLY LIT AND VENTILATED GUEST ROOMS NATURAL LIGHTING AND VENTILATION

OPEN BATHROOMS NATURALLY LIT AND VENTILATED RESTAURANT

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 35

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 36
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 37
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 38
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 39
PROS AND CONS

[Link] SPA

[Link]

a. Built in contemporary architectural style

b. Used openings and courtyards which are open to sky to achieve ventilation

c. Plants to promote healing

[Link]

a. [Link] spaces – may have negative impact on minds of users

[Link]

[Link]

a. Thatched roofs

b. Rooms facing beach, hilltop and rocky plains

c. Existing features on site integrated in design – caves used as meditation spaces

d. Environmental initiatives

[Link]

[Link]

a. Buildings covered with thatched roofs

b. Use durable material like cane to make furniture

c. Rainwater harvesting

d. Open to sky spaces – natural light & ventilation

e. Environmental initiatives
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 40
 CHAPTER 4 : CASE STUDIES
4.1 CARNOUSTIE
1) LOCATION :

• Set on the shores of the Arabian sea, just 8 kms away from the world famous backwaters of Alappuzha, the
luxurious Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort

2) FACILITIES

• The Resort comprises of a variety of exclusive and luxurious villas, fine dining and a spa, all set within a
tropical verdant beachside location.

• There is a full facility Ayurveda spa with really treatment rooms.

3) ARCHITECTURAL / CONSTURCTION EFFICIENCY :

• All the villas at Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort are a fusion of traditional and modern Kerala
architecture.

• The Carnoustie villas were specially designed to reduce energy and water consumption and the use of
exhaustible materials is brought to a bare minimum.

• Jute, Rattan mats, and bamboo are used everywhere possible.

• A fusion bamboo framework with traditional thatched roof is unique.

• The Landscape is locally sourced either from the same site or nearby locations.

• The resort is evocative of the location and the culture.

• The project utilizes a natural colour palette which is punctuated by the bright tropical plants which are
indigenous to the area.

INTERIOR OF DINING AREA RESTAURANT EXTERIOR :THATCHED ROOF

AYURVEDA BLOCK SPA ROOMS

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 41

 RAMP TO RECEPTION PORCH

POOL AROUND THE RECEPTION CEILING OF RECEPTION

SWIMMING POOL & DECK CHAIRS BAR COUNTER BESIDE POOL

LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS LANDSCAPE ELEMENTS

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 42

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 43
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 44
4.2 AYURVEDGRAM
• ARCHITECT : Ar. T.C. CYRIAC , KERALA
• LOCATION : WHITEFIELD, BANGLORE
• SITE AREA : 7 ACRES
• VEGETATION : COCONUT TRESS AND
SHRUB COVER DINING AREA & KITCHEN

Entrance is visually reinforced by articulated embellishment

The architectural style of the building is characterized by typical Kerala style

architecture

Strong concept of vastu Shastra is followed throughout the building

Well ventilated and naturally lit areas have been provide

Entrance to the property is through a straight path

A road arises from the right of the entrance path that leads to the parking area

ENTRANCE TO RECEPTION ENTRANCE PATH LEADING TO RECEPTION

ARCHITECTURE RESEMBLES KERALA STYLE GREEN COURT & POND

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 45

No. of users :200

Area per user :40

Total built area:8000 sqm

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 46

ARCHITECTURAL / CONSTRUCTIONAL EFFICIENCY: :

COURTYARD:

• Large open spaces are provided to take care of moderate climatic conditions

• These also act as gathering spaces

CIRCULATION :

• Paths are organized and follow a hierarchy to create a sense of direction

• This results in an organized composition of structures and features along the path

YOGA & MEDITATION

BUILT FORM:

• The architectural style of the built form is typical Kerala style.

• Mangalore tiles used as roofing material .

• Linear organization with admin rooms, therapy rooms, consultation rooms organized along the pedestrian
pathway

• Style resembles Kerala style architecture

• Vehicular movement is restricted to entrance and porch only

• All service vehicles are brought to the rear of the building

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 47

4.3 NAAMAH
LOCATION : PANCHALIMEDU, KERALA

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 48

 RESTAURANT SEATING RAINWATER HARVESTING

INFINITY POOL WELL : WITH LEAF IMPRINTS ON ITS SURFACE

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 49

TYPE 1 COTTAGE

AREA STATEMENT :

• FLOOR AREA : 43.16

SQM

• BALCONY AREA
:11.5M

• DRESSING AREA: 1.5M X 2.3M

CONCRETE FLOORING FINISHED WITH EPOXY

BRICKS MADE ON SITE

ROCKS USED FOR CONSTRUCTION/WALL FINISH HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE SITE

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 50

TYPE 2 COTTAGES

BALCONY : 14.6M

FLOOR AREA : 38.4 SQM

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 51

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 52
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 53
PROS & CONS :

[Link]

[Link]

a. Beautifully landscaped spaces

b. Rooms with views to the beach

c. Thatched roofs used

d. Semi open spaces provide natural lighting and ventilation

[Link]

a. Semi open spaces like the dining area cause rain water to come in

[Link]

[Link]

a. Orchards and vegetable gardens

b. Rainwater harvesting

c. Buildings of stone construction

d. In areas where privacy is required large hedges and tress are used – for example around the swimming pool

e. Large trees on either side of the entrance road dominate it

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 54

 3. AYURVEDGRAM

A. PROS

a. Built in typical Kerala style architecture –erala is known for its ayurvedic treatments

b. Strong concept of Vastu Shastra is followed

c. Vehicular movement is restricted to entrance

[Link]

A. Pros

a. Materials used for construction have been sourced from within and around the site

b. Contours have been integrated in the design

c. Rainwater harvesting

CHAPTER 5 : INFERENCE & REQUIREMENTS

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 55

 CHAPTER 6 : BIBLIOGRAPHY
 [Link] medicine
 [Link]-in-india
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]/the psychology of spaces
 Healing Spaces by Esther M Sternberg

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 56

HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 57
HOLISTIC CENTRE pg. 58