Modernising architecture

“Today’s environment in physical terms, especially in cities has become extremely congested, where to relieve from such situation, heavy emphasis is put on mechanical services for ventilation and utilities,” says Ar Suhas Dighe
Ar Suhas Dighe has worked on multiple projects. He started his journey in architecture in the 70’s having experience of more than 25 years in private practice. He has seen the undergoing change in architecture in his career and also adapted to the changes in design and technology. Ar Suhas Dighe explains how we can put less stress on environment with the help of architecture.
Interest towards architecture My interest towards architecture started with general observation of spaces, surrounding areas, which can be measured, draw/mapped and most important point is the same can be brought into three dimensions/reality, by tacking help of various support elements/ subjects. Such fundamentals lead me to the profession of architecture.
Evolution in the field of architecture Throughout history, it is found that the evolution takes place. The step in this process leads to metamorphosis. However over the years this is again analysed and challenged owing to new approaches and advancements in technology, there by overall change in lifestyle in society and new approaches develop, leading to change in structures and materials and the process goes on from chaotic to orderly and again to chaotic and it goes on.
Proposed amendments of Architects Act 1972  I would suggest that clause’s related to fine and punishment need more consideration on final draft when it will be kept for suggestions and comments. Induction of more practicing architects through election to the council may highlight practical issues and ameliorate situations.
Challenging projects I have worked on several projects which had different challenges all together. When referring to challenges I would say projects like ‘kimaya’ – which was built as a memorial to the architect, late Professor Madhav Achwal, in Ferguson college campus, Pune, in late 1980’s, project of carrying out office interior work for Indian Seamless Financial Services in a metropolitan building at Bandra- Kurla complex, Mumbai.
Need for green buildingsToday’s environment in physical terms, especially in cities has become extremely congested, where to relieve from such situation, heavy emphasis is put on mechanical services for ventilation and utilities. Hence “Green Buildings” approach where natural ways are utilised and employed to create congenial physical environment, which puts less emphasis on artificial or mechanical services, thus by relieving stress on such services, devices and become beneficial in economic terms as well. Advice to young architects The success, in future lies in doing smart work; hence the study of latest modern technologies and products based on them will play important role in everyday life and will reflect in architecture.  The various technologies in future, along with their intricate workings will lead to future specialisation and hence outsourcing will play major role in practice.
However, the study of influencing factors like: geographical geological climatic, religious, social, historical, leading to shape various structures and the general appearance and special features of buildings pertaining to the specific period will remain of vital importance and further the analysis – plan (general arrangement) walls (enclosing elements constructions) openings (character and shapes) roofs (various shapes and development) columns (position, structure, decoration and construction).
Decoration (Forms, decoration, mouldings) will lead to better understanding of our subject i.e. architecture, to further enhance, the study of interior and exterior / landscape will take the expression on higher level. As a person, it becomes important to study/ know various geographical areas and hence study tours are must.

34