The Gen [Co] By Dhriti Bisht and Dhriti Gupta

The project was co-designed by Dhriti Bisht and Dhriti Gupta as part of their design studio in semester 07 (B. Arch). The aim of the studio was to reinvent the vertical high-rise typology of housing for a sustainable urban future that is mainly focused on creating a liveable place that can face the challenges of the future with respect to the changes in population, climate, society and culture. The design strategies should not only create a balance in people’s LIVE – PLAY – EAT – SHOP aspects but they should also reflect a city level understanding of site through context studies while following UDPFI guidelines and building codes.

Project Name: The Gen [CO]
By: Dhriti Bisht and Dhriti Gupta
Location: DLF Phase 3, Gurugram
Category: Housing
Status: Concept

The Intent

COMMUNITY | COLLABORATION | CONVENIENCE

Gurgaon’s population majorly comprises of students and single working professionals spread across different age groups. Through Gen [CO], the idea is to create a living environment which responds to their need for  mobility, connectivity, flexibility, affordability and strengthens a sense of community by prioritizing common spaces where they can benefit and interact with occupants of the other user segments (young couples, families with children, elderly).

The Design

The typical typology of housing comprises of isolated high-rise towers, flat stacking and a sense of disconnect. To move away from the conventional design, the Gen [CO] introduces shared spaces that act as connectors between the residential units as well as the occupants. The proposed programs in these shared spaces include Living Area, Communal Kitchen, Co-Working Zone, Laundry, Gym & Yoga Area and Decks which offer a range of social experiences from the individual to collective and for all demographic groups. Every shared program recurs after three floors to cater to the needs of all the occupants. The massing also creates several interactive terraces which further promote encounter of people and ideas.

The residential units are placed around these shared spaces. The housing offers micro units (for single/double occupancy), 2 BHK, 3 BHK and 4 BHK. All the units either get the view of the millennial city or the green areas scattered within the site. Provision of natural light and ventilation has also been kept in mind while designing all the spaces.

Response to the Context

The project also reflects an extensive understanding of the site. The entry to Gen [CO] is via the DLF City Phase 3 Road which also has the Moulsari Avenue Metro Station. The exit is also on the same road. This has been done to ease the commute for both residents as well as the visitors. Moreover, the orientation and heights of the built mass blocks the sun from the West and gives a shaded central green.

Elevation

The elevations highlight the verticality and hierarchy developed through the massing. It also focusses on the voids and rhythm on the façade due to the terraces, balconies and decks. The use of bright color on the walls of the deck indicate the presence of internal shared spaces which are the crux of the project.