Studio Naqshbandi by Mona Doctor Pingel – Architects in Auroville and Pondicherry
Studio Naqshbandi, founded by Mona Doctor-Pingel in 1995, is a beacon of sustainable architecture rooted in the essence and philosophy of Auroville. The studio takes pride in adopting a holistic approach to the science of building, utilizing biologically enhancing and environmentally friendly building technologies. These technologies are meticulously tailored to the local context of climate and culture, offering a unique and contextually relevant solution to each project.
Balancing Uniqueness and Practicality
Recognizing the uniqueness of each client, the studio views individual sensibilities, pragmatic considerations, and budgetary constraints not as challenges but as opportunities. This distinctive approach allows Studio Naqshbandi to bring simplicity and beauty to their designs without austerity, richness in details without ostentation, and a sensorial experience without being overpowering. The studio aspires to create spaces that resonate with a sense of well-being.
Sensory Experience Through Built Form
Simultaneous Integration of Design Elements
A distinguishing feature of Studio Naqshbandi is its simultaneous engagement with architecture, interior design, and landscaping on every project. This holistic approach enables the studio to enhance the sensory experience through the built form. The spaces created respond harmoniously to their surroundings, seamlessly incorporating nature and promoting a sense of well-being.
Founders and Their Vision
Mona Doctor-Pingel: Architect and Visionary
Mona Doctor-Pingel, the Principal Architect of Studio Naqshbandi, embarked on her architectural journey after graduating from the School of Architecture, CEPT University, Ahmedabad. Her foray into Auroville, where she worked with architect Poppo Pingel, laid the foundation for her deep connection with the philosophy of Auroville.
Exploration and Innovation
Post her studies in Germany, Mona returned to Auroville in 1995 to establish Studio Naqshbandi. Her practice became a platform for exploration, innovation, and a commitment to environmentally friendly building technologies. The studio’s current field of exploration extends to teaching, writing, and research.
Contributions to Research
Mona actively contributed to a five-year joint research project (2012-17) on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, a collaboration between Auroville Center for Scientific Research, CEPT, Ahmedabad, and LBNL, Berkeley, funded by Indian and American governments. The research focused on data logging naturally ventilated buildings in the warm humid zone around Pondicherry, with results published in scientific journals.
Literary Pursuits
Mona’s literary contributions include two books on the works of Poppo Pingel and Piero & Gloria Cicionesi, part of the Monographs on Auroville Architects series published by Mapin publishers in 2012 and 2018. Her insightful writings on the architectural practices of Auroville have found a place in numerous Indian and German magazines.
Academic Engagements
As an Adjunct faculty at Europa University’s Environment and Energy management Masters program, Mona co-teaches a course on Rational Use of Energy. She has been a visiting faculty at CARE School of Architecture in Trichy and MIDAS, MARG Swarnabhoomi, Tamil Nadu.
Commitment to Sustainable Solutions
Mona’s dedication to sustainable solutions extends beyond architecture. She served as the joint secretary of the Planning Team at L’Avenir d’Auroville/Town Development Council from 2010-2012. Additionally, she has been the President of ANGIRAS, an NGO for Indian Alumni from German Universities working towards sustainable solutions since 2011.
Professional Recognitions
Mona is a registered architect with COA and a fellow of IIA. Her work has received acclaim, winning several awards. Her contributions to the field have been acknowledged through her life membership with IIID.
Connect with Studio Naqshbandi
Explore the innovative projects and sustainable initiatives of Studio Naqshbandi on their website. Engage with a studio that seamlessly blends tradition, innovation, and sustainability to shape a harmonious built environment.
Conclusion: Shaping Sustainable Futures
Studio Naqshbandi, under the visionary leadership of Mona Doctor-Pingel, stands as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable architecture. Through a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and a commitment to holistic solutions, the studio shapes not just buildings but sustainable futures for the community and the environment alike.
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