In the Modern age, carving a separate pedestal of your own in the field of architecture is more than just creating a logo or an identity but adapting to the changing architectural industry where sustainability and cultural identity are becoming more important. Andagere architects have become distinct in the field of architecture by integrating traditional techniques and vernacular architecture in their practice. Through their projects, we perceive that rather than building structures they attempt to make statements of philosophy through their designs such as being bold, efficient, and harmoniously adapted to the context.
Firm’s Establishment
Andagere Architects is a firm based in Magudi taluka, Ramanagara district, Karnataka where the surrounding area is particularly known for its scenic landscapes and traditional architecture making it an appropriate setup for the firm. Andagere Architects, founded in 2002, the firm has been in practice for 22 years starting from Hampi to Bangalore. Since the beginning, they have been focused on using architecture to improve the environment. The firm’s first project was its own studio, Initially a 130-year-old house which was later transformed into a government school and then into a serene architectural studio
Fusion of traditional techniques and essence for the Modern Lifestyle
The firm draws its inspiration from vernacular architecture, where it tries to use traditional techniques and materials that are locally available to infuse conventional methods in a modern setting. The principal architect Ajith Andagere when asked about the materials that he uses more prominently in his projects points out three of these conventional materials such as earth, wood, and stone which have been used in our practice since the olden times. He further says to maintain the natural essence of the material he uses a very basic way of cutting them. By analyzing and learning from the old buildings over time, these materials have been proven to be effective
Through their projects the Andagere Architects don’t seem to follow the latest adaptation of European, Dubai, and Singaporean styles of designs which are unsuitable for our country’s climate and traditional roots, so in order to emphasize these elements they try to stay rooted in India traditions and heritage .moreover to maintain the connection with the site’s local context and cultural history they try to work with the locally available materials which are better suited for the particular climate and style
Innovative Projects and Notable Works
Shrupali House
The firm has put forth a special endeavor in the name of Samrakshan India to restore, preserve, and maintain India’s traditional architecture. The Shrupali house , a property about 150 years old that has deteriorated over time due to neglect and aging is one of the initial projects of the organization.Ajith Andagere and his team are trying to act as a bridge by using traditional materials and techniques along with modern building requirements. The ultimate goal was however to preserve the cultural essence of the building while making room for its contemporary use
Swarga Homestead,Bangalore
Swarga, a homestead that was designed by the Andagere Architects is located on the outskirts of Bengaluru and is a blend of rural appeal and modern design. The entrance opens out to a serene courtyard with the lotus pond along with floors of granite and the Tulsi shrine. In order to reminisce about the property’s farmhouse roots, a large terracotta urn was placed inside the building. The design features elements inspired by local craftsmanship and the environment. Winding stairs of granite around the boulders open out to a swimming pool and an outdoor pavilion. The master bedroom contains stones with indigo-blue oxide render. The roofs are made of coconut timber and country tiles with antique columns to support them. To complete the earthy feeling of the structure custom-made fixtures were used.
Jungle Home in the Aghanashini Estuary
The Aghanashini estuary was designed for Mangal Shetty and his wife Ambika who shared a deep-rooted love for nature and an eco-friendly lifestyle. The building is an excellent example of sustainable architecture because of the way it seemingly blends within the surrounding forests of Karnataka, situated at the Aghanashini estuary where the river meets the Arabian Sea. The building is consciously made without disturbing the surrounding forests and the existing trees of the site that penetrate through the desks and roofs of the structure. The spatial layout of the building consists of a main house incorporating two suite bedrooms, a guest house, a chef’s cottage, and a caretaker’s cottage.
The home is constructed using sustainable materials like Acacia wood, cane, bamboo, and Laterite stones while the roofs and rafters were made of recycled coconut tree wood. To add to the natural aesthetic, terracotta elements were incorporated in the dining spaces. It majorly relies on solar panels for its energy needs, and the surrounding dense foliage eliminates the need for air conditioning systems, keeping the house’s temperature two degrees cooler than typical coastal houses. Rainwater harvesting tanks are used for managing water resources.
Sustainability And Community Impact
Andagere Architects’ major philosophy is that architecture should not only meet the client’s needs but also serve a larger environmental and social purpose. Some of the examples of such projects are the jungle homes, swarga homestead, etc. The firm’s contributions are through Samrakshan India, a nonprofit organization where they constantly strive to raise awareness and preserve cultural heritage by preserving, restoring, and documenting India’s traditional architecture.
Andagere architects have established themselves in the architectural landscape through their unwavering commitment to tradition, sustainability, and cultural identity and seamlessly blending traditional techniques with modern needs. The firm through its projects not only contributed to the architecture profession but also made a meaningful impact on the communities
References:
Mishra, D. and Tangirala, K. (2024). How Ajith Andagere’s Samrakshan India restored a 150-year-old ancestral home in Karnataka. [online] Architectural Digest India. Available at: https://www.architecturaldigest.in/story/how-ajith-andageres-samrakshan-india-restored-a-150-year-old-ancestral-home-in-karnataka/ [Accessed 15 Feb. 2025].
Asianpaints.com. (2024). Ajith Andagere handcrafts homes from his studio in Magadi. [online] Available at: https://www.beautifulhomes.asianpaints.com/magazine/spaces/studios/ajith-andagere-handcrafts-homes-from-his-studio-in-magadi.html [Accessed 15 Feb. 2025].
Dsouza, K. (2023). ‘Built in Nature, By Nature’: This Jungle Home Is Made of Cane, Bamboo & Recycled Wood. [online] The Better India. Available at: https://thebetterindia.com/317348/mangal-shetty-sustainable-home-in-aghanashini-karnataka-panchabhuta-conservation-foundation/ [Accessed 15 Feb. 2025].
