Bhuj is a city and the headquarters of the Kutch district in Gujarat, India. It is renowned for showcasing the region’s traditional craftsmanship, such as bandhani embroidery, Rogan art and leatherwork. Local artists from nearby villages display their work for sale at ‘Bhuj Haat’, located near Jubilee Ground.
Project Name: Designing (In)Constant Infrastructures
Studio Name: Chaal.Chaal.Agency
Location: Asia, India
This project delves into the complexities of Indian urban life by examining street vendors as ‘(In)Constant Infrastructures’. These vendors are essential systems of provision and exchange, embodying both flux and continuity.
In collaboration with the Sathwara women of Bhuj, the team prototyped a range of urban street carts designed to enhance their interaction with the urban environment and improve resilience to climate and economic challenges.
These prototypes, named in Gujarati, serve distinct purposes: the Nano (small) is a
movable piece of furniture that replaces head-carried pots and buckets, featuring compartments for clothing and utensils, alleviating physical strain, and providing a resting space; the Vachlo (medium) is an enhanced street cart with a steering system that reduces abdominal strain and offers shade and storage; and the Motto (large) is a reimagined metallic structure maximizing space with adjustable levels for garment display.
While these prototypes do not provide absolute solutions, they offer innovative alternatives for micro-entrepreneurs and enhance local public spaces. The project draws on the rich material cultures of the region, focusing on modular, adaptable designs that maximize resource efficiency. It also integrates knowledge dissemination and community education on ecological issues, empowering individuals to engage actively in sustainable practices.
Designing (In)Constant Infrastructures was awarded the Ammodo Architectural Local Scale Award in 2024, a new prize for the advancement of socially and environmentally responsible architecture.
The prize money will be allocated to research the functionality, adaptability and impact of the prototypes on both users and the urban environment. This critical evaluation will inform the redesign and production of a new series of devices, specifically tailored to meet the unique needs and context of the Sathwara women.
