Ar. Eugene Pandala, a renowned Indian architect and founder of the Centre for Sustainable Built and Natural Environment, has made significant contributions to architecture through his innovative and eco-friendly design approaches. With a career spanning over three decades, Pandala has been at the forefront of integrating vernacular architecture with modern sustainability practices.
Eugene Pandala's architectural journey began with a deep appreciation for traditional Kerala architecture and its harmony with nature. His work emphasizes the use of locally available materials, traditional building techniques, and climate-responsive design, ensuring that his creations are both sustainable and culturally rooted.
- Name: Eugene Pandala
- Firm Name: Centre for Sustainable Built and Natural Environment
- Location: Kochi, India
- Top Projects: Bodhi, Sarai at Toria, Restoration of Thennattu Illom etc.
The Centre for Sustainable Built and Natural Environment, established by Pandala, serves as a hub for research and innovation in sustainable architecture. The centre focuses on developing eco-friendly building solutions, promoting the use of natural materials, and preserving traditional architectural wisdom.
Among Pandala's notable works are:
- Bodhi: Bodhi, a house built with mud for Mr. Jitendran and Prof. Shyma is located in Kollam, Kerala was completed in 1996. Bodhi is one of Eugene Pandala’s first projects that showcased responsive expressionism in architecture which allows conservation oriented ethics to dictate the form and aesthetics of any structure.
- Sarai at Toria: Sitting right next to Panna Tiger Reserve, and abutting the banks of River Ken, Sarai at Toria is an alluring country-side getaway. Run by Raghu Chundawat, a conservation biologist, and Joanna Van Gruisen, a former wildlife documentary filmmaker, this place is ideal for those interested in learning about the region’s culture and wildlife.
- Restoration of Thennattu Illom: Thennattu illom is a three hundred year old timber house of central Travancore, which had undergone several transformations to accommodate the needs of its generations.
Pandala's design philosophy revolves around creating structures that are in harmony with nature. He advocates for the use of mud, bamboo, and other sustainable materials, often incorporating traditional Kerala architectural elements like sloping roofs and courtyards into his designs. His work aims to revive traditional building crafts while addressing contemporary needs for comfort and functionality.
Beyond his architectural practice, Pandala is a passionate educator and advocate for sustainable architecture. He frequently conducts workshops and lectures, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation of architects to embrace eco-friendly design principles. His efforts have been instrumental in promoting the concept of 'green' architecture in India.
Eugene Pandala's contributions to architecture have been widely recognized, with his projects receiving numerous awards for innovation in sustainable design. He has been honored with the Hassan Fathy Award for Architecture for the Poor and the Indian Institute of Architects' National Award for Excellence in Architecture, among others.
Ar. Eugene Pandala's work stands as a testament to the possibility of creating modern, functional spaces that respect tradition and nature. His visionary designs not only address current environmental concerns but also preserve cultural heritage, setting a benchmark for sustainable architecture in India and beyond. Through his dedication to eco-friendly practices and vernacular wisdom, Pandala continues to inspire and guide the architectural community towards a more sustainable and culturally rich built environment.
Get ready to explore the innovative and sustainable designs of Ar. Eugene Pandala, a pioneer in eco-friendly architecture and a true advocate for harmonizing built spaces with the natural world.
ABOUT WADEASIA
THE WADE ASIA, established in 2016 began with the objectives of creating a platform for recognising the contribution of women in design and to provide a large national platform for the entire community to celebrate women-led development.
Started with a small group of people, today THE WADE ASIA is the largest award platform for women in design, architecture, interior design, construction, engineering, art, and photography.
Come prepared to witness the following at THE WADE ASIA from 22-25 August 2024
1. 200 LIVE presentation of India’s Top selected projects in Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, Retail, Landscape, Public Building, Sustainable spaces, etc The schedule of the live competition WADE ARCHIDESIGN NATIONAL COMPETITION will be shared soon
2. THE WADE ASIA Architecture conference - Two days of talks and discussions by top industry influencers and experts. Hall 2
3. MATERIALS ADDA - Innovation zone where 40-50 products are showcased
4. Art & Photography Zone
5. MATECIA EXHIBITION- Largest exhibition of decorative surfaces, Panel products, architecture and interior products and more.
6. Launch of the book “The Top Angle” by The WADE ASIA with insights from 9 years of surveys and research on women in design & architecture.
THE WADE ASIA is a national platform. More than 50000 people from all over India and 20 other neighbouring countries visit WADE and concurrent Exhibition MATECIA each year. THE WADE ASIA had participation from Nepal. Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia Dubai (UAE), London, providing an unparalleled platform for networking, learning, and inspiration.
THE WADE ASIA created a world record by contributing to water initiative and creating the largest W human-shape on ground in record time which was awarded ASIA BOOK OF RECORDS medal, a testament to its outstanding contribution to the industry.
It was also awarded "The Unique Show" by the Exhibition Excellence Awards 2022 in partnership with UFI (global association for exhibition excellence).
Soon THE WADE ASIA will open opportunities for women in creative pursuits to become members and multiply the initiatives as well as position themselves with stronger network & connections.
LINK TO REGISTER FOR THE WADE ASIA Architecture Event
https://www.wadeasia.com/visitor-registration/