Modular Haveli | feasibility | May 2014
The Developing Heritage Program for Urban Habitat is focused on planning and design sustainable interventions in the historical centre of cities in developing countries. The DHP’s main goal is to avoid the classical mistakes, well known in Italy, caused by an imbalance between conservation and renovation, and between economic and cultural aspects. DPH is at the moment focused on Ahmedabad, the main city in Gujarat. “Haveli is the term used for a private mansion in India and Pakistan, usually one with historical and architectural significance. The word haveli is derived from Arabic haveli probably through Persian hawli, meaning “an enclosed place.” They share similar features with other mansions derived from Islamic Architecture such as the traditional mansions in Morocco called hawli”. [Wikipedia, read more>>]
An internal court characterize the Haveli, providing light and air. The footprint is very narrow and it’s based on a 3 metres in width basic module. One modulus, replaced in more levels, form the smallest Haveli. The bigger Haveli are formed by attaching more modules (3+3 or 3+3+3 metres width).
Haveli XXI mixes together the typical Haveli scheme with innovative timber technology systems, to propose an innovative way to build quickly and safely, preserving the traditional Indian lifestyle. The following pictures concern only spatial and technological aspects, whereas decorative aspects and finishing features will be developed ahead. The goal is to propose traditional typologies according to contemporary standard and performance, and to increase living comfort preserving the historical Urban context.
Carlo Bughi | Architect 