DATE

01/11/2024

DISSERTATION TOPIC

ENHANCING SPATIAL QUALITY IN

BIOPHILIC ENVIRONMENT
THROUGH PLANT INTEGRATION
Marshook
Roll No : 16
S9, B.Arch
Guide : Shiras C M
Professor
 ABSTRACT

“ENHANCING SPATIAL QUALITY IN BIOPHILIC ENVIRONMENT THROUGH PLANT INTEGRATION”

Urban populations often spend much of their lives in enclosed spaces, relying on artificial lighting and ventilation.
Numerous studies indicate that exposure to natural elements significantly boosts cognitive performance and
productivity across all ages. Integrating plants into design can improve environmental quality.

This paper explores innovative biophilic design strategies within tropical climates, specifically examining plant-
based methods to enhance environmental quality. Biophilic design, grounded in humans’ innate affinity with nature,
aims to blend built spaces with natural elements, promoting well-being and sustainable practices. Focusing on
tropical climates, this study investigates how the intentional inclusion of plants can create biophilic spaces that
foster both physical and psychological comfort.
 BACKGROUND STUDY

Biophilic design, founded on humans' innate bond with nature, seeks to create environments that enhance well-being,
productivity, and tranquility. Incorporating plants into these spaces is essential to achieving these goals, as they not
only add visual appeal but also improve air quality, regulate humidity, and boost acoustical comfort. Additionally,
plants provide a multisensory experience, allowing occupants to engage with the calming sights, scents, and textures of
nature. Studies in this field reveal the substantial benefits of plant integration, such as reduced stress, enhanced
cognitive performance, and increased satisfaction with a space. Therefore, understanding the diverse strategies for
integrating plants into biophilic design is vital for architects and designers aiming to align spaces with our natural
affinities and enrich the experience for occupants.

NEED FOR STUDY

Incorporating plant elements into architectural designs can greatly improve spatial quality, fostering enhanced well-
being, higher user satisfaction, and a deeper connection to nature within built spaces. Adding plants to architecture
helps create a harmonious, biophilic atmosphere, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable built environment.
 AIM
This dissertation explores how incorporating plants can elevate spatial quality in biophilic environments, with a focus on
well-being, sustainability, and harmony with the surroundings.

OBJECTIVES
1 - To explore the theoretical foundations of biophilic design and its influence on spatial quality in architectural settings.

2 - To investigate various strategies for integrating plants in biophilic architecture and evaluate their effectiveness in
enhancing spatial quality.

3 - To analyze case studies of biophilic architecture projects that have successfully incorporated plants to improve spatial
quality and user experience.

4 - To evaluate the physiological and psychological effects of plants on occupants within biophilic spaces, with a focus on
air quality, stress reduction, and productivity.

5 - To examine practical considerations and challenges related to plant integration in biophilic architecture, including
aspects of maintenance, cost, and scalability.

6 - To develop design guidelines and recommendations for architects and designers aiming to enhance spatial quality
through plant integration in biophilic spaces.
 SCOPE
This dissertation explores how plants improve spatial quality in biophilic environments, examining design elements,
plant selection, placement, and their effects on both indoor and outdoor spaces. It focuses on the benefits of plants in
biophilic architecture, with an emphasis on tropical regions.

LIMITATION
Tropical regions exhibit diverse climatic conditions, ranging from humid rainforests to arid coastal areas, which may
significantly influence the effectiveness of innovative plant integration techniques across these distinct sub-climates.

The success of plants for environmental control is contingent upon careful species selection. Challenges may arise
due to limited availability, growth rates, and the adaptability of certain species to indoor environments.

Conducting comprehensive, long-term studies to evaluate the performance and adaptability of plant-based
systems across different seasons and over extended periods presents considerable challenges.

Individual preferences and behaviors related to plant care and maintenance may impact the success of integrated
plant systems. User engagement and participation are critical factors that could influence the overall effectiveness
of these systems.
METHODOLOGY Introduction

Aim Objective scope Limitation

Stage 1

Data collection Books

Journals
Stage 2 Literature review Research papers

Case studies of
Parkroyal on existing biophilic
Pickering, Singapore Case study architectural projects
Literature to analyze successful
Kandalama resort,
Live Case study implementations of
Sri Lanka
Case study design principles
Jewel Changi
Airport, Singapore Malabar
Headquarters
Stage 3

Comparative analysis of case studies

Stage 4

Plant Selection and Plant inventory

Integration Assessment of methods

Stage 5

Analysis and
inference
 LITERATURE REVIEW
CONCEPTS OF BIOPHILIA
The biophilia hypothesis suggests that humans possess an inherent desire to
connect with other living beings and the natural environment. Edward O. Wilson
introduced and popularized this hypothesis in his 1984 book, Biophilia, defining it as
"the urge to affiliate with other forms of life." Wilson describes biophilia as the
subconscious connections that humans seek with the rest of the living world. He
posits that our deep relationships with other organisms and the natural environment
may have biological foundations.

Modern architects are exploring a broader range of strategies for harmonizing with
nature. For instance, Leberecht Migge proposed incorporating edible gardens into
communal housing. Le Corbusier's conceptual project, *Immeubles-villas*, featured
apartments that included private gardens. Moreover, many renowned modern
architectural works reflect a commitment to coexistence with nature. Frank Lloyd
Wright's *Fallingwater* is designed to integrate with its natural surroundings,
particularly through its horizontally extending cantilevered terraces. Connection with nature
image source : Author
Similarly, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's *Farnsworth House* employs light structural
supports and glass walls to foster a connection with the surrounding environment. In
the 1960s, an environmental awakening emerged, driven by increased awareness of
the impacts of modern life on the natural world (Tabb and Deveren, 2013).
 LITERATURE REVIEW
EVOLUTION OF BIOPHILIA

While shaped by culture and experience, human preferences for natural elements
are likely rooted in biological evolution. For example, older animals, particularly
humans, typically find the faces of newborn mammals appealing and are naturally
drawn to them. The faces of young mammals, characterized by large eyes and
smaller features, are generally more attractive than the mature traits of adults.
According to the biophilia hypothesis, this favorable emotional response from adult
animals towards young mammals enhances the survival chances of all mammals
(Wikipedia, 1986).
For thousands of years, humans have employed biophilic design to create shelters
that are tailored to their local climates using available resources. These structures
served practical purposes by protecting individuals from the elements, regulating
temperature, and preserving food and belongings. However, these homes often
fulfilled a greater role; they were cultural expressions that reflected and upheld the Evolution of mankind
customs and religious beliefs of the community (GBD Magazine).
 LITERATURE REVIEW
FEATURES OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
1. DIMENSIONS IN BIOPHILIC DESIGN

The core principle of biophilic design lies in incorporating the organic or natural dimension
into the built environment. This dimension encompasses shapes and forms that reflect
humanity's intrinsic connection to nature, achieved through direct, indirect, or symbolic
means. Direct interaction involves unstructured engagement with self-sustaining natural
elements such as daylight, plants, animals, habitats, and ecosystems. Indirect interaction
refers to features that require human care for survival, like potted plants, water fountains,
or aquariums. In contrast, symbolic or vicarious experiences do not involve direct contact
with nature but instead encompass representations of the natural world through images,
photographs, videos, metaphors, and similar methods (Scribd).

The second key element of biophilic design emphasizes the local or native aspect, where
structures and environments are closely tied to the culture and natural characteristics of a
specific area or geographic region. This aspect highlights the significance of a "sense of
place," illustrating how buildings and landscapes gain meaning for individuals and
communities by becoming essential components of their personal and collective identities
(Scribd).
 LITERATURE REVIEW
FEATURES OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
2. ELEMENTS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN

The two basic dimensions of biophilic design

Environmental Features Light and Space
can be related to six design elements:

Environmental Features

Light and Space

Natural pattern and processes Natural pattern and processes Natural shapes and forms

Evolved human -nature relationships

Natural shapes and forms

Place based relationships

Place based relationships

 LITERATURE REVIEW
FEATURES OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
3. METHODS OF INCORPORATING BIOPHILIC
ELEMENTS IN DESIGN

Views Color

One often used tactic to enhance A particularly prominent feature

people's feeling of connection to of how humans relate to the
nature is to provide them with a natural and artificial worlds is
glimpse of it. color, which frequently
transforms an intricate and
perplexing scene into one with
order and coherence.

Materials
Images
Using natural materials in the
built environment is frequently a Images of nature are an ancient
successful way to introduce means for bringing the likeness of
indirect nature-based the natural world into the built
interaction. Few artificial environment.
materials can match the feel
and visual characteristics of
natural materials.
 LITERATURE REVIEW
FEATURES OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN
3. METHODS OF INCORPORATING BIOPHILIC
ELEMENTS IN DESIGN

Texture

TTexture in a built environment encompasses the feel, look, and arrangement

of elements. Key biophilic qualities of texture highlight dimensions, form,
tactile quality, and proportion, engaging people both visually and through
other senses.

Shapes and Forms

Incorporating natural shapes and forms is a powerful, lasting way to

integrate nature into built environments. Inspired by living things, these forms
often reflect human creativity rather than exact replications of nature.

Biomimicry

The term "biomimicry" refers to the appropriation of unique traits from other
animals for human benefit. This approach to integrating nature into the built
world is similar to biophilia but differs slightly from it.
 LITERATURE REVIEW
DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS AND ELEMENTS

Distinct Encounters Biophilic design Descriptions

with Nature patterns, and elements

Visual connection to nature Views outside the window;

being in the outdoors

Non-visual connection to sensory relationship to nature,

nature haptic, olfactory, gustatory

Direct Random and fleeting ties to

Non-rhythmic stimuli in the
experience with the natural world with
senses
nature unexpected sensations

One may feel the wind, temperature,

Thermal and airflow variability flow, and quality of the air as well as
the weather.

The existence of water Water features are positioned both

indoors and outside.

Plants indoor and outdoor plant areas.

 LITERATURE REVIEW
DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS AND ELEMENTS

Distinct Encounters Biophilic design Descriptions

with Nature patterns, and elements

Animals The surroundings include fish,

birds, and other creatures.
Direct
experience with Lighting The location is impacted by
nature the shifting of the seasons or
has access to natural light and
shadows, including windows in
the office.
Patterns and structures that Forms, geometries, and biomimicry
are biomorphic styles seen in nature

Utilization of materials, colors, and

Materials derived from nature
textures
Indirect experience with Paintings or photos depicting natural
nature (i.e., natural scenes (such as mountains, forests,
analogues) Images of nature are present
waterfalls, or pools), particularly in
offices, schools, or medical facilities

Replicated the light and Artificial lights used to simulate natural

freshness of nature light
 LITERATURE REVIEW
DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS AND ELEMENTS

Distinct Encounters Biophilic design Descriptions

with Nature patterns, and elements

Attempting to sate a deep-seated

Hope and safety need to be given the chance (i.e.,
possibility) to inspect a place while
feeling secure

Similar to fractal geometries in nature,

Space and place art, and architecture, the organization
structured and intricate is homogeneous and featureless without
(i.e., nature of the
space) being monotonous. It is rich in detail
and diversity.

Transferring from one location to

another (such as walkways and walks);
Transitional places and
creating a connection between the
mobility
indoors and outside; promoting both
aesthetic and emotional appeal
 LITERATURE REVIEW
IMPORTANCE OF PLANTS IN BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Plants are essential in biophilic architecture, enriching both the aesthetic and
functional aspects of design. They connect occupants with nature, improve indoor
environmental quality, and boost overall well-being.

BENEFITS OF INCORPORATING PLANTS

Connection to nature

Plants bring a tangible essence of the outdoors into built spaces, creating a
visual link to nature that fosters feelings of calm, balance, and connection,
which can reduce stress and improve psychological well-being.

Buffer zone

Plants can serve as a buffer, providing separation from hazardous or

uncomfortable areas, and can also be used to zone spaces for different
activities.

Acoustic control

Plants can absorb and diffuse sound, enhancing acoustic comfort—especially

valuable in open office spaces or high-noise areas.
BENEFITS OF INCORPORATING PLANTS

Temperature regulation

The shade and moisture released by plants help regulate indoor

temperatures, reducing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems.

Humidity control

Plants release moisture into the air through transpiration, helping to maintain
ideal indoor humidity levels—especially useful in dry or air-conditioned
environments.

Sustainable Design

Incorporating plants into architecture aligns with sustainable design

principles, enhancing energy efficiency, reducing the urban heat island
effect, and supporting local ecosystems.

Dust Filtration

Plants can help prevent dust from circulating in the air. Shrubs and broad-
leaved plants are particularly effective in controlling dust dispersion.

Aesthetics

Greenery enhances the beauty and vibrancy of spaces, transforming sterile environments
into inviting and visually appealing settings. The diverse colors, textures, and shapes of
plants enrich the overall aesthetic of the design.
BENEFITS OF INCORPORATING PLANTS

Air Quality Improvement

Plants serve as natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen through
photosynthesis. They effectively remove harmful substances like volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), improving indoor air quality and promoting healthier environments.

Tantalization

This involves the art of integrating plants into landscapes as attractive and engaging
elements. The fragrant aroma of plants contributes to this, as pleasant-smelling plants
enhance the overall quality of the space.

Biodiversity support

Plants foster urban biodiversity and promote ecological balance by creating habitats for
birds, insects, and other wildlife.

Productivity and Creativity

**Productivity and Creativity:** Integrating plants into work and living spaces has been
associated with enhanced productivity and creativity. Individuals often feel more inspired
and focused when surrounded by greenery.
PLANTS AND BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS

Examples of biophilic design patterns include biomorphic forms and patterns, non-
rhythmic sensory stimuli, variations in thermal and airflow, the presence of water, plants,
or animals, natural materials, a balance of complexity and order, the concepts of
prospect and refuge, as well as elements of danger and mystery.

Green facades and roofs

This involves the art of integrating plants into landscapes as attractive and engaging elements. The fragrant aroma of plants
contributes to this, as pleasant-smelling plants enhance the overall quality of the space.

The idea of incorporating green spaces and vegetation into urban planning gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution as
cities began to expand rapidly.

hanging garden of Babylon

PLANTS AND BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS

Urban planners recognized the value of dedicated areas for parks, tree-lined streets, and community gardens. These green spaces
provided both aesthetic and functional benefits, offering areas for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction, while also helping
to alleviate some of the environmental challenges of industrialization.

n the modern era, urban areas encounter new challenges impacting human well-being and environmental sustainability. A major
issue is the intensifying urban heat island effect, primarily driven by the concentration of heat-absorbing materials like concrete
and asphalt and a shortage of greenery. This effect increases the need for energy to regulate building temperatures, leading to
higher energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Tree lined streets

PLANTS AND BIOPHILIC DESIGN PATTERNS

Air Quality Improvement

Plants absorb pollutants and release oxygen, improving local air quality.

Biodiversity

Green facades provide habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife, contributing to urban biodiversity.

Noise Reduction

The vegetation can act as a natural sound barrier, reducing noise pollution.

Stormwater Management

Vegetation helps manage stormwater runoff and reduce flood risks, driving the popularity of green facades in sustainable urban
planning and building design. Integrating plants into the built environment lessens urbanization's negative impacts, creating healthier,
more livable spaces. This aligns with green urbanism, which balances development with environmental care and quality of life.

Urban Heat Island Mitigation

Green facades help lower local temperatures, mitigating the urban heat island effect. Which increases the comfort of users.
 LITERATURE CASE STUDY
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
INTRODUCTION

Parkroyal on Pickering is a remarkable hotel located in the

vibrant heart of Singapore. Renowned for its unique,
eco-friendly design, it stands as a modern masterpiece in
urban living. Carefully crafted to harmonize with nature, the
hotel offers guests a seamless blend of city and natural
experiences. Its stunning architecture integrates lush greenery
throughout its façade, setting it apart as an iconic example of
sustainable design.

Year of Completion:2013
Area: 2981 m2
Architect: WOHA

PARKROYAL ON PICKERING, SINGAPORE

Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
DESIGN OF BUILDING

The building features a sculpted base inspired by terraced plantations. This design forms striking outdoor squares, gardens,
and terraces that seamlessly integrate with the indoor areas. The sleek, well-crafted tower structures harmonize with the
adjacent tall office buildings. Textured concrete bands weave through the entire podium, creating a smooth transition
between outdoor and indoor spaces without any visible barriers.

ELEVATION
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
GREEN DESIGN FEATURES
Over 200% of the land area is devoted to sky gardens and landscaping, with expansive sky gardens featuring
water elements on every fourth level.

Natural elements from the adjacent park are seamlessly incorporated into the building's design, effectively
concealing above-ground parking and fostering a harmonious connection with the urban parkland.

Indoor greenery is featured through green walls in various spaces, including the lobby and corridors between
hotel rooms.

The building emphasizes openness to maximize natural light and scenic views, employing a shallow depth and
high-performance glass for effective solar management.

Green and blue glass is used to improve solar performance, while cascading greenery on the west-facing walls
helps regulate temperature.

More than 51% of guestroom corridors are designed to resemble beautiful gardens, optimizing natural light and
airflow.

Roof terraces provide entertainment spaces for guests and offer insulation that prevents heat from directly
entering the upper levels.

Self-sustaining expansive landscapes utilize rainwater collection and conservation methods to minimize resource
usage, while the above-ground parking reduces the need for excavation and costly mechanical ventilation,
decreasing reliance on artificial lighting.
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
VERTICAL GREENERY

A standout biophilic feature of the hotel is its extensive vertical greenery.

The building's facade is covered in lush vegetation, including climbing plants
and shrubs. These living walls enhance the visual appeal while naturally
cooling the building and improving air quality.

The hotel also includes sky gardens on multiple floors, providing serene
green spaces for guests to enjoy. These gardens are equipped with
automated irrigation systems and controlled lighting to ensure the plants
remain healthy. PLANTED SUNSHADES

GREEN ROOF VIEW FROM THE TOP FLOOR

Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
ENERGY CONSERVATION

Photo sensors are strategically placed to monitor and

control light levels, while motion sensors in fire
staircases help conserve electricity. Rain sensors in
LUSH GREEN WALL
landscaped areas enable the irrigation system to shut
off when a certain level of precipitation is detected.
The sky gardens are designed to be zero energy and
also function as water catchments, collecting rainwater
to nourish the plants. A solar-powered, gravity-fed drip
system, utilizing photovoltaic cells on the roof, supports
this irrigation.

All water features in the building rely on rainwater

harvesting, with collected rainwater used for watering
indoor plants. Additionally, planters on lower floors INTERIOR PLANTS
benefit from rainwater collected from upper levels.

Wire mesh frames are equipped with small tubes that

create a plant-watering system, periodically releasing
droplets into the soil to keep the plants adequately
hydrated in cooler conditions. SECTION THROUGH MAIN TOWER

IRRIGATION PIPELINES THROUGH

THE WALL
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
VENTILATION AND SPACE COOLING

The hotel boasts over 200% of its total land area dedicated to lush
landscaping, with greenery from the adjacent park extending throughout
the building, creating a seamless blend with the urban parkland. POOL

Rather than relying on energy-intensive air conditioning, corridors, lobbies,

and common restrooms are designed as garden spaces featuring stepping
stones, plantings, and water elements, fostering an inviting resort-like
atmosphere filled with fresh air.

Water features are strategically placed throughout the hotel, providing cool
breezes for the walkways instead of traditional air conditioning. These
elements enhance the environment by cooling the space, increasing
humidity, and improving air quality for guests. INTERNAL COURTYARD

With rounded rock formations surrounding the structure and extending into
the lobby, the man-made scenery mirrors the natural landscape. The interior
continues this organic theme with silvery-grey stones, hanging plants, and
water features.

ENTRANCE
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
NATURALLY VENTILATED OPEN CORRIDORS

Each floor features external corridors that are open on

the side facing the neighboring building, with plants
acting as a natural boundary instead of walls.

This design promotes ample natural ventilation,

especially since the building's front facade faces the
prevailing north winds. AIRFLOW AND VENTILATION

As a result, the open hallways and corridors enjoy

consistent airflow, minimizing the need for
energy-intensive air conditioning.

OPEN CORRIDOR SPACE

Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
DAYLIGHTING

The building's E-plan enhances its surface area, allowing light to enter from multiple angles.
Floor-to-ceiling glass walls and large windows are employed to maximize natural light
throughout the structure.

The design of the sleek tower blocks, arranged in an open-sided courtyard layout, breaks
up the wall mass and optimizes both views and daylight. Each sky garden is equipped with SHADES
skylights to bring additional light to the lower levels.

Double-glazed low-emissivity glass with a clear metallic coating reflects heat back into
the interior while permitting sunlight and warmth to enter, thereby conserving heating
energy.

SUN SHADING

A natural passive design feature at Park Royal offers sun protection for the building. The
SUNSHADES
hotel’s floors are adorned with greenery to help block sunlight from entering the walkways,
creating a bright, shaded pathway.

There is no need for sunscreen on the facade, as the cantilevered sky gardens provide
partial shade.

To enhance the sense of garden spaces and create a welcoming resort atmosphere, shade
trees and overhanging vines are planted in corridors, lobbies, and public restrooms. These
areas are further sheltered from the elements and sunlight by tall overhangs and lush LIGHTWELL
vegetation.
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
PLANT INTEGRATION

This urban high-rise features a sprawling 15,000-square-meter tropical garden, showcasing fifty diverse plant species.

The garden includes lush, multi-layered plants like Monsteras, Alocasias, and Calatheas, combined with ferns and palm
varieties to create a 'hotel-in-a-garden' ambiance.

The design considers varying light and wind conditions, integrating textured ferns for shade and palms and shrubs for
partial shade.

This diverse flora—shade trees, tall palms, flowering plants, and cascading vines—enhances urban biodiversity.

Elegant contours are complemented by tall Bucida trees and broad-leaved Calathea lutea shrubs.

Striking elements such as Heliconias, Alpinias, sculptural Frangipani trees, and Ficus lyrata add vibrant colors.

Cascading foliage is provided by the Lee Kuan Yew creeper and Vietnam Leaf Flower

The greenery improves air quality by providing shade, absorbing heat, and facilitating evaporative cooling.

Alocasia, Euterpe palms, ferns, and Mondo grass (Ophiopogon) were chosen to minimize insect infestations and
maintenance.

The landscaping employs a water-efficient xeriscape approach, mainly using ferns and palms.

All planter areas feature auto-irrigation and fertigation systems for consistent delivery of water and nutrients.
Parkroyal on Pickering, Singapore
INFERENCE

POSITIVE IMPACTS

Indoor plants release pleasant aromas and are accompanied by the sounds of birds and insects, creating an
engaging atmosphere that alleviates the monotony of enclosed spaces.
This sensory experience fosters calm and relaxation, enhancing health and well-being.

Water features, both indoors and outdoors, along with natural light and sheer curtains, provide thermal comfort
and ample illumination, decreasing reliance on active systems and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
The addition of planted sky gardens not only attracts biodiversity but also serves as a sanctuary, protecting
specific species and fostering a sustainable ecosystem within the built environment.
 LITERATURE CASE STUDY
Kandalama Resort
INTRODUCTION

The Kandalama Resort is a remarkable structure nestled in the

heart of Sri Lanka's breathtaking wilderness. It exemplifies the
seamless integration of human-made architecture with the
natural landscape. Located near the Sigiriya Rock Fortress,
this eco-friendly resort is not only visually stunning but also
reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
Its innovative design serves as a prime example of how
contemporary architecture can harmoniously coexist with
nature.

Location: Sri Lanka

Year of Completion:1994
Area: 55 acres
Architect: Geoffrey Bawa

KANDALAMA RESORT
Kandalama Resort
DESIGN CONCEPT OF THE BUILDING

The building embraces a theme of sustainable architecture and minimalism, reflecting the principles of
landscape architecture.

Designed by Bawa, it showcases functional simplicity and is tailored to the region's dry climate, featuring
flat roofs designed for limited seasonal rainfall.

This project represents a high point in Bawa's career, highlighting his deep commitment to sustainability
and creativity.

The Kandalama Hotel's design emphasizes a harmonious integration with nature, promoting coexistence
with the environment throughout its architecture.
Kandalama Resort
SITE FEATURES

Master Builder Geoffrey Bawa intentionally chose to construct this hotel next to Kandalama Lake on the
outskirts of Dambulla. He is one of the few architects who deeply values both the natural environment and
human behavior. The hotel is designed around a cave that borders a cliff, while another section of the
structure is completely surrounded by mountains and rocks.

SITE PLAN
Kandalama Resort
DESIGN IMPLEMENTATIONS

The hotel features an underground main entrance that creates a cave-like

atmosphere amidst natural mountain rock surroundings.
The two-level lobby includes an open dining area, while the partially open ENTRANCE
stairwells and hallways offer stunning views of the mountains.

A small patio next to the lobby seamlessly connects with the infinity pool and
the Kandalama water tank.

The hotel is divided into three main sections.

The central area, which includes the lobby, restaurants, and terraced pools,
serves as the focal point.
Two narrow wings, one on the east and the other on the southwest side, INTERNAL CORRIDORS
contain guest rooms that easily link to the central complex.
The east wing features the Sigiriya wing, which extends 100 meters and
spans four floors.

VIEW TOWARDS OUTER SPACE

Kandalama Resort
INTERIORS

The main foyer features a semi-open layout with marble flooring.

Interior design elements include locally crafted handicrafts,
planters, sculptures, and water features.

Wood is used throughout the interiors and floors, maintaining its

original grain and shape.
Some common areas are adorned with mountain boulders, while INTERIOR VIEW
others are enclosed in glass.

The entire facade is made of glass, creating an immersive effect.

Bawa successfully embodies the concept of blending with the
surroundings.
Additionally, sculptures of birds and animals are incorporated as
decorative elements, enhancing the forest-like ambiance.

SCULPTURES OF ANIMALS
Kandalama Resort
GREEN SPACES

Kanchana Terrace is located within the Sigiriya Wing of the hotel,

adjacent to the Kanchana Restaurant. This terrace acts as a
pathway leading to the Spa, situated at the far end.

As guests stroll through this lush green space toward the spa, they
are enveloped in a sense of relaxation from the natural surroundings
and the anticipation of rejuvenation.
THE GREEN FAÇADE

The terrace is thoughtfully designed to resemble a gradual forest

transition, creating layered greenery that adds depth to the layout.
It features a green roof that provides insulation for the building and
helps regulate temperature throughout the seasons.

AERIAL VIEW
Kandalama Resort
MINIMAL FOOTPRINT

The design minimizes disruption to the natural ecosystem. The architects prioritized preserving existing trees by designing the
building around them instead of cutting them down.

MATERIALS

Local materials and building techniques are utilized to ensure that the hotel reflects the region's culture and heritage.
This approach not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting materials but also supports the local
economy.

NATURAL VENTILATION

The hotel features open spaces and courtyards that encourage natural ventilation, enhancing guest comfort while
decreasing reliance on energy-intensive air conditioning.
Kandalama Resort
BIO DIVERSITY INDICATORS

Heritance Kandalama is situated next to the 17th-century Kandalama Tank, an 8

sq km rain-fed reservoir constructed by King Vasaba.
This biodiverse area is home to various wildlife, including Asian elephants, nine
endemic bird species, 172 additional bird species, and three types of monkeys.

The region features a canopy of tropical dry mixed evergreen hardwood trees,
which take 40-50 years to mature.
The resort protects 193 acres of conservation forest, safeguarding biodiversity
and the sources of 11 natural streams that irrigate 34 dry zone reservoirs. This
preservation also acts as a safeguard against deforestation and unauthorized
construction.

The expansion of the biodiversity forest oasis at Heritance Kandalama reflects

our ongoing commitment to sustainable environmental stewardship.
By investing in the conservation of this area, Heritance Kandalama continues to
set a benchmark for sustainable tourism and eco-resort operations, inspiring the
industry while maintaining its unique blend of luxury hospitality and environmental
responsibility.
Kandalama Resort
INFERENCE

The resort's distinctive design features living walls, rooftop gardens, and terraces adorned with a vibrant array
of tropical plants and lush foliage.
These elements not only create a stunning visual experience but also fulfill several functional roles.
The greenery provides natural insulation, helping to keep the interiors cool in the tropical heat, while also
aiding in air purification and reducing the resort's carbon footprint.

A key indication of Kandalama's dedication to integrating greenery is its architecture, which was thoughtfully
designed to minimize environmental impact.
Bawa's vision aimed to harmonize human-made structures with the natural world, resulting in a remarkable
example of sustainable design principles.
 LIVE CASE STUDY
Malabar Headquarters
INTRODUCTION

The Malabar Group Headquarters is a corporate office

building located on the Montana estate, a private estate in
Calicut. The design of the building is adapted to the varying
elevations of a large sloped mountain, featuring multiple
levels.

FRONT FACADE FACING WEST VIEW FROM THE ACCESS ROAD

Malabar Headquarters
DESIGN CONCEPT OF THE BUILDING

The Malabar Group Headquarters in Calicut, India, tackles the challenges of its steep, west-facing site in Kerala's tropical
climate by incorporating multiple levels that align with the natural contours, thereby minimizing site disruption.
The lower four levels, designated for parking and services, feature terracotta screens and greenery on the facade.
Above this, a landscaped podium serves as the main entrance, leading to four floors of office spaces designed to maximize
surrounding views.
To reduce the impact of the harsh western sun, strategically placed balconies with trees and plants provide shade while also
functioning as elevated gardens.

PLAN AT LOBBY LEVEL AND ROOF PLAN SHOWING THE GREEN PLANTED AREA
Malabar Headquarters
DESIGN CONCEPT OF THE BUILDING

The roof of the Malabar Group Headquarters is a landscaped area featuring amphitheaters, lounges, pavilions, and
vegetation, providing spaces for gathering and relaxation. It slopes southward to reduce sun exposure and insulate the office
spaces below.
Employees can access the green roof through openings, and spill-out balconies, along with a centrally located landscaped
spine, introduce natural flora into the interiors, fostering social interaction and enhancing well-being.
A solar screen roof supports the building's energy needs, while rainwater collected from the roof is directed to percolation
trenches to help replenish the groundwater table, resulting in a sustainable design that harmonizes with the environment.

SECTION THROUGH FRONT ENTRANCE ROAD

Malabar Headquarters
DESIGN CONCEPT OF THE BUILDING

The office spaces are arranged into two distinct blocks separated by a green landscaping spine, adapting to the sloped
site. Large trees and vegetation on strategically placed balconies on the western facade provide a buffer against harsh
sunlight.
The roof acts as a "garden in the sky," featuring spill-out areas accessible from various floor levels. Climbing plants grow
between wooden trellises on the western facade to further block intense sun.
The lower four levels accommodate parking and service areas, marked by a unique facade with terracotta jaalis and
greenery.
The main entry level, a landscaped podium, is reached via a distinctive bridge, creating a welcoming arrival experience,
while transparent open-plan offices above maximize panoramic views.

SECTION OF THE SLOPED SITE

Kandalama Resort
INFERENCE

The incorporation of vertical greenery has enhanced the overall experience by improving air quality, boosting
energy efficiency, and adding aesthetic appeal.

The green roof helps to lower temperature increases within the building.
Additionally, the inner planted courtyard serves as an extra ventilation area, allowing light and wind to enter,
which contributes to a cooling effect inside the building.
 DATE
01/11/2024

THANK YOU
Marshook
Roll No : 16
S9, B.Arch
Guide : Shiras C M
Professor