PiCA Thesis Forum

The Thesis Forum is a platform where students share their journey and outcomes of their design dissertations. It encourages discussions and the exchange of ideas. This semester’s first session featured presentations by Shravya Karuturi and Shivam Patil, offering valuable insights into their research and design processes.

Shravya Karuturi talked about her thesis Ephemerality in Urban Spaces, wherein she focused on the idea of ephemerality—how spaces change over time. Inspired by Rahul Mehrotra’s Ephemeral Cities, she studied Panvel to identify places that transform daily, weekly, and yearly. Her project looked at temporary markets and other changing sites, using mapping techniques and design development to understand these shifts.

During the discussion, students explored how designing for changing spaces could work. They asked about different mapping methods, software tools, and ways to make spaces more adaptable.

After Shravya, Shivam Patil explained his thesis Adaptive Reuse of Abandoned Structures in Palghar. His research was about reusing old, unused factories in Palghar for new purposes instead of tearing them down. He chose three sites based on their location, ease of access, and condition. His project proposed turning these spaces into cultural hubs, using case studies and design plans to support his ideas.

The discussion covered how practical this reuse would be, looking at how these spaces could be used differently over time. Ideas about involving the community and making sure the projects could last were also discussed.

The session ended with a Q&A, where students asked questions about the challenges and methods used in the projects. The forum highlighted the importance of understanding context, being flexible in design, and involving the community in architectural projects. It inspired students to think in detail about their own research and designs.

PiCA Thesis Forum is a lecture series where recent graduates present the process and outcome of their final-year Design Dissertations. It offers a platform for Design Dissertation discussions and the exchange of ideas.

This year’s thesis forum featured two distinguished presenters, Dhruv Ravi Gowda and Faiz Kasu, who shared invaluable insights from their unique and impactful projects. The forum was attended by the 5th-year B.Arch. students of PiCA, offering them an opportunity to learn about the depth of research and dedication required for their own thesis work.

The session began with an introduction and welcome by 5th-year Class Representative Vishnu, who warmly introduced the speakers and set the stage for an insightful discussion.

1. Dhruv Ravi Gowda – NIASA Award Winner
Dhruv Ravi Gowda, a NIASA award recipient, presented his thesis, Asasavatate at Srirangapatna. His project aimed to create a space dedicated to afterlife rituals and a crematorium, highlighting the cultural and emotional resonance of such a location. Dhruv emphasized the critical role of regular site visits in understanding both the site and the community it serves. He shared his experience of visiting Srirangapatna nearly every weekend, which allowed him to overcome challenges in understanding the site and connect with the local community deeply rooted in its traditions.

When Prof. Smita Dalvi asked how much time was allocated to research, Dhruv explained the significant time dedicated to understanding both the spatial and user-specific aspects of the site. He revealed that 75% of his thesis work was initially completed by hand before transitioning to digital representation. His approach underscored the importance of immersive, hands-on research, particularly for sensitive, site-specific projects, and encouraged students to recognize the value of in-depth exploration.

2. Faiz Kasu – Invigorating informal scrap market.
Faiz Kasu, who selected his thesis topic, Invigorating informal scrap market. Two weeks into the semester, discussed his experiences in tackling a large-scale urban and architectural project. Guided by his mentor, he explored the challenges of designing for a market and river-adjacent area in Kurla, with a focus on urban renewal and giving back to the community. He advised students to start putting ideas on paper early, sharing how sketches and ideas were documented as he progressed in his research.

Faiz’s project spanned from macro to micro studies, revealing the multiple layers and aspects involved in a comprehensive market study. His process included frequent site visits, user interviews, and needs assessments, all of which were crucial in understanding the community’s requirements. His reflections highlighted the importance of iterative research, continuous site engagement, and on-the-spot sketching, particularly for projects involving active community participation.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where students posed questions that Dhruv and Faiz answered thoughtfully, further enriching the discussion. Vishnu expressed gratitude to the speakers for their time and insights. Prof. Smita Dalvi then felicitated Dhruv and Faiz, presenting them with books as tokens of appreciation.

PiCA Thesis Forum is a lecture series where recent graduates present the process and outcome of their final-year Design Dissertations. It offers a platform for Design Dissertation discussions and the exchange of ideas.

This year, the guest speaker for the session was architect Suditi Chaudhary, a graduate of LTIADS, Navi Mumbai. She presented her thesis “Black Gold – Beginning to Every End” (Waste Treatment Plant and Awareness Center) to 5th-year students of PiCA. For her thesis, she received a runner-up award at the IGBC Green Building competition during the Green Building Congress Meet 2023.

Suditi’s talk seamlessly blended design and technical aspects. She shared insights into her project’s evolution, emphasizing the importance of understanding both design concepts and technical requirements. She explained that as her topic was technical, she had to start with all the calculations and go into detail about the technicalities of the subjects before she started the design. She demonstrated a thoughtful approach by addressing the needs of workers and incorporating appropriate facilities within her design. Additionally, Suditi showcased her commitment to sustainability by utilizing eco-friendly materials such as fly ash and recycled plastic bottles. Her presentation encompassed various aspects, including rainwater harvesting, facade details, and outdoor flooring, showcasing a holistic approach to architectural design. Notably, she also highlighted the significance of vegetation by carefully selecting and integrating trees into her project. Furthermore, she effectively utilized a physical model to explain her thesis during the final jury presentation, enhancing understanding and engagement with her design concept.

In the last part of the session, students and faculty asked many queries, all of which were resourcefully addressed by Suditi. Prof. Ajita thanked the speaker and appreciated their time and efforts taken for the presentation. The session was truly helpful for students.

PiCA Thesis Forum is a lecture series where X-PiCAns present the process and outcome of their final-year Design Dissertations. It offers a platform for Design Dissertation discussions and the exchange of ideas between our students, faculty, and alumni.

The Thesis Forum for Sem 9 students provided a platform for students from the previous year’s batch to present their research thesis work to the current batch. This event aimed to share valuable insights, experiences, and guidance to inspire and assist current students in their thesis endeavors. The event was planned for two days. Day 1 of the forum featured presentations from two students and day 2 from three students, each presenting unique approaches and perspectives on conducting architectural research.

Day 1 – June 21, 2023:

The event commenced at 09:00 a.m. on the 2nd Floor Studio. Prof. Ajita Deodhar welcomed Daniyal and Swarnim and asked them to share their research journeys.

Daniyal Jaweed (2018-2023) presented his thesis on “Architecture and Identity – India Pavilion.” He elaborated on the significance of exploring India’s architectural identity through the lens of a pavilion. Daniyal shared his site study, case studies, and the development of the program. The students were inspired by his in-depth approach and the passion he exhibited for his subject.

Swarnim Waingankar (2018-2023) explored the “Interface between aging experience and Leisure Architecture” in her thesis. She explained her choice of topic and the methodologies she employed to address this important aspect of architectural design. Swarnim’s presentation resonated with the listeners, and her insights into how to understand the users and considerations for designing spaces for them were appreciable.

Day 2 – July 12, 2023:

The second day of the PiCA Thesis Forum took place at Conclave – 2, 6th floor, starting at 09:00 a.m. Three more alumni presenters shared their research work, providing the current batch with a diverse range of architectural themes and ideas.

Subiksha Rajagopalan (2018-2023) presented her research on “Exploring the potential of bamboo as a sustainable and flexible construction material – A case of the Warli tribal community.” It primarily focused on the intersection of community, material, and construction techniques. She emphasized the importance of maintaining architectural relevance throughout the research process and conducting user studies to understand the needs and preferences of the community being served.

Angel Jaison (2018-2023) presented her thesis on “Research center for Geosciences in Peninsular India.” Her research centered around building typology and its correlation with geological factors. She stressed the importance of maintaining a research journal, aligning research with personal interests, defining scope and limitations, and providing comprehensive research descriptions, including application, objectives, and an engaging mode of presentation and shared the challenges she faced and the solutions she devised during her thesis journey.

Anju Pillai (2018-2023) focused on “Reimagining the Future of Kainakary Architecture for the Ephemeral Landscapes” in her thesis. Her research was centered on site-specific, place-based studies. She discussed her extensive mapping and detailed study of the macro area of Alapurzha, highlighted her experiences and solutions to challenges encountered during site studies, and emphasized the importance of proper documentation. Anju also distinguished between macro and microsite concerns and their significance in architectural research.

The Q&A session provided an interactive platform for students to seek further clarification and insights from the presenters. Discussions included effective site study techniques, the rationale behind choosing specific materials, and the importance of knowledge sharing among peers.

In conclusion, all the alumni presenters shared their unique research processes, the challenges faced, and the lessons they learned from both successes and failures. Their willingness to be open and candid about their experiences allowed the current batch to gain valuable insights into the world of architectural research and design.

Webinar Details: Session No: 5 (Talk-12)

Anusha Bhube presenting her thesis

Priyanka Tiwari presenting her thesis

Tanisha Sani presenting her thesis

Question & answer session

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5.00 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Neha Korde

5.05 p.m.: Presentation by Anusha Bhube

Thesis Topic: Progressive Student Support Centre
5.25 p.m.: Presentation by Priyanka Tiwari

Thesis Topic: Interpretation Centre at Alibaug
5.50 p.m.: Presentation by Tanisha Sani

Thesis Topic: GARDEN OF RESURGENCE – Pakke Seijosa, Arunachal Pradesh Revival of identity and upliftment by means of Rural development programs and Eco-tourism

6.15 p.m.: Question and answer session

All three presentations were admirable and had details of ARD (Architectural representation and drawings). During the discussion, Prof. Kavita Sawant raised an important question about when the students actually started working on their ARD in their process of working on DD. The impressive presentations and quantum of work were appreciated by faculty members.

6.35 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan for all the hard work that the student organizing team had put in and student council had supported the sessions of this Season-2 of PiCA Thesis Forum.

Webinar Recording :

Webinar Details: Session No: 4 (Talk-11)

Zaid presenting his thesis

Goran Ojha presenting his thesis

Question & answer session

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5.05 p.m.: Introduction by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.15 p.m.: Presentation by Zaid Mukadam

Thesis Topic: The Panacea: Acute Care Centre
5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Goran Ojha

Thesis Topic: Academy & Food-Yard for Urban Agriculture

5.55 p.m.: Question and answer session

Prof. Kavita Pradhan welcomed everyone in her introductory speech.
Zaid’s presentation of his hospital dissertation was really impressive. Goran presented his work that involved modern urban agriculture techniques like aquaponics.

These two very technical designs that were well handled by the presenters. During the question and answer session, we discussed the process of dissertation being a continuous one and needs constant research, modifications as students understand the needs of the users better and further develop the program accordingly.

6.10 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Sneha Nair.

Webinar Recording :

Webinar Details: Session No: 3 (Talk-10)

Reuben Roy presenting his thesis

Prachi Jatia presenting her thesis

Question & answer session

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5.05 p.m.: Introduction by Prof. Neha Korde

5.10 p.m.: Presentation by Reuben Roy Thesis Topic: One For All (Masters) Integrated Learning centre (Bachelors)

5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Prachi Jatia

Thesis topic: Making the invisibles visible: Reconciliation of urban street children
5.55 p.m.: Question and answer session

Prof. Neha Korde made the introductory marks.
Reuben Roy presented his Bachelors’ thesis work followed by his Masters’. Prachi Jatia presented her thesis project related to the issues of the street children. Both of them focussed on explaining their journey of dissertation about how they planned, made different choices and executed their projects and advised the current PiCA students.

6.25 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Rajalakshmi.

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Webinar Details: Session No: 2 (Talk-9)

Somesh Mhatre presenting his thesis

Aakruti Vaidya presenting her thesis

Question & answer session

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5.05 p.m.: Introduction by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.15 p.m.: Presentation by Somesh Mhatre

Thesis Topic: Re-inventing an Apartment building using micro-houses
5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Aakruti Vaidya

Thesis Topic: Redevelopment of An Equestrian Academy
5.55 p.m.: Question and answer session

Prof. Kavita Pradhan talked about the previous season of PiCA Thesis Forum in her introductory speech. Somesh & Aakruti presented their thesis work and shared their process of research and design.

There was a discussion about the housing shortage in metropolitan areas and would micro housing be one of the solutions. Aakruti shared her experiences related to her unique dissertation topic. Prof. Neha Korde participated in discussion during the question and answer session.

6.25 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Jahnavi Joshi.

Webinar Recording :

Webinar Details: Session No: 1 (Talk-8)

Prof. Kavita Pradhan paid respects to Late Prof. R. Venkatesh

Mohammed Imran Dastagir presenting his thesis

Deepshikha Apte presenting her thesis process

Question & answer session

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5.05 p.m.: Introduction by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.15 p.m.: Presentation by Mohammed Imran Dastagir

Thesis Topic: Therapeutic Design: An aid to drug rehabilitation
5.50 pm: Presentation by Deepshikha Apte

Thesis Topic: Redevelopment of Devrai arts village, Panchagani

6.15 p.m.: Question and answer session

Prof. Kavita Pradhan talked about the previous season of PiCA Thesis Forum in her introductory speech. She paid respect to Late Prof. R. Venkatesh and some of Venky Sir’s pictures were shared as everyone remembered him.

Imran and Deepshikha presented their thesis work and shared their process of research and design.

Prof. Tejashree, Prof. Kavita Sawant & Prof. Sanghamitra appreciated students’ presentations and drawings. There was discussion regarding form development, architectural language used and various repetitive elements. X-PiCAns asked the students about various issues addressed in the thesis and details.

6.35 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Aprajita.

Webinar Recording :

Webinar Details: Session No: 1 (Talk-7)

Vaishali Singh presenting her bachelor’s thesis

Vaishali Singh presenting her masters’ thesis

Siddhesh Bhandari presenting user study of his thesis

Siddhesh Bhandari presenting his thesis

Question and answer session

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5.00 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.02 p.m.: Introduction of presenters by Moderator Prof. Kavita Sawant

5.07 p.m.: Presentation by Vaishali Singh
HIV and AIDS Combat Centre

5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Siddhesh Bhandari
Outpatient Care Centre

6.00 p.m.: Question and answer session.

Vaishali talked about her thesis related to healthcare and how it inspired her to choose career in the same domain. She showed some of her masters’ works related to high-rise buildings and also talked about Artist live work space, Chicago- Urban Infill. Siddhesh presented wonderful drawings as he talked about his thesis related to OPD.

6.30 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan.

This marked the season finale session of PiCA Thesis Forum and there was a discussion about how enriching the sessions were for students as they witnessed their selected able seniors’ Design Dissertation journey. Several faculty members including Prof. Smita Dalvi, Prof. Jinu Kurien, Prof. Venkatesh, Prof. Pardawala, Prof. Kavita Sawant, Prof. Tejashree Lakras, Prof. Sarojini Lohot regularly attended the sessions of PiCA Thesis Forum. Thus, they appreciated this initiative taken by PiCA.

Webinar Details: Session No: 1 (Talk-6)

Topic introduction

Kavita Sawant introducing the presenters

Aishwarya presenting the problems of RCC construction in earthquake prone areas

Aishwarya’s drawings

Bahar Dewan presenting his thesis

Roman Pradhan presenting how he responded to hilly terrain

Question and answer session

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5.00 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.02 p.m.: Introduction of presenters by Moderator Prof. Kavita Sawant

5.07 p.m.: Presentation by Aishwarya Pradhan
Himalayan Pravidhik Karyashala – A skill developmemt centre with focus on seismic resistance, Sikkim

5.45 p.m.: Presentation by Bahar Dewan: Kala Pradarshan Kendralaya : performing art centre, Sikkim

6.25 p.m.: Presentation by Roman Pradhan: Community based Tourism Centre for people of Sikkim

6.45 p.m.: Question and answer session.

All 3 dissertations included architectural research of 3 communities of Sikkim Lepchas, Bhutia, Nepalese. Aishwarya presented study of earthquake resistant traditional architecture and how that can be revived. Her bamboo architecture details were commendable. Bahar presented the need for a performing arts center in Gangtok area and showed how his design responds to site context. Roman presented how the difficulties that were faced while working on a steep contoured site were resolved and how the design enjoys views of beautiful Himalayan mountains of Sikkim. During Q&A session, the challenges of urbanization, invasion of RCC buildings in urban areas of Sikkim were discussed and all 3 presenters expressed the need to marry vernacular techniques with new age construction materials.

7.00 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan.

Webinar Details: Session No: 5 (Talk-5)

Webinar Minutes:
5.02 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.03 p.m.: Introduction of presenters by Moderator Prof. Jinu Kurien

1. 5.07 p.m.: Presentation by Aishwarya Raju
   Thesis Topic: Campus for Bamboo Culture, Auroville
2. 5.40 p.m.: Presentation by Unmesh Kelkar
   Thesis Topic: Architecture of the Threshold: Theorizing In-Between Spaces to Reinterpret Urban Renewal in Mumbai

6.15 p.m.: Question and answer session.
The dissertations showed in-depth research process. Aishwarya’s thesis was material oriented as it started with Bamboo and explored possibilities. Unmesh briefly showed his bachelors’ thesis and focused more on his masters’ thesis that was related to Urban design. His drawings and way of representation were remarkable. There was a lot to learn from him for the students present. Unmesh mentioned how after completing his thesis he wrote essays and participated in competitions related to his topic that further helped him get awards and recognition. Jinu Kurien summarized the session about learnings from the session and possibilities of afterlife for the thesis that can give further direction to

6.50 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan.

Webinar Details: Session No: 4 (Talk-4)

Webinar Minutes:
5.02 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.03 p.m.: Introduction of presenters by Moderator Prof. Smita Dalvi

1. 5.07 p.m.: Presentation by Eesha Harmalkar
   Thesis Topic: Working Women’s Hostel
2. 5.50 p.m.: Presentation by Riddhi Aiya
   Thesis Topic: Urban intervention in the Dhobi Ghat Community, Colaba

6.30 p.m.: Question and answer session.
The thesis processes and research were appreciable. Faculty members who were present and students engaged in a discussion about the presented design dissertations that had proposed certain policy changes as in case of new proposal for Dhobi Ghat at Colaba and inclusion of co-working spaces in working women’s hostel. It was an interesting session as the research required for the dissertations was handled very well by both the X-PiCAns.

6.50 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan.

(This session was planned for Thursday 6th August; but due to heavy rainfall and power-cuts in many areas, it b was postponed to Friday, 7th August at a short notice.)

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Webinar Details: Session No: 3 (Talk-3)

Webinar Minutes:
5.02 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan

5.03 p.m.: Introduction of presenters by Moderator Prof. Reshma Sathe

1. 5.07 p.m.: Presentation by Chaitali Chaudhari
   Thesis Topic: Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, Nagpur
2. 5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Gagandeep Jadhav
   Thesis Topic: Smart Architecture for an Accident and Emergency Hospital

6.00 p.m.: Question and answer session.
Many faculty and students engaged in a healthy discussion about the presented design dissertations.

6.25 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan. It was an exciting session as all students and faculty got the opportunity to see two different dissertations and research challenges that were very well handled by the X-PiCAns presenters.

Webinar Recording Link:
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Topic: PiCA Thesis Forum: Talk-3
Time: 30th July, 2020 5.00 p.m. India

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Webinar Details: Session No: 2 (Talk-2)

Webinar Minutes:
5.00 p.m.: Opening remarks by Prof. Kavita Pradhan
5.05 p.m.: Presentation by Aathira Pillai
Thesis Topic: Kayapalat: a call for regenerative architecture in Mahim Koliwada
5.30 p.m.: Presentation by Srinivas Palivela
Thesis Topic: The centre for spiritual consciousness
6.00 p.m.: Question and answer session
6.25 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan

Webinar Recording Link:
Topic: PiCA Thesis Forum – Talk 2
Date: 23rd July, 2020 4:42 p.m. India

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Webinar Details: Session No: 1 (Talk-1)

Webinar Minutes:
5.00 p.m.: Introduction by Dr. Sudnya Mahimkar
5.05 p.m.: Presentation by Anushka Shahdadpuri
Thesis Topic: A Narrative of Ephemerality. Re-thinking permanence
5.50 p.m.: Presentation by Kunal Jain
Thesis Topic: Hampi Heritage Interpretation and Convention Centre
6.20 p.m.: Question and answer session
6.45 p.m.: Vote of Thanks by Kavita Pradhan

Webinar Recording Link:
Topic: PiCA Thesis Forum
Date: 16th July, 2020 4:43 p.m. India

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