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Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct

Bhopal, Mahdya Pradesh, India

mpusp
introduction
In the historic downtown
of Bhopal, characterized
by occidental and oriental
styles of architecture, lies
the marvelous corridor of
heritage buildings along the
main lake, characterized by
places of magnificence like
Iqbal Maidan, Sheesh Mahal,
Husain Manzil, Shaukat Mahal
etc.
Sadar
manzil One of the heritage structures
in the corridor, Sadar Manzil,
adaptive
is now being used as the
reuse
municipal headquarter of
Bhopal. Opposite to Sadar
Manzil complex, the ‘U’ shaped
Bhopal building is characterized by
library two grand gateways extending
Iqbal from its dilapidated built mass,
Maidan which is used partially as
offices of public departments.
mosque
A courtyard space sits
Gohar between the two publicly
Mahal under-used buildings, creating
a precinct desperately in need
for conservation. It is proposed
to re-vitalize the site by careful
adaptive re-use, linking the
livelihoods of the area (with
an ever depleting economic
base) with the same.
bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
Context
The building is proposed to gradually give way as a cultural
centre as well as to showcase BMC’s work and Bhopal heritage.
The multi-use courtyard becomes an important shared space between
the existing Sadar Manzil and the restored Heritage building. This
also adds to the potential of the cultural transformation of the current
municipal building.

sadar
manzil

adaptive
reuse

Bhopal
library
Iqbal
Maidan

mosque

Gohar
Mahal

bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
Context

The Gohar Mahal will


be emphasized by the
new connection to
the Heritage site and
The traditional context provides sadar the lake. It’s rear doors
a scenic backdrop for the project. Set manzil allow visitors arriving
against the lake beyond, the mosques by vehicle to have an
inspire numerous views from the Adaptive alternative path towards
restored building. reuse this route site through
the building. As well,
the new connections
will allow the temporary
Bhopal exhibition space to draw
library in more visitors from
Iqbal other points of interest
Maidan on the site.
Mosque

Gohar
Mahal

bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
Context

Linkages with the Library will be addressed physically by opening


the entry from the building being developed, thereby connecting the
Central Courtyard and Library. Also, interest in the Library’s collection
can be furthered by displaying sample readings (Physically or as
E-editions over Wi-Fi networks).

sadar
manzil

adaptive There is potential to reveal the underground space and


reuse give frontage to the library along the corridor between the
Iqbal Maidan and the restored Heritage building.

Bhopal
library
Iqbal
Maidan

mosque

Gohar
Mahal

bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
Context
Currently, the Heritage building
across the Sadar Manzil is
abandoned and partially being
used as office space.

sadar
manzil

adaptive
reuse

Bhopal
library
Iqbal
Maidan

mosque

Gohar
Mahal

bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
Context

sadar
manzil

adaptive
reuse

Being an important place of retreat for the local people,


Bhopal
the Lake is addressed in the project by spectacular
library
terrace and rooftop views, as well as a pedestrian Iqbal
and bike connection. Maidan

mosque

Gohar
Mahal

bada
talab Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
rationale for adaptive reuse
Cultural Sustainability
• Conserving the heritage structures and the cultural and historical
value they hold for the future generations whilst encouraging
interaction with them through re-use

Environmental and Economic Sustainability


• Prevents the dismantling of structure and re creation of a new
one
• Benefits in terms of carbon budgets (and the astounding
monetary costs of safe dismantling, clearing of site, and re-
building a new building), as the maximum amount of energy
consumed by a building is actually during its construction.
• Traditional buildings, by the virtue of having served a long service
life are justified in their carbon footprint, and by prolonging their
usage in the future, we actually tend towards conserving carbon
and energy.

Energy efficiency
• Traditional buildings, talking in systemic sense, are very energy
efficient for the very simple reason that they were designed in
times where energy (particularly electricity) was not as readily
available.
• This is a typologies which has low carbon approaches to
comfort and commodity, showing remarkable repairability and
adaptability over time to a variety of needs.
• Higher thermal performance, and better natural light and
ventilation than contemporary counterparts.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


rationale for adaptive reuse

Social and Cultural sustainability


• Positive associations have been found in terms of likeability,
cultural affinity and people’s desire to maintain traditional
buildings.
• It is therefore desirable to conserve and prolong such positive
aspects of traditional heritage structures by careful adaptive
re-use

Local Livelihood
• The livelihood linking of the precinct with that of the cottage
industries and women’s crafts is expected to bring ownership,
create newer opportunities for income generation, tourism
promotion, women’s empowerment and cultural revitalization
of the area.

The project is expected to add to the City Image,


create healthier, safer, friendlier and livelier spaces,
promote tourism and leisure activities, connect different
points of interest, and hence the people of Bhopal,
as well as add to the city economy and hence
city competitiveness.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


site proposal

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


accessibility - traffic management + bus route

Re-direct Traffic bus access


The great cultural, social, and economical A one-way bus route will be taken through the main gates to
potential for the project cannot be fulfilled without accessibility. allow direct access onto the Sadar Manzil courtyard. This route
will inject density onto the site while making a public
Heavy car and motorized two-wheeler traffic that currently transport connection to the greater city of Bhopal.
overwhelms the existing site must be redirected to allow for a
quieter and more pedestrian-friendly environment. Further, 24 hour operation will allow for safe transport to
and from the site for women, especially at night.
Crowd management will be crucial for enhancing the
urban experience of the precinct and must be maintained by
allowing an easier flow of people through the site.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


pedestrian + bike

Pedestrian zones bike zones


Introduce exclusively pedestrian paths and zones, Biking in particular, can act as a connection between the
which can only exist once there is reduced traffic around the distant recreation zones of Lake view road (catering to Shiamla
building, allowing quieter and friendlier pedestrian Hills, New city population) and VIP road (more informal area,
areas to exist. involving people from Old Bhopal/downtown area, and restricted
to the footpaths along the VIP road and Gohar Mahal).
Pedestrian paths can emphasize connections from
the Lake, Iqbal Maidan as well as the surrounding main roads to Bikes (possibly rented/free for public) can help dilute the
the site. distance between the two recreation zones and help bring
people from the two distinct (and often disconnected settlements)
closer.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


public spaces

central courtyard Lakeview amphitheater


Once the precinct becomes a low traffic, pedestrian-friendly area, The natural topography of the site leading down to
the central courtyard space between the Sadar Manzil and the the Lake and VIP road has the potential of becoming a pleasant
“U”-shaped heritage building can flourish as an important public public space, taking shape as a stepped amphitheater.
space, designed to hold a variety of activities.
Community events showcasing cultural music and dance
The courtyard is to be designed for 24-hour flexible operation. can take place here for the public with views to the lake.
It can be used for yoga and healthy eating in the mornings, attract
diners from breakfast to dinner, and be used for entertainment
activities in the off hours of BMC.

The interiorized outdoor space can also be used as exhibition


space for artifacts and installations. It is also flexible as a special
events space.

Garden typologies can also be introduced to create a


meandering paths for viewing the exhibition as well as a relaxing
environment for restaurant patios

Locally commissioned artwork can act as a centerpiece


for the courtyard and provide a visual focal point from the gates
into main public space.

Library and Iqbal maidan


Linkages with the Library will be addressed physically by opening
the entry from the building being developed, thereby connecting
the Central Courtyard and Library with pedestrian public space.

Interest in the Library’s collection can be furthered by displaying


sample readings (Physically or as E-editions over Wi-Fi networks)
Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp
schematic building layout

ground floor First floor

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Building Usage

Site:
Pedestrian Paths
Bike Paths
Bus routes, stops at courtyard
Service road
Outdoor Amphitheater
Central Courtyard
Main Entry Gates

Building:
Information Services
Public amenities and utilities
Arts and Crafts Museum
Artist studios / lodging
Zari-Zardozi workshops
General workshops
Retail Shops (local arts and zari work)
Restaurants and Cafes
Library / e-Library
Courtyards
Terrace

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


local crafts - zari-zadozi retail + workshop

tinsel embroidery
The zari-zadozi handicraft is a cultural tradition that
empowers the local female population to a livelihood of
their own.

Examples such as Ms. Nishat Waseem Akhtar’s Sehar NGO is


an indicator that the showcasing of the craft can have success in
the project. Ms. Akhtar’s NGO trains women of poverty the zari
craft while elevating their confidence in society, taking a small step
in the upliftment of the traditional Bhopal woman while sustaining
the cultural heritage of their work.

Local women interested in learning the craft can be taught to


join the zari-zardozi production and sales community in the zari
workshop space.

Anthropometric studies are in motion to understand the craft and


the facilities required to operate a retail space and workshop.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Local artwork - Museum, workshop + retail

Cultural preservation and development

A facility involving local women and artisans, showcasing women as an


important aspect of the local heritage, and art as an effective way to
attract interest to the area.

A museum narrating the history of the site and Bhopal’s Heritage in


connection with artwork and handicrafts can be open to the public. The
museum can also display contributions from the populace of traditional
downtown, further educating visitors on the intangible local heritage.

Heritage is also a shared resource from which educational and


vocational workshops on the local arts to the public can be offered.
Workshop spaces can be used by the local community for education,
training, and presentation usage. Local artisans can also make use of
the workshop spaces to work.

Finally, these examples of artwork can be a strong economical


source for the community through locally run shops, which can be
interconnected with the museum and workshop program.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Local Cuisine - Restaurants + cafes

Cuisine
Restaurants showcasing local cuisine can have prominent and
attractive frontage onto one of the most frequented public
spaces in downtown Bhopal.

Local food heritage such as chews like Paan and Gutkhas, Local
Cuisines, Sheesha etc. will be showcased in these establishments.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


public space - central courtyard + rooftop terrace

Functional outdoor space


The outdoor public spaces of the building can offer splendid views of the
city while accommodating the diverse activities of the community,

Art exhibitions, workshops, temporary displays and searing for restaurants


and cafes can expand onto the exterior spaces of the building.

Courtyards can be used as workshops for the handicraft program while


balconies and terraces can be used as patio space. Whether for leisure or
special events, the re-use of these spaces for the public will attract life and
color back onto the site.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Community Involvement

• Educational and Vocational Prospects - workshop


spaces can be used by the local community for education, training,
and presentation usage.

• A relationship can easily be established with several local


schools in the proximity.

• Local artisans can make use of the workshop spaces to work

• It has been demonstrated in previous community events such as


Bhopal Heritage week, the local people have shown the desire to
display their culture and heritage in their craft work and personal
possessions. The idea of a museum which showcases and
shares this Bhopal heritage is a collective desire of the community.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Community Involvement

• Local women interested in learning the craft can be taught to


join the zari-zardozi production and sales community.

• Opportunity to empower the women of Bhopal - The design of


the heritage site will be optimized for women friendliness, safety
and security to economically and socially support the local female
community. Currently, there is are barriers in terms of economic
opportunities for these women. Therefore, providing them with a
central and safe space in which to work and display their skills will
be fulfilling a current need of the community.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Community Involvement

• Restaurants showcasing local cuisine can have prominent


and interactive frontage onto one of the most frequented
public spaces in downtown Bhopal. Local food heritage such
as chews like Paan and Gutkhas, Local Cuisines, Sheesha etc.
can be showcased and even taught through classes in these
establishments.

• The central courtyard space will be emphasized as the central


public space with ample flexibility to serve various community
functions. The courtyard will be an important gathering space for
everyday and for special events. It will also be a major element in
the urban fabric which draws the community together in a unified,
free and cultural space.

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp


Community Involvement

Benefits
• Centralization of community interaction

• Network of local goods and services

• Attract new visitors to this culturally thriving (and easily


accessible) site in the city.

• The livelihood linking of the precinct (cotton industries


and women’s crafts is expected to bring ownership,
create newer opportunities for income generation,
tourism promotion, women’s empowerment and
cultural revitalization of the local community.)

• Local social economical improvements

Adaptive reuse of sadar manzil precinct mpusp

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