Small creatures but never ignorable, ants are everywhere, especially in the summers. Taking inspiration from these persistent and unforgettable creatures is Ant Studio, founded by Monish Siripurapu in 2010. This innovative studio merges architecture, nature and technology to create designs that echo the teamwork and intelligence of ants. Featured on Shark Tank India, Ant Studio aims at bringing together human creativity with the beauty of the natural world. This Earth Day, Monish shares with us some sustainable design tips to encourage mindful practices for a healthier planet.
Climate-responsive design
By focusing on simple yet eminent factors such as natural ventilation one can achieve thermal comfort inside the spaces, while significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint.
Design for nature
The designs should promote a dialogue with the surrounding landscape, allowing the building to coexist with nature. This approach is eminent in our latest project — the Twin Toilets in Noida, gabion structures made using repurposed terracotta blending with the surrounding farmland, redefining the idea of a ‘public amenity’.
Material exploration
One should constantly explore new materials and construction methods like ferrocement or upcycling construction debris to optimise the design and minimise environmental impact. Our use of terracotta, a robust and malleable material, for CoolAnt is a prime example of exploring the potential of different materials.
Embrace the local
Indigenous materials and construction systems developed techniques and elements that are more economical and in harmony with the surrounding context. Additionally, utilising local materials reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and also supports the local economy.
Consider thermal comfort
To dwell comfortably in a space is the purpose of it. While designing spaces, it is important to consider the various factors that will affect the thermal comfort of a space and how it can be regulated using design features rather than mechanical means. Be it storing heat in a cold climate or losing some in a hot one, passive techniques and design innovation make it possible!
Use technology to enhance sustainability
One should leverage advanced tools and techniques such as computational technology and parametric design to optimise material usage, building performance and reduce waste generation. New age AI-tools like Midjourney, Dall-E and Stable Diffusion can further assist architects and designers in optimising the design process by helping with a quick visualisation of the first cut ideas to start a conversation with the clients and other stakeholders. While these visualisations are a powerful medium, the real power of AI lies in combining these glimpses with data analysis technologies such as computational and parametric tools to bridge the gap between the visuals and the tangible.
Make it energy efficient
Designing for energy efficiency is crucial. Context driven, climate responsive design techniques not only lead to better comfort, but also contribute to reducing energy loads, leading to savings in operations, as well as resources. Simple considerations such as focus on maximising natural light and ventilation can minimise the need for artificial lighting and cooling.
Art as a driver of change
We believe that art can be a powerful medium to advocate for sustainability. Our art installations not only serve functional purposes but also engage the community, raising awareness about sustainable practices and pressing social issues. The CoolArt series is an example of how we integrate art into our environmental efforts.
Sustainable design doesn’t have to be complicated. It is about blending human creations with the environment. Let us take inspiration from nature’s architects this Earth Day and commit to building a greener, more sustainable future together.