THESIS SYNOPSIS

(2020-25)

Topic 1- Co- Housing Communities - A new approach to

Unban Living
Topic 2- Floating Habitat as An Alternative for Land
Reclamation
Topic 3- Theme park- A Themed Environments and
Storytelling

R. Gokulanaathan
40210012
Batch: 2020-2025
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology
Topic-1
Co- Housing Communities - A new approach to Unban Living

Introduction:
As cities around the world face difficulties such as overpopulation, housing shortages, and
environmental sustainability, innovative solutions are critical for creating liveable and resilient
communities. Co-housing, a popular concept in recent decades, provides a unique approach to
urban living that promotes collaboration, sustainability, and community engagement.

Co-housing communities are designed to balance the privacy of individual living units with the
benefits of shared spaces and resources. This approach not only addresses the economic and
environmental issues of traditional urban housing but also promotes a sense of belonging and
mutual support among residents. By combining private and communal living, co-housing
promotes social interactions, reduces the environmental impact, and encourages a more
sustainable lifestyle.
This thesis explores the architectural and social dimensions of co-housing communities as a
transformative urban living model. It examines the principles and design strategies that make
co-housing an effective solution for contemporary urban challenges, and investigates case
studies from various global contexts to understand the potential and limitations of this
innovative housing paradigm. Through a comprehensive analysis, this design aims to
demonstrate how co-housing can be integrated into urban planning to create more sustainable,
inclusive, and connected communities.

Aim:
The aim of this thesis is to explore the concept of co-housing communities as a viable solution
for contemporary urban living challenges. By investigating the architectural design principles,
social dynamics, and sustainability aspects of co-housing, this study seeks to demonstrate how
such communities can promote a sense of belonging, promote sustainable living practices, and
provide affordable housing alternatives in urban environments.

Objective:
• To investigate the architectural design principles that facilitate successful co-housing
communities, focusing on space planning, privacy, and shared amenities.
• To explore sustainable building practices and materials used in co-housing
developments and assess the environmental benefits
• To study the social interactions within co-housing communities, their impact on
residents' quality of life
• To develop design strategies and frameworks that can be integrated into urban planning
to create inclusive, resilient, and environmentally conscious co-housing communities.

Scope and Limitation:

Scope:
• The study will examine architectural design principles specific to co-housing
communities
• It will assess the incorporation of sustainable building practices and materials in co-
housing developments, with a focus on environmental benefits.
• Explore the social dynamics within co-housing communities, including the impact on
residents' quality of life, social interactions, and the potential to reduce social isolation.

Limitations:
• The project may be limited to current trends and technologies in co-housing and
sustainable architecture, with future advancements potentially impacting the relevance
of the findings.
• While proposing design strategies, the project may not cover the full spectrum of
challenges and solutions for all urban contexts, focusing instead on generalizable
principles.

Basic programs:
Common House:
• Community Kitchen and Dining Area: Shared space for cooking and dining,
fostering social interactions.
• Living Room: A cozy area for relaxation, socializing, and community events.
• Library/Study Room: Quiet space for reading, studying, and working.
• Laundry Room: Shared facilities for washing and drying clothes.
• Guest Rooms: Accommodation for visitors, enhancing the sense of community
hospitality.
Private Units:
• Single-Family Units: Private living spaces with bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
• Shared Bathrooms: Additional bathrooms for shared use, promoting efficient use of
space.
• Balconies: Outdoor spaces for each unit, providing personal outdoor access.
Outdoor Spaces:
• Gardens and Green Spaces: Areas for gardening, relaxation, and outdoor activities.
• Playground: Safe and engaging play area for children.
• Courtyard: Central open space for community gatherings and events.
• Walking and Cycling Paths: Pedestrian and bike-friendly pathways connecting
different areas of the community.
Work and Recreation Spaces:
• Co-Working Space: Shared workspace for residents to work from home.
• Fitness Room/Gym: Equipment and space for physical exercise.
• Recreational Facilities: Spaces for hobbies and recreational activities, such as a
workshop or art studio.
Sustainability Features:
• Solar Panels: Renewable energy sources for electricity.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Systems for collecting and using rainwater.
• Composting Area: Facilities for composting organic waste.
• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Use of energy-saving devices and appliances.

Methodology:
1. Case studies and analysis

2. Research and Site analysis

• Site Analysis
• Demographic and Market Research

3. Conceptualization and Vision Development

• Establish Project Goals and Vision
• Design Principles
Define Sustainability and Efficiency Goals
4. Design and Planning
• Spatial Planning
• Layout and Site Planning

5. Sustainable Design and Construction

• Green Building Practices
• Energy and Resource Management

6. Design for Inclusivity and Accessibility

7. 3D Modelling and Visualization: Create 3D models and visualizations to demonstrate the

spatial and sensory experience of each themed zone.
Site 1: PERUNGUDI

• Located in Southern part of Chennai, the area is developing rapidly and often a
residential and commercial spaces.

• It is also IT hubs and good connectivity with spaces.

Site area: 2 acres

Site 2: PERUNGUDI
Site area: 3 acres
Literature Case Study:
1. Asian game village

• Location Delhi, India

• Architect - Raj Rewal
• Site area - 35 acres
• No. of units-700
• Year - 1980-82
• It is a multi-family housing project located in Delhi
• The Silk is Surrounded by Sami Siri complex on north side. green belt on east side
• 200 Unit wore individual houses
• 500 Units apartment which is 2 to 4 storeys

2. The Street

• Location - Mathura, Uttar Pradesh,

• Architects - Sanjay Puri architects.
• Year - 2017 • Number of Units - 800
• Number of Stories - 4 Storeys
• Site Area - 6 acres
• Built up area -211,000 sq. feet
• Housing type - Single Seater Hosted Rooms
• 5 wings comprising of 800 Single Seater Hostel Rooms

3. La Borda/ Lacal
• Location - Barcelona, Spain
• Architects - Locol
• Year - 2018
• Number of units - 28 Units (40,60, and 75m²)
4. ASU Greek Leadership Residential Village

• Location - United States

• Size- 304,266 sq. ft
• 5 buildings
• 27 Unit houses with 3 to 4 Storey
• 1000 residence live here

5. Marmalade Lane Co-housing

• Location: Cambridge
• Architect: Mole Architects Ltd
• Accommodation type: 42 homes – a mix of 2–5-
bedroom terraced houses and 1–2-bedroom
apartments

Live Case Study

1. Tara group housing

• Location- New Delhi, India

• Architect-Charles Conca
• No of Chits-105 Units and 375-person per Hectare
• Construction period -1975-1978
• Structure - Reinforced concrete
• Site area – 1.5 Hectares
• It pays attention to inner activity which happens in central garden
2. The Earth Village, Bangalore

• The Good earth Malhar, Bangalore

• Land- 7 acres
• Total buildup area - 200000 sq. Ft
• Typology: cluster Homes
• No of units – 96 2B and 3B options
• Plot area – 1200 sq. ft to 2400 sq. ft
• Location: kengeri, Bangalore

3. Humanscapes Habitat Urban Living

Architects: Auroville Design Consultant

Area: 1753 m²
Year: 2018
City: Auroville
HUMANSCAPES HABITAT- is an applied research and demonstration project of Sustainable
and Integrated Urban Living Project” for benchmarking in habitat as a course correction for a
sustainable and harmonious model of development which is an imperative need in the present
global crisis of energy and climate change. This mixed-use development of residences,
community, and workspace would be a touchstone for standards for low-embodied energy
building. This project also wants to address the issues of skill development upgrade the
capability in the unorganized labour sector of India in the construction sector to transition
construction jobs from building with high embodied energy materials to building materials and
technology.
Topic-2
Float Habitat as An Alternative for Land Reclamation

Abstract:
Since 1900, the global average sea level has risen by approximately 15-20 cm, a rate much
faster than historical averages. This rapid increase is largely attributed to human-induced
climate change, driven by the burning of fossil fuels and the resulting increase in greenhouse
gas emissions.
Bangladesh, China, India and the Netherlands were singled out by the UN in 2023 as being at
high risk from rising sea levels, with nearly 900 million people living in low-lying coastal areas
in acute danger.
The country I call home could disappear completely by the end of this century
— swallowed by the rising seas.

A stretch of severely eroded beach in Dhiffushi island. Local authorities estimate that over
200ft of beach have been lost in the past few years alone and that 10-20 coconut palms die on
the beach yearly due to sea level rise. Dhiffushi, Maldives, October 2021
Like Maldives there are many islands which are sinking to increase in water level such as
Solomon Islands, Tuvalu Islands, Ghoramara Islands, Caribbean islands, fiji Islands, Marshall
Islands etc.………

Maldives island Mumbai city

Cultural, tradition, flora, fauna, and most importantly, their homes are all slowly fading with
time, just like the island they live on.
It is not just the islands that are affected, rising seas could affect three times more people by
2050, threatening to all but erase some of the world's great coastal cities and islands.
Many major cities are at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels, including:
Mumbai, India has experienced the highest increase in sea levels in India, and is projected to
see a rise of 76.2 cm by 2100, Bangkok, Thailand, New York City, Miami, Florida, Ho Chi
Minh City.
Aim:
The aim of this thesis is to explore the concept of float habitats as a sustainable and
innovative alternative to traditional land reclamation methods.

Objective:
• To investigate the architectural design principles that facilitate the creation of float
habitats, focusing on stability, safety, and adaptability to various water conditions.
• To assess the environmental benefits of float habitats compared to traditional land
reclamation, including the preservation of marine ecosystems.
• To develop design strategies and frameworks that can be integrated into urban
planning, promoting the adoption of float habitats as a viable and sustainable solution
for urban expansion.
• To identify and propose solutions to potential regulatory and policy challenges related
to the implementation of float habitats.

Scope and Limitation:

Scope:
• Can investigate the architectural design principles that support the development of
float habitats.
• Explore innovative construction techniques and materials that ensure the stability,
durability, and adaptability of floating structures.
• Identify the regulatory challenges and policy requirements for the development and
implementation of float habitats.
• Evaluate the use of eco-friendly materials and renewable energy sources in the
construction and operation of float habitats.

Limitation:
• It may be limited to specific geographical regions due to the availability of case study
data and contextual differences in float habitat projects.
• It may be constrained by the differences in regulatory and policy frameworks across
different regions, which could affect the applicability of the proposed solutions.
• The study may not fully account for future technological advancements that could
impact the feasibility and design of float habitats.

Site selection: Site 1

Site location: Dead Sea, Jordan and Israel.

Site 2:
Site location: Rotterdam,
Netherlands

Can human life live with life below the water?

Core issues due to rise in sea levels

• Rising sea level
• loss of culture
• disappearance of Islands
• Diminishing of flora and fauna
• No alternative solution

Can oceans become the next land to build homes?

Instead of moving to land, can we find a way to live on/around the water? Living in water was
always a utopian concept, but since human technology has evolved over time.

It can now become the implementing technology for the future generation. As humans are more
capable of adapting and changing/evolving, it can become a base for the future.
Main objective and missions:

Major focus of the project is to include sustainable elements, self-sustainable, human centric,
disaster resilient, modular housing, liveable houses.

Why build on water?

70% of the planet is water, and sea levels are rising at an alarming rate.

Relocating is not the best option because their culture is going to disappear and they will be
forced to live as refugees.

Additionally, rising water will affect practically every corner of the Earth at some point.

What are the main amenities that can be provided?

• Food (crop planting)

• Residences
• Animal shelter
• Water supply
• Energy source
• Industries
• Hospital
• Markets
• Connectivity spaces
• Recreational spaces
• Educational building
• Safety buildings’

Coming back to the question “Can human life live with life below water?”

• yes, it is possible as there are many implementations started over the world. Also, it
will be more advanced in future generations
• Living on water can be both a practical solution to environmental challenges and an
opportunity to experience a unique lifestyle.
• It's a fascinating intersection of architecture, engineering, and sustainable living for
areas at risk from climate change, water-based living offers a unique and potentially
life-saving alternative.
Literature case study

1.Floating Farm Dairy / Goldsmith Company

The Floating Farm Dairy is a compact and logically

stacked structure that merges technical installations,
storage, processing and production in a singular
entity. Three connected concrete pontoons house the
production of fruits (ingredients for yogurt), rain-
and wastewater recycling and additional
installations.

On the upper factory floor combines milk and yogurt

processing, feeding system, manure handling and
retail. The covered cow garden will house 40 cows that will be supported by a manure
cleaning robot and a milking robot along with various elements regarding animal welfare like
the centrally placed ‘green columns’ that ensure cooling. The cantilevering floors and roof
address the multi-level agricultural hub, and articulate its architecture.

2.Floating Houses in IJburg

The Netherlands has a history of living close to

water and of coping with its caprices. That means
living on land protected by dykes, on mounds, on
shore or floating.

Only recently have floating homes been eligible as

a significant solution to Holland’s modern housing
needs. Canals with houseboats are of course a
familiar sight in Dutch cities and one may find the
occasional floating hotel or restaurant. But these are
always individual units and bear more resemblance to boats than to houses.

3.New BIG-Designed Neighborhood to Activate Aarhus’ Waterfront

Each of the seven buildings will be unique,

ranging from low- to high-rise structures, and will
include a private courtyard for residents. Pockets
of new public spaces will intertwine the structures
throughout the plot as they meander towards the
waterfront promenade, which will connect
residents to an existing boat harbor, nearby town
square (Nikoline Kochs Plads) and the city center.
4.Oceanix city big architects

The Oceanix City is a part of UN-Habitat’s New

Urban Agenda, which has collaborated with the
most prestigious institutes like MIT Centre for
Ocean Engineering, Mobility in Chain, Sherwood
Design Engineers, Centre for Zero Waste Design,
Transsolar Klima Engineering, Global Coral Reef
Alliance, Studio Other Spaces, Dickson
Despommier, etc. for exploring the pros and cons
of building a floating habitat and finding
remedies to the issues faced. The platforms on which the neighborhoods are being built are
buoyant and can resist the currents of the waves, the force of the winds, and can also
withstand extreme climates. They are mobile and can be transported from one place to
another.

5.EFFEKT and MAST Reveal Gateway to Denmark’s Largest Marine Nature

Park
SOMARKET is inspired by historic
seamarks, specifically ornate wooden
structures once used as navigation aids along
Denmark’s coasts in the late 19th century.
This platform celebrates Danish maritime
history while introducing a new typology of
floating educational spaces, serving as a
national park icon. The platform, moved by
a tugboat between three locations along
Little Belt, offers an immersive experience
for school groups, tourists, and the public. Additionally, it provides new access points for
kayaking, swimming, diving, and fishing, while allowing visitors to delve into the strait's
natural and historical narratives
Topic-3

Theme park- A Themed Environments and Storytelling

Introduction:

Theme parks are unique spaces that combine architecture, landscape design, and interactive
media to create immersive environments. These spaces utilize the art of storytelling to transport
visitors into different worlds, enabling them to experience narratives physically and
emotionally. This thesis explores the architectural principles and design elements involved in
crafting these themed environments, focusing on how architectural design can convey stories
effectively and create memorable experiences.

Aim:

The aim of this project is to design a theme park that emphasizes immersive storytelling
through themed environments, engaging visitors in experiences that evoke emotion and
imagination.

Objectives:

• To investigate how architectural design and spatial planning contribute to storytelling

in themed environments.
• To develop a comprehensive design for a theme park with distinct zones, each
dedicated to a unique narrative.
• To examine the role of sensory design, theming, and interactivity in enhancing visitor
engagement.
• To integrate sustainable practices in the creation of themed environments, minimizing
environmental impact while enhancing experience.

Scope of the Project:

The scope of this project includes the architectural, experiential, and functional aspects of
theme park design, covering:

• Development of themed zones, each representing a unique storyline or setting.

• Sensory and experiential design strategies, including sound, visuals, and tactile
materials.
• Sustainable design practices that align with the theme and aesthetic of each zone.
• Visitor flow, accessibility, and safety considerations to enhance comfort and
engagement.

Design Approach:

The theme park design will be centred on:

• Thematic Zones: Each zone will be carefully designed to represent a different world
or story. This could include zones based on historical periods, mythical worlds, or
futuristic landscapes, each with its distinct architectural style, landscape, and sensory
elements.
• Storytelling Architecture: The design will use architecture to narrate stories through
materials, scale and spatial progression.
• Sensory Immersion: Incorporate soundscapes, lighting, scent, and textures to create a
multi-sensory experience that deepens the visitor’s connection to the environment.
• Eco-Friendly Design: Integrate sustainable architecture and landscape elements that
are thematically aligned, such as green roofs, renewable energy sources, and water
features to support biodiversity.

Methodology:

Site Analysis: Study the chosen site to understand environmental, social, and logistical
considerations.

Conceptual Development: Develop initial sketches, mood boards, and models for each zone,
with emphasis on architectural elements that support storytelling.

Spatial Planning and Zoning: Design a master plan for the park, arranging themed zones to
optimize visitor flow and narrative progression.

Architectural Detailing: Design detailed layouts and structures that reinforce each theme,
including facades, interior spaces, and landscaping.

Sustainability Integration: Incorporate eco-friendly design elements throughout the park,

especially in materials and energy systems.

3D Modelling and Visualization: Create 3D models and visualizations to demonstrate the

spatial and sensory experience of each themed zone.

Site selection:

Site 1:

Site location: Injambakkam

Known for its scenic coastal

route, ECR is already a popular
tourist spot with attractions like
amusement parks, beaches, and
resorts. It attracts both locals
and tourists, especially on
weekends.

Site area: 30 acres

Site 2:

site location: Goa. Tamil Nadu

Goa attracts tourists year-round.

The quieter southern region could
host a park that complements
Goa’s natural beauty and tourism
infrastructure.

Site area: 17.2 acres

Live case study:

1.Queensland Amusement Park

The Queensland Theme Park in

Chennai is one of Tamil Nadu's
prominent amusement parks, located
approximately 30 kilometers from
the heart of Chennai on the Chennai-
Bengaluru Highway. Established in
2003, Queensland spans around 70
acres, offering a mix of thrilling
rides, family attractions, and scenic
landscapes that appeal to all ages.

2.Wonderla Amusement Park

Wonderla Amusement Park in

Kochi, previously known as Veega
Land, is located 15 km from Kochi
city and is home to 50+ amusement
rides. Spread over 30 acres of
landscaped space and built to
international standards Wonderla
Kochi is impeccably maintained. We
have provided a joyful experience to
over 1 crore visitors over the past 17
years. Wonderla Kochi is the first
park in India to get an ISO14001
certificate for eco-friendliness and OHSAS 18001 certificate for safety.
3.Black Thunder - Water Theme Park

Black Thunder is a renowned

water theme park located near
Ooty in Coimbatore, Tamil
Nadu, at the foothills of the
Nilgiris. It’s known for its
beautiful natural setting, nestled
amidst lush greenery, and offers
a wide array of water rides and
attractions. This case study
explores Black Thunder’s
design, features, and
architectural considerations,
highlighting how the park incorporates both recreational and environmental aspects in its
layout.

Literature case study:

1. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Architects: Benoy

Area: 176000 m²

Year: 2010

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an

iconic, Ferrari-branded theme park
located on Yas Island in Abu
Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Launched in 2010, it’s the world's
first and largest indoor theme park
dedicated to the Ferrari brand,
offering an immersive experience
into the luxury, speed, and
excitement associated with Ferrari.
Designed to embody the essence of
Italian automotive culture, the park
combines state-of-the-art
attractions, thrilling rides, and an
insight into Ferrari’s engineering
and racing legacy.
2.Water Park Aqualagon, France

Aqualagon is a remarkable indoor and outdoor

water park located in Villages Nature Paris, near
Disneyland Paris in France. Known for its eco-
friendly design and commitment to sustainability,
Aqualagon is part of a larger resort operated by
Pierre & Vacances-Centre Parcs, created in
collaboration with Euro Disney S.C.A. Opened in
2017, Aqualagon integrates innovative
architecture, sustainable water management, and
leisure activities to create a water park experience
that is both fun and environmentally responsible.

Architects: Jacques Ferrier Architecture

Area: 8000 m²

Year: 2017

3. Ramoji film city

The Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, India

is spread over 1666 acres, making it the
largest integrated film city in the world
according to the Guinness Book of World
Records. It was built in 1996 by Telugu
film producer Ramoji Rao. The film city
contains 47 sound stages and permanent
film sets ranging from railway stations to
temples. It is also a popular tourism
destination that attracts around 1.5 million
visitors annually.

4. Island of adventure

Location: Orlando, Florida, U.S.A

Total area: 101 acres

Owner: NBC Universal Opened: May 28,

1999

The parks over all theme is that a journey

of exploration, where guests depart from a
main port on an island sea to visit five
islands, each having its own distinct
theme, but all emphasizing fun and
adventure.
About Island of Adventure: It is a part of universal Orlando resort, which also houses
universal studios Florida. Island of adventure consists of five islands plus the port of entry,
arranged around a lagoon. The islands are presented in clockwise order, starting at the park
entrance

5. Disneyland

Location: Anaheim, California

A place where children and parents could

have fun together. A place where the
Disney cartoon characters could come
alive. Walt Disney was inspired by
various children’s parks and gardens
around the world. He visited several parks
and started to visualise a park in an 8 acres
plot near the Disney studio. The dream
grew in scale and its feasibility was
questioned initially. The park was opened
to the public July 18, 1955.