Study of Padmanabhapuram Palace Trivandrum

FORM ANALYSIS

CONTENTSList of figures 2

1. Introduction 3

1.1 What is form? 3

1.2 Methodology of study 3

2. Aspects of form 4

2.1 Proportion/Scale 4

2.1.1 Introduction: 4

2.1.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 4

2.1.3 Estuary Resort 4

2.1.4 Centre for development studies 4

2.1.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 4

2.1.6 Comparison 5

2.1.7 Inference 5

2.2 Composition 6

2.2.1 Introduction: 6

2.2.2 Padmanabhaswamy temple 6

2.2.3 Estuary Resort 6

2.2.4 Centre for development studies 6

2.2.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 6

2.2.6 Comparison 7

2.2.7 Inference 7

2.3 Form Organization 7

2.3.1 Introduction: 7

2.3.2 Form organization of Padmanabhaswamy temple 7

2.3.3 Form organization of Estuary resort 8

2.3.4 Form organization of Centre for Development Studies 8

2.3.5 Form organization of Padmanabhapuram palace 8

2.3.6 Comparison 8

2.3.7 Inference 8

2.4 Effect of function / activity: 9

2.4.1 Introduction: 9

2.4.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 9

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FORM ANALYSIS

2.4.3 Estuary resort 9

2.4.4 CDS 9

2.4.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace 10

2.4.6 Inference 10

2.5 Effect of climate 11

2.5.1 Introduction: 11

2.5.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 11

2.5.3 Estuary resort 11

2.5.4 Centre for Development Studies 11

2.5.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 11

2.5.6 Inference 11

2.6 Effect of vasthu principles 12

2.6.1 Introduction 12

2.6.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 12

2.6.3 Estuary Resort 12

2.6.4 Padmanabhapuram Palace 12

2.6.5 Inference 12

2.7 Transformations 12

2.7.1 Introduction: 13

2.7.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 13

2.7.3 Estuary resort 13

2.7.4 Centre for Development Studies 13

2.7.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace 13

2.7.6 Inference 13

2.8 Site in relation to building 13

2.8.1 Introduction 13

2.8.2 Estuary resort 13

2.8.3 Centre for Development Studies 13

3. Bibliography 14

3.1 Books 14

3.2 Websites 14

List of figures

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FORM ANALYSIS

Sl No. Figure no. Details Page Number

1. 2.1.1 Front view of temple 2

2. 2.1.2 North gate of temple 2

3. 2.1.3 Gopuram of temple 2

4. 2.1.4 Gopuram of Madurai meenakshi temple 2

5. 2.1.5 Padipurra at Palace 3

6. 2.1.6 Poomugham 3

7. 2.1.7 Upparika Malikka 3

8. 2.1.8 Indra vilasom 3

9. 2.1.9 Thekke kottaram 3

10. 2.2.1 East gate of Temple 4

11. 2.2.2 North gate of temple 4

12. 2.2.3 Entrance of guruvayoor Temple 4

13. 2.2.4 Front elevation of resort 4

14. 2.2.5 Interior of mantrashalla 5

15. 2.2.6 Comparison to Chinese architecture 5

16. 2.3.1 Plan of Temple 5

17. 2.3.2 Plan of resort 5

18. 2.3.3 Plan of CDS 5

19. 2.3.4 Plan of Palace 5

20. 2.4.1 View from resort 6

21. 2.4.2 Organic form of green room of theatre at CDS 6

22. 2.4.3 Fenestrations of computer centre at CDS 6

23. 2.4.4 Windows of palace 7

24. 2.4.5 Window of Upparika Malika 7

25. 2.4.6 Navaratri Mandappam 7

26. 2.4.7 Scale of Treasury door of Palace 7

27. 2.5.1 Typical Kerala temple roof 7

28. 2.5.2 Window without sunshade at CDS 7

29. 2.6.1 Roof Alignment of palace 8

30. 2.7.1 Main building – CDS 8

31. 2.8.1 Slope of theatre at CDS 9

1. Introduction

1.1 What is form?

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FORM ANALYSIS

“Architectural form is the point of contact between mass and space . . . Architectural forms, textures, materials, modulation of light and shade, color, all combine to inject a quality or spirit that articulates space. The quality of the architecture will be determined by the skill of the designer in using and relating these elements, both in the interior spaces and the spaces around the buildings.” – (Edmund N. Bacon, 1974)

“Form is an inclusive term that has several meanings. It may refer to an external appearance that may be recognized, as that of a chair or the human body that sits in it. In art and design we often use the term to denote the formal structure of a work-the manner of arranging and coordinating the elements and parts of a composition so as to produce a coherent image” (D.K Ching)

Form has a number of aspects which defines it. Form analysis of a building is done by taking into consideration these aspects of form. The different aspects of form that we have taken into consideration are

1. Proportion / Scale

2. Composition of form

3. Form massing

4. Effect of function

5. Effect of climate

6. Effect of Vasthu Principles

7. Transformations

8. Relationship of the site with the form of the building.

1.2 Methodology of study

The aspects of form was taken into proper consideration and related to each of the buildings that were visited. The plans, elevations and sections were sketched out and studied. Photographs of buildings were taken to provide apt references showing the aspects of form. The Padmanabhapuram palace and temple was given an extra consideration in the aspect of Vaastu as they were very old buildings and Vaastu is the science of architecture that was followed during olden times in India.

2. Aspects of form

2.1 Proportion/Scale

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Fig 2.1.1. Front View of Temple

Fig 2.1.2.North gate of temple

Fig 2.1.3.Gopuram of Padmanabhaswamy temple

Fig 2.1.4.Gopuram of Madurai

Meenakshi Temple

Fig 2.1.5.Gateway entrance of Padmanabhapuram palace

Fig 2.1.6. Poomugham

FORM ANALYSIS

2.1.1 Introduction:The physical dimensions of length, breadth and depth determine the proportions of form and its scale is determined by its size relative to other forms in its context. Scale can also be the size of something as compared to reference standards whereas proportion refers to harmonious inter-relation of one part of the structure to another or to the whole. An important aspect in the study of proportion is the proportion known as the golden section. The golden proportion is equal to 0.618. It is the most harmonious of all proportions.

2.1.2 Padmanabhaswami temple

2.1.2.1 East GateThe east entrance(Fig 2.1.1) is found to be nearly 7 times the height of an average human being, thereby giving the appearance of grandeur. One can feel like one is entering into a place that is above all other. Being the main entrance, the height should be sufficient to allow an elephant to enter along with the processions happening. The gate is wide enough to allow large number of people to enter the temple during festivals or utsavs.

2.1.2.2 North GateThe ratio of the height to breadth of the gate (Fig 2.1.2) is found to be nearly 1.25.The

proportions of the ground floor are huge compared to the first floor. This serves the function of defining a grand entrance. As it is a side entrance, it need not be as grand as the east gate as it is not used by so many people. This gate is used only for the entry and exit of people. Thus, the proportions are in accordance with that. This gate has similar proportions with gateways of other temples of Kerala. That is, it is built in the Kerala style of temples.

2.1.2.3 GopuramThe height of the gopuram (Fig. 2.1.3) is nearly 15 times the height of an average human being. The gopuram of the temple was initially proposed to be

seven storey high. However, the construction was stopped at five. The style of architecture of Kerala never allowed the Gopurams to outshine the sanctum sanctorum. This is probably why the construction was stopped midway. The gopuram of Madurai Meenakshi temple (Fig 2.1.4) would have been similar in proportion to that of the Padmanabhaswmy temple , had the latter been completed.

2.1.3 Estuary Resort

2.1.3.1 Human ProportionsThe proportions of the resort are in correspondence with the activities taking place. It is used as a leisure centre by people of the upper classes. The scale is with respect to human beings. The main entrance is given the height of two floors in order to give a spacious look to make the guests feel welcomed. All the buildings of the resort complex are of similar scale. None of the buildings stand out in particular thus giving all buildings equal importance.

2.1.4 Centre for development studies

2.1.4.1 Human proportionThe Centre for development studies is an educational institution. Thus, all the buildings are in scale to a human. Laurie Baker designed this complex in order to serve the minimum basic requirements of he space. He has given importance mainly to the functions of each building and the scale is according to that alone.

2.1.5 Padmanabhapuram palace

2.1.5.1 PadippuraThe gateway entrance(Fig 2.1.5) called padippura is built on the western boundary in line with the thekkini verandah.

The ratio of first floor to ground floor is 1:1.5. This is approximately the golden ratio which is considered as the most harmonious of all proportions. Also the ratio of the length to breadth of the gateway entrance is 1:2.This gives the feeling of entering into a large space and also takes in the security issues into consideration- a large crowd of people cannot get inside together thus reducing the intensity of any attack.

2.1.5.2 PoomughamPoomugham (Fig 2.1.6) is the first building that we come

across when we enter into the palace complex. The ratio of ground floor to the first floor is 1:1. The plinth given to the building is more than that of other buildings. The building thus seems to sit at a height giving it a

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Fig 2.1.7.Upparika malika

Fig 2.1.8 Indra vilasom

Fig 2.1.9 Thekke Kottaram

FORM ANALYSIS

feeling of importance and respect. The roof is gabled showing typical Kerala style of architecture.

2.1.5.3 Upparika malika

Upparika Malika (Fig 2.1.7) served as the king’s chamber. It is four storey’s high. The breadth to height ratio is 1:2. It is the tallest building in the palace complex. The scale of the building gives it, its own grandeur.

The ground floor is used as the treasury. The doors of the treasury are smaller in proportions (1.8x1.6) for security reasons. Only a single person can get inside at a time. As a result group looting is not possible and will take a lot of time.

2.1.5.4 Indra vilasomThe Indra vilasom (Fig. 2.1.8) was built as a guest house for the king’s foreign guests. The scale of the building is much larger compared to the other buildings of the palace complex.

a) Influence of western architectureThe columns of Indra vilasom (Fig 2.1.8) are western in their style of architecture. Moreover they are simple and not intricately carved like the other columns of the palace complex buildings. Thus it shows direct relation to western architectural style.

2.1.5.5 Thekke KottaramThe thekke kottaram (Fig 2.1.9) is a different complex of buildings which stand outside the perimeter of the palace complex. It was used by the ladies during the time of pregnancy. In these buildings the scale reduces due to the smaller number of users. The proportions correspond to an ordinary house as it is used as a private space.

2.1.6 ComparisonThe proportions of temple are in accordance with the activities going on in a public space and hence are made to accommodate a large number of people. However a palace has more of private spaces which influences the proportion and reduces the scale. The resort is much more of a private space than the palace and accordingly the scale is smaller everywhere except at the places where spaciousness is appreciated. Center for development studies is an educational institution and hence Laurie Baker stuck to human scale and proportions. All the buildings there are constructed just to serve the basic requirements of the space.

2.1.7 InferenceThe scale and proportion of a building is determined by the type of activity happening in that space and the appearance required to show splendor. The scale increases when the space is used by a large number of people or when grandeur is to be shown. Similarly the scale is smaller when the building is accessed by lesser number of people.

2.2 Composition

2.2.1 Introduction: A collection of forms stand together to produce a composition. Each form may have its own qualities however it may or may not reflect on the actual form that has been composed of these individual units. The composition can have regular geometric forms and irregular organic forms.

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Fig 2.2.1 East gate of temple

Fig 2.2.2 North gate of temple

Fig 2.2.3 Entrance of guruvayoor temple

Fig 2.2.4 Front elevation of resort

Fig 2.2.5 Interior of mantrashalla

FORM ANALYSIS

Regular forms refer to those whose parts are related to one another in a consistent and orderly manner. They are generally stable in nature and symmetrical about one or more axes. The sphere, cylinder, cone, cube and pyramid are prime examples of regular forms.

Irregular forms are those whose parts are dissimilar in nature and related to one another in an inconsistent manner. They are generally asymmetrical and more dynamic than regular forms. They can be regular forms from which irregular elements have been subtracted or result from an irregular composition of regular forms. (D. K Ching, Form, space and Order, 2007)

2.2.2 Padmanabhaswamy temple

2.2.2.1 East GateThe east gate (Fig 2.2.1) is composed of irregular forms but is symmetrical about a single central axis. It is composed of dynamic forms carved out of stone. In this case the individual units have come together to create a new form which actually seems to be a subtraction of forms from a regular form (i.e. triangle).

2.2.2.2 North gateThe north gate (Fig 2.2.2) is built in the traditional Kerala style. It is composed of regular geometric forms such as triangles and trapeziums. The topmost tier is composed of two intersecting trapeziums. Whereas, the lower tier is made up of a single trapezium. There is also a triangular portion which forms the gabled roof which is common to most temples of kerala. The Guruvayoor temple’s main gate (Fig 2.2.3) is similar in compostion.

It is also composed of trapeziums and triangles. We can also observe the intersection of two trapeziums at the topmost tier, like in the case of the north gate of the temple in study.

2.2.2.3 GopuramThe gopuram (Fig 2.1.3) primarily follows the contours of a square pyramid. The gopuram was initially supposed to have seven tiers however, the construction of the gopuram was stopped at five tiers hence the structure takes the form of a frustum of a square pyramid. Each of the tiers is decorated extensively by sculptures. These sculptures depict various stories from the temple as well as the life of Anatha Padmanabhaswamy. These follow irregular forms but

seem to have a flow. They are dynamic and full of life. This is obvious in the form.

2.2.3 Estuary Resort

2.2.3.1 Main building

The main entrance building of estuary resort (Fig 2.2.4) is a composition of a number of forms

and their intersection and interpenetration. All the forms are regular geometrical forms like semi-circle, triangle, rectangle, trapezium etc. The building is symmetrical about the centre. It is composed of a rhythmic series of forms. The repetition of a single unit is seen.

2.2.4 Centre for development studies

2.2.4.1 Form of buildingsMost of the buildings of CDS are compositions of regular forms. The numerous fenestrations given are also regular in their form and mode of arrangement. Irregular curves are used in some of the structures like the theatre so that it blends with the surrounding area. The form of each building taken individually may seem uninteresting, but the composition of all the buildings together has been worked out excellently by Laurie Baker.

2.2.5 Padmanabhapuram palace

2.2.5.1 GatewayThe gateway when analyzed in terms of composition of forms is made up of intersection of regular forms (two trapeziums and a triangle). The trapeziums intersect to give a new polygonal form in the elevation. The decorative wood carvings inside the triangular portion are irregular in form.

2.2.5.2 Mantrashala

2.2.5.2.1 Interior The interior of the mantrashala(fig 2.2.5) is decorated with different regular forms made up of stained glass and wood. Fenestrations are provided to let light

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Fig 2.2.6 Comparison to Chinese architecture

Fig 2.3.1 Plan of temple

Fig 2.3.2 Plan of Resort

FORM ANALYSIS

inside which again results in the creation of new forms. Here forms have been used to give a decorative effect to the interior.

2.2.5.2.2 ExteriorThe mantrashala exterior(Fig 2.1.6) is made up of basic regular forms of trapeziums and triangles. Additions and subtractions have been made. Wood carvings give the desired decorative effect. It also represents typical Kerala architecture.

2.2.5.3 Upparika malikaThe upparika malika shows the influence of Chinese architecture (the structure of pagoda).(fig 2.2.6) The form of the roofing of the uparika malika has noticeable similarity with that of the pagoda.

2.2.6 ComparisonThe Padmanabhaswamy temple and the Padmanabhapuram palace are very similar in the composition of form. This is probably because both of them were influenced by the same ruler, Maharaja Marthanda Varma. The use of triangles and trapeziums in the gateways is observed in both the temple and the palace. On the other hand, The main building of the Estuary resort is composed of a variety of regular forms. The composition is very different from that of the temple or the palace, firstly because it is from two different time periods and also because it serves very different functions. The centre for development studies is all together composed of several buildings of various regular forms whereas the main building of the resort is essentially a rectangle which is composed of various regular forms.

2.2.7 InferenceVarious regular and irregular forms can be used together to create new and more visually appealing forms .One can either use different forms of the various buildings of the same complex in order to bring out the connections between them or by using different forms to compose a single major form.

2.3 Form Organization

2.3.1 Introduction: There are five types of organization-centralized form organization, linear form organization, clustered form organization, grid form organization and radial form organisation. Centralized form organization – centralized forms require the visual dominance of a geometrically regular, centrally located form, such as a sphere, cone, cylinder. They usually

embodies sacred or honorific places, or commemorate significant persons or events. Centralized forms have an introverted nature and geometric regularity.

Linear form organization- linear form organization can adopt to the topography of the existing site easily. It also gives individuality to each unit and a moderate degree of diversity. Clustered form organization- a clustered organization groups its forms according to functional requirements of size, shape or proximity. It is flexible enough to incorporate forms of various shapes, sizes and orientations into its structure.

Grid form organization- a grid is a system of two or more intersecting sets of regularly spaced parallel lines. It generates a geometric pattern of regularly spaced points at the intersections of the grid lines and regularly shaped fields defined by the grid lines themselves.

Radial form organization- a radial form consists of linear forms that extend outward from a centrally located core element in a radiating manner. It combines the aspects of centrality and linearity into a single composition.(D.K. Ching, Form, Space and Order,2007)

2.3.2 Form organization of Padmanabhaswamy templeThe temple has a centralized form organization which is introverted in nature. The sanctum sanctorum is located at the central focus point with the pathway for pradakshina provided around it. The centralized form massing is used to give emphasis to the structure at the centre. Usually sacred and honorific places are given centralized plans (Fig 2.3.1).

2.3.3 Form organization of Estuary resortThe Resort plan (fig 2.3.2) shows the application of linear form organization. It consists of repetitive spaces which are alike in size, form and function. It gives equal importance to each of the cottages and no

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Fig 2.3.3 Plan of Centre for development studies

Fig 2.3.4 Plan of palace

FORM ANALYSIS

one cottage is given special attention. It is also can adapt to the topography of the land. This type of planning gives individuality to each unit and a moderate degree of diversity. The linear form of organization always has a sense of direction, which in this case is towards the spa and other recreation centers. The main purpose of such a resort is to provide methods of relaxtion for its guests and the linear form drives the people to move in that direction. The linear organization also gives a view of the sea to all the cottages. Another advantage of a linear form is that it can be extended at a later stage if an expansion of the resort takes place.

2.3.4 Form organization of Centre for Development Studies

The plan of Centre for development studies (fig 2.3.3) shows a clustered cum linear form organization. Being an educational institution, there is no building that is given priority. The clustered form promotes interaction of people as the proximity increases. This is very necessary in an educational institution.

2.3.5 Form organization of Padmanabhapuram palaceThe plan of palace (Fig 2.3.4) is given a complex form massing with little extra emphasis given to the king’s chamber (made as the tallest building). It can be considered as a subtle form of centralized form massing. The form massing is made complex in order to consider security matters. An outsider who gets into the palace complex should not be able to get an idea of the entire place easily. This makes the invasions

difficult and the palace secure.

2.3.6 ComparisonThe temple has a centralized form massing which is apt as the temple gives emphasis to the sanctum sanctorum. Similarly the palace tries to give emphasis to the king’s chamber though in a much subtle way. The chamber is given the maximum height however the plan is not centralized due to security issues. The plan is made complex so that an invader who comes from outside does not get a full grasp of the pathways easily.

The plan of the resort is linear which suits its functioning. Linear form massing gives individuality to each unit and a moderate degree of diversity. Also there is no special emphasis given to a particular building. The buildings are constructed according to the topography of the site. The plan of cds is a mixture of linear and clustered form of massing. It being an educational institution consists of a number of buildings but none is more important than the other.

2.3.7 InferenceForm massing is done according to the importance that needs to be given to each of the building which in turn is directly related with the activity or use of the building.

2.4 Effect of function / activity:

2.4.1 Introduction:Evolution of any kind of form is directly related to the function. The activities happening in any space govern the form that the building takes. Also the users of a space affect the form. Public and private spaces have differences in form. Similarly, the buildings primarily used by ladies is different from the other buildings. An example of this being the Thekke kottaram at the Padmanabhapuram palace.

2.4.2 Padmanabhaswami temple

2.4.2.1 Plan

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Fig 2.4.1 View from resort

Fig 2.4.2 Organic form of green room of theatre

Fig 2.4.3 Fenestrations of computer centre

FORM ANALYSIS

The plan of the temple(Fig 2.3.1) is central and this is to give importance to the Sanctum sanctorum. It embodies the sacred and honorific place for God. There also sufficient space in the courtyards also in the corridors to accommodate a large number of people as it is a space used by a vast number of believers.

2.4.2.2 East GateZThe east gate’s (Fig 2.1.1) proportion is primarily defined by the function it serves. The height should be sufficient to let in an elephant during the temple processions and during festivals or utsavs. The width should be sufficient to allow a lot of people to enter simultaneously as it is a public space that is being used by hundreds of people daily.

2.4.2.3 North GateThe north gate(Fig 2.1.2) is used as a side entry and exit point and hence isn’t expected to be large enough for an elephant to pass through. The width of the gate is also much lesser than that of the east gate because the number of people using this gate is lesser and it is built inorder to serve on that crowd. Thus, the proportion is largely affected by the function.

2.4.3 Estuary resort

2.4.3.1 PlanThe aim of the resort is to provide a cosy and comfortable stay for its guests and the primary requirement is to provide privacy. This is done through form massing in the plan (Fig 2.3.2). The linear form gives individuality to each unit and there is no connection between any two of them.

2.4.3.2 Buildings

2.4.3.2.1 ViewAn estuary is the meeting point of a lake, river, sea and beach. The estuary resort aims to provide maximum view (Fig 2.4.1) of the estuary from the rooms. A series of balconies is visible in the front façade itself. There is extensive use of subtraction of forms to create more openings in order for the guests to be able to enjoy the beautiful view that is present.

2.4.3.2.2 LevelIn order to blend in with the surroundings, the plinth level visible above ground is very little. Thus, giving the illusion that one isn’t moving into a different form. Level difference is thus taken care of by adjusting the plinth of the form.

2.4.4 CDS

2.4.4.1 TheatreThe theatre (Fig 2.4.2) is made up of curved irregular forms to suit its function. The curves are used to enclose a green room and an entrance to the stage of the theatre from both the sides.

2.4.4.2 FenestrationsA lot of fenestrations (Fig 2.4.3) are provided in order to serve the function of ventilation and aesthetics. This is done by the subtraction of form which will reduce the usage of material and make the building economical.

2.4.4.3 Computer center Laurie Baker evolved an innovative system of curved double walls to save on cost and to conserve the energy that goes into air-conditioning a building of this scale and

purpose.

2.4.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace

2.4.5.1 SecurityThe plan of the palace and most other aspects of the palace had been designed after considering the security issue. Thus the function of ensuring security played a major rule in the design of the form of the palace. The plan is made complex and the pathways complicated accordingly defining the overall form of the palace.

2.4.5.2 WindowsIn those times women were not allowed public appearance. Many of the windows (Fig 2.4.4) of the first floor were constructed for the females to view the

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Fig 2.4.4 Windows of palace

Fig 2.4.5 Window of Upparika malikka

Fig 2.4.6 Navaratri Mandappam

Fig 2.4.7 Scale of treasury door

Fig 2.5.1 Typical kerala roof

FORM ANALYSIS

activities happening in the courtyards. These windows facilitated proper view of the courtyards but no one could make out anything about the first floor interiors with the help of these windows.

The large window of the upparika malika (Fig 2.4.5) was provided for the king to view the army selection process that was carried out in the courtyard below. Also since it is provided at a good height it is given larger dimensions to increase air circulation by wind.

2.4.5.3 MandappamThe mandapam (Fig 2.4.6) is built with stone especially to serve the function of a stage during the festival of navarathri. Also a cabin in the form of a cuboid is built with wood for the queen and her female servants to view the programs going on. Also the others standing outside will not be able to view the queen.

2.4.5.4 Treasury doors

The treasury doors (Fig 2.4.7) were built to smaller scales than other doors in order to restrict the entry of people in large numbers. This actually checks that not any looting gang is able to run away easily with the treasures. Only a single person can get in through the treasury door

at a time.

2.4.5.5 Thekke KottaramThekke kottaram(Fig 2.1.9) was built for the ladies of the palace to stay during the time of pregnancy. The Nalukettu is the traditional style of architecture of Kerala, wherein a house has a quadrangle in the centre. The thekke kottaram was given three nalukettu for ventilation and cooling effect.

2.4.6 InferenceBuildings are built to serve their various functions. An ideal building can serve all the functions it has been built for in the best of possible ways. Additions and subtractions of forms are done to a building to suit the functions it is used for.

2.5 Effect of climate

2.5.1 Introduction:The climate of a region has great impact on the evolution of the form. Wind directions play a vital role in the orientation of the buildings. Similarly, rain also plays a very important role on the form of a building. In case of Kerala architecture, the rains play a significant role in the form of the roof of a structure. Other factors affecting buildings of Kerala include the heat as well as the humidity.

2.5.2 Padmanabhaswami temple

2.5.2.1 RoofAll the roofs of the temple including the sanctum sanctorum and the gateway roofs are gabled resembling a typical kerala roof (Fig 2.5.1). This is

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Fig 2.5.2 Window without sunshade at CDS

FORM ANALYSIS

due to the huge amount of rain that Kerala receives. The rain water will drain off easily and no special drainage mechanisms are required.

2.5.2.2 PlinthThe plinth of the temple gateways are given little more height which is also to adjust with the humid and rainy climate. Water clogging should not affect the walls of the building and hence the plinth is raised to give protection for the wall against such water accumulation.

2.5.3 Estuary resort

2.5.3.1 Placement of windowsThe windows are placed in directions were the maximum amount of wind is available. (The view is also considered.) The location of the resort is near water bodies which results in continuous wind.

2.5.3.2 LevelThe level of site on which the resort is situated is raised in order to protect the buildings and other structures from water rise during high tide and rainy season.

2.5.4 Centre for Development Studies

2.5.4.1 Windows –sunshadesThe windows (Fig 2.5.2) of many buildings of cds lack sunshades. This is due to the alignment of the buildings which are in such a way that direct sunlight entry is avoided and also the usual direction of wind is made use of.

2.5.5 Padmanabhapuram palace

2.5.5.1 RoofThe roofs of the palace are also gabled as in typical Kerala architecture. It serves the function of effective draining of rain water off the roof.

2.5.5.2 SunshadesThe palace buildings which are oriented in directions where direct sunlight won’t be available does not have sunshades.

2.5.6 InferenceAll buildings should be built in accordance and by taking into proper consideration, the climate of the area. In kerala the major climatic factors that needs to be taken into consideration include:

1. Rainfall2. Direction of wind3. Humidity

2.6 Effect of vasthu principles

2.6.1 IntroductionVastu is the study of the basic nexus between earth and the cosmos. The cosmic influences of the solar energy, the magnetic fields, the movement of prana, and other subtle energies have a vibratory effect on the building and its occupants. (Ref: Vasthu vidya, Juliet pegrum).

Buildings in India, have for all times followed the principles of vasthu. The arrangement of buildings on a site, the proportions, the composition of a building, the directions of entrances are all affected by vasthu. This ancient science plays a vital role specially in the Padmanabhaswamy temple and the Padmanabhapuram palace.

According to vasthu the different proportions have different implications. They are given as follows:

* Ratio of 1: When the Height is equal to the Breadth, the structure is considered to be aesthetically proportionate.

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Fig 2.6.1 Roof alignment of palace

FORM ANALYSIS

* Ratio of 1.25: When the Height is 1.25 times the Breadth, the structure is considered to have good stability.

* Ratio of 1.5: When the Height is 1.5 times the Breadth, the structure is considered to have a pleasant appearance.

* Ratio of 1.75: When the Height is 1.75 times the Breadth, the structure is good in every way and will be appear both strong and beautiful.

* Ratio of 2: When the Height is twice the Breadth, the structure will appear gorgeous.

2.6.2 Padmanabhaswami temple

2.6.2.1 RatiosThe height to breadth ratio of the east gate(Fig 2.1.1) is found to be nearly 1.5 which according to vasthu gives a pleasing appearance. In the case of the north gate(Fig 2.1.2), the breadth to height ratio is 1.25 which as per vasthu is said to be structurally stable. Also, the first floor is smaller in height than the ground floor. This is also with respect to vasthu as vasthu principles state that the ratio of the first floor to the ground floor should. In no circumstances, exceed 1:1.

2.6.2.2 DirectionsThe temple’s main entrance is facing east and this is in order to let in the first rays of the sun into the temple. This is also in accordance with vasthu. All the buildings of the temple is found to face the east for this reason. Also, the surround buildings have a height that is lesser than that of the temple. This is because Vasthu doesn’t permit any building in the vicinity of a temple to overshadow it.

2.6.2.3 AngleThe angle of the slope of the roof of the temple’s north gate is found to be nearly 45 degree. As per vasthu, only buildings of public significance can have a 45 degree slope. Residential buildings can have a slope between 30 and 45. The buildings that have come up around the temple show this.

2.6.2.4 FormThe plan of the temple is square because according to vasthu, a square is said to hold the maximum positive energy. The gopuram takes the form of a pyramids as they are great resonators of energy. The eight space directions converge at the brahma bindu where they create a confluence of powerful magnetic energy. This energy then vibrates evenly throughout the structure,

2.6.3 Estuary ResortThe estuary resort is situated surrounded by water on all four sides. The main entrance of the resort faces the west. This is because the north-west is said to be the direction of water which is one among the five elements of the universe.

2.6.4 Padmanabhapuram PalaceThe entrance gateway (fig 2.1.5) is found to have the golden ratio, which according to vasthu is extremely desired. The upparika malika has a breadth to height ratio of 1:2. This, according to vasthu makes the structure look gorgeous and grand. All the buildings have a square or rectangular plan as they hold the maximum positive energy. Right angles are good for construction according to vasthu principles and thus, all the buildings of the palace complex are constructed perpendicular to each other.

The Thekke kottaram (Fig 2.1.9) is a private space as it was being used only by pregnant ladies. The vastu principles have different definitions for public and private spaces. The slope of the roof of a public space is 45 degrees whereas that of a private space cannot exceed 30 degrees .

2.6.5 InferenceVastu principles have an influence on the form of buildings whether it was constructed hundreds of years ago or recently. Some of these principles have scientific backing also and it is not merely a blind belief.

2.7 Transformations

2.7.1 Introduction:Irregular forms can be obtained by the addition and subtraction of regular forms from the original form. Subtractive transformation of a form is the subtraction of a portion of its volume from it. The original identity of the initial form may or may not be retained depending on the extent of transformation. A form can be transformed by the addition of elements to its volumes. As in the case of subtractive transformation, the extent of addition decides whether or not the original form is retained. The centre for development studies shows the extensive use of transformation of form.

2.7.2 Padmanabhaswami templeThe temple gates are formed by the subtraction of different form from the basic cuboidal form. Also the gopuram of the temple is a subtraction of irregular forms from the square pyramid that serves the function of a basic form.

2.7.3 Estuary resort

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Fig 2.7.1 Main building at CDS

Fig 2.8.1 Slope of theatre at CDS

FORM ANALYSIS

The main building is composed of a number of forms. The basic form is that of a rectangular prism. Additions and subtractions of a lot of smaller forms have shaped the entire building.

2.7.4 Centre for Development StudiesEach and every building of centre for development studies (Fig 2.7.1) clearly shows how subtraction and addition of forms can create useful forms. In one case a hollow curved region is subtracted to let in air but not light. In another case the balcony is formed as an addition to the entire form of the building. This increases the visual cone of the people standing there.

2.7.5 Padmanabhapuram PalaceAddition and subtraction of forms is observed extensively. It is applied to carry out various functions like providing privacy for meetings.

2.7.6 InferenceNot a single building can be designed without transformation of basic form. In some cases it is done to carry out a function while in another case it is given to increase the aesthetics of a building.

2.8 Site in relation to building

2.8.1 IntroductionSite affects the form of a building to a large extent. Buildings can be built economically if the topography of the site is properly considered and brought into use. The famous architect Laurie baker was proficient in designing buildings in accordance with the site topography. The center for development studies is good example of his capability.

2.8.2 Estuary resort The ground floor of the spa actually comes behind a mound of soil. This mound is not removed but is made use of to cool the ground floor. It also provides different views of form in different directions.

2.8.3 Centre for Development Studies

In centre for development studies the buildings are built according to the site. In a sloping site (Fig 2.8.1) the building is built making use of the slope in one way or the other.

3. Bibliography

3.1 Books1. Form, Space and Order , Francis D.K. Ching, 2007

2. Form Based Codes , Daniel T.G. Parolek,2008

3. Proportions , Richard Padovan,2001

4. Vastu Vidhya : Indian art of Placement , Juliet Pegrum ,2000

5. Analysing Architecture, Simon Unwin ,2000

3.2 Websites6. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/padmanabhaswamy_temple

7. www.cds.edu

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FORM ANALYSIS

8. www.lauriebaker.net

9. www.keralatourism.org/padmanabhapurampalace

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