ARCHITECT'S IDEAS & ADVICE ON A TO Z OF HOUSE CONSTRUCTION IN INDIA

VASTU SHASTRA TIPS ON RENTING OUT SPACES

2009-02-04T05:51:00.000-08:00

This page in which an Architect explains rationally and scientifically, the Vaastu Shastra guidelines for renting out spaces and houses has shifted to:

VASTU SHASTAR GUIDELINES | RENTING OUT HOUSES

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- BEDROOMS

2008-11-11T05:07:00.000-08:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on the design of houses. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.
Something that everyone has in common is sleeping. It takes up approximately one third of your life and therefore is an extremely important factor in your overall health. Vastu for bedroom takes into consideration different factors to ensure harmony in the house such as proper location, proper placement of bed, color scheme of the room, the direction and placement of doors, windows, furniture, electronic gadgets etc.

WHAT IS THE BEST LOCATION FOR BEDROOMS, ACCORDING TO VASTU?
* The main bedroom should be constructed in the South direction. The Scientific Reason - The north is meant for the living room and entertaining guests. Hence a private space like a bedroom should be located far from the front and ideally that is the south.

* The ideal location for the master bedroom is the South-West. If there is more than one floor, the head of the family (elder person) should have a bedroom on the upper floor, in the South-West corner. This room should never be used as a bedroom of young children, as they will try to dominate. The Scientific Reason - In ancient times, the main wealth of the inmates was agricultural produce and this was stored in granaries behind the house. The ideal location for these granaries was the South-West corner, because the south-west heat and the hot S-W summer wind kept the produce dry and free from moisture. Hence the master bedroom was preferred in the South-West, closer to the granaries to guard them from thieves. So also, this was not preferred for a children's bedroom.

* If the master bedroom is in the south-east corner of the house, it results in unnecessary quarrels between the husband and the wife and a lot of wasteful expenditure. The Scientific Reason - In the olden days, when the cooking was done on open ovens, and the combustible building materials were prone to catch fire due to the hot S-W summer wind, the kitchen was not allowed in the South-West corner and the North-East corners. Hence, the South-East corner or North-West corner were reserved for the kitchen.

* The North-West corner is acceptable for a guest bedroom or a children's bedroom. The Scientific Reason - The northern bedrooms have the advantage of getting constant light from the North.

* A West side bedroom is the best for children. An eastern bedroom can also be used for unmarried children or for guests. The Scientific Reason - The West bedroom has the advantage of being bright and well lit in the evenings due to the West sunrays. Hence it is a good location for the children's bedroom because they use it a lot in the evening for their studies after school and play. The East bedrooms have the advantage of being well lit in the mornings.

* The North-East is the direction of the deities, and hence the puja room or the meditation room. Therefore, no bedroom should be in this direction. The Scientific Reason - All the other corners are reserved for different rooms like bedrooms, bathrooms, toilets, living room and kitchen. Hence the only corner left, which is away from the noisy areas like the kitchen and back, is the North-East corner. Also, since this corner is engulfed with morning sunlight, it is ideally suited for a meditation room or puja room.

* No bedroom should be exactly in the middle of the house. The Scientific Reason - It is obvious that a room in the centre of the house will be used for movement and accessing all the other rooms, and hence a bedroom that requires privacy and quiet, cannot be placed here.

* Square and rectangle shape bedrooms are just perfect for ensuring peace and prosperity. - The Scientific Reason - The rectangle or square shape is the best shape for placing rectangular cots and other furniture, without wasting any space.

* The bedroom should never be constructed on four pillars with no construction under the bedroom. The bedroom should not be constructed above porch, car parks and kitchen. The Scientific Reason - The fumes from the kitchen and the car exhaust that rise up, can be a nuisance to the inmates of the bedroom.

WHAT IS THE BEST DIRECTION FOR SLEEPING IN A BEDROOM, ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA?
* Vastu forbids sleeping with the head in the North. In fact only a dead body is kept with the head in the north and the feet pointing towards the south. The Scientific Reason - The blood in the body contains iron, making the body magnetic with the positive polarity in the head. Hence the head is the North pole while the feet are the South pole of the body. When you sleep with your head to the north, these two positive polarities repel each other, disrupting the flow of blood and affecting your sleep and health. Hence one should never sleep with the head in the North.

However, Vastu allows sleeping with the head in the other three directions. The effects of sleeping with the head in different directions is described below:

East: East is the direction of knowledge and enlightenment. Sleeping with the head in the east increases knowledge and increases a liking for spiritualism. For this reason, children should always sleep with their head in the east.
West: Sleeping with one's head in the west is good for people who do not permanently reside in the house, like guests and married daughters, in their parents' house.
South: South is the best direction for sleeping. Sleeping with one's head in the south brings happiness and sound sleep.

* Try not to sleep in direct alignment with sharp corners. Sharp corners act as energy spears and create stress. They should be camouflaged with plants or rounded off. The Scientific Reason - The sharp corners can cause damage to the furniture if accidentally pushed against them. Also they can hurt us when we move around.

* The beds should never be placed under the joint in the roof or under a beam or under a slanted ceiling as you will not have peaceful rest. The remedy is to create a false ceiling. The Scientific Reason - A beam above psychologically feels like a weight on you as you lay down looking at the ceiling.

* The beds should always be kept away from the walls. The Scientific Reason - To allow for the free flow of air all around and under the bed, thus creating good ventilation.

* The foot of the bed should not directly face the door of the room but the bed should be placed in a position where the occupants can see anyone coming into the rooms. The scientific reason - A bed is normally about 6.5-7 feet in length and if placed bang opposite the door, can psychologically appear to be an obstacle as you enter the room.

WHAT IS THE BEST LOCATION OF THE DOOR AND WINDOW IN A BEDROOM AS PER VASTU?
*The door to the bedroom should open at least ninety degrees to fully allow positive opportunities to flow in. A door that cannot open fully will limit the flow.The Scientific Reason - Whenever you enter any room, it is important that the door opens wide as otherwise it can be a struggle to get into the room especially if you have a child or something in your hands.

*Avoid fixing doors in the South-West of a bedroom.The door of the bedroom should be in the east, the west or the north. The Scientific Reason - The South West corner of the bedroom is reserved for the safe and wardrobes. Hence it is better to keep the door away from this corner.

* Having windows in the East and North and smaller windows in the West is ideal. The Scientific Reason - The constant light from the North and the morning light from the East are very essential to brighten and aerate the bedroom.

WHAT ARE THE VASTU PRINCIPLES FOR ARRANGEMENT OF FURNITURE IN THE BEDROOM?
* The Southwest corner of the bedroom should never be left empty- heavy furniture or the bed or a wardrobe should be kept here. If a safe or cupboard for keeping valuable documents, cash, jewelry etc. is kept in the bedroom, it should be placed in the south-west of the room opening towards north. The Scientific Reason - The heavy stuff is preferred in the south or West sides to serve as a buffer to the hot evening sunlight.

* Maximum open space and should be left in the North-East side of the bedroom. The Scientific Reason - The Constant and beneficial sunlight from the East and North should engulf the whole room and not get blocked by heavy furniture.

* Upon entering, your bedroom, the first thing you see should be something that gives you the feeling of peace and serenity such as a photograph, a favorite quote, a painting or sculpture or even flowers that enhance these positive feelings. Keep objects that remind you of unfinished tasks out of the room, or at least out of sight as the bedroom should be a place where you can totally relax. The Scientific Reason - It is obvious that things that make you happy will give a positive feeling.

* The beds should be of good quality wood. They should be solid and must not be shaky. The mattress should provide good support to the body while resting. The Scientific Reason - The essential function of the bed is to provide a surface which is neither too hard nor too soft for the back. A shaky bed will creak and disturb others when people turn on the bed.

* The dressing table should be to East or the North direction. The reading and writing activities should be done in the West or the East of the bedroom. The Scientific Reason - The constant light from the North or East will light up our face when sitting in front of the mirror, thus allowing you to dress up well.

* Avoid keeping a TV in the bedroom. If a TV is kept, it should never be directly in front of the bed as it works as a mirror and generates negative energy. The T.V and other electrical appliances should be in the south-east corner of the bed room.

* The wardrobes should be in the North-West or the South-West of the room. The Scientific Reason - They serve as buffers to the hot evening sunlight coming in from the West.

* The attached bathroom to the bedroom should be in the East or South-East corner of the room. The Scientific Reason - Normally the bathroom is used for bath and other activities, early in the morning, and so will be wet after use. If it is placed in the East side, the morning sunlight will dry up the area and the UV rays will kill all the germs.

* Having a mirror on the wall opposite the foot of the bed is not advised. The Scientific Reason - When you wake up in the morning, all untidy and disheveled, it may be a shock when you see yourself in the mirror as you sit up in the bed! It could also spoil your mood for the rest of the day.

* Avoid placing the religious idols in the bedroom. The Scientific Reason - Many people may feel uncomfortable to lie around with their feet pointing towards the religious idols, as they believe it is disrespectful to god.

* Clutter, represents stagnation. Removing clutter in your bedroom creates serenity and will help you feel more efficient and function optimally. To tackle clutter, first take on small projects to help you avoid the feelings of being overwhelmed be the task at hand. Clear areas of accumulated papers, magazines, and newspapers to create a sense of space.Remove everything from under your bed and keep it as clean as possible. The Scientific Reason - When you see clutter you feel a kind of helplessness and it just keeps accumulating and becomes an irritant in your mind. The space under the bed gets very dusty and cannot be cleaned often. Hence it is meaningless to store anything there.

* The colour of walls should be light rose, gray, blue, chocolate, dark green etc and not bright colurs. The Scientific Reason - Bright colours and bold patterns advance and make the space look smaller; while pale colours recede and reflect light and make the space look bigger. Contrasting colours and textures in a room break it up into several different areas and make it appear smaller.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES - LIVING ROOM

2008-11-10T22:19:00.000-08:00

* The walls should be painted white, yellow, green, or blue, never red or black. The Reason - The Living room is engulfed with light from the north and East sides and if it is painted in light colours, the room will be bright and appear large also.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES - STAIRCASES

2008-11-09T23:50:00.000-08:00

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHICH IS THE BEST LOCATION FOR STAIRCASES?

* Vastu recommends staircases in the southwest, or if necessary, on the south or west sides of the house. It is not advisable to build staircases on the northeast side. The Reason - The North-East is supposed to be left open according to Vastu, in order to allow the morning sun rays to enter the house. Hence if a staircase is kept in this corner, it will block the sunlight. But if there is no other choice, the staircase can be placed here as the internal circulation is also important.

* The internal staircase should not be in the corners or in the center of the house.The Reason - If an internal staircase is in the corner, the room from which it is accessed cannot be used properly. Similarly, if the staircase is in the center, a lot of useful space is wasted.

* According to Vastu, the staircase should go up from east to west or north to south. Going up, one should rotate clockwise. The Reason - Since most people are right handed, they tend to hold the handrail on the right hand side. So when they turn on the next flight, it makes sense to continue holding the right handrail, for which the next flight should be on the right side or one has to turn clockwise.

WHAT ARE THE GUIDELINES FOR STAIRCASES IN VASTU SHASTRA?
* The Staircase should have an odd number of risers, (vertical part of the step) and not an even number. For example 15, 17, 19 are acceptable. The Reason - Since most people are right handed, they have a tendency to put their right foot first, while climbing a staircase. So when they end the climb, they prefer to end on the right foot. This is possible only when there are odd number of steps. It is for this reason that the right foot is equated with gain, the left with loss.

* Circular and spiral staircases are not good. The Reason - A circular staircase takes up a lot of space and there is a lot of wastage of space in the corners and in the rooms adjacent to it. A spiral staircase is very uncomfortable to climb and not very safe. Also the space below it is not very usable and there is the risk of bumping into it as there is no proper head room.

* The staircase area should be painted a light color. The Reason - One can see the steps clearly, if the whole area is painted a light color as this reflects light.

* The worship room, safe, or toilet should not be located under a staircase- its is like stamping god or money. The Reason -Every time people climb the steps, a person using the room below gets an uneasy feeling of somebody stamping on their head. He doesn't feel safe either, as if the whole thing will collapse on him.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES - TREES AND PLANTS

2008-11-07T01:57:00.000-08:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on all aspects of house designing, including the planting of auspicious trees and plants around the house. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.

WHAT TREES SHOULD BE PLANTED IN THE HOUSE GARDEN ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA?

Some of the auspicious trees according to Vastu, that are good for the inmates are described below along with their usefulness:

PEEPAL TREE - It is also known as the Aswatha tree. Scientists have found that the oxygen produced by this tree is in large amounts and is found in high concentration under the branches, probably due to the thick foliage. Hence it is considered very healthy to circumambulate this tree in the morning. Probably it is for this reason that it is considered a sacred tree and is worshiped in India. It is usually found near temples or temples are erected near Peepal trees. It has a very long life and can survive for centuries. It is prohibited from being cut. However, it is not suitable near a house, since it has far spreading roots which can affect the foundation of the building.

NEEM TREE - This tree has great medicinal value and its extract is used in pesticides. Its twigs are used to brush teeth and neem oil is used in physiotherapy. As neem leaves are very bitter, a mixture of neem leaves, tender green mango and jaggery is eaten on Ugadi or the New Year in South India, as a symbolic gesture, that one is prepared to face the sweet, sour and bitter experiences of the coming year with equanimity. Hence this tree can be planted in a house garden.

MANGO TREE - Most of the parts of the mango tree have medicinal value. It's leaves are used as a pesticide, and its twigs are used for brushing teeth. Mango fruit is very tasty. The raw mangoes are used for making pickles and as a vegetable. Its leaves are used for puja purposes. It is considered very auspicious if the dead are cremated using mango tree fire-wood. Mango trees also have a very long life and can survive for 400-500 years. Hence this tree is also a very useful tree to have in your garden.

JACK-FRUIT TREE- Like mango tree, the jack-fruit tree also produces very tasty, large fruit, from which different types of sweets are made. Its seeds are also nutritious. The beautiful yellow coloured wood from this tree is used to make furniture, doors, windows etc.Its leaves are also used for puja purposes. Therefore, it is useful and can be planted in your garden.

BANANA TREE - The tender saplings are used for decorating doors of houses, pandals etc, during functions and festivals, as they are symbols of prosperity and wealth. Bananas are available through the year, and are very nutritious. They are rich in potassium and the best source of instant energy. Raw bananas are cooked and eaten like a vegetable. Banana leaves are used for eating traditional meals as they are considered hygienic. So this is a must-have in your garden.

COCONUT TREE - Every part of this tree is useful. The tender coconut water is a very healthy, cool, low fat drink. The coconut flesh is used in South Indian cooking in large amounts and gives it a distinctive flavour. The oil extracted from coconut is used in cooking as well as a hair oil. Coir is a very useful by-product which is used in making mats, carpets etc. The leaves of the coconut tree are weaved and used as roofing for huts by the poor. Its dry leaves are also used as fire-wood. It has a long life of about 100-150 years and is prohibited from being cut. Due to its usefulness it is considered a sacred tree. Hence it is considered a must, in every one's garden.

SANDAL WOOD TREE- Sandal wood is very expensive as it is used to make exquisite handicrafts, and its oil is very fragrant. Sandalwood paste when applied on the forehead, cools the head, and so is used in temples and in hot places like Kerala. The sandalwood is used to make incence sticks. It is very rare to find sandalwood trees and hence there have been so many instances of robbers cutting down trees in the middle of the night, if found in any house compound. If you like this fragrant tre, it is a good idea to try and grow one- but you may need to secure it!

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHERE SHOULD THE TREES BE PLANTED IN THE PLOT?
* Smaller trees may be planted on the east or north sides, but no trees should be planted in the northeast corner as they block the useful morning sun rays.
* Tall trees like Coconut can be planted in the South-West, West sides but should should not be too close to a building as they block the sunlight completely. A tree’ should be planted such that it's shadow should not fall on the house.
* Large trees like Peepal, Banyan should not be located too near the house as their roots can damage the foundation and compound wall. Also, the large trees absorb most of the sunlight, meaning these positive rays will not be received by the building.
* There should be an even number of trees on one’s property, not an odd number.
* A list of good trees to plant are useful trees like coconut, neem, betel, sandalwood, lemon, pineapple, bilva, almond, jackfruit, pomegranate, mango, amla, and katha.
* Trees with insects, worms, honey bees, bumble bee, owls, serpents, should be avoided.
* If a tree must be removed because it is inauspicious or for other reasons, the day before cutting the tree, one should express regret to the tree, and it must be removed from its rooting. A new tree should be planted in its place within the next three months. This is a way of conserving nature.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHICH PLANTS ARE TO BE GROWN IN THE HOUSE GARDEN?
TULASI (BASIL) - It is always good to grow a Tulasi plant on one’s property. Tulasi should be located on the north, northeast, or east sides of the house, or in front of the house. Tulasi is a medicinal plant and is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicines. It purifies the blood and improves the digestive system. It is believed to be useful in treating many types of diseases. Hence it is recommended to eat a few leaves every day. Its probably for this reason, that it is considered a sacred plant and used in daily worship.

JASMINE - In general, sweet smelling plants like jasmine, red lotus, blue lotus etc are good in the house compound as they give out a pleasant perfume, and can also be used in daily worship.

THORNY PLANTS - Thorny plants should not be planted near the house. Cactus should not be planted at all. Thorny plants other than roses have a negative energy. Ideally all thorny plants should be pulled up and destroyed. The reason could be that the thorns can hurt you when you brush past them.

CREEPERS - Creepers or other plants should not be grown using the building or compound wall as a support. Creepers should only be grown in a garden, and they should have their own independent supports.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- ENTRANCE DOOR

2008-11-06T04:28:00.000-08:00

Vastu is a science that explains how to create a building that vibrates with Universal Energy. Every time you enter your house you activate a presiding energy in relationship to the mandala of the house at that point. A door must be precisely located for activation of most beneficial energy. As Vastu is a science, there is a logical explanation for every guideline.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHERE SHOULD THE MAIN DOOR BE LOCATED?
The main entrance should be auspiciously located. In general, the influence of a building orientation with proper entrance location is as follows:

East: physical comfort and mental peace,
South: salvation, redemption, freedom from earthly worries, moksha,
(However, south-oriented entrance is not the most recommended for householders who favor material prosperity.)
West: material prosperity,
North: general prosperity.

* North-facing door should be in the center or favoring toward the west side of the north wall. If you divide your north wall into 9 equal parts, the main door can be located in the central or 4th or 3rd part from the North-West corner. The Reason - Its preferable to have as many window openings in the North and East to allow sunlight constantly, through the day. Since the door is opaque, it should be placed more to the West.

* South-facing main door must not be in the center of the building. If you divide your south wall into 9 equal parts or modules, the main door on the south can be located in the 4th or 6th module. The Reason -

* West-facing door can be located south of center and not north of center. If you divide the west wall into 9 equal modules, the main door can be located in the 3rd or 4th module from the South West corner. The Reason - Its preferable to have more window openings towards the North and East to allow sunlight constantly, through the day. Since the door is opaque, it should be placed more to the South in the wall.

* East-facing main door can be located in the centre of the East wall, but a little more to the North-East. The Reason - Since the North East corner of a plot is to be left open, for sunlight to enter the house, it makes sense to enter from this space but by leaving as much of window openings towards North and East.

Thus you can see in Vastu, there is no bad location for a main door. Its the pseudo vastu pundits who claim that South and West entrances are bad and entrance door should only be in the North or East, because they take the vastu shastra guidelines too literally - Since Vastu recommends more open space in the north and East, it makes sense to have the entrance from either of these directions. But it's not a hard and fast rule.

IN VASTU SHASTRA, ARE THERE ANY SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE MAIN DOOR?

* The main door should not be situated across from the main door of another house. The entrance doors of two houses should not be exactly opposing one another. Neither should two houses share a common entrance. The Reason - It is quite uncomfortable when both the doors are open, as one unconsciously tends to look into the other house.

* The main door of the house should not be in the extreme corners. The Reason - If the door is in the extreme corner, it will be difficult to place the furniture in the room as the corner is used for movement.

* It is considered auspicious if the entrance to the property and the main door of the house are on the same side. It is not considered good if the main door to the house is on the opposite side to the entrance of the property. The Reason - It doesn't make sense to have the entrance on one side and then have the main door on the opposite side as guests and outsiders are forced to walk right across the length of the site, thus invading into the privacy of the inmates.

* There should not be an underground tank, septic tank, or canal under the main entrance. The Reason - In case the tank has to be opened or cleaned, it can be very inconvenient if it is right in front of the main door.

* There should not be any abandoned, wrecked buildings in front of the main entrance. The Reason - It is quite disconcerting, every time you open the door to see an eerie looking building right in front of you.

* In Vastu, when one enters the house, there should not be a wall in front of the entrance. There should be a door that opens to the next room in line of sight, opposite the main door. The Reason - The fresh air entering the house, every time you open the door, can flow into the rest of the house and finally go out from the exit. This allows the house to breathe properly.

* It is best that a house has an entrance and an exit. The exit door should be smaller than the entrance. The Reason - The fresh air entering into the house through the entrance, will go out through the exit and thus be forced to pass through the rest of the house, thus allowing the house to breathe.

* The main door of the house should be larger than the other doors of the house. The main door should open to the inside of the building, and swing open in a clockwise motion. The Reason - It feels inviting when the main door is large and also stuff can be brought in from outside without difficulty. If the door swings open in a clockwise motion, you use your left hand to open the door for the guests, thus enabling you to guide them in with your right hand.

* The doors that shut and close by themselves are not good. Doors that creak are also not auspicious. The Reason - With the self closing locks available nowadays, the doors can shut and close by themselves, but there is the risk that the door will close in the breeze while the keys are inside the house. Doors that creak indicate bad workmanship and that the door hinges are not well oiled.

* Doors should have thresholds. Shoes should not be kept in front of the door, but to the side. The Reason - The threshold will deter ants and other pests from entering into the house. The shoes in front of the door can be an eyesore for guests.

* It is good to decorate a house’s entrance with pictures or statues of auspicious signs and OM or the Swastika. Inauspicious pictures should not be on the door. The Reason - When you or a guest stand in front of the door it is better to see some pleasant images instead of just a plain door.
* Wood of Honne, Teak, Sal, Matti etc are good for the doors. Wood from Peepal, Coconut, trees giving flowers and fruits out of season, Thorny trees, Fragrant trees, etc should not be used. The Reason - Its important to protect useful trees that provide us with fruit etc.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES

2008-11-06T04:17:00.000-08:00

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- SITE LOCATION
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- SITE SHAPE
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- SITE SOIL & SLOPE
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- CONSTRUCTION
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- MAIN ENTRANCE DOOR
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- LIVING ROOM
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- STAIRCASES
VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- TREES & PLANTS

VASTU SHASTRA FACTORS

2008-11-06T04:15:00.000-08:00

VASTU SHASTRA - THE FIVE ELEMENTS, PANCHABHUTAAS
VASTU SHASTRA - THE SUN AND ITS EFFECTS
VASTU SHASTRA - THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD
VASTU SHASTRA - THE EIGHT CARDINAL DIRECTIONS
VASTU SHASTRA - VASTU PURUSHA MANDALA

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION

2008-11-03T23:20:00.000-08:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on the construction of different types of buildings. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA WHAT ARE THE RITUALS TO BE DONE JUST BEFORE CONSTRUCTION?
Vastu Shastra advocates five rituals or activites to be done before the actual construction begins. As Vastu is a science, there is scientific reasoning for doing these rituals. They have been explained below:

* VASTUPOOJA - The first ritual to be done before starting the construction, is a Vastu pooja or Bhoomi Pooja. This is ritualistic and should be done at an auspicious time and on an auspicious day, as fixed by your astrologer. Before doing the pooja, the site should be cleared. Dirt, stones, holes in the ground, and trash should be removed. Thorny bushes should also be uprooted and removed. The pooja should be done in the North-East corner of the site. The pooja should not be done if the woman in the household is more than seven months pregnant.
The reasoning - The purpose of doing a pooja is to psychologically give the owner the confidence that the seemingly huge task of building a house can be accomplished without any problems since, the bare earth of the site (bhoomi) has been blessed and has acquired a divine life. The purpose of selecting auspicious time and day is for the same reason. The reason why the pooja is not to be done when the woman of the house is heavily pregnant is obvious - since the pooja ceremony calls for sitting on the ground, it may be uncomfortable for the lady or cause premature delivery.

* BALIDAANA - This is also a ritual. Offerings are made and spirits and demons are requested to leave. The Reasoning - With this ritual, the owner will psychologically feel that the site is purified and freed from any old associations and is receptive to a new beginning. It is like he is starting life from scratch without any stains.

* HALA-KARSHANA - This is the levelling of the site wherein the site is sloped according to Vastu guidelines so that the site is at a higher level than the road level and the South-West corner is higher than the North-East corner. Vastu recommends that the whole site be ploughed to rid it of the past and give the soil a new life. The Reasoning - The levelling is done to remove unwanted stones, rocks etc to facilitate the easy digging of the trenches for the foundation. The reason for having the whole site ploughed is to expose any debris or pests which may be underground, as normally only the ground is dug where the trenches for the foundation are marked. So some spots where there are pests may remain undetected and can cause problems after the structure comes up.

* ANKURAA-ROOPANA - This is the sowing of the seed and a final offering to the memory of those who have left the place and is also the first offering to the new ploughed ground. The Reasoning - The germination of the seed gives a psychological feeling that the new undertaking will be fulfilled - that it will be completed without any problems.

* SHILAANYAASA - It is the foundation laying ceremony. The groundbreaking ceremony for the house should only be done during the Uttarayan period, when the sun is in the northern hemisphere, from June 21 through December 20. The stone which is consecrated at the time of the Vastu Pooja, is laid first in the South-West corner of the trenches dug up for the foundation. The Reasoning - It makes sense to start construction in the Uttarayan period, when the days are longer than the nights as the construction activity can go on at a rapid pace as there are more daylight hours during this period.

WHAT ARE THE VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION?
There are three things to be constructed before starting the construction of the house namely:

* WELL/ BOREWELL/WATER SOURCE -

- The first step before the commencement of the house construction, is to dig the well or the borewell because if water is used from this well for the construction, it is auspicious for the family who will live in the house.The Reasoning - Even if there is municipal water supply, it is better if the owner has another source of water as a backup, because nowadays there is acute shortage of water. Moreover, since municipal water supply connection is given only after the completion of the building, it makes sense to have a constant source of water for the construction form your own well or borewell instead of buying water for the construction. So this should be the first priority.

- It is best if the well or water source is on the north or northeast side of the land. It is inauspicious to have a well in the middle of a house. It is not recommended to share wells between two properties. Ideally, the well water should be exposed to sunlight for five hours a day.The Reasoning - It is practical to have this well in the North-East corner which is anyway to be left open as per vastu, to enable the morning sunrays to enter the house. Moreover, the suns rays will purify the water and kill the germs.

- The well should be dug after bhoomi pooja has been performed on the site, at an astrologically auspicious time. The Reasoning -And psychologically the owner will feel the well will yield good amount of water if the digging is done at an auspicious time and day.

* STORAGE SHED -
- The next thing to be constructed is a storage shed for storing all the material like cement, wood etc. The storage shed can be located in any part of the site except in the North or East. A watchman is to be retained to guard the material. The Reasoning - A place to store the cement bags and other building material safely and away from moisture is essential, as you can't keep buying these things in small quantities. Since the North-East side of the site is to be kept open, the shed should not be placed there, as it will block the sunlight and movement around. Also having a watchman to take care of these things gives you a feeling of security.

- Only new bricks, wood, and materials should be used when building a new house. Materials from an old building should not be used to build a new one as these old materials may have absorbed negative energy of negative incidents that occurred in the old house. If there are old materials available, it is better to sell them and use the money to buy new materials. Materials that have been stored for a long time should also not be used.Iron grills should only be used when needed. The Reasoning - Building materials stored for a long time may not be effective, as they may not have been stored well, away from moisture etc. Also, material from an old building will have less strength and so it is better not to use them in the new one.

- Wood from thorny trees should not be used. The Reasoning - Generally the wood of thorny trees is not suitable for house construction.

* COMPOUND WALL AND GATE
- The third thing to be constructed is the Compound Wall. This should be built before the house is constructed. The compound wall should not be higher than the house, and the southwest side should be the highest and the North and East sides should be the lowest.
The Reasoning - The purpose of the compound wall is to protect the site from the outside environment, from thieves, etc. However, if there are buildings all around the site, the compound wall can be done after the construction. The higher compound wall in the South-West prevents the evening sun rays from heating up the house.

- It is best that there are two gates to the compound, so evil things entering one gate will exit from the other. The Reasoning - It makes sense to have a big gate for the car to enter and a smaller gate which is easier to handle near the entrance.

Some other considerations in construction are:
* Construction should not stop once it begins as there will be more expense involved in stop-and-start work.

* Workers should not be unnecessarily pushed to speed up their work as they will do a shoddy job. Moreover, some things like setting, curing of columns, beams, slabs etc cannot be rushed as there is a risk that the structure may collapse.
* Work for the day should stop at sunset. No construction should be done at night as it is difficult to see and do a good job. Also the workers need to have rest as they can't do a good job if they are overworked.

* A qualified engineer should always oversee the construction, since any mistakes that come up can be noticed by a qualified person who is always at site.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- SITE SLOPE & SOIL

2008-11-03T03:51:00.000-08:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on different aspects of the selection of site such as Site Location, Site Shape, Site soil & Site Slope. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, HOW SHOULD THE SITE SLOPE?
* The North-East half of the plot is called the Solar half and the South-West half is called the Lunar half. Ideally the Lunar half (moon's surface) should be higher than the Solar half (sun). Even the building should be higher and heavier in the lunar half. In short,

North-East corner should be the lowest,

North-West should be higher than the North-East corner,

South-East should be higher than the North-West corner,

South-West should be higher than the South-East corner.

This means South-West corner should be the highest.

The Logic - This ensures the ideal flow of light and solar energy from the North-East corner (morning light and constant light) into the house. Also, when the South-West corner is higher than the North-East corner, it serves as a buffer (to the West and South-West sunrays) and prevents the heating up of the rest of the house.

* Avoid plots humped at the center and sloping on all sides. Similarly avoid plots that are depressed at the center. The Logic - If the center is too depressed or much higher, it is difficult and expensive to level the site as it may even have rock below, which will have to be blasted out.

* The road level should be lower than the site level. The Logic - Normally there is a storm water drain between the site and the road, so when there is heavy rainfall, even if the drain overflows, the excess water will flow onto the road instead of the site. Also, all the excess water from the site will flow out into the drain and road instead of vice-versa.

IS THERE ANY SOLUTION FOR SITES THAT DO NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED SLOPE AS PER VASTU SHASTRA?
In cities, it is difficult to get sites that meet the requirements of Vastu. However, there are ways of correcting sites that are not in accordance with Vastu. If the North-East corner is at a higher elevation than other sides of the property, you can dig soil from that corner and use it to build up the other parts. This way the land will slope down from the South-West toward the North-East and there will be good drainage.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHAT IS THE IDEAL TYPE OF SOIL IN A SITE?

* While purchasing land, it is ideal to buy land that can be cultivated, i.e., where the vegetation can grow. The logic - There are different types of soil based on the colour- brick red, dark brown, white, red, yellow, black etc. Generally the soil which is good for cultivation like red, brick red, brown, yellow etc is also good for the foundation of a building. Whereas, black and clayey soil which is not good for cultivation is also not good for buildings as it retains water and can cause dampness to the foundation.

* Land with too many rocks and thorny trees is not considered good. The logic - This is because it may be an indication that there is rock below which will have to be blasted out before laying the foundation, causing unexpected expenditure.

* Land with a lot of worms is not considered good. The logic - This may be an indication that the soil is very loose and will not support the foundation well.

* Land in which a grave or bones have been found while excavating should not be used to build a house. The logic - Psychologically, it can be very unsettling for the residents.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, IS THERE ANY WAY OF CHECKING THE SOIL TYPE?

According to King Bhoj, the ancient Indian Vastu Specialist, there are two simple tests to test the soil type.

* Dig a 2'x2'x2' hole and then fill it up again. If some soil is left over after filling, the land is good. If there is no soil left after filling up, it is average. If the hole is not fully filled, it is not good. This is the test to determine the soil’s natural moisture, density and aeration. The logic - If the hole is not fully filled up, it means the soil is dense and clayey and hence will retain water which is not good for a building foundation.

*Dig another 2'x2'x2' hole and fill it with water. If the time taken to absorb the water is more than an hour, it is good. After the water is absorbed, if there are many cracks in the hole then it is not good. The logic - If the water is absorbed readily, then the soil is too loose and not good for supporting the foundation. The cracks indicate clay soil, which will not drain water well and can cause dampness to the foundation and hence will need extra strong foundation which will be more expensive.

Surprisingly, even today we adopt the same method for testing the soil at a site. In fact, it is the first thing an Architect instructs the Client to get done, so that the kind of structure can be decided and the structural engineer can design the structure and foundation accordingly.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES - SITE SHAPE

2008-11-01T02:11:00.000-07:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on different aspects of the selection of site such as Site Location, Site Shape, Site soil & Site Slope. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA WHAT IS THE BEST SHAPE FOR SITES?

According to Vastu Shastra, the shape of the plot is important and the best shapes for plots are square or rectangular, facing squarely on the four cardinal directions.
The main reasoning behind this was that, in ancient times, the houses in India were generally designed around a central square courtyard, as this ensured a good flow of air, good ventilation and lighting, and adequate cooling to all the rooms especially during the harsh summers. Also square or rectangle shaped houses were always considered most practical to use.
Today, in the modern context, as an Architect, I also subscribe to this view. I find the rectangle shape the best for sites-It is easier to design a house on rectangular lines since this allows for a good flow of spaces and the proportion of the rectangle's sides are most comfortable. It may be for this reason that sites in cities are usually available in rectangle shapes such as 30'x40', 40'x60', 50'x80' etc.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT SHAPED PLOTS?
According to Vastu Shastra, the plot shape affects the well being of the inmates. Some shapes have a good effect, while others have a bad effect and some others can be used after making corrections by building a 'vastu' compound wall in a suitable shape.
Here, I have described the effects of different shaped plots according to Vastu Shastra and I have also explained the probable reasoning:

SQUARE - According to Vastu, the square site is considered the best shape. It ensures it's inmates all round prosperity and happiness. The reasoning - In the earlier times, since most houses were designed around a central square courtyard, a square site was considered the best, as the site could be used fully, without any wastage.

RECTANGLE - According to Vastu, the Rectangle is also considered good and it is better that the longer sides run north to south rather than west to east. It bestows good health, wealth and prosperity. The reasoning - Like in a square site, it would be easy to design a square or rectangle shaped house in a rectangle site even though there would be some extra land around the house. But this space was used for trees, cowshed etc and hence was not wasted.

TRIANGLE -According to Vastu, this shape is not good as it affects progress and may cause court litigations and other problems from the government. The reasoning - In a triangular site, it would be difficult to design a square or rectangular house and there would be a lot of wastage of land on all three corners.

CIRCULAR/ELLIPTICAL/OVAL -According to Vastu, this is good for constructing circular/elliptical shaped buildings only and hence are not suitable for houses. The reasoning - Just like in a triangle shaped site, it would be difficult to construct a rectangle or square house and there would be a lot of odd shaped waste land around and hence was not considered worth buying for a house.

PENTAGON, HEXAGON, OCTAGON - According to Vastu, these shapes are not considered good as they will cause constant mental turbulence. However, if these shapes are made rectangular or square by building a Vastu compound wall, so that it appears to be a square or rectangular site, it can be used. The reasoning - Just like in a triangle shaped site there would be lot of wastage of land around the building and so is was not considered worth the money you spend for the land.

L-SHAPED PLOTS - According to Vastu, a L-shaped plot is not auspicious and hence should not be purchased for a house. The Reasoning - It would be difficult to design a square or rectangle shaped house in a L-shaped plot.

GAU-MUKH (COW FACED) - According to Vastu, if the plot is narrow in the front and wide at the back, like the face of a cow, it is auspicious. The reasoning - A square or rectangle shaped house could be designed in this plot with some excess land in the back which could be used for various things like a kitchen garden, cowshed etc.

SIMHA-MUKH (LION FACED) - According to Vastu, if the plot is wide in the front or entrance and narrow at the back, like the face of a lion, it is inauspicious. The reasoning - In this plot, though a rectangle or square shaped house could be designed, the excess land would be in the front, and a cowshed or kitchen garden could not be placed here. So the excess space would be wasted and hence not considered worth the money spent.

PLOTS WITH CUT CORNERS - According to Vastu, plots with cut corners are not good. If possible, you should be able to purchase the cut part as well, so that the site looks whole. The reasoning - It would be difficult to design a house if any of the corners are cut, as some parts of the house would not have proper ventilation.
If the cut corner is in the northeast side it is not auspicious and should not be purchased. It is like a headless body, because as per vastu purusha mandala, the vastu purusha's head lies in the North-East. The reasoning - The North-East is the direction from which the sun light engulfs the house in the morning and hence should be kept open without any obstructions. So if it belongs to someone else, that portion cannot be kept open to the useful sunlight.

PLOTS WITH PROJECTIONS /EXTENSIONS-
Plots with North East corner projected towards East or North are good. The reasoning -The North-East is the direction from which the sun light engulfs the house in the morning and so if this corner is projected, there can be a lot more open space that will ensure more sunlight.

Plots with North-West, South-East, South-West corners projected are not considered good but can be used after corrections by building a vastu compound wall.

VASTU SHASTRA GUIDELINES- LOCATION OF SITE

2008-10-28T05:36:00.000-07:00

Vastu Shastra lays down guidelines on different aspects of the selection of site such as Site Location, Site Shape, Site soil & Site Slope. While many regard Vastu as a superstition, in reality it is a science, developed thousands of years ago by the ancient Indian Architects. They laid down these guidelines with the aim to create buildings that vibrate with Universal Energy and brimming with good positive energy by manipulating the elements of nature, so that the inmates always have a sense of well being and contentment. As these guidelines have a scientific basis I have explained them here along with the possible logic and reasoning.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA IS SITE SELECTION VERY IMPORTANT?
When you are planning to build a house, the first thing you will look out for is a SITE. According to Vastu Shastra, the selection of site is an important consideration since the plot represents a fixed form, that will radiate positive as well as negative energies depending on its shape, proportion, direction and location. In case you already have a Site, there are certain aspects about Sites, as per Vastu Shastra, that you can consider and if necessary, make corrections.
Normally an Architect is not involved at the time of buying a Site. But as an Architect myself, I suggest that if you have the choice, it is better to involve an Architect early on, right at the time of selecting a Site as his inputs could be very valuable in deciding a Site. Normally, the points an Architect will keep in mind while selecting a site, will by default be in accordance with Vastu Shastra, since Vastu principles are always based on Logic.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHAT IS THE BEST LOCATION OF A SITE?

The best location for a plot is in a peaceful and calm place, with lot of greenery and good water source and good soil. When purchasing a property, it is a good idea to stand on the land and feel its vibration for a few moments. Trust your feelings. If you feel positive about it, consider buying the land. If not, it is probably not good for you. It is best to buy land where happy and successful people have lived. However, some locations are not at all suitable for houses and they are listed below:

*A house sold by a person in distress or who is impoverished, should be purchased only with caution. The Reasoning - You feel psychologically unhappy and guilty, knowing that the site was sold out of helplessness and that the previous owner must be still holding onto it.

*A dilapidated or haunted house should not be purchased at all. The site should not be purchased if in the recent past someone has committed suicide on it, or if there have been several deaths over a period of a couple of months. The Reasoning - You may psychologically feel uneasy if you happen to know of such a past.

* The plot should not be abutting any public place like temple, hospital, factory, school, college, Kalyan Mantapa etc The Reasoning - As these places will constantly be crowded and noisy. It should preferably be at least 80 ft away.

* The plot should not be near a meat shop, workshop, leather tannery, laundry, shoe shop, etcThe Reasoning - The stench emanating from these places will permeate the house permanently and naturally not create a relaxed atmosphere in the house.

* A plot situated between two larger plots is not considered good. The reasoning behind this is that the owner of the smaller plot can construct only a much smaller house than the owners of the larger plots and thus, may subconsciously feel 'small' with respect to the neighbours. This can create a feeling of inferiority in the owner.

* Don't buy a plot with obstructions like hills, tall buildings or towers on the north, north east or east sides. The Reasoning - The useful morning sun’s rays will be blocked. However having such obstructions on the west or south sides are considered good as they block the harmful western rays.

* Similarly, a plot having an electrical power supply station or large electric pole on the north east side of the plot it is not good. The Reasoning - It is an obstruction and can create bad electric vibrations, that can enter the house from the open North - East corner.

* If the plot is a small one, there should not be trees like Peepul, Mango, Banyan, Tamarind etc on it. The Reasoning - These trees have far-spreading roots and branches, which can cause damage to the building. However, if the Site is quite big, it is good to have these trees, but away from the building.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA WHICH IS THE BEST DIRECTION FOR A SITE?
The direction that the front of a property faces is important. The front of the site is the side facing the road. According to Vastu Shastra:
- A Plot facing East is good for scholars, philosophers, priests, professors, teachers etc. as east (morning sun rays) is considered the source of enlightenment.
- A Plot facing North is good for those in power, administration and those who work for government.
- A Plot facing South is good for business class and for those who work in business organisations.
- A Plot facing West is for those who provide supporting services to the society.
If the plot does not squarely face the four cardinal directions, and if the road does not run in one of the four cardinal directions, the house should be built facing the four directions.

The Reasoning - In any city or town, there are roads in all four directions and naturally there have to be houses on both sides of the roads. Also, the city looks more aesthetic if there are houses in all the four directions. Hence, according to Vastu, all plots are considered good. It is the pseudo vastu pundits who say that south or west facing sites are not good.
The reason why vastu attributes each direction to a different class of people, is because in the ancient times Indian society was divided into four classes of people based on their occupations. But gradually these classes became castes and there was very little social mixing between the castes and so people of each caste preferred being with their own people. Hence their homes were also grouped together.

- A plot with roads running along on all four sides is the best - it ensures health, wealth and happiness. The Reasoning - This is because a site with roads on all four sides is not abutting any body's property and hence one can derive maximum lighting and ventilation from all four sides.

- A plot with more than one road is always better for the same reason that the site can have better lighting and ventilation. And preferably the roads should be on the North and East sides, so that more light and air can enter from these sides in the mornings.

- A plot with a water source, (well, sump etc) in the North or East or North-East is considered good. The Reasoning - as the morning sun's rays which engulf the North-East corner in the morning, can purify the water.

- The plot facing a T or Y intersection are generally not auspicious. The Reasoning -This is because you can see oncoming traffic and this may make you feel a bit nervous or a lack of privacy. However, in some cases, as explained below, such sites are acceptable.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHAT IS VEEDI SHOOLA?
Sites facing a T or Y intersection, where roads or lanes run right into the face of the site from different directions are called VEEDI (road) SHOOLAS (Arrows) or THERUKUTHUS.
Since it is difficult to comment on the different permutations and combinations of roads, oncoming roads, directions etc, that form the Veedi Shoolas, let us examine the basic considerations, in naming them as good, not bad, bad and very bad.

( N--NE ) If the oncoming road is from the North, and hits the North-East part of the site it is considered a good site.

( E--NE ) If the oncoming road is from the East, and hits the North-East part of the site, it is considered a good site.

( S--SE ) If the oncoming road is from the South, and hits the South- East part of the site, it is considered as a not bad site.

( W / NW ) If the oncoming road is from the West, and hits the North- West part of the site, it is considered as a not bad site.

( E / SE ) If the oncoming road is from the East, and hits the South- East part of the site, it is considered a bad site.

( N / NW) If the oncoming road is from the North, and hits the North-West part of the site, it is considered a bad site.

( S / SW ) If the oncoming road is from the South, and hits the South-West part of the site, it is considered a very bad site.

( W / SW ) If the oncoming road is from the West, and hits the South-West part of the site, it is considered a very bad site.

ARE THERE ANY CORRECTIONS FOR VEEDI SHOOLAS IN VASTU SHASTRA?
If your site is facing an intersection, or Veedi Shoola, as you can see the oncoming traffic and people, you may feel a bit nervous or a lack of privacy. In order to overcome this, you can use the corner of the site that faces the intersection as a garage or car porch etc so that the main house is not facing the intersection. Or you could fence off that part and use it for some other purpose like a garden or outhouse etc.

VASTU PURUSHA MANDALA

2008-10-23T00:55:00.000-07:00

HOW WAS THE SCIENCE OF VASTU SHASTRA FORMULATED?
The Science of Vastu Shastra was formulated after a detailed study of various factors that affect us humans, namely:
1) The five elements also known panchabhutaas.
2) The Sun and its effects.
3) The Earth's magnetic field.
4) The eight Cardinal directions.
5) The Vastu Purusha Mandala.

WHAT IS THE LEGEND OF VASTU PURUSHA?

The ancient Indian text Mayamatam on Vastu Sastra, written thousands of years ago, explains the legend of the VASTU PURUSHA.

According to Hindu mythology, in the beginning, Brahma, the creator of the Universe, experimented with the creation of a new creature. He created a large cosmic man, who grew rapidly as he began to devour everything in his path to satisfy his insatiable hunger. When he became unmanageably big, that his shadow fell on the earth as a permanent eclipse, the gods Shiva and Vishnu begged Brahma to do something before everything was destroyed by this Creature. Brahma realised his mistake and called the Astha Dikapalakas, the Gods of the eight cardinal directions. Together, they overpowered the monster and held it flat against the earth. Then Brahma jumped in the middle and held the monster down.
Then the Monster cried “You created me like this. So why am I being punished?” Brahma offered him a compromise and made the Monster immortal with the boon that he would be worshipped by any mortal that builds a structure on earth. He was named Vastu Purusha. Vastu Shastra gives the directive principles regarding construction of buildings so as not to displease the Vastu Purusha. These principles are explained with the help of the diagram called the Vastu Purusha Mandala.

WHAT IS THE VASTU PURUSHA MANDALA?

The diagram alongside, known as Vastu Purusha Mandala, is a metaphysical square plan that illustrates how the Vastu Purusha was pinned down by Brahma and 44 Gods - face down, with his head to the North East and feet towards South West. The diagram is divided into 9x9 = 81 parts. The positions of the 45 gods who are holding down the Vastu Purusha are shown. (32 in the external enclosures and 13 in the internal enclosures). These symbolic Gods rule various aspects of life and have certain inherent qualities. The central portion ruled by Brahma was kept open in the form of a central courtyard. (This was mainly to allow proper flow of air and cross ventilation). The purpose of the rooms placed in each area of the house was in tune with the nature of the deity ruling that particular area. This has been shown in the two examples given below:

THIS DIAGRAM SHOWS THE IDEAL POSITIONS OF DIFFERENT ROOMS IN A BIG HOUSE, BASED ON THE THE VASTU MANDALA ON A GRID OF 5X5.

THIS DIAGRAM SHOWS THE IDEAL POSITIONS OF DIFFERENT ROOMS IN A SMALLER HOUSE, BASED ON THE VASTU MANDALA ON A GRID OF 3X3

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DESIGNING A HOUSE BASED ON THE VASTU PURUSHA MANDALA?

According to Vastu Shastra, if the house is designed as per the vastu purusha mandala, a perfectly balanced enviornment which ensures enhanced health, wealth and happiness is created.

This is actually based on scientific principles wherein, the Sun, the five basic elements (panchabhutaas), the earth's magnetic field and the eight directions are manipulated to create an atmosphere beneficial to man. The ancients figured out that when the different rooms were placed according to the Vastu Mandala, good disposition to the sun, proper ventilation and lighting and privacy would be ensured

WHAT IS THE LOGIC BEHIND THE POSITIONING OF DIFFERENT ROOMS IN A HOUSE DESIGNED ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA?
The Ancients believed that the mind and body have different activities depending on the time of the day. They divided the 24 hours into eight parts, representing the eight cardinal directions. They designed and oriented various rooms of a house in the Eight cardinal directions, to be in harmony with the daily human cycle and according to the position of the sun through the day.

*NORTH-EAST -The period between 3 am and 6 am, just before sunrise is called Brahma Muhurta.This time, the sun is in the North-Eastern part of the house. These hours are ideal for Yoga, meditation, or study as it is very quiet and peaceful.Therefore, the North-East corner is the best position for the Puja Room or meditation room.
*EAST - From 6 am to 9 am, the sun is in the eastern part of the house, and should have lots of openings and no obstructions in order to absorb the beneficial ultraviolet rays. This is the time for bathing and preparing for the day, so East is a good location for a bathroom used for bathing purposes only.
*SOUTH-EAST - The time between 9 am to 12 in the noon, when the sun is in the South-East part of the house, is the best time for preparing food to be eaten later in the day. Therefore, the kitchen can be located here as it can receive the UV rays of the sun that keep the kitchen counter free from germs that spoil the food.

*SOUTH - After lunch it is time for rest, so the time between noon and 3 pm is called Vishranti, the resting period. The sun is now in the south, and hence the best position for a bedroom.

*SOUTH-WEST - After rest, from 3 pm to 6pm is the time for studying and work, and the sun is now in the southwest section of the house, the ideal location for a study or library.
*WEST - The period between 6 pm and 9 pm is the time for eating, sitting or reading. The sun is in the west and this is the best location for dining or sitting room.
*NORTH-WEST - The time between 9 pm and midnight, when the sun is in the North-West part of the house, where cowshed is located, was the time to attend to the animals. This part is a good location for another bedroom also.

*NORTH - The time between midnight and 3 am, when the sun is in the Northern section, is the time of darkness and secrecy. The North is the best place to hide treasure or valuables, to keep them protected.

VASTU SHASTRA FACTORS - THE EIGHT CARDINAL DIRECTIONS

2008-10-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

HOW WAS THE SCIENCE OF VASTU SHASTRA FORMULATED?
The Science of Vastu Shastra was formulated after a detailed study of various factors that affect us humans, namely:
1) The five elements also known panchabhutaas.
2) The Sun and its effects.
3) The Earth's magnetic field.
4) The eight Cardinal directions.
5) The Vastu Purusha Mandala.

WHAT ARE THE EIGHT CARDINAL DIRECTIONS ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA?
In Vastu Shastra, energy lines run like a large grid across the earth, from North to South and from East to West. The science of Vastu Shastra identifies eight directions on which all are activities are based, each of which has a particular significance. According to Vastu Shastra, if our living and working spaces are oriented according to these directions, it has a direct positive influence on the residents. Actually there is logic and scientific reasoning behind the fixing of different activity zones in the eight cardinal directions.
Here, I have explained as per Vastu Shastra, the eight cardinal directions and the preferred rooms in each direction. I have also attempted to give the reasoning behind this.

EAST (PURVA) - The East, from where where the sun rises represents the essence of all begnings. It is recommended that the main doors and windows of a house face East.
The Logic - This is both as a sign of veneration to the Sun and also a way to optimize the amount of sunlight and air entering the building early morning, since the UV rays of the morning sunlight can enter the house directly and kill all the bacteria that would have multiplied during the night.

NORTH (UTTARA) - The North is the direction of the Pole star, the fixed point in the sky that denotes stability and security. The North is also the direction of Kubera or wealth. Hence, this is the direction to transact all business and so the main door can be placed here too. Open spaces can be placed here as well.
The Logic - In India, (being in the northern hemisphere), there is constant light form the North. Hence it makes sense to have open spaces in the North, so that the light is not obstructed. Therefore, the Main entrance door and hence the living room can be on this side. Naturally any business transactions will be done here as the outsiders will be entertained here.

NORTH-EAST (EESHANYA) - This direction is considered to be the direction of the Supreme Being. Hence it is suggested that there be no dirt, garbage, heavy structure or toilets or bathrooms in this direction. it is preferrable to have the well or pond or water source in this direction.
The logic - This being the corner where the North and East directions meet, it is the ideal place to have open space so that there are no obstructions to the constant and morning sunlight. It also makes sense to have the water source (in ancient times there was generally an open well) here, in the available open space, as the UV rays can purify the water. Naturally it is not advisable to have toilets or a garbage pit near the water source.

WEST (PASCHIMA) - As the sun dims we are reminded of endings, the unknown and darkness. The West or Paschima should be avoided for sleeping. Bathrooms, toilets, staircases, store rooms can be placed here. Trees can be planted here.
The Logic - The West gets heated up both by the evening sun and the reflection of the infra red rays from the ground -thus retaining the heat till late at night. Hence it is not comfortable to sleep here. Instead, less used rooms like toilets, staircase rooms, store rooms and trees can be placed here as they will serve as a buffer and prevent the rest of the house from getting heated up. Also, the toilets and store rooms will remain dry and hygienic.

The NORTH-WEST (VAAYAVYA) - This is the direction of the wind. Vaastu recommends placing toilets in this direction.
The Logic - The north west also gets heated up by the evening sun. So the less used rooms like toilets, staircase rooms can be placed here as they will serve as a buffer and prevent the rest of the house from getting heated up. Also , the toilets will remain dry and hygienic.

SOUTH (DAKSHINA) - The South represents the past and our ancestry. Guest and Chuildren's bedrooms can be placed here. No open space like gardens, balconies, terraces should be in this direction.
The Logic - This side does not get too heated up nor too cold at night and hence is the ideal place for bedrooms. Also, by avoiding open spaces and balconies, the direct sunlight is obstructed and hence the house does not get heated up.

SOUTH-WEST (NAIRUTYA) - This is the direction where the owner of the building should have his master bedroom, wardrobes, safe.
The Logic - This being the corner where the South and the West meet, it is best to have a master bedroom as the room can get good cross ventilation. Since the owner sleeps here it makes sense to have his safe and wardrobes here. Also the wardrobes should be on the West wall to reduce the heat.

SOUTH-EAST (AAGNEYA) - This is the direction of heat & high levels of energy. It is advised that all cooking and kitchen related activity be in this direction.
The Logic - This is the corner where the South and East directions meet and hence is suitable for a kitchen as it can benefit from the germicidal UV rays of the morning sun. Also in this position, the S-W wind direction does not affect the fire flames (as in ancient times cooking was done in open air).

VASTU SHASTRA FACTORS - THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD

2008-10-21T22:52:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD?
The Earth's magnetic field is approximately a magnetic dipole, with one pole near the north pole (Magnetic North Pole) and the other near the geographic south pole (Magnetic South Pole).

HOW DOES THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD AFFECT LIVING THINGS?
The web was recently buzzing with the discovery that cattle and other herd animals, such as red and roe deer tend to situate themselves on a North-South axis, as if involuntarily directed by the earth’s magnetic field lines to the poles. Scientists have previously discovered that birds, bats, turtles and salmon are affected by “animal magnetism”. Lobsters have been shown to exhibit magnetic sensitivity, relying upon the earth’s magnetic lines to navigate. Baby sea turtles rely on the earth’s magnetism to make their way to and fro in the Atlantic Ocean (that’s 8,000 miles round trip). Their bodies tell them when they’ve strayed off course - it’s just like having an internal GPS. Though it’s not conclusively proven, there is compelling evidence that birds can actually see the Earth's magnetic field. Their eyes contain specialized light receptor molecules that communicate with the visual center in the brain, just as a compass relies on a tiny magnet to “tune in” to the earth’s magnet.

But what about humans? There seems little doubt that the brain responds to electromagnetic fields – coils that generate electromagnetic fields can trigger muscular twitches when placed over a person's skull. Also, psychiatrists have noticed a correlation between increased geomagnetic activity and increased suicide rates and clinical depression.
"The most plausible explanation for the association between geomagnetic activity and depression and suicide is that geomagnetic storms can desynchronise circadian rhythms and melatonin production," says Kelly Posner, a psychiatrist at Columbia University in the US. The pineal gland, which regulates circadian rhythm and melatonin production, is sensitive to magnetic fields. "The circadian regulatory system depends upon repeated environmental cues to [synchronise] internal clocks," says Posner. "Magnetic fields may be one of these environmental cues." Geomagnetic storms could disrupt body clocks, precipitating Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and therefore increased suicide risk, Posner told New Scientist.

HOW DOES VASTU SHASTRA TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD ?

It is astonishing that the ancient Indian sages, so many thousands of years ago, knew of the adverse effects of the Earth's magnetic field and accordingly incorporated this in designing of structures. According to Vastu Shastra, the Human Body is a magnet with the Head, the heaviest and most important part of the body, as the North Pole. If the head is directed towards the Earth's North Pole while sleeping, the North Poles of the Earth and the Human body will repel each other, causing tension, disturbed sleep and other related problems. Hence, one should never sleep with the head in the North. Instead the bed should be in the East-West axis.

VASTU SHASTRA FACTORS - THE SUN AND ITS EFFECTS

2008-10-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

HOW WAS VASTU SHASTRA FORMULATED?
The Science of Vastu Shastra was formulated after a detailed study of various factors that affect us humans, namely:
1) The five elements also known panchabhutaas.
2) The Sun and its effects.
3) The Earth's magnetic field.
4) The eight Cardinal directions.
5) The Vastu Purusha Mandala.

WHAT IS THE COMPOSITION OF SUNLIGHT?
Sunlight has two spectrum - the visible spectrum and the invisible spectrum.
The visible spectrum consists of white light which is made up of seven main colours, VIBGYOR, that is, Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange and Red. These Colours, depending on the colour and intensity, have deep psychological effects on a person's moods and hence have to be used sensibly for creating a good, positive environment.
The invisible spectrum flanks the visible spectrum on either side and consists of the ULTRA VIOLET (Chemical Spectrum) and the INFRA RED (Thermal Heat Spectrum). The Ultra Violet (UV) rays have a shorter wavelength than the visible light rays and can kill bacteria as well as aid in the synthesis of Vitamin D in our bodies, on exposure to the bare skin. The Infra Red rays have a longer wavelength than the visible light rays and are the cause for the heat of the sunlight.

WHY IS SUN CONSIDERED A 'LIFE- GIVING ORB'?

The Sun illuminates the Earth and it sustains life. It is for these reasons that Indians, from time immemorial, worship the Sun God also known as Surya.
* SUSTAIN LIFE - Plants make glucose (energy rich food) from Carbon dioxide of the air and water in the presence of sunlight and release oxygen as a by-product into the air. This process called Photosynthesis, is absolutely necessary to sustain life on Earth, because all living things get a continuous supply of oxygen and animals get food (Carbohydrates) from the plants.
* ILLUMINATES THE EARTH - The white bright light illuminates the Earth and is the reason we are able to see colours. White sunlight contains all the possible color variations. When sunlight falls on a coloured object, it reflects the light of it's color into our eyes while all the other colors of the light are absorbed into that object, giving us the perception of color. Thus, an apple appears red because it reflects red light.

HOW IS SUNLIGHT BENEFICIAL TO OUR BODIES?
* Sunlight synthesises Vitamin D, a very important mineral for supporting and maintaining the overall health, in our bodies by exposure of our bare skin to the Ultra violet rays of the sunlight. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Vitamin D deficiency causes brittle, soft, thin bones, and leads to bone softening diseases like rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, and possibly contributes to osteoporosis. Also recent research suggests that Vitamin D deficiency is linked with a higher incidence of Cancers and Parkinson's disease.
It has been observed that in countries further away from the Equator, like U.S.A., Great Britain, Canada, there is a high incidence of Vitamin D deficiency as there is a need for longer sun exposure in our bodies.
*Sunlight increases endorphins. This means a higher feeling of well being and less depression like SAD. (Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a kind of winter depression that affects lots of people during winter due to shortening of daylight hours).
* Sunlight reduces weight caused by water retention.
* Sunlight lowers blood pressure.
* Sunlight strengthens the immune system.
* Sunlight increases the good cholesterol and lowers the bad.
* Sunlight normalises blood sugar, it increases low blood sugar and lowers high blood sugar.
* Sunlight synthesises vitamin D in our bodies.
* Sunlight helps detoxify the liver.
* Sunlight increases muscle tone and endurance.
* Sunlight speeds up healing
* Sunlight kills germs.
* Sunlight boosts serotonin levels which help a body stay alert.

Regardless of the season, it is important for our bodies to get at least 15 to 20 minutes of natural sunlight every single day. While we do need to protect ourselves and watch our sun exposure for long periods of time, our bodies also need full-spectrum natural sunlight daily to provide us with positive health benefits.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO EXPOSE TO THE SUN?
It is best to expose to the sun when it is not too hot to cause sunburn and other harmful effects. The intensity of the sunlight and heat is related to the height of the sun in the sky and the pathway of beam of sunlight through the atmosphere. At mid-day the sun would be almost directly overhead and therefore, the pathway of sunlight is half the length compared to the morning or evening. Hence the intensity is maximum.

On the other hand, in the morning and in the evening, the intensity of the sunlight is much less because the pathway of the sunlight through the atmosphere is much longer. However it feels hotter in the evenings as compared to the mornings, because the ground reflects and re-reflects the heat waves back into the air. While in the morning, since the sunlight just starts to heat up the cold Earth after a dark night, it feels a lot more pleasant. Also, since the morning air is thick with carbon dioxide (exhaled by living things through the night), it filters out most of the UV radiation, allowing only a small amount which is not harmful to us.

Hence it is most comfortable and beneficial to expose ourselves to the morning sunlight - when it is not too hot - for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day.

HOW ARE THE BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF THE SUN USED IN VASTU SHASTRA?
Vastu Shastra takes into consideration the the changing intensity of the sunlight from place to place, sunrise to sunset and from season to season in designing.

* In India, since it is in the northern hemisphere, there is constant light from the north side throughout the year.

* When the sun rises in the East in the morning the intensity of the sunlight is much less while at midday, the intensity of the sunlight and heat is maximum. Also, the Earth is cool because of the night before.
* When the sun sets in the West in the evening, the intensity of the sunlight and heat is reduced. However, the Infra Red heat rays of the sun are projected to the South and West sides. And since the infra red rays get reflected and re-reflected by the ground, the West side and the South side are much hotter in the evenings and even at night.

Keeping all this in mind, in India, it is most comfortable to expose oneself directly to the Sun only in the mornings since the heat is much less. Hence the East side, the North side, South-East side and the North-East side assume importance in designing.

Some of the planning considerations as per Vastu Shastra are as follows.
* There should be no obstacles, tall trees, high compound walls on the north and east sides of the house, so that the sunlight can enter the house directly and thus brighten it and kill the germs and bacteria that would have multiplied during the night.

* More windows, balconies, terraces and open spaces are desirable in the East and North sides again for the same reason as above.

* The water source, wells etc are preferred on the East and north sides of the house, so that the UV rays can kill the germs and keep the water purified.

* It is advisable to have the kitchen platform on the eastern side, so that the morning sunrays will kill the germs on the kitchen counter and keep the food from spoiling. Also, the lady of the house will face the morning sun while cooking and thus benefit from the sun rays ( in the olden days, women stayed at home and never stepped out, and so this was a way for them to get exposed to the beneficial sun rays).

* There should be fewer windows on the South and West side, and the walls should be thicker to reduce the heat.

* It is better to have the lesser used rooms like the toilets, store rooms etc on the west side, as they tend to be hotter and will be uncomfortable in the evening and night.

* Also it is advisable to have tall trees on the south and west sides, to protect the house from the direct sunlight and also to give pure oxygenated air to the inmates (since trees and plants produce oxygen during the process of photosynthesis)

THE SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIANS (SAH)

2008-10-20T01:12:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIANS (SAH)?

The Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) is an international not-for-profit membership organization that promotes the study and preservation of the built environment worldwide. The Society's 3,500 members include architectural historians, architects, preservationists, students, professionals in allied fields and the interested public. Founded in 1940, membership in SAH is open to everyone, regardless of profession or expertise, who is interested in the study, interpretation, and protection of historically significant buildings, sites, cities and landscapes

WHEN WAS THE SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIANS FOUNDED?

SAH had its beginnings during the summer session at Harvard University in 1940, when a number of professors and students in the field of history met for informal, extracurricular talks, discussions, and study trips. The enthusiasm that these activities generated led to the formal organization of the Society in late 1940. Initially, the Society was known as the American Society of Architectural Historians.
From its inception, four key goals informed the Society's mission: (1) to provide multiple forums for presenting, interpreting, and debating architectural history; (2) to foster an appreciation and understanding of the built environment throughout history; (3) to encourage and disseminate research in the field of architectural history; and (4) to promote the preservation of significant monuments worldwide.
To achieve that mission, the members of the Society continued to meet annually to deliver scholarly research papers, to participate in study tours of the region, and to manage the usual governance matters required of a professional society. In 1941 the first issue of the Journal of the Society of Architectural Historians was published. Realizing that the interests of the members were diverse and international in scope, in 1947 the Board of Directors of the Society voted to drop the word "American" from its name and to approve steps toward incorporation in the state of Connecticut.
In 2000 the Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) celebrated sixty years of service to the field of architectural history and its related disciplines. The Society's membership of approximately 3,500 individuals includes professors of architectural and art history, architects and other design professionals, preservationists, museum curators, students, and many others who share a passionate interest in the subject. Institutional members, numbering more than 900, include other learned societies, university libraries, art and historical museums, and preservation organizations around the world.

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIANS?
The Society of Architectural Historians was founded in 1940 to advance knowledge and understanding of the history of architecture, design, landscape, and urbanism worldwide. The Society serves scholars, professionals in allied fields (including architecture, historic preservation and planning), and the interested general public by:

Sponsoring the pursuit and presentation of scholarly research;
Sponsoring forums for the exchange of ideas through its annual scholarly meetings and occasional symposia;
Providing publications that disseminate scholarly work, professional information, and general information related to the field and of interest to the public through its publications, JSAH, the SAH Newsletter and the Buildings of the United States series;
Acknowledging outstanding scholarly accomplishments in the field through publication awards and fellowships;
Fostering scholarship, research, and education about the history of the built environment;
Organizing study tours of significant buildings and sites both in the United States and abroad;
Supporting the preservation of historic places and cultural heritage.

For more details visit the official website:
www.sah.org

VASTU SHASTRA FACTORS - FIVE ELEMENTS (PANCHABHUTAAS)

2008-10-19T22:59:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE THE FIVE ELEMENTS OR THE PANCHABHUTAAS?
Vaastu rests on the assumption that the earth is a living organism, out of which other living creatures and organic forms emerge, and so every particle on earth possesses 'live energy'. Out of the nine planets in the Solar System, only Earth has life because of the presence of the five elements or Panchabhutaas namely:

a) SPACE (Aakaasha) - the unending region beyond Earth in which not only our Solar System but the entire Galaxy exists. It provides shelter to the other four elements.
b) AIR (Vaayu) - the atmosphere above the Earth consists of Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide, water vapour, Dust etc which are all essential for living things to flourish. Human physical comfort values are directly and sensitively dependent on correct humidity, air flow, temperature of air, air pressure, air composition and its content.
c) FIRE (Agni) - It represents light and heat without which life will be extinct. Days and nights, seasons, energy, enthusiasm, passion, vigour are because of light and heat only.
d) WATER (Jala) - This is represented by rain, river, sea and is in the form of liquid, solid (ice) and gas (steam, cloud). Every plant and animal is composed of waterin different proportions.
e) EARTH (Bhumi) - Earth, the third planet in order from the sun, is a big magnet with North and South poles as centers of attractions. Its magnetic field and gravitational force has considerable effects on everything on the Earth, living and non-living.Seasons are formed because the Earth is tilted at an angle of 23.5 degrees and because it revolves around the sun once every year. Day and night are formed because the Earth rotates on its axis from West to East.

ACCORDING TO VASTU SHASTRA, HOW DO THE FIVE ELEMENTS AFFECT US?
According to Vaastu Shastra every living and non-living element on Earth is composed of the five elements - Earth, Fire, Water, Air and Space. There is an invisible and constant interaction between these elements. These forces act for or against each other to create harmony or disharmony. It is upto the Living things, to understand the effectiveness of the five elements and use them to their advantage in creating a harmonius enviornment to live in.

HOW DO LIVING THINGS MANIPULATE THE FIVE ELEMENTS TO THEIR ADVANTAGE?
Animals, birds, insects and plants, have natural defences against a wide variety of unfavourable climates. They adapt their body size, shape or temperature to adjust with the hostile climate. But some creatures like termites, birds, ants not only adapt to nature, they seek to create a comfortable living enviornment by building a suitable home.
For example, the Compass Termites of Western Australia, maintain the temperature inside their nests to within 1 degreeof 31degree Celcius, day & night, summer & winter, while the external temperature varies between 3degree C to 42 degree C. This is achieved by building a wedge shaped tower mound of 3Metres height which always points North. As the tower heats up, air inside rises drawing fresh cool air from below. Also the wind blowing across the top of the mound helps to suck in fresh air through the nest.And the termites regulate the flow of air through their nests, by blocking and unblocking the channels.

Similarly, for centuries, man has manipulated the five elements to build comfortable houses even in the most hostile enviornments. For example, in the Desert, where the heat of the Sun (Fire) can make it impossible to live, man has built houses with internal courtyards (Space), thick walls (Earth), slit windows (Air) and water bodies & fountains (Water) to cool the house by ensuring good ventilation and flow of air, just like the termites mentioned above.

But unfortunately today, man gives precedence to the appearance and size of his house as his social position and personal ego are more important. In the process he has forgotten to manipulate the elements to create a naturally comfortable, airy house. To create comfort he is forced to use gadgets like Fans, Air Conditioners, Heaters etc which consume so much of energy and are beleived to be unhealthy too.

HOW DOES VASTU SHASTRA HELP YOU MANIPULATE THE FIVE ELEMENTS?
Vaastu Shastra guides you to scientifically use the five elements of nature to create a congenial, balanced place to live or work, which will in turn ensure enhanced health, wealth, prosperity and happiness. It lays down some principles on the location, direction and disposition of the building, so that you can absorb the positive effects of the five elements.

ORIGIN AND TEXTS ON VASTU SHASTRA

2008-10-19T05:33:00.001-07:00

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF VASTU SHASTRA?
Vastu Shastra was formulated by our ancestors nearly 4000 years ago, as a vedic science of layout and planning of buildings, and it has evolved over the centuries as a result of man's efforts to improve his standard of living. Vastu Shastra is a Vedanga, a branch of Sthapatya Veda, which in turn is a part of Yajur Veda. The body of Vastu knowledge is monumental with lakhs of shlokas, which were handed down to succeeding generations by word of mouth and through hand written monographs such as:
- Manasara Silpa Shastra (by Manasara),
- Mayamatam (by the Mayasuras),
- Viswakarma Vaastushastra (by Viswakarma),
- Samarangana Sutradara (by Raja Bhoja),
-Aparajita Priccha (a dialogue between Viswakarma and his son Aparajita, written by Bhuvanadevacharya) Silparatna.
- Other treatises such as Agni Purana and works by Kautilya and Sukracharya are not popular even though they preceded the above mentioned documents.
There is a distinction of style based on the place of origin of the Text. Mayamatam and Mansara Silpa Shastra are considered Dravidian because they are from South India whereas Viswaskarama Vaastu Shastra is considered Aryan due to its North Indian origin.

AMONG THESE TEXTS, WHICH ONE IS THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE?
Mayamatam and Vastu Prakash have beeen found to be the best because of their comprehensiveness and coherence. Mayamatam was edited by the hierarchy of Architects known as the Mayasuras while Vastu Prakash was edited by the renowned and most respected Architect of ancient India, Acharya Vishwakarma.
Though, Vastu Prakash is a notable Text, it is an individual's concept and has it's limitations whereas the Mayamatam is a hierarchy which originated from the Ramayan era to the Mahabharat era and beyond. Therefore, Mayamatam as a concept has a span of hundreds of years and has evolved over the centuries and is considered the most relevant today.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF THE MAYAMATAM?
Mayasura the first, an Architect of South India was given the task of designing Sri Lanka, a rich and resourceful kingdsom in those days, as his daughter, Mandodari, was married to the king of Sri Lanka, Ravana the Great, (of Ramayan fame). From this first Mayasura, architecture became the family profession of the Mayasuras and prevailed upto the Mahabharata period and many years after.

Various derivations, proven by experiments in construction technology were put down in Sanskrit Shloka form, by the first Mayasura and this style was religiously followed by the next generations till about the 13th Century. Somewhere between the 11th and the 12th Century, someone out of the hierarchy of Mayasuras, edited the vast bank of Shlokas that had been collected over the centuries into a very concise book titled the 'Mayamatam' or 'The Opinion of the Mayasuras'. This very valuable book took birth after the efforts and experiments of generations of good Architects and is considered the best reference book on Vastu Shastra today.

Mayamatam is not just a theoretical thesis on Architecture, but a defenitive and coherent text on practical aspects of construction. It comprises 36 chapters and handles subjects like Village planning, Town Planning, Temple Complex Designing, Designing of houses for various categories, and subjects like Orientation, inspection of site, selection of materials, style of construction, ventilation, carpentry joinery, furniture, every aspect that an Architect must consider while designing any structure, qualities an Architect must possess, rituals to be performed, house warming ceremony, etc are discussed elaborately chapterwise.

If you observe, my Site 'ARCHITECTS IDEAS & ADVICE' also covers topics similar to the ones mentioned in the Mayamatam because as an Architect, I am aware that these are the topics of interest for any layman. I shall attempt to review the chapters of Mayamatam under the heading of Vastu Shastra, and it will surprise you to see that lots of concepts of the Mayamatam are relevant even today.

INTRODUCTION TO VASTU

2008-10-18T04:14:00.001-07:00

WHAT DOES VASTU SHASTRA MEAN?
Vastu Shastra literally translated means the 'Science of Buildings' since 'Vastu' means all places of dwelling and 'Vaastu' means the actual physical manifestation of the dwelling. Both terms 'Vastu' and 'Vaastu' are from the root 'Vas' which means 'to dwell, live, stay, abide' (cognate with the English past tense was)and 'Shastra' means a 'science'. So basically Vastu Shastra means Architecture (Art & Science of buildings). There are four categories of Vaastu-
BHOOMI - The earth/site, the principal dwelling place on which everything else rests.
PRASADA - Structures on the earth.
YAANA - Movable objects like Vehicles
SAYANA - Furniture
As these categories suggest, the principles of Vaastu Shastra extend from the macro level to the micro level - site selection, site planning and orientation, zoning and disposition of rooms, proportional relationships between the various parts of buildings, the character of buildings and the minute details like furniture.

WHAT IS VASTU SHASTRA?
Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian Vedic Science of layout and planning of buildings with an intention to create peace and prosperity for the inhabitants by managing the flow of cosmic energy through and around them. Vastu states that when buildings and forms are in tune with the underlying cosmic principles, they become a part of the basic structure of the universe and vibrate in harmony with it. These positive vibrations have a positive effect on the inhabitants.

According to Vastu Shastra 'peace and contentment' for the inhabitants is acheivable by just following some basic principles while planning the building. Common sense tells us that a properly designed house will be aesthetic, hygienic, comfortable and easy to move around and hence a pleasure to live in. Naturally the inhabitants will be happy and content whereas, a poorly designed house will be unaesthetic and not comfotable to live in and hence create irritation in the minds of the inhabitants.

Vastu Shastra takes advantage of and manipulates the natural resources like sun, wind, air etc. and the topography of the site, the surrounding roads, trees, water sources, structures etc. to channel positive energy and prevent imbalance in the building and thus bring about harmony between man, nature and his built enviornment.

Though Vastu Shastra is conceptually similar to Chinese 'Feng Shui' in that it also tries to harmonize the flow of energy, (also called life-force or 'Prana' in Sanskrit and similar to 'Chi' in Chinese) through the house, it differs in that, Vastu gives the exact directions in which various objects, rooms, materials etc are to be placed.
Vastu shastra incorporates Architecture, Sculpture, Mathematics, Geometry, Geology, Geography, Religion and Philosophy. It lays down priciples on all aspects of Construction - Site selection, orientation and location of the building on the site, space to be left on all sides of the building, orientation and location of each and every room and element of a building, direction of the front door, location of wet areas, water sources, fire, slope directions, trees to be planted, colour scheme and even the best date and time for having the 'Foundation Laying Ceremony and the 'Griha Pravesham' or 'House Warming' Ceremony.

IS VASTU SHASTRA A SCIENCE OR SUPERSTITION?
Vastu Shastra as the name suggests is a 'Shastra' or a rational Science based on observations, facts, laws of nature and governed by a set of principles. It was formulated by our ancestors nearly 4000 years ago and has evolved over centuries and generations. The very fact that it has survived the test of time and has shown itself to be practicable, indicates that it is a Science and not a Superstition.

The ancient Rishis who formulated Vastu Shastra, in all their wisdom knew that unless they enforced the principles of planning very strictly, people would build as they please and create ugly and unhygienic structures as people have differing tastes and ideas on aesthetics. (This can be seen today- on any street, you may find just 1 or 2 aesthetically designed houses while the rest can be termed ugly or monstrous. Also the space left around each house is so little for the inhabitants to get proper light or ventilation). Perhaps to prevent such a situation, the principles of Vastu Shastra were made strict rules. It was said that if one followed the Vastu principles strictly, one would be happy, content and prosperous whereas if they were not followed, the inhabitants would be sick, unhappy, quarrel with each other and even die early. As a result, this 'Science' became a 'Superstiton'. Even today most people insist that we, Architects, follow the basic Vastu principles when designing their house, as they fear that there could be adverse effects if not followed.

Unfortunately, there are people to exploit the common man's fears and superstitions, the self proclaimed Vastu Consultants. They charge exhorbitant fees by exploiting the ignorance and beleifs of the people. Not all, but most of them give solutions by blindly following the standard thumb rules of Vastu Shastra, without considering that each site is unique by virtue of the surrounding structures, trees, water sources, orientraion, topography etc., and hence should be planned accordingly.

To really create a positive energy in a building, one has to study Vastu Shastra in depth and understand the logic and reasoning behind each and every principle and only then apply them to the specific site and building.

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

I am not a Vastu Specialist but in my experience as an Architect, I have applied the principles of Vastu logically in the buildings that I have designed as well as in my own house and I can say with certainity that they do make a positive difference to the state of mind of the inhabitants. These Vastu principles are based on common sense and when applied correctly, create a well-designed, well-ventilated, bright, hygienic, beautiful building that stands apart and is noticed by others. Naturally the inhabitants are happy to be in this building and are proud of it as it adds value to them. My aim is to explain Vastu Shastra scientifically with whatever knowledge I have, so as to make you realise that it is a 'Science' which can bring positive effects to your lives by its correct application.

THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF ARCHITECTS

2008-10-16T05:58:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS UIA (THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF ARCHITECTS)?

The International Union of Architects was founded in Lausanne (Switzerland) on 28th June 1948, to unite the Architects of the world without regard to nationality, race, religion, or architectural doctrine.
From the 27 delegations present at the founding assembly, the UIA has grown to encompass the key professional organisations of architects in 123 countries and territories, and now represents, through these organisations, more than 13,00,000 Architects worldwide.
Over time, the UIA has become an accomplished non-governmental organisation of Architects that reaches all continents.

The UIA works in co-operation with high-ranking organisations around the world.
UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation -

UN-HABITAT: United Nations Centre for Human Settlements
UNEP: United Nations Environment Programme
UNECE: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
UNIDO: United Nations Industrial Development Organisation
WHO: World Health Organisation

WTO: World Trade Organisation

IOC: International Olympic Committee

Non-governmental organisations with which the UIA develops interdisciplinary relations:
ISOCARP: International Society of City Region Planners
IFLA: International Federation of Landscape Architects
ICOMOS: International Council of Monuments and Sites ISC20
DoCoMoMo: Documentation and Conservation of buildings, sites, and neighbourhoods of the Modern Movement

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UIA, PLEASE VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT:
http://www.uia-architectes.org/texte/england/Menu-1/0-pourquoi-new.html

DESIGN DRAWINGS AT DIFFERENT STAGES

2008-10-09T06:39:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE THE DRAWINGS PRESENTED TO THE CLIENT, BY THE ARCHITECT, AT DIFFERENT STAGES?
An Architect presents different drawings at different Stages as given below:
CONCEPT DRAWINGS – After the initial discussions with the Client.
PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS – Once the Concept Drawings are approved, further drawings (preliminary Drawings) are prepared.
SANCTION DRAWINGS (TO AUTHORITIES) – for approval and sanction from Authorities.
TENDER DRAWINGS – Detailed Drawings for preparation & invitation of Tender.
WORKING DRAWINGS – Detailed drawings that convey the (technical) information necessary for the Construction of the building project.

WHAT ARE THE 'CONCEPT DRAWINGS' PREPARED BY AN ARCHITECT?
This is a set of drawings prepared by the Architect in accordance with the Client’s brief. They are basic plans indicating the layout of the building, the approximate sizes of the rooms and the stbacks of the building within the site. These drawings give the Client an idea of the design layout of his building, the circulation spaces, the positioning of the rooms with reference to each other, and the approximate sizes.
The Client is free to give suggestions and request for changes. The Architect makes the necessary changes accordingly and the Client gives any further suggestions which will again be incorporated in the drawings. Only after the Client has approved the design, does the Architect move to the next stage of drawings. In case the client is unable to fathom the design from the plans, the Architect may explain it further with sketches or study elevations or he may get a study model or perspective made ( at extra cost) .

WHAT ARE THE 'PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS' PREPARED BY AN ARCHITECT?
Once the Concept Drawings are approved, the Architect prepares Preliminary Drawings. These are Plans, Elevations and sometimes Sections with exact room dimensions, wall thickness, setbacks and window positions. The Client gets an idea of how his building is going to look and he is free to give his suggestions – accordingly they will be incorporated. This set of drawings will also include a Furniture Layout drawing which gives an idea of how the furniture can be placed in each room and the space of the room with relation to the furniture and may also include an external site drawing to show the number of cars that can be parked and the area available for landscape and play areas etc. The Architect may also commission a perspective or walkthroughs ( at extra cost) to give the Client a 3-D view of the building

WHAT ARE THE 'SANCTION DRAWINGS'?
These include Site Plan, Plans, Elevations and Sections etc, in the required format and to the required scale for getting approval from the Authorities. At the right hand side of the sheet, details such as the Owner’s details, the site details, adjacent properties survey numbers, the Architect’s name, address and Council of Architcture Registration Number are mentioned.

WHAT ARE THE 'TENDER DRAWINGS' PREPARED BY AN ARCHITECT?
These drawings convey a lot of information about the project to enable the Contractors who are quoting for the Job to understand the project completely. They are also useful for the Consultants who can accordingly prepare their final drawings. And then the bill of quanitities & specifiactions for the Tender are prepared from these drawings as well as the Consultants drawings.
They are detailed drawings with exact dimensions, wall thicknesses, specifications, column beam sizes and positions, schedules of doors & windows, levels and heights in the building. Any unusual building design elements which cannot be fully explained by specifications only, are explained with the help of drawings.

WHAT ARE THE 'WORKING DRAWINGS' PREPARED BY AN ARCHITECT?
These drawings are an extension of the Tender Drawings and convey the bulk of the technical information about the building project and are generally issued to Site for Consruction purpose. A Working Drawing will typically have a title panel at the bottom of the right hand corner of the sheet to aid reference when the sheet is folded. This title panel will generally indicate:
- Orientation – N is indicated.
- Scale – of the drawing
- Date – of the completed Drawing
- Job – Title and Job Number.
- Drawing Title – Name of the Sheet (plan, elevation…)
- Client - name and address of Site
- Architect – name and address
- Consultants – name and addresses
- Revision – List and dates
- Key diagram – in large projects a key diagram with the appropriate part blacked out is shown
Working Drawings will include the following drawings:
- Site Plan indicating setbacks and position of building, existing levels and intended new levels.
- Excavation, Foundation and Centre line Drawings indicating excavation pit sizes, column positions, dimensions, centre line distances, etc.
- detailed Floor Plans of all the floors indicating all the dimensions – walls, rooms, columns, lifts and staircases etc. as well as the floor levels.
- detailed Elevations indicating the levels of the floors and the heights. Any elevational treatment elements will be explained with additional drawings.
- detailed Sections wherever necessary to explain the different levels and heights within the building, and to explain staircases, lift heights.
- Detailed Staircase drawings and Lift drawings.
- Door and Window Drawings indicating material used and the section sizes. If there are grills on the windows, the grill design drawings are also included.
- Any other drawings necessary to explain any design element.
Working Drawings are always read in conjunction with the Consultants Drawings.

WHAT ARE THE DRAWINGS PREPARED BY THE CONSULTANTS?
STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT – Centre line Drawings, Excavation Drawings, Foundation detail drawings, Column layout Drawings with steel details, Beam layout Drawings with steel details, Centering Drawings, Lintel Drawings, Slab Drawings with details, Lift wall and room details, Staircase structural details, stc
ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT – Electrical Drawing showing all the light, fan switch points in the building, Wiring and Circuit drawings, panel board, meter board locations and specifications, generator room, UPS room and circuit etc.
PLUMBING CONSULTANT – Plumbing Drawings showing all the taps, W.C., Wash Basin positions, traps, manholes, Sump, Septic tank locations etc, Pipeline Drawings indicating the sanitary and water lines, the thickness of the pipes, the good brands, pump location and brand, water tanks location and number in case of more than two different sources of water etc.
H.V.A.C CONSULTANT – Air Conditioning Drawings indicating location of Air conditioners etc.
LANDSCAPE CONSULTANT - All the landscape layout plans, details of landscape elements, water bodies details, plants and tree names etc.

DESIGN DRAWINGS

2008-10-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

DESIGN DRAWINGS
A designer’s (Architect’s) principal language is through his drawings. Drawings express his intentions clearly. Drawings are the principal means by which the designer’s intentions are discussed with the Client and the Authorities. On the basis of the Architect’s drawings, designs of specialists and consultants can be planned and co-ordinated. Supplemented by schedules and specifications of materials and workmanship, they enable quantities of materials needed and prices to be estimated, tenders to be drawn up, work to be planned by the Contractor and to be carried out at site. Also drawings are internationally readable.

TYPES OF DRAWINGS
Architectural Design deals with the design of a building structure and an Architect prepares different types of drawings to explain his design:

PLAN-
It is the top view of an object. In case of Buildings, the building is imagined to be cut horizontally at any level, and viewed from the top. The top view of the cut building is called a Floor Plan since you can see the floor of the building along with the wall thickness and the windows. In this plan the inner room (horizontal) dimensions, wall thickness, window sizes are indicated.

ELEVATION-
It is the vertical view of a building seen when you are standing in front of it. It is different from a perspective view in that an elevation is only two-dimensional while a perspective is three-dimensional. Normally since a building has 4 sides, four elevations (one for each side ) are sufficient to explain the design. An elevation indicates the heights from floor to floor, the window cill height and window lintel height, as well as the overall height of the building.

SECTION-
The building is imagined to be cut vertically and the resulting vertical view is called the section. The section indicates the room heights, door window heights, staircase details, lift details etc and it is useful in explaining the building design.

PERSPECTIVE –
The 3 Dimensional view showing at least two sides of the building is called a Perspective view. There are different types of perspective, like:
Birds-View Perspective, wherein, you can see the building from above just as you would see it if you were a bird in the sky. This perspective is useful for seeing an entire complex of buildings as each and every one of the buildings can be seen. But the disadvantage is that you can only see most of the top of the building. So for a clear view of the building from ground level you need to see a:

Worms-view Perspective- In this perspective, you can see the building as if you were standing right in front of it. This perspective is an almost real picture of the building. But the disadvantage of this perspective, is that you can see only one building of a large complex. To see the entire complex you will need individual perspectives of each building.

MODEL-
A Model is made to explain a building complex along with the contours of the Site. It gives an almost realistic view of the propsed building. There are different types of models depending on the requirement of the Client. The models range in detail from very simple formal massing models of just a few cuboid blocks, through basic interior/exterior spatial walkthrough models, up to detailed interior/exterior models complete with furnishings and landscaping.

DRAWING SIZES
Drawings are presented on the following standard sizes of sheets:
A0 – 841 X 1189mm
A1 – 594 X 841mm
A2 – 420 X 594mm
A3 – 297 X 420mm
A4 – 210 X 297mm

These sizes are proportional, leading to a simple reduction and enlargement – sheets may easily be folded to a smaller size – as it is easier to handle in the office and on site. Drawings generally are preferred on the smallest standard sheet size compatible with clarity. Drawing sheets larger than A0 are avoided as they are too big to handle at site.

ARCHITECTURAL COURSE IN INDIA

2008-10-06T04:53:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The Architecture Course is of a minimum duration of 5 academic years or 10 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each inclusive of six months/one semester of approximately 16 working weeks of practical training in a professional Architect’s office.

The Course is conducted in two stages –
The first basic course of duration of 3 academic years / 6 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each. And,
The second stage of the course of duration of 2 academic years /4 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each.
A candidate who has completed only the first stage is not qualified for Registration under the Architects Act, 1972.

WHO IS ELLIGIBLE FOR THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The minimum academic qualification for admission to first year of 5-year B. Arch degree course is that the candidate must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized Board/University with Mathematics as a subject of examination with at least 50% aggregate marks.

IS THE APTITUDE TEST IN ARCHITECTURE COMPULSORY IN INDIA?
The National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture (NIASA), Pune, an Academic Unit of the Council of Architecture (COA), conducts a National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) far admission to first year of 5-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree course for all Architectural Institutions in the country, including NITs, IITs, Government Institutions, Government-aided Institutions, Universities, Deemed Universities and Private Universities, established by a Central or State Legislature and other private institutions. It shall be mandatory for every Architectural Institution imparting 5-year B.Arch degree course in the country to join the NATA and to admit students on the basis of valid NATA marks.

WHERE IS THE APTITUDE TEST (NATA) CONDUCTED IN INDIA?
NATA is conducted at various designated Test Centers in CoA approved Architectural Institutions in the country on all working days starting from ' March 01, 2008. The registration for NATA at the respective Test Centers shall begin from February 15, 2008. The details of Test Centers and NATA registration shall be made available at http://www.nata.in/ or http://www.niasa.org/ or http://www.nisa.in/ in due course.
For further information, please contact the Director, NIASA, Pune at Phones: 020-22952262, 65731088, Mobile: 09423582528,
E-mail: niasa_2005@yahoo.eo,in, niasa@rediffmail.corn.

WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The admissions are carried out by the State Govt./Competent Authority/Association of Architectural Institutions in the State, based an the marks obtained in NATA and the qualifying examinations as mentioned above, in the ratio of 50:50.

After NATA, all Architectural Institutions in the country are required to submit a list of students admitted in the B.Arch degree course, mentioning their total NATA score and total marks in qualifying examination, to the Council.

The Council of Architecture is the final authority in India as far as regulating Architectural Education and Architectural Profession is concerned. Candidates, who are not admitted on the basis of valid NATA marks, will not be considered for registration as an "Architect" under the Architects Act, 1972 with the Council of Architecture, irrespective of their obtaining a B.Arch degree. Registration as an "Architect" with the Council of Architecture is mandatory for pursuing the profession of Architecture and employment in Central/State Governments Services in the country

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM INTAKE IN THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The sanctioned intake of candidates at the first year level does not exceed a maximum of 40 in a class. If more than 40 candidates are admitted, separate classes are organised.
The Institutions may permit, at their discretion, migration of students from one Institution to another subject to the maximum number of students not exceeding the permitted maximum intake in a class.

WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE EXAMINATIONS AND MINIMUM PASS % REQD?
The University or an independent examining body conducts the examinations at the end of each semester.
The sessional work shall, as far as possible, be assessed by a jury of internal and external examiners.
The weightage of marks for subjects having both sessional work marks as well as examination marks may not exceed the ratio of 50:50.
The pass percentage shall not be less than 45% in each subject and shall not be less than 50% in the aggregate.
Only candidates who have passed in the internal assessment, shall be permitted to appear in an examination.

GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBJECTS OF THE BASIC COURSE– FIRST 3 YEARS.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN -Applying the knowledge gained in other subjects and to design buildings of medium complexity e.g. Schools, Colleges, Dispensaries, Shops and Houses, etc., and present them in graphic form.

BUILDING CONSTRUCITON -Knowledge of various methods of building construction of medium complexity with timber, stone, bricks, concrete etc. including foundation, walls, roofs, staircase, joinery and finishes.

BUILDING MATERIAL AND SCIENCES -Knowledge of basic building materials and their behaviour such as bricks, stones, metals, timber and finishing materials. Effects of climate on built environment to be able to design for comfortable conditions.

ARCHITECULTRAL DRAWING AND GRAPHICS -Ability to present in graphic form all elements of design - Study of shades and shadows, textures, tones, colours, geometrical form, perspectives and projections, free hand drawing and rendering.

HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE -Study of various styles of Architecture and methods of construction through the ages in the world with emphasis on Indian Architecture.

WORKSHOP PRACTICE -Ability to make building models with various materials such as card-board, wood, plastics, plaster of paris and metals. Ability to make simple joints in timber, pipes and other materials.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN -Understanding of Landscape elements like trees, shrubs, plants, water, rocks and development of landscape planning and application in architectural design.

STRUCTURAL MECHANICS AND THEORY OF STRUCTURES - Understanding the structural concepts and behaviour of structural elements, simple calculations for columns, beams, frames, footings, slabs, walls in concrete, steel and timber.

SURVEYING AND LEVELLING – Understanding of various survey and levelling instruments, carrying out surveys of land of medium complexity and preparation of survey plans.

BUILDING SERVICES & EQUIPMENT - Study of and designing for water supply, drainage, sewage disposal, electricity supply, wiring and lighting for buildings.

HUMANITIES - Study of sociology, economics and culture, as applicable for design of human settlements.

ESTIMATING AND COSTING - Systems of taking out quantities and estimating for all trades involved in construction of medium complexity.

PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS – Man and environment : Biological and behavioural responses to human settlements; Design for living, natural and built-environment.
Ancient texts and treatises on settlement and area planning in India.
Human settlements during ancient medieval and modern periods in India, Europe and other parts of the world. Characteristics of human settlements built by Muslims and Hindu rulers in India.

GIVE A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBJECTS OF THE SECOND STAGE–LAST 2 YEARS.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, PLANNING AND THESIS- Design of complicated buildings and campuses involving analytical studies of building and spaces from sociological, economic and cultural points of view such as Universities, industrial Estates, Housing Schemes etc. Thesis on a subject requiring detailed analytical study to lay down validity and design criteria presented in graphic form, models and report. Thesis may also be on research projects presented as a written report.

BUILDING CONSTRUCITON, MATERIALS AND SPECIFICATIONS - Study of advanced building construction methods with new materials such as plastics, metals, synthetic boards and latest techniques in the use of concrete.

BULDING SCIENCES & SERVICES - Study of Accoustics, Air-Conditioning, Heating, Cooling, Mechanical installations, Fire-control, Water supply and Drainage system for complicated buildings.

TOWN PLANNING (THEORY) - A general understanding of Town Planning principles as they have evolved through the ages.

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE - The examination in professional practice is designed to assess the knowledge, skill and maturity which fit the architect to fulfil his professional duties and his understanding of the management of an office organisation for such as a purpose. The sylabii should cover the following areas of study:-
General principles of Indian Contract Act; Building Contracts generally, Conditions and forms of contract, Administration of contracts, Principles of arbitration, Indian Arbitration Act, 1940, valuation of properties, Architectural competitions; Easements of properties; Report writing; Codes of Practice; Conditions of Engagement; Duties and responsibilities of an architect in relation to owner, contractor, relate professional and public; Indian Standards & Codes of Practice.

BUILDING BYE-LAW - Study of building regulations to enable to design and prepare drawings for submission to concerned bodies.

STRUCTURE SYSTEMS-Study of new structural technology such as space frames, prestressing, shells and understanding of the limitations and scope of these techniques. Calculations for these techniques are not expected.

ELECTIVES SUCH AS:
Urban Design
Interior Design
Building Management
Landscape Design
Urban Planning
Intensive study of one or more of the subjects offered as elective depending upon the expertise available to an institution. The list of the subjects may be enlarged but they should be related to Architecture.

ARCHITECT'S IDEAS & ADVICE

2008-10-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

MY SITE - ARCHITECTS IDEAS & ADVICE ON HOSE CONSTRUCTION IN INDIA
In India, most of the immigrants into cities are buying apartments nowadays, because of the exorbitant cost of land and the headaches involved in getting it registered under their name. People find it easier to buy an apartment from well known builders since the land registration problems are already taken care of. However given a choice, most people in India, will still prefer to construct their own independent house as an independent house gives them the feeling of independence as they do not have to share common areas, there is space all around for gardening or any other activities, they can have it built expressly as per their requirements and to their liking and with their choice of materials and finishing and they also have the option to add floors or increase the area of the building as the need arises.

In my experience, I have noticed that most people in India are quite knowledgeable about the construction of a house, because they have access to a lot of information on building construction thanks to the frequent exhibitions on building products and also because of the discussions they have with people who have already constructed and with Contractors. But unfortunately, they don’t know how to use this information effectively, because they shy away from consulting an Architect, because they prefer giving the job of ‘constructing their dream home’ to one agency, the person who ‘actually’ constructs the house – that is the Contractor and thus they can also avoid paying extra fees to the Architect. Even if they engage an Architect, they hesitate to clear all their doubts as some Architects appear to be unapproachable.

It is for these reasons that I, an Architect practising in India for the past 15 years have started this site, ‘ARCHITECT’S IDEAS & ADVICE’. It is intended as a guide for all of you who are planning to construct, or who have already begun construction of your house (in India). I want to share with you some invaluable tips, ideas and advice from the experience that I have acquired. I hope to clear all your doubts and misconceptions and make the process of construction interesting, smooth, hassle free and enjoyable. We construct only once (generally) and that period is the culmination of all our dreams and aspirations. If it is a trouble free time it will be remembered as one of the most memorable events of our life. So go out and enjoy the construction of your house and don’t worry about problems as this site can be your reference guide along with the services of your Architect and Contractor.

Also I would like to hear from you as your feedback is important to me in my profession.

Through this site, I hope to touch all aspects of the discipline called Architecture, in a simple and uncomplicated manner. I shall systematically address all topics related to House Construction under broad categories listed from A to Z as:

ARCHITECTURE
INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS IN INDIA
INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS
ARCHITECTURE COURSE IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGES IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL DICTIONARY
ARCHITECTURAL DIRECTORY
ARCHITECTURAL EVENTS
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-OLD
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-CONTEMPORARY

ARCHITECTS

ARCHITECT- NATURE & SCOPE OF WORK

ARCHITECT’S EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

STATISTICS OF ARCHITECTS IN INDIA

LIST OF ARCHITECTS IN INDIA

FAMOUS ARCHITECTS - INDIA

FAMOUS ARCHITECTS - INTERNATIONAL

UNIQUE ASSETS OF AN ARCHITECT

WHAT DOES AN ARCHITECT DO?

ARCHITECT - SCOPE OF SERVICES

ARCHITECT - PROFESSIONAL FEES

ARCHITECT - SCALE OF CHARGES

ARCHITECT- SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU MEET AN ARCHITECT

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
House Construction
Planning the Building Construction

CONTRACTORS & BUILDERS

BUILDING CONTRACTOR- NATURE OF WORK
BUILDING CONTRACT -DEFINITION
TYPES OF BUILDING CONTRACT

LIST OF CIVIL CONTRACTORS

COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
ABOUT THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
CONSTITUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
COA - STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
COA-STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION M.ARCH
COA - REGISTRATION OF ARCHITECTS

COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS
COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES
COA - SCALE OF CHARGES
COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

For the official website on the Council of Architecture, Click here:

http://www.coa.gov.in/

DESIGN IDEAS
Drawings in Design
Building Design Considerations
Design of a Living Room
Design of a Dining Room
Design of a Bathroom
Design of a Bedroom
Design of a Kitchen

ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS
Electrical Engineers & Consultants
Structural Engineers & Consultants
Plumbing & Sanitary Consultants
H.V.A.C. Consultants

FENG SHUI
Popularity of Feng Shui
Principles of Feng Shui

FURNITURE
Home Furniture
Office Furniture
Antique Furniture

GREEN BUILDINGS
Feature on Green Buildings
Future is Green
Building Green Homes

HOUSES – DIFFERENT STYLES
Modern Style
Kerala Style

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
Home Interiors
Office Interiors

INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Interior Designer’s Qualifications
Registration of Interior Designers
List of Interior Designers in India
Interior Designer’s Scope of Work
Interior Designer’s Services
Interior Designer’s Scale of Charges
Interior Designer’s Conditions of Engagement
Interior Designer’s Responsibilities

JOINERY
Joinery Details
Different Styles of Doors
Different styles of Windows

KITCHENS
Kitchen Design Considerations
Kitchen Styles
Compact Kitchens
Maximizing Space in Kitchen

LANDSCAPE
Design Principles in Landscape
Elements of Landscape Architecture
Design Process in Landscape Architecture
Styles in Landscape Architecture

MATERIALS & PRODUCTS
List of Building Materials in India with Architect’s rating
List of Building Products in India with Architect’s rating
Specialty Products

NEW PRODUCTS
Latest building Products
What’s new in Building Products

OFFICES
Office Planning Considerations
Office Design Guidelines
Office Types
Maximizing Space in Offices

PLANS
Planning Considerations
Basics of Plans

QUAKE PROOF
Principles of Quake Proof Construction
Quake Proof Constructions

RENOVATION
Advantages & Disadvantages of Renovating
Renovations of Houses
Renovations of Offices

STAGES OF CONSTRUCTION
House construction
Stages in House Construction
Soil test
Foundation
Column & Beam Structure
Cement Blocks versus Bricks
Electrical Wiring
Air Conditioning
Roof
Sanitary
Plumbing
Windows & Doors
Flooring
Finishing

TECHNICAL POINTS
Technical Information on Buildings
New Technical Ideas

TIPS
Design Tips
Tips on House Construction
Tips on Interiors
Tips on Interior Decoration

VASTU SHASTRA
Essential Principles of Vastu Shastra
Scientific explanation of Vastu principles

WATER CONSERVATION
Water Management
Waste Water Rehabilitation
Desalination – Water for all?

XTRA INFORMATION
On any Topic that cannot be put in any of the above categories

YELLOW PAGES

ZILLION IDEAS
All the Ideas on House planning that I can think of.

This Site has just been started and is still in the process of Construction. I know it can be very frustrating for you to browse through an incomplete site. Kindly bear with me as it will take me some time to put up all the information that you are looking for. Sorry for the Inconvenience.

BUILDING CONTRACT - DEFINITION

2008-09-23T01:00:00.001-07:00

WHAT IS A CONTRACT?

A Contract is a legal agreement between two or more people for an exchange of goods or services. Contracts are enforceable by Contract law. There are many different types of Contracts and they vary between industry and according to the type of services performed.

WHAT IS A CONSTRUCTION / BUILDING CONTRACT?
Contracts are an essential part of the construction industry. A Contract between an Owner of a site and a Building Contractor, setting forth the terms under which construction is to be carried out, the basis of remuneration, the time scale, and the penalties, if any, (for failure to comply with terms of the Contract) is termed as a Building/Construction Contract.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON CONTRACT DOCUMENTS?
The Contract Documents are all documents which, when combined, forms the basis of the Contract. It is recommended that both parties to the Contract execute or endorse complete sets of all Contract documents and these should be preserved intact. A possible list of documents that makeup the Contract Documents include:

- The Contract or Agreement to be used by the parties.
- Conditions of the Contract - these define the legal rights and obligations of the parties; another way of describing the general conditions is as the rules by which each party will operate in performing their obligations as set down under the Contract.
- Special conditions of Contract - these are an extension to the general conditions and apply specifically and individually to each project/Contract.
- Bill of quantities - it lists quantities of the various items and the material to be included in the Contract. It can also be used as the basis for valuation of variations and assists the preparation of progress claims. The extent to which the Owner warrants the completeness of a bill of quantities or a schedule of rates depends upon the terms of the Contract.
- All drawings required in building the structure (contract plans including Architectural and Structural). These include drawings from relevant Consultants.
- All Specifications - sets out the technical requirements of the work It describes the project and adds clarity to its drawings; describes the requirements for materials and workmanship.
- All other documents considered necessary, for example, Schedule or Annexure to the Contract completed, all technical schedules, all pricing schedules.

HOW DOES ONE NEGOTIATE CONTRACTS?
A crucial battle in negotiating Construction Contracts is waged between the Owner’s desire to get the work done and the Contractors desire to get paid for the work performed or goods supplied. The most important aspect of Construction Contracts is to clearly define the subject matter of the Contract, while entering into the construction agreement. Experience and understanding of the administration aspects of Construction Contracts is important. Cost overruns and mismanaged resources are a frequent hazard that can adversely affect Construction Contracts.
Selecting the Contract type is generally a matter for negotiation and requires the exercise of sound judgment. Negotiating the Contract type and negotiating prices are closely related and should be considered together. The objective is to negotiate a Contract type and price (or estimated cost and fee) that will result in reasonable Contractor risk and provide the Contractor with the greatest incentive for efficient and economical performance.

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN MANAGING CONTRACTS?
Managing Construction Contracts requires a hands on approach to ensure compliance with Contract terms and conditions and external regulations that may affect the industry. Some of the core aspects and external factors that can impact Construction Contracts are:
- Overseeing the Construction Contractor’s work including site visits during construction to ensure the work is carried out according to the Contract documents,
- monitoring the Contractor compliance with safety codes,
- prevailing on wage requirements,
- environmental regulations and
- other state and local regulations.

TYPES OF BUILDING CONTRACT

2008-09-23T00:44:00.001-07:00

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS?
Contracts are usually categorized according to the type of payment but can be tailored to incorporate common elements from several different Contract types. Some of the common forms of Contract are examined below.
UNIT PRICE (ITEM WISE) CONTRACT

LUMP SUM ( FIRM FIXED PRICE) CONTRACT

LABOUR CONTRACT

COST + CONTRACT

PROJECT MANAGAMENT CONTRACT

EXPLAIN UNIT PRICE (ITEM WISE) CONTRACT?
This kind of Contract is based on estimated quantities of items included in the project and unit prices which have been agreed to. The final price of the project is dependent on the quantities of the items needed to carry out the work. The terms of this type of Contract often accommodates flexibility for price adjustment. The agreed to value may be subject to amendment if the volume is reduced or exceeds the original negotiated terms and price.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF UNIT PRICE CONTRACT?
- The Architect is involved in this type of Contract because it is he who provides the quantities of each item (in the Bill of quantities), and negotiates the unit prices with the Contractor. Moreover, in this type of Contract, the Owner makes payments to the Contractor only after the Architect has verified the measurements at Site and certified the Contractor’s bills for payment. This way the Owner is safe as he is paying only for the volume of work done at site and not paying anything extra. Also, he is assured (because the Architect is involved), that the quality of the work will be upto the mark.
- In this type of Contract, the Contractor has to initially invest his own money for starting the work, and so the Owner need not worry about giving the Contractor a big advance.
- In general this Contract is considered the most scientific and most suitable for construction projects where the different types of items, but not their numbers, can be accurately identified in the Contract documents.
- The Contractor is also safeguarded against any contingencies, or variations in labour or material rates.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF THE UNIT PRICE CONTRACT?

- The Contractor has to invest his own money initially.

Though this is one of the most preferred Contracts in Constuction/Buildings, it is not unusual to combine a Unit Price Contract for parts of the project with a Lump Sum Contract or other types of Contracts.

WHAT IS A LUMP SUM (FIRM FIXED PRICE) CONTRACT?
With this kind of Contract the Contractor agrees to do the construction and completion of the building at a designated time for a fixed price or Lump Sum. Also named "Fixed Fee Contract", this type of Contract is often used in Building Contracts. Fixed Fee or Lump Sum Contract is suitable if the scope and schedule of the project are sufficiently defined to allow the estimation of the project costs.The scope of the Contract defines the expectations of both parties. This type of Contract provides a degree of certainty for both parties because the Contract clearly spells out what is involved.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF LUMP SUM CONTRACT?

A lump sum Contract provides for a price that is not subject to any adjustment on the basis of the Contractor’s cost experience in performing the Contract. This Contract type places upon the Contractor maximum risk and full responsibility for all costs and resulting profit or loss.
- Since the price is fixed, any unforeseen contingencies or variations in material or labour prices do not affect the Owner.
- It provides maximum incentive for the Contractor to control costs and perform effectively and imposes a minimum administrative burden upon the Contracting parties.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF THE LUMP SUM CONTRACT?

An Architect is not involved as this Contract is an agreement between the Owner and the Contractor for a final fixed price. So the Architect does not have a role to play , and so quality of work cannot be checked and controlled by an expert.
- Since specifications are not clear, the Contractor can use alternative/inferior brands of materials.
- Also there is a lot of ambiguity in the specifications, measurements, mode of payment, etc.
- Though the Contract is made on a fixed price, the Contractor may claim extras by giving different reasons, since the specifications, measurements are not clear.
- The Contractor takes money in advance from the Owner, and then he proceeds with the work at his own pace. Also sometimes, the Contractors deliberately hold up work towards the end, so as to extract maximum money from the Owner. So the Owner feels helpless as his money is with the Contractor.

A lump sum Contract can be used in conjunction with an award-fee incentive and performance incentives, when the award fee or incentive is based solely on factors other than cost. The Contract type remains Lump Sum when used with these incentives.

WHAT IS A LUMP SUM CONTRACT WITH PRICE ADJUSTMENT?

It provides for upward and downward revision of the stated Contract price upon the occurrence of specified contingencies. A lump sum Contract with economic price adjustment may be used when there is serious doubt concerning the stability of market or labor conditions that will exist during an extended period of Contract performance, and contingencies that would otherwise be included in the Contract price can be identified and covered separately in the Contract. Economic price adjustments are adjustments:
- based on established prices of specific items or the Contract end items,
- based on actual costs of labor or material that the Contractor actually experiences during Contract performance and
- based on cost indexes of labor or material that are specifically identified in the Contract.
In establishing the base level from which adjustment will be made, one shall ensure that contingency allowances are not duplicated by inclusion in both the base price and the adjustment requested by the Contractor under economic price adjustment clause.

A lump sum Contract, which best utilizes the basic profit motive of business enterprise, shall be used when the risk involved is minimal or can be predicted with an acceptable degree of certainty. However, when a reasonable basis for firm pricing does not exist, other Contract types should be considered, and negotiations should be directed toward selecting a Contract type (or combination of types) that will appropriately tie profit to Contractor performance.

WHAT IS A LABOUR CONTRACT?
In this type of Contract, the Owner buys and supplies all the material required for the construction to the Labour Contractor and only uses his labour. The system of employing Contract labour is prevalent in most industries including Construction, involving skilled and semi skilled jobs. A workman is deemed to be employed as Contract Labour when he is hired in connection with the work by or through a Contractor. Contract workmen are indirect employees; persons who are hired, supervised and remunerated by a Contractor who, in turn, iscompensated by the Owner of the site. Contract labour has to be employed for work which is specific and for definite duration.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A LABOUR CONTRACT?

This kind of Contract is sometimes preferred by the Owner, because he buys all the material by himself and thus saves a lot on the Contractor’s profit.
- Moreover, the Owner can buy the materials of his choice and can be sure of the brand that will be used in the construction.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF A LABOUR CONTRACT?
However, I personally would discourage a Client from entering into this type of Contract for the following reasons:
- In this Contract also, the Architect does not have a role to play, and so quality of work cannot be checked and controlled by an expert.
- There is a lot of headache and tension involved in running around and arranging for the supply of materials at site, on time as the work progresses.
- It is easy to get fooled on the quality of sand, bricks etc because the Owner is not very experienced in assessing the quality.
- It is difficult to strike a good bargain when negotiating with suppliers and vendors, because the Owner is a one time Client, wheras the Contrctor normally has an advantage as he is a regular Client and a relationship is built between him and the suppliers.
- There is every possibility of pilferage of the material stored at site.
- Very often labourers, masons etc do not turn up to site as they may be lured for a day to some other site and hence the work gets delayed.
- Since the workers are generally paid for the work on a daily basis, the labour Contractor may purposely go slow so that he he takes longer to complete the job and so get paid more.
- Inferior labour status, casual nature of employment, lack of job security and poor economic conditions are the major characteristics of Contract labour. While economic factors like cost effectiveness may justify system of Contract labour, considerations of social justice call for its abolition or regulation.
- In fact, in my experience, I have seen that in most cases, the Owner ends up spending almost as much, at the end of the project as he would have if he had chosen any other type of Contract.

WHAT IS A COST + CONTRACT?
This type of Contract is not popular in India. This is a Contract agreement wherein the Owner agrees to pay the cost of all labor and materials plus an amount for Contractor overhead and profit (usually as a percentage of the labor and material cost). It is like a Labour Contract, but here the Contractor buys the materials and provides the labour and is reimbursed accordingly. This type of Contract is favored where the scope of the work is indeterminate or highly uncertain and the kinds of labor, material and equipment needed are also uncertain. Under this arrangement complete records of all time and materials spent by the Contractor on the work must be maintained.
This type of Contract can be altered according to the basis on which the additional amount paid to the Contractor is fixed.
a) COST + FIXED % CONTRACT- It is based on a percentage of the cost
b) COST + FIXED FEE CONTRACT – It is based on a fixed sum independent of the final project cost.
c) COST + FIXED FEE BONUS CONTRACT –It is based on a fixed sum of money and a bonus is given if the project finishes below budget, ahead of schedule etc.
d) COST + FIXED FEE WITH SHARING ANY COST SAVINGS CONTRACT- It is based on a fixed sum of money and any cost savings are shared with the Owner and the Contractor.
e) INCENTIVE CONTRACTS – It is based on the Contractor’s performance on the agreed target - budget, schedule and/or quality.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THE COST + CONTRACT?
- It has the advantages of the Labour Contracts.
- In addition, since the Contractor gets an additional amount at the end of the project, it provides maximum incentive for the Contractor to control costs and perform effectively and on schedule.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF COST + CONTRACT?
- In this Contract also, the Architect does not have a role to play, and so quality of work cannot be checked and controlled by an expert.
- Since the Contractor is reimbursed based on the records of the workers he has employed and the materials he has bought, one can never be sure if these records are genuine, as there is no way of verifying them. So, this type of Contract is rarely adopted in India.

WHAT IS A PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT?
Project Management Contracts are a type of Contract where the Architect agrees to manage the Contract, as defined by the scope of the agreement, for a specified duration of time for monetary consideration. This type of Contract can be short term or long term.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT?
- The Clients can focus on their core operations while the Architect (Project Manager) looks after the management of Projects, people and issues, ensuring that deadlines are met, quality is maintained and costs are controlled.
- The Project Manager coordinates with all the agencies, including the Consultants, the Contractor and the Suppliers to ensure that the construction of the project goes on smoothly.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT ?

Some Clients hesitate to go in for Project Management Contract as they have to pay extra for project management, in addition to the fees paid to the Architect. However, there are lots of Clients nowadays, who opt for Project management as it saves them from a lot of headache and they can concenterate on their work as the building comes up. Moreover, in the long run, since the project is completed on time, and costs are controlled, the Client actually saves.

LIST OF BUILDING CONTRACTORS - INDIA

2008-09-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

AHMEDABAD
AURANGABAD
BANGALORE

See also,
BUILDING CONTRACT- DEFINITION
TYPES OF BUILDING CONTRACT
BUILDING CONTRACTOR- NATURE OF WORK

BUILDING CONTRACTOR- NATURE OF WORK

2008-09-17T00:19:00.000-07:00

WHO IS A CONTRACTOR?

Contractors are defined in the law by each state and are usually considered those who contract, bid, negotiate a price or offers to construct, supervise, oversee, schedule, direct, alter, repair, install, improve, move, demolish, furnish labor, etc.

WHO IS A BUILDING CONTRACTOR?
- A Building Contractor is an organization or individual that contracts with another organization or individual (the Owner) for the construction of a building, road or any other execution of work or facility.
- A Building Contractor is responsible for the means and methods to be used in the construction/ execution of the project in accordance with the Contract documents. Said contract documents usually include the contract agreement including budget, the general and special conditions and the plans and specification of the project that are prepared by a design professional.
- A Building Contractor usually is responsible for the supplying of all material, labor, equipment, (engineering vehicles and tools) and services necessary for the construction of the project. To do this it is common for the Building Contractor to retain a construction labor force or he may subcontract part of the work to other persons and companies that specialize in these types of work. These are called Subcontractors. Subcontractors put up the foundation, walls, roof, electrical and plumbing systems, supply the labour etc.

LIST THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONTRACTORS.
There are various types: building (residential and commercial); electrical; plumbing; mechanical; highway; and environmental (mold/lead remediation).

WHAT ARE THE PERSONALITY TRAITS OF A GOOD BUILDING CONTRACTOR?
A Contractor must have the following traits in order to make a mark:
- good communication skills
- management and leadership skills
- good organisational skills
- technical aptitude.

WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A BUILDING CONTRACTOR?
A building contractor may perform the following tasks:
- Examine and interpret Clients' plans or arrange for the drawing of plans, to meet building regulations
- Submit tenders (offers to do jobs at a stated price), quotes or prices for the project to Clients
- Arrange submission of plans to local authorities for approval and arrange inspections of building work
- Organise Subcontractors to carry out all stages of building and negotiate rates of pay
- Calculate quantities of materials required for building projects and order these from building suppliers or advertise for tenders
- Arrange delivery times of materials to coincide with various stages of the building process
- Supervise the work of Subcontractors to make sure buildings are of an acceptable standard and are proceeding according to schedule
- Coordinate the activities of office staff involved in the preparation and payment of accounts
- Talk to lawyers and financial institutions on matters relating to loans and contracts for building projects
- Undertake some of the building work personally.

WHAT ARE THE WORK DEMANDS OF A BUILDING CONTRACTOR?
A Contractor’s work demands the following
- Working in dusty or polluted environment
- Full use of hands/fingers
- Heavy lifting
- Mainly outdoor work
- Physical effort
- Reading or writing
- Standing for long periods

DESCRIBE BRIEFLY A CONTRACTOR’S WORK?
An Owner or Client develops a program of his needs and selects a site (often with an Architect). The Architect assembles a design team of consulting Engineers and other experts to design the building and specify the building systems to meet those needs. Today Contractors frequently participate in the design team effort by providing pre-design services where they will help in providing more accurate estimation of budget and scheduling during design to improve the over all economy of the project. Otherwise the General Contractor is hired just to build the building(s) at the close of the design phase. The Owner, Architect and Building Contractor work closely together to meet deadlines and budget. The Building Contractor then works with Subcontractors to ensure quality standards in addition to timeline and budget.

CAN AN OWNER BE THE CONTRACTOR OF HIS OWN BUILDING?
Occasionally the Owner commissioning the construction of the building, chooses to act as the general Contractor. In such cases, he works directly with the Subcontractors and take care of the administration and organization of the various Subcontractors. Under these conditions the Owner takes on all liability for proper sequencing of the work, and dealing with the realities of construction. More times than not, the risks far outweigh the potential reward of saving the General Contractor's fee should all things go perfectly.
Owners considering this approach should keep in mind that general Contractors make a living working with known subcontractors. An established General Contractor will have established relationships that will outlast one construction project and the Subcontractors will acknowledge this with their cooperation. Owners seldom have this advantage and most Subcontractors will recognize the risk of working with a one time client with higher bids.

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

2008-09-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE FOR INVITATION TO AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
Once the Promoter decides to promote an Architectural Competition, he then invites Architects/Students to submit designs in Competition, in accordance with the guidelines of the Council of Architecture. If it is not the intention of the Promoter to build, the Competition is promoted as an exercise in design/or planning, to draw attention to something and to assist the community by facilitating further research and thought into the problem.
PART I - INVITATION

It is extremely important for Competitors who may be asked to pay substantial registration fees to know exactly when they are registered and under what conditions the registration fee will be refunded.
It is also important for intending Competitors to receive sufficient information when they are invited to apply for the Competition and whether they are capable of tackling the problem set by the competition.The Invitation should include:
- A descriptive leaflet and / or an advertisement in general and professional media. These should include the following information:
- Name of the Promoter
- Purpose and nature of the competition. This should be carefully worded to give a clear idea of the scope of the project whether it is a project or an ideas competition, single or 2 stage competition and the type of material that a competitor would be asked to submit.
- The prizes (or honoraria)
- Names of Assessors
- Persons eligible to compete
- An approximate time table
- The procedure for registration, the last date for registration and the date by which the competition conditions should be made available by the Promoter.
- Copies of this leaflet with a registration form attached (see model form) should be available from the Promoter.

EXPLAIN THE PROCEDURE FOR ENTERING INTO AN ARCH. COMPETITION?

- An intending Competitor completes the registration form as per the instructions given on the form and sends it by registered post to the promoter together with the registration fee (if any).
- The registration form filled in and completed in all respects as instructed should be sent to the Promoter by registered post or hand delivery together with the registration fee mentioned in the form not later than the date and time indicated. In some cases the Promoter may not charge a registration fee.
- It will establish his eligibility to compete. The registration is only complete when the Promoter accepts the Competitor's eligibility by placing his name on the Competition register and informs him in writing accordingly.
- The Competition conditions will be sent to the intending Competitor by the Promoter only when his eligibility is established and his name is entered in the Competition register.
- Competitors' questions, if any, must be written on the questions form and sent to the Promoter’s address before a given date. An explanatory memorandum dealing with the questions submitted will be dispatched to all the Competitors and will form part of the conditions and instructions of the Competition.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE FOR SUBMISSION OF DESIGNS IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
- Submission of design implies acceptance of the Competition conditions. Competitors are advised to retain copies of the design submitted.
- All plans and accompanying documents and envelopes comprising a Competition entry must bear on the top right hand a 1 cm high six digit number of Competitor's choice. No other symbol, motto or distinguishing mark will be placed on any part of the competition entry. The design and the documents of each Competitor shall be dispatched in a single packet using the label(s) provided.
- Each design must be accompanied by a declaration/proof of identity form signed by the Competitor or joint Competitors and enclosed in the envelope provided. Each Competitor must be prepared to satisfy the Board of Assessors that he is the bonafide author of the design he has submitted.
- Competition designs delivered by hand should reach the Promoter at his address not later than the given date and time. Receipt with date and time of delivery will be issued by the Promoter to the Competitors.
- Competition designs sent by post or through forwarding agent must be dispatched not later than the given date and time. Proof of dispatch clearly showing the date of dispatch shall be forwarded to the Promoter separately with a covering letter informing him of the dispatch of the competition designs.
- All drawings, documents, report and photographs should be packed together in a plain brown paper and sealed. This packet will also include the sealed envelope containing the declaration/ proof of identity form.

IS THERE INSURANCE OF ARCH. COMPETITION DESIGN?
- Each Competitor is responsible for insuring his entry against loss, damage or non-delivery up to the time of its receipt by the Promoter at his address.
- On receipt by the Promoter, each entry will be insured by him (the Promoter) till it is returned to the Competitor after the award. This sum will also cover expenses of returning the design to the Competitor.

WHAT ARE THE REASONS FOR DISQUALIFICATION IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
The Board of Assessors may disqualify entries for the following reasons:
- If dispatched by post to the Promoter's address after the last date and time given.
- If received by the Promoter at the address given by post or through forwarding agent after the last date and time given.
- If the Competitor disregards any of the conditions of the competition.
- If the Competitor attempts to influence any member of the Board of Assessors and/or discloses his identity.

BRIEFLY DESCRIBE THE JUDGING PROCEDURE IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
- The Promoter will place a secretary at the disposal of the Board of Assessors to minute their meetings and record their decisions.
- The deliberations of the Board of Assessors will be secret. No member of the Board or Technical Adviser or member of the Promoter's staff or competition secretary may disclose any details of the competitions, deliberations or decisions.
- The decisions of the Board of Assessors are final and binding on the promoter.
- The promoter will announce the award of the competition not later than two weeks after the judging has been complete.
- A copy of the report of the Board of Assessors will be sent to each Competitor at the same time as the Board's award is made public.

WHEN CAN AN ARCH. COMPETITION BE TERMINATED?
If against all expectations entertained by the Promoter, the result of the competition is such that none of the participants could be declared by the Assessor as the winner of the competition, competition could be regarded as terminated and the Promoter will on the advice of the Board of Assessors award the second, third and the additional prizes to the entries selected by the Board.

HOW & WHEN IS THE AWARD ANNOUNCED IN AN ARCH. COMPETITON?

- The Promoter will publish the award of the Board of Assessors and inform the Council of Architecture after having first informed the authors of the prize winning and permitted designs individually by telegrams and confirmed by letters.
- All designs including those disqualified by the Board of Assessors will be exhibited together with the copy of the signed report of the Board of Assessors. The dates of the exhibition will also be conveyed individually to all Competitors in advance.
- Names of all Competitors will be displayed at the exhibition. However, Competitors of designs not permitted may choose to remain anonymous. They should so indicate on the envelope containing their declaration/proof of identity form.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE FOR RETURNING OF ENTRIES AFTER AN ARCH. COMPETITION COMES TO AN END?
Within one month after closing of the exhibition, all entries except the design placed first will be returned to the postal address given in the declaration form, by the promoter at his own cost. If the delivery to any such addresses is not accepted, a notification to that effect will be sent by the Promoter by registered post to the said postal address and the entry will be kept by the Promoter with him for collection by the Competitor for a period of three months from the date of the registered letter. After that the promoter will be free to dispose of the entry at will.

WHAT ARE THE PROMOTER'S RIGHTS IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
- Drawings of the designs winning the first prize will be retained by the Promoter as his property.
- Copyright of all designs including the designs winning the first prize will be that of the authors of the designs.
- Design awarded the first prize only will be used by the Promoter.
- The Promoter's right on the designs awarded the first prize covers one execution. Repetition of the said design by the promoter will be with the written permission of the author and on confirmation of suitable terms.
- No other designs whether permitted or not shall be used wholly or partly by the Promoter.
- Each competitor shall retain the right of reproduction of his designs.

IN CASE OF DISPUTES HOW ARE THEY SETTLED?
In the event of dispute not related to the judging procedure or the award of the Board of Assessors, the settlement will be by arbitration without recourse to the legal authorities.

HOW IS THE WINNER OF THE ARCH. COMPETITION APPOINTED?
- The author of the winning design will be appointed as the Architect for the project to make final plans and render architectural services for the successful implementation of the project.
- The Promoter shall confirm in writing the appointment of the winner of the Competition as the Architect and the prize money due to him shall be an advance towards his fees, adjustable in the final installment of fees.
- In the unusual event when the Promoter decides not to appoint the winner of the competition as Architect, he will compensate him with twice the sum of the total prize money, in addition to the prize money awarded to him as winner.
- If in the opinion of the Board of Assessors, the winner does not have adequate experience commensurate with the complexity or magnitude of the project, he may be required to associate with an architectural firm who in the opinion of the Board of Assessors would have the experience.
- The Promoter will start the project as soon as it is possible. If due to unforeseen circumstances, the construction of the project is delayed, the Promoter will pay the winner Architect after one year from the date of Award, in addition to the prize money, an amount equivalent to twice the prize money amount.
- If for any reasons the project is called off or cancelled, the Promoter will pay the winner in addition to the amount mentioned above, a further amount equivalent to the prize money. This total amount will be regarded as the final reward for all his work and it shall constitute full discharge by the Promoter.

See also,

ABOUT THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

CONSTITUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

COA - STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION

COA-STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION M.ARCH

COA - REGISTRATION OF ARCHITECTS
COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS

COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES

COA - SCALE OF CHARGES

COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY
COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

2008-09-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITIONS?

Architectural Competitions have a long history, and have produced many extremely successful buildings. They attract great public interest, and have led to the discovery of new talent and new ideas, that could only be found by throwing an architectural project wide open to Competition.

To many Clients, the choice of an Architect presents no difficulty, but to many others the choice is not easy. The Client's desire to see the sketch designs of several Architects before he commissions one is understandable, but to ask an Architect to submit a sketch design is to ask him to do the essential creative work for which he should be properly paid. If more than one or two Architects are commissioned, payment to each would be expensive.

This is where an Architectural Competition can benefit both the Client and the Architects who participate. The Architectural Profession, unlike many other professions, allows Architects to compete against each other without charging a fee in an open Architectural Competition held under Council of Architecture Guidelines.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITIONS?
The Architectural Competition is a balance of advantages for both the Client and the Architects.

ADVANTAGES FOR ARCHITECTS
- One of the principal aims of the Competition is to explore hidden talents among younger Architects. To many Architects, it is often the first step to a successful career.
- Architects who would not have been considered in the normal way for an important commission, perhaps for a building of national importance have an opportunity to prove their talent and ability.
- Many Architects regard Competitions as a valuable opportunity for research, perhaps for the study of a new building type, or for exploring the possibilities of new technical ideas and for gaining new experience.

ADVANTAGES FOR CLIENT
- A competition will cost the Client a little more than if he had commissioned an Architect privately though it will take a little more time. But this must be balanced against the chance to draw upon the talents of all those who respond to the architectural challenge, and the possibility that an outstanding design will emerge.
- Architectural Competitions give the Client a choice from the best viable projects and with a variety of approaches.
- Competition brings out a wide range of ideas and concepts and gives the Client the choice of selecting that which fits into his specific requirements.
- Also, by promoting a Competition, the Client makes a public demonstration that he cares about Architecture, and can take legitimate pride in his determination to find the best Architect and the best design he can get. He will be rewarded with a greater public interest than is generally shown in new buildings.

WHO LAYS DOWN THE ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES?
The Council of Architecture lays down Competition Guidelines, to protect and safeguard the interests of both the Client and the Competitors. These guidelines provide a new up-to-date code that brings the system into line with present-day conditions

WHAT ARE THE PURPOSE OF THE ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES?

- The purpose of these Guidelines is to explain the Architectural Competition system. They indicate the principles upon which competitions will be conducted and the rules which must be observed by a promoter for conducting competitions.
- These guidelines help the Client who is thinking of promoting a Competition, to make up his mind on whether a Competition is the right answer to his architectural problem, and, if so, which kind of Competition would be suitable.
- These guidelines have been drawn up in the interest of both the Client and the competitor and to ensure that each competitor competes on similar conditions and that selection of the design will be on merit alone.
- Both the Client and the competitor are assured by these guidelines that the entries will be judged only by those who are qualified to interpret the Competitors' presentations and to judge if the design selected meets with the Client’s requirements.

WHAT ARE THE ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION DETAILS?
The conditions of Competitions shall be finalised within the framework of the guidelines prescribed by the Council of Architecture before any announcement is made by the promoter of the Competition. The conditions of the Competitions shall clearly give:
- Type of Competition.
- Purpose of the competition and intentions of the promoter.
- Nature of the problem to be solved.
- All practical and mandatory requirements to be met by the Competitors.
- Number, nature, scale and dimensions of the documents, plan and/or models.
- Estimates if required in standard form issued with the conditions.
- Nature of prizes, Honoraria.
- Names of Assessors.
- Necessary information required for conducting the competition.
- The competition shall be conducted in English.
- All competition designs shall be submitted anonymously.
- Publicity could begin with the invitation of Architects to participate through widely read media.
- This could be followed by press conferences.
- Then, the publication of the Assessor's report and
- Finally, public exhibition of all the entries.

PRIZES, HONORARIA
No competition shall be conducted without adequate premium/honoraria and the Competition conditions and the media announcements must state the amounts and number of prizes for the Competition. The promoter undertakes to accept the decisions and the awards of the Board of Assessors and within 3 months of the date thereof to pay the prizes.

COPYRIGHT & RIGHT OF REPRODUCTION
Each competitor shall retain Copyright in his own competition design. A Competitor wishing to submit more than one scheme may do so with payment of further registration fee for each additional entry. Each scheme should be submitted separately. Each competitor shall retain the right of reproduction of his own competition design.

ANONYMITY
Anonymity will be strictly observed at all stages of the competition by the Competitors, by the Board of Assessors, by the Promoter and by all those concerned with the competition.

WHO ARE THE ASSESSORS OF AN ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION?
- The entries in a Competition will be judged by Assessors –only those who are qualified to interpret the Competitors' presentations and to judge if the design selected meets with the Client’s requirements.

- The Board of Assessors shall at all times include Architects who are registered with the Council of Architecture and shall be in a majority of at least one.
- Once the Client decides to go in for a Competition, the appointment of the Assessors is the first step.

- The President of the Council of Architecture, if so requested by the Client, may suggest a panel of names experienced in this type of proposed project, for appointment as Assessors.

WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF ASSESSORS IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION
For practical reasons, the responsibilities of the Assessors are often taken by the Senior Assessor who is then available to advise the Client on all matters connected with the Competition.
The (Senior) Assessors responsibilities are briefly summarized below:
- Assist in the preparation and approval of the PROJECT BRIEF.
- Study and understand the requirements of the Local Authorities
- Visit and examine the project site, if necessary.
- Advise on the appointment of the Technical Advisors, if necessary.
- Finalise the competition conditions.
- Prepare the final report/award.

PROJECT BRIEF
The project brief is the most important document. The success of the Competition will depend upon the clarity and the completeness of the brief. This can be achieved by a very close cooperation between the Client and the Assessors (or the Senior Assessor) in the preparation and finalisation of the brief. As qualified Architects they would be capable of visualizing the development with reference to the Client's requirements, site conditions etc. and in interpreting the Competition entries in these terms. Once the Client's requirements, the site conditions, the requirements of the local authorities etc. have been formulated into the competition brief, the Assessors (or the Senior Assessor) can advise the promoter on the type of competition that should be promoted.

WHEN IS A TECHNICAL ADVISOR CONSULTED IN AN ARCH. COMPETITION?
For complicated projects such as Hospitals, Airports etc. which are under constant development or projects encompassing highly technical elements, a Technical Advisor would be considered necessary in the initial stage to help the Client and the Assessors to draw up the brief and subsequently to advise the Assessors on the technical aspect of the Competition entries. The Technical Adviser may be consulted on any aspect of the competition and he may be asked to be present during the judging to give advice on entries when he is invited to do so, but he shall not take part in the judging process.

WHO IS ELLIGIBILE TO COMPETE IN AN ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION?
Participation in any and all competitions shall be open to:
- Architects i.e those who are registered with the Council of Architecture under the Architects Act, 1972 on the date of announcement of the competition and thereafter.
- Firms in which all the partners shall be registered with the Council of Architecture under the Architects Act, 1972 on the date of announcement of the competition and thereafter.
- Students of a Teaching Institution, the qualifying examination of which is recognised by the Council of Architecture provided that no member of the staff of the said institution is the sole Assessor or in a jury of three or more Assessors, only one Assessor is from the staff of the said Institution.
- Neither the Promoter of the competition, Assessor/s engaged for the Competition nor any of their associate, partner or employee shall compete, assist a competitor or act as an Architect or joint Architect for the competition project.
- Competitor may be requested to submit a proof of qualification, copy of his valid Registration certificate issued by the Council of Architecture, and in case of a student, a certificate from the head of his Institution.

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA-STANDARDS FOR ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION GUIDELINES FOR M.ARCH. 2006

2008-09-11T00:57:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURAL COURSEIN INDIA?
Post graduate FULL TIME DEGREE/DIPLOMA courses in Architecture shall have a minimum duration of 2 academic years or 4 semesters of approximately 18 working weeks duration.
Post graduate PART TIME DEGREE/DIPLOMA courses in Architecture shall have a minimum duration of 3 academic years or 6 semesters of approximately 18 working weeks duration.
Post graduate CERTIFICATE COURSE in Architecture shall have a minimum duration of 1 academic year or 2 semesters of approximately 18 working weeks duration. Students who have successfully completed a post graduate certificate course shall be eligible to enroll in the 3rd semester of a post graduate degree / diploma course in the same specialization.

WHO IS ELLIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION TO POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The candidate with a minimum of 50 % marks in aggregate in a Bachelor of Architecture degree course or equivalent courses recognized by the Council of Architecture shall be admitted to the post graduate course in Architecture.

WHAT IS THE INTAKE IN POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURAL COURSE?
The sanctioned intake of candidates in the first year level shall not exceed a maximum of 20 students in a class, if more than 20 students are admitted separate classes shall be arranged.
The Institutions may permit at their discretion, migration of students from one post-graduate Institution to another Institution subject to a no-objection certificate from the Institution where the student was studying previously and that the Institution receiving the student has a vacancy in the same course offered by the institution.

WHAT IS THE CURRICULUM OF THE POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURE COURSE

- The Institution shall, as an integral part of post-graduate Architectural Educational curriculum and as a part of teaching programme, arrange for study tours, visits to places of architectural interests, construction sites, villages, towns and cities; industries manufacturing architectural materials, products and equipment; exhibitions, architectural conservation and development projects.
- The Institution shall organize seminars, conferences, workshops, exhibitions; produce audio-visaul materials, publish newsletter, journals, documents and books; encourage student and faculty participation in these co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.
- Notwithstanding anything contained in these guidelines, the Institution may prescribe its own standards of Architectural Education provided such standards do not, in the opinion of the Council, fall below the minimum standards prescribed from time to time by the Council to meet the requirement of the profession and education thereof in national and international context.
- The Council shall encourage and support within its means and resources, programmes of research, improvement, conservation, development and innovation by the Institutions towards achieving excellence in post graduate architectural education.
- The Council shall facilitate programmes of faculty improvement, continuing educational, research, publications, production of audio-visual aids and national and International interactions, visits and exchange of students and faculty members of post-graduate Architectural Institutions.

WHEN ARE THE EXAMINATIONS HELD FOR THE POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURAL COURSE?
- The University or an independent examination body of Institution shall conduct an examination at the end of each semester or academic year as per the scheme of examination approved by the Council of Architecture.
- The sessional work, project, design, research shall be assessed by a jury of internal and external examiners, having a 50:50 weightage, for core subject/s each year.
- There shall be different set of external examiners for each subject every year.
- Weightage of marks for subjects having both sessional work as well as examination shall not exceed 60:40 ratio.
- The pass percentage shall not be less than 45% in any subject and shall not be less than 50 % in the aggregate.
- The candidates to every examination must have 75% attendance in formal post graduate courses and must have at least 50% marks in sessionals for each of the subjects having sessional marks, for being allowed to appear in an examination.
- The non-formal architectural programmes such as part-time courses, distance learning, on-line, scheme of professional examinations of institutes, shall have periodic examinations in addition to the semester or yearly examination. The candidates to any non-formal examination must have a minimum of 45% marks in periodic tests.
- An external examiner for any subject of examination shall have a minimum of 5 years of teaching / professional experience in his / her specific field of study.

WHAT ARE THE STANDARDS OF STAFF, EQUIPMENT, ACCOMODATION & TRAINING FOR POST GRADUATE ARCHITECTURAL COURSE?
- The Institution offering post-graduate programmes shall have a minimum core faculty consisting of 1 professor, 1 assistant professor and 2 lecturers or research associates for each of the degree / diploma course.
- The Institution offering post graduate programme shall have a faculty student ratio of 1:5.
- The Institution offering post graduate programme may have a maximum of 50% of its teachers as visiting faculty.
- The Institution shall have adequate administrative staff and supporting technical staff for each of its laboratories, computer centres, library, which may be shared with U.G. courses in architecture of the institution.
- The Institutions shall follow the instructions given by the Council of Architecture for improvement / up-gradation and proper maintenance and submit periodic reports of action taken to the Council.

WHAT ARE AVAILABLE MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE COURSES IN INDIA?
M. Arch.
M. Arch. (Architectural Conservation)
M. Arch (Urban Design)
M. Arch (Interior Architecture)
M. Arch (Landscape Architecture)
M. Arch (Housing)
M. Arch (Urban and Regional Planning)
M. Arch (Transportation Planning and Design)
M. Arch (Sustainable Humane Habitat)
M. Arch (Sustainable Architecture)
M. Arch (Environmental Architecture)
M. Arch (Computer Applications)
M. Arch (Valuation and Arbitration)
M. Arch (Building Automation)
M. Arch (Rural Architecture)
M. Arch (Regional Architecture)
M. Arch (International Architecture)
M. Arch (Architecture and Construction Project Management)
M. Arch (Digital Architecture)
M. Arch (Computer Aided Architectural Design)

See also,
href="http://architectsideas.blogspot.com/2008/09/about-council-of-architecture.html">ABOUT THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

CONSTITUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE

COA - STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION

COA-STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION M.ARCH

COA - REGISTRATION OF ARCHITECTS
COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS

COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES

COA - SCALE OF CHARGES

COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY
COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS

2008-09-11T00:26:00.001-07:00

INTERNATIONAL UNION OF ARCHITECTS
SOCIETY OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORIANS – SAH
CENTRE FOR THE UNDERSTANDING OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
THE ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH CENTRES CONSORTIUM
ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN ARCHITECTURE

Also read about:

INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURE COURSE IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGES IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL DICTIONARY
ARCHITECTURAL DIRECTORY
ARCHITECTURAL EVENTS
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-OLD
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-CONTEMPORARY

ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS - INDIA

2008-09-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE – COA
THE INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS- IIA
THE INDIAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS- ISOLA
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STUDENTS OF ARCHITECTURE- NASA

MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT- NEW DELHI
MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT- NEW DELHI
BUILDING MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL- DELHI

PUKAR- PARTNERS FOR URBAN KNOWLEDGE AND RESEARCH
UDRI- URBAN DESIGN RESEARCH INSTITUTE
VASTU SHILPA FOUNDATION – IN ENVIORNMENTAL DESIGN

Also read about:

INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE
INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL ORGANISATIONS
ARCHITECTURE COURSE IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGES IN INDIA
ARCHITECTURAL DICTIONARY
ARCHITECTURAL DIRECTORY
ARCHITECTURAL EVENTS
HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-OLD
GREAT ARCHITECTURAL WORKS-CONTEMPORARY

COA - STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION REGULATIONS, 1983- COA

2008-09-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

In exercise of the powers conferred by clauses of the Architects Act, 1972 the Council of Architecture, with the approval of the Central Government, makes the Council of Architecture (Minimum Standards of Architectural Education) Regulations, 1983.

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The Architecture Course is of a minimum duration of 5 academic years or 10 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each inclusive of six months/one semester of approximately 16 working weeks of practical training in a professional Architect’s office.

The Course is conducted in two stages –
The first basic course of duration of 3 academic years / 6 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each. And,
The second stage of the course of duration of 2 academic years /4 semesters of approximately 16 working weeks each.
A candidate who has completed only the first stage is not qualified for Registration under the Architects Act, 1972.

WHO IS ELLIGIBLE FOR THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The minimum academic qualification for admission to first year of 5-year B. Arch degree course is that the candidate must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized Board/University with Mathematics as a subject of examination with at least 50% aggregate marks.

IS THE APTITUDE TEST IN ARCHITECTURE COMPULSORY IN INDIA?
The National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture (NIASA), Pune, an Academic Unit of the Council of Architecture (COA), conducts a National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) far admission to first year of 5-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree course for all Architectural Institutions in the country, including NITs, IITs, Government Institutions, Government-aided Institutions, Universities, Deemed Universities and Private Universities, established by a Central or State Legislature and other private institutions. It shall be mandatory for every Architectural Institution imparting 5-year B.Arch degree course in the country to join the NATA and to admit students on the basis of valid NATA marks.

WHERE IS THE APTITUDE TEST (NATA) CONDUCTED IN INDIA?
NATA is conducted at various designated Test Centers in CoA approved Architectural Institutions in the country on all working days starting from ' March 01, 2008. The registration for NATA at the respective Test Centers shall begin from February 15, 2008. The details of Test Centers and NATA registration shall be made available at http://www.nata.in/ or http://www.niasa.org/ or http://www.nisa.in/ in due course.
For further information, please contact the Director, NIASA, Pune at Phones: 020-22952262, 65731088, Mobile: 09423582528,
E-mail: niasa_2005@yahoo.eo,in, niasa@rediffmail.corn.

WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The admissions are carried out by the State Govt./Competent Authority/Association of Architectural Institutions in the State, based an the marks obtained in NATA and the qualifying examinations as mentioned above, in the ratio of 50:50.

After NATA, all Architectural Institutions in the country are required to submit a list of students admitted in the B.Arch degree course, mentioning their total NATA score and total marks in qualifying examination, to the Council.

The Council of Architecture is the final authority in India as far as regulating Architectural Education and Architectural Profession is concerned. Candidates, who are not admitted on the basis of valid NATA marks, will not be considered for registration as an "Architect" under the Architects Act, 1972 with the Council of Architecture, irrespective of their obtaining a B.Arch degree. Registration as an "Architect" with the Council of Architecture is mandatory for pursuing the profession of Architecture and employment in Central/State Governments Services in the country

WHAT IS THE INTAKE IN THE ARCHITECTURE COURSE?
The sanctioned intake of candidates at the first year level does not exceed a maximum of 40 in a class. If more than 40 candidates are admitted, separate classes are organised.
The Institutions may permit, at their discretion, migration of students from one Institution to another subject to the maximum number of students not exceeding the permitted maximum intake in a class.

WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE EXAMINATIONS AND MINIMUM PASS % REQD?
The University or an independent examining body conducts the examinations at the end of each semester.
The sessional work shall, as far as possible, be assessed by a jury of internal and external examiners.
The weightage of marks for subjects having both sessional work marks as well as examination marks may not exceed the ratio of 50:50.
The pass percentage shall not be less than 45% in each subject and shall not be less than 50% in the aggregate.
Only candidates who have passed in the internal assessment, shall be permitted to appear in an examination.

Urban Design
Interior Design
Building Management
Landscape Design
Urban Planning
Intensive study of one or more of the subjects offered as elective depending upon the expertise available to an institution. The list of the subjects may be enlarged but they should be related to Architecture.

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT

2008-09-10T05:29:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT OF AN ARCHITECT?

Any matter regarding Professional Negligence and/or Deficient Service provided by the Architect, shall be referred to the Council of Architecture, to adjudicate whether the Architect is guilty of Professional Misconduct.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE FOR MAKING A COMPLAINT AGAINST AN ARCHITECT?

- The complaint shall be made to the Council of Architecture in Form No. XIV. Each complaint shall contain the following particulars, namely:-
the acts and omissions which, if approved, would render the Architect guilty of any professional or other misconduct;
the oral or documentary evidence in support of the allegations made in the complaint.
- If the complaint does not contain the aforesaid particulars, the Secretary of the Council shall return the complaint to the Complainant.

- If the complaint is against an individual Architect, the Secretary shall send a copy to the Architect at his address as entered in the Administrative Register; within sixty days of the receipt of the complaint.
- If the complaint is against a firm, he shall send a copy of the complaint to the firm concerned at the address of the head office of the firm with a notice calling upon the firm to disclose the name of the Architect concerned and to send a copy of the complaint to the concerned Architect.
- Every notice issued by the Secretary or the Disciplinary Committee under this rule shall be sent to the Architect or the firm concerned by registered post with acknowledgement due.
- An Architect against whom a complaint is made, may, within fourteen days of the receipt of a copy of the complaint, or within such further time as the Secretary may allot, forward to him a written statement in his defence verified in the same manner as a pleading in Civil Court.
- If on perusal of the complaint and the written statement of the concerned Architect, and other relevant documents and papers, the Council is of the opinion that there is no prima facie case against the Architect, the complaint shall be dismissed and the complainant and the Architect shall be informed accordingly. However, before dismissing the complaint, the Council may call for any additional particulars or documents connected with the case, either from the complainant or from the respondent, or from both, if in its opinion it is necessary to do so.
- If on perusal of the complaint, the Council is of the opinion that there is a prima facie case against the Architect, the Council shall cause an enquiry to be made in the matter by the Disciplinary Committee.

WHO INVESTIGATES THE COMPLAINT MADE AGAINST AN ARCHITECT?
- All complaints against Architects shall be investigated by a Disciplinary Committee of the Council, consisting of three members. The Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee shall be elected by the members of that Committee from among themselves.

- The Secretary of the Council shall place before the Disciplinary Committee all facts brought to his knowledge which are relevant for the purpose of an inquiry by the Disciplinary Committee.
- An Architect against whom a complaint is made shall have a right to defend himself before the Disciplinary Committee either in person or through a legal practitioner or any other Architect of the Institute.
- If during the progress of an inquiry the Disciplinary Committee undergoes a change of personnel for any reason whatsoever, the respondent shall have an option to have his case heard de novo and the enquiry conducted accordingly.
- The Disciplinary Committee shall submit its report to the Council.
- The Council shall consider the report of the Disciplinary Committee and if necessary, a further inquiry shall be made and a further report shall be submitted by the Disciplinary Committee, and after considering such report the Council shall proceed accordingly.

WHAT DISCIPLINARY ACTION / CIVIL & CRIMINAL ACTION IS TAKEN AGAINST AN ARCHITECT FOUND GUILTY OF PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT?

- If the Architect is found guilty of Professional Misconduct, he is liable for disciplinary action by the Council of Architecture under section 30 of the Architects Act,1972.
- The disciplinary action taken by the Council of Architecture against the Architect who has been found guilty of Professional Misconduct, does not absolve him of his liabilities under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, if any.

See also,

ABOUT THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
CONSTITUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE
COA - STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
COA-STANDARDS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION M.ARCH
COA - REGISTRATION OF ARCHITECTS

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

HOUSE CONSTRUCTION IN INDIA

2008-09-08T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today, with the easy availability of housing loans, with better and competitive professional services, and with innumerable building materials and products in the market, people can dream of building a unique and attractive building that reflects their aspirations

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE MOST PEOPLE MAKE WHEN CONSTRUCTING A HOUSE?
When a person is about to start the construction of his house,

- he collects a lot of information on buildings from the net and from the frequent exhibitions on Building products & Materials, Interiors, etc
- he consults people and relatives who have already constructed houses on their experience,
- he seeks advice from them on the best type of building Contract
- he asks them for referrals of Contractors
- and most surely, he wants to know where he can get a plan without having to shell out too much money.

Though he has a clear idea of what he wants, he is not (in most cases) very sure regarding the feasibility of his ideas. So, he thinks the best person to approach is the Building Contractor (who has been referred to him) since after all, it is the Contractor who will actually give shape to his ‘dream’ house and obviously has a lot of practical knowledge and experience in building matters. He also wrongly believes that, with all the information he has gathered, there is no way he can be fooled and that he will be able to complete the construction well within his budget and on time.

But the truth unfortunately, is that, most people unwittingly make a mistake by giving the job to just the Contractor, as there is no expert to cross-check on the quality and cost of the Building Construction. Also very often, though the Contractor helps the person in getting a plan of his ‘dream house’, the source is not very clear – it may not even be designed by a qualified Architect.

HOW IS AN ARCHITECT DIFFERENT FROM A DRAUGHTSMAN?
The design of the house does not have to do only with the aesthetics and physical proportions of the building, but also and perhaps even more so on how it flows or functions. Your home must work visually and physically. It is imperative to consider aspects that cannot be seen on the plan, such as:
- the various uses for the different living spaces,
- the movement through the areas without bumping into furniture,
- doors that might open into unsightly areas of the home,
- the provision of light and ventilation for the various rooms and
- the security of the building.

An Architect is qualified and skilled in the art of designing well proportioned stylish buildings. The Architect is accomplished in the dimensions and arrangement of rooms to create a building that is in harmony with its surroundings and within itself. The extensive training and experience allows the Architect to design buildings that flow effortlessly and to maximize the use of interior spaces. Only an Architect can ensure good proportions, features which will compliment your taste and style and finishes which will compliment each other.

This is where an Architect can make a lot of difference.

WHY SHOULD YOU INVEST IN THE SERVICES OF AN ARCHITECT?
Whether you are looking to build your dream home, adding to your existing home or renovating your house, no matter what your building project is, never underestimate the value of the services of an Architect. The expertise of a good and skilled Architect will:
- free you from concern;
- provide you with value for money
- give a creative vision towards the project,
- save you a lot in construction cost and
- definitely increase the value of the proposed property, when it comes to the resale of it.
When attempting any building project the appointment of an Architect, will without a doubt be the best investment you will make.

At the very outset, an Architect can assess and help formulate your needs, evaluate possible sites, suggest a range of design options to be explored, and provide an opinion on costs. The same qualities of vision and professional expertise, which the Architect exercises in the pre-design phase, continue throughout the execution and completion of the project.

As a Client, the result may be something you never thought possible, but which you realise you wanted and needed all along. Not only have you achieved value for money: you also have good Architecture. This is precisely what Architects, with their combination of technical expertise, design flair and management competence, are uniquely placed to deliver.

APARTMENT V/S INDEPENDENT HOUSE

2008-09-08T23:14:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION SCENE IN INDIA TODAY?
Growth and prosperity of an economy, to an extent is reflected in its physical appearance. In the last few decades our Indian economy has witnessed hectic and massive construction activities, new structures have been raised, townships have evolved and housing especially in the apartment segment has multiplied exponentially. And so today people have a lot more choices when looking for a house.

COMPARE AN APARTMENT WITH AN INDEPENDENT HOUSE IN INDIA?
Nowadays most of the immigrants into cities are buying apartments for the following reasons:
The exorbitant cost of land and the headaches involved in getting it registered under their name.
People find it easier to buy an apartment from well known builders since the land registration problems are already taken care of.
Moreover, the society will look after things like power, water, utilities etc; leaving the apartment owner free from worries on that front.
In addition, apartments do have some perks like in-house gym, swimming pool, health clubs etc
Children have access to a secure play area.
Also, there is a feeling of security in an apartment complex.
The common areas and landscape are well maintained.

However given a choice, most people in India, will still prefer to construct their own independent house for the following reasons:
An independent house gives them the feeling of independence as they do not have to share common areas.
An independent house has space all around for gardening or any other activities.
The house owner can have it built expressly as per his requirements and to his liking and with his choice of materials and finishing.
The house owner has the option to add floors or increase the area of the building as the need arises.
The house owner can get additional income from renting out part of his premises.
The house owner need not pay monthly maintenance amounts.

LIST OF ARCHITECTS

2008-09-08T04:22:00.000-07:00

Whether you are looking to build your dream home, adding to your existing home or renovating your house, no matter what your building project is, never underestimate the value of the services of an Architect. As an Architect with more than 15 years experience I can only say repeatedly, that it is best to invest in the services of an Architect. The expertise of a good and skilled Architect will:
- free you from concern;
- provide you with value for money
- give a creative vision towards the project,
- save you a lot in construction cost and
- definitely increase the value of the proposed property, when it comes to the resale of it.
When attempting any building project the appointment of an Architect, will without a doubt be the best investment you will make.

Choosing your architect should be done with care. Choose him like you would your doctor as your relationship will be a lengthy one involving big sums of money. If possible try and find someone who listens to your ideas and requirements with care and whom you can trust and feel comfortable with.

In addition, look for an Architect who works or lives near your house construction site as it will encourage the Architect to make more site visits. I beleive one of the most important aspects of the services of an Architect, are the site visits he makes. A lot of important decisions and corrections are made at site, which ultimately will decide the final, finished building.. In fact I rate site visits as more important than some fancy, extremely detailed drawings which the illeterate workers at site may not even be able to fathom.

Click on the city you live in and then look for an Architect by keying in the pin code of the area in which your site is located.

AHMEDABAD
ANKOLA
AURANGABAD
BANGALORE

BELGAUM
BHOPAL
BHUBANESHWAR

CALICUT
CHANDIGARH
CHENNAI

COCHIN/ERNAKULAM

COIMBATORE
DELHI

FARIDABAD
GHAZIABAD
GURGAON

HUBLI
HYDERABAD
INDORE
JAIPUR

JODHPUR

KANCHIPURAM
KHOLAPUR
KOLKATA
LUCKNOW

LUDHIANA

MADURAI

MANGALORE
MUMBAI

MYSORE
NAGPUR
NASHIK
NOIDA
PANCHKULA
PATNA
PUNE
SANGLI
SECUNDERABAD
SOLAPUR
SURAT
THANE
TRIVANDRUM
VADODARA

Also read about:

FAMOUS ARCHITECTS - INDIA

2008-09-07T23:53:00.000-07:00

Here is a list of some of the well known, contemporary Architects in India:

ANANT D. RAJE
ACHYUT KANVINDE
BALAKRISHNA V DOSHI
BRINDA SOMAYYA
CHARLES CORREA
LAURIE BAKER
HAFEEZ CONTRACTOR
I.M. KHADRI
KULDIP SINGH
RAJ REWAL
ROMI KHOSLA
SEN KAPADIA
SHIRISH BERI
UTTAM JAIN
VASANTH KAMATH

Also read about:

COA - ARCHITECT'S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

2008-09-07T23:37:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY OF ARCHITECTS?

Professionals are required to discharge their obligations diligently and to comply with the standards of professional conduct and etiquette. In order to protect the consumers against breach of duty, deficient services have been defined by the statute and legal actions have been initiated on the erring professionals. The services rendered by Architects have also been covered by the relevant laws of the country.

It has often been asked by Architects, as to why legal action has been taken against them, whenever a building or any other built form of which they are the Architects, collapses, without even enquiring into the circumstances leading to the collapse. When the Architects are unconnected with the reason behind the collapse of the building, the suo motto actions against them have brought disrepute, embarrassment and mental agony to them.

What is the Professional Liability of Architects for buildings which they have designed and whose construction they have supervised, but thereafter have been under the control and management of the owners / occupants? Because in reality, the longevity and stability of the building are dependant on the observance of safety and maintenance norms.

This question of “Professional Liability of Architects during the post completion period of a project” has vexed the Council for many years. The Council of Architecture being a statutory body regulating the Architectural Profession and Education in India, has finally, in its 40th meeting, prescribed guidelines on “Architects Professional Liability”. These guidelines are to make the Architects and Owners/Occupants of the buildings aware of the circumstances under which an Architect should be held responsible for a negligent act or deficient services, and they also highlight the owners/occupants duties and responsibilities in preserving the longevity of a building.

WHAT ARE THE OWNER’S / OCCUPANT’S DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES WITH REGARD TO THEIR BUILDING?
The Owner/Occupant, upon the completion of the building shall maintain it properly to safeguard and preserve the longevity of the building.

FOR HOW LONG IS AN ARCHITECT LIABLE WITH REGARD TO A BUILDING?
The Architect’s Liability shall be limited to a maximum period of three years after the building is handed over to /occupied by the owner, whichever is earlier.

The Architect is required to maintain all records related to the project for a minimum period of four years after the issue of Certificate of Virtual Completion.
An Architect is liable for the negligent act which he has committed in the performance of his duties and the Client can initiate action against the Architect if there is a failure on the part of an Architect to attain the standard of care prescribed by the law, and the Client has suffered damage due to such breach of duty.

WHEN IS AN ARCHITECT NOT LIABLE IN CASE OF A BUILDING COLLAPSE / DAMAGE?

The Architect is not liable for any liability, in case of a building damage or collapse, if the damage has been caused in the following circumstances:

. The building is used for purposes other than for which it has been designed.
. Illegal or unauthorized changes/alterations/renovations/modifications have been carried out by the Owners/Occupants without the consent or approval of the Architect.
. Changes/alterations/renovations/modifications to the building have been carried out by consulting another Architect without the knowledge and consent of the erstwhile Architect, or without obtaining No Objection Certificate from him.
. The safety norms have been compromised by the Owner/Occcupant.
. There is distress due to leaking from the terrace, toilets, and water logging within the vicinity of the building which can affect the strength and stability of the building.
. There is a lack of periodical or inadequate maintenance by the Owner/Occupant.
. The damage is caused due to any reasons arising out of the deficient services rendered by the ‘Specialized Consultants’ with regard to the design and supervision of the work entrusted to them, who were appointed in consultation with the Client.
. The damages caused to the building are for reasons beyond the control of the Architect.

WHAT DOES PROFESSIONAL NEGLIGENCE AND DEFICIENT SERVICE MEAN?
Negligence of an Architect means the failure to take reasonable degree of care in the course of his engagement for rendering services.
An Architect is required to observe and uphold the Council’s Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Charges while rendering architectural services . The failure to provide any service that is necessary for the discharge of his duties and functions for the project for which he has been engaged, amounts to deficient service.

WHAT IS PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT OF AN ARCHITECT?
Any matter regarding Professional Negligence and/or Deficient Service provided by the Architect, shall be referred to the Council of Architecture, to adjudicate whether the Architect is guilty of Professional Misconduct.

WHAT DISCIPLINARY ACTION / CIVIL &CRIMINAL ACTION IS TAKEN AGAINST AN ARCHITECT GUILTY OF PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT?
If the Architect is found guilty of Professional Misconduct, he is liable for disciplinary action by the Council of Architecture under section 30 of the Architects Act,1972.
The disciplinary action taken by the Council of Architecture against the Architect who has been found guilty of Professional Misconduct, does not absolve him of his liabilities under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, if any.

See also,

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

2008-09-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT TO AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA AS PER THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE?

The Architect shall be paid Professional fees in the following Stages, consistent with the work done:

CLIENTS BRIEF – STAGE 1: On appointment and signing of Agreement –
Rs 20,000/- or 5% of total fees payable, adjustable at the last stage, based on the Rough estimate of cost.

CONCEPT DESIGN –STAGE 2: On submitting Conceptual designs and Rough estimate –
10% of total fees payable, based on the Rough estimate of Cost.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN & DRAWING – STAGE 3: On submitting the required Preliminary Scheme for the Client’s approval along with the Preliminary Estimate of cost –
20% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on Preliminary estimate of cost

DRAWINGS FOR CLIENTS / STATUTORY APPROVALS – STAGE 4: On incorporating Clients suggestions and submitting drawings for approval from the Client/Statutory Bodies –
35% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on Preliminary estimate of cost.

WORKING DRAWINGS AND TENDER DOCUMENTS – STAGE 5: On preparation of working drawings, specifications, schedule of quantities, estimate, and tender documents –
45% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on Preliminary estimate of cost.

APPOINTMENT OF CONTRACTORS – STAGE 6: On inviting, receiving and analyzing tenders and advising the Client on appointment of Contractors -
55% of the total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

CONSTRUCTION - STAGE 7: On submitting Working Drawings and details required for commencement of Work at site
65% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

On completion of 20% of work at site:
70% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

On completion of 40% of work at site:
75% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

On completion of 60% of work at site:
80% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

On completion of 80% of work at site:
85% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

On Virtual Completion of work at site:
90% of total fees payable, less payment already made, based on accepted Tender cost.

COMPLETION – STAGE 8: - On submitting Completion Report and drawings for the project required in obtaining Completion / Occupation Certificate from Statutory Authorities and on issue of as-built drawings
100% of total fees payable, less Retainer & payment already made, based on Actual total cost.

See also,

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA - SCALE OF CHARGES

2008-09-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE THE SCALE OF CHARGES OF AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA AS PER THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE?

TYPE OF PROJECT
HOUSING
Individual / Independent House

7.5% on the cost of works assigned.
Single Block Housing and Sites upto 0.5 hectares

5.0% on the cost of works assigned.
Sites more than 0.5 hectares and upto 2.5 hectares

3.5% on the cost of works assigned.
Sites more than 2.5 hectares and upto 5 hectares

2.5% on the cost of works assigned.
Sites more than 5 hectares

2.0% on the cost of works assigned.

ALL PROJECTS OTHER THAN HOUSING

5.0% on the cost of works assigned.

REPETITION OF BUILDING IN SAME CAMPUS

2.5% on the cost of works assigned.

REPETITION OF BUILDING ELSEWHERE

3.5% on the cost of works assigned.

SITE DEVELOPMENT

2.5% on the cost of works assigned.

ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION, RETROFITTING, ADDITIONS, ALTERATIONS

7.5% on the cost of works assigned.

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE, SIGNAGE, GRAPHIC DESIGN

7.5% on the cost of works assigned.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

7.5% on the cost of works assigned.

URBAN DESIGN

1.0% on the cost of works assigned.

VERIFICATION & CERTIFICATION OF CONTRACTOR’S BILLS

1.0% in addition of above fees.

DOCUMENTATION AND COMMUNICATION CHARGES

10% of the professional fees.

ADVISORY CONSULTANCY CHARGES

Rs 10,000/- per day for outstation project
Rs 4,000/- per day for local project.

See also,

COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS
COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES
COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA - ARCHITECT'S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES

2008-09-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Council of Architecture has prescribed the Scale of Charges under the Architects (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 1989. The documents stipulate the parameters within which the Architect is required to function. They prescribe the mandatory minimum Scale of Professional Charges with a view to making the Client fully aware of the fees of the Architect. These documents are applicable to all registered architects and such architects who have specialized in areas such as Structural Design, Urban Design, City Planning, Landscape Architecture, Interior Architecture and Architectural Conservation.
The revised and latest version of these documents, which was approved by the Council at its 40th meeting are presented here. They reflect the Council’s response to the many challenges which the profession of Architecture is facing at present.

WHAT IS THE PROFESSIONAL FEE TO BE PAID TO AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA AS PER THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE?
The Council of Architecture has reviewed the matter of fees of Architects in depth. In consideration of the Comprehensive Professional Services rendered by the Architect, he shall be paid a professional fee and other charges in accordance with the Scale of Charges. The fees paid to the Architect are for:
The efforts involved in preparing designs,
The cost involved in making drawings and other documents,
The cost of supervision in terms of time of the Architect,
The fees paid to the different Consultants appointed by the Architect, and
Adequate compensation for responsibilities undertaken by the architect.

FEE STRUCTURE
The fee payable to the Architect shall be computed as a percentage ( see Scale of Charges chart) of the Actual Cost of the project works, as on completion. The Actual cost of the project shall be the actual cost of the completed building work as calculated on the accepted tenders, including the cost of Structural, Sanitary, Plumbing and Electrical work, Sanitary and Electrical fittings & fixtures, lifts, escalators and all items on which the Architect has rendered professional services, but shall exclude the cost of the Client’s site office, cost of land and cost of supervisory staff at the site.

The fee listed in the Scale of Charges is the minimum payable for the Architect’s services. However, depending on the complexity of the project, the Architect is free to quote higher fees. Quoting less fees and furnishing partial or incomplete service would be detrimental to the project and not in the interest of the Client.

For works costing upto Rs 15 Lakhs, the professional fees may be negotiable between the Architect and the Client.

In view of the importance of social housing, slum upgradation etc, the Architect’s fees are negotiable between the Architect and Client.

The fees can become a Lump-Sum Fees, if it is the intention and desire of the Architect and Client that the fees be frozen at the time of award of the Contract.

The fees of the Consultants appointed by the Architect and paid by him, shall be calculated on the cost of such specialized works in accordance with the Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Fees prescribed by the respective professional Institutions recognized by the Government of India.

DEDUCTIONS
No deductions shall be made from the fee of the Architect on account of penalty, liquidated damages, part rates or other sums withheld from payment or recovered from the Contractor or Suppliers.

When the work is executed wholly or in part with old materials or labour or carriage is provided by the Client, the percentage fees shall be calculated as if the work had been executed wholly by the Contractor and supplying all labour and new materials.

Any curtailment of the professional services, after the preliminary drawings have been prepared by the Architect, shall make it obligatory for the Client to pay at least 20% of the fee for the remaining stage(s) of the curtailed work / services.

IS SERVICE TAX INCLUDED IN THE FEES OF AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA?
Any tax levied by law, such as Service Tax, etc contingent to professional services rendered by the Architect, shall be payable by the Client, over and above the gross fee charged by the Architect.

DOCUMENTATION & COMMUNICATION CHARGES
Apart from the professional fee, the Client shall pay the Architect, Documentation and Communication charges @ 10% of the professional fee payable to the Architect at all stages.

WHAT ARE THE REIMBURSIBLE EXPENSES TO BE PAID TO AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA?
In addition to the fee payable, the Client will reimburse the Architect towards actual expenses of the following:
Return air fare or first class A.C. train fare for any out-station visits made by the Architect or his professional staff and first class train fare for non-professional staff to the site or such other place, in connection with the execution of work and performance of duties referred to in the agreement.
Actual lodging and boarding and local transport costs.
Cost of Presentation Drawings, Perspectives, models, computer simulation etc., if required by the Client.

See also,

COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS
COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT
COA - SCALE OF CHARGES
COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT

2008-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT PRESCRIBED BY THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE, INDIA?

The practice of the Architectural Profession is regulated by the Architects Act, 1972, and the regulations framed thereunder. The Council of Architecture has prescribed the Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Charges under the Architects (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 1989. The documents stipulate the parameters within which the Architect is required to function. These define the responsibilities, the scope of work and services with a view to making the Client fully aware of the duties and services which he may expect from the Architect. The professional services required by the Client may not be comprehensive in scope in all cases and accordingly a clear understanding between the two must be arrived at.

The Council of Architecture has prescribed the Conditions of Engagement based on general practice of the profession in India. These documents are applicable to all registered architects and such architects who have specialized in areas such as Structural Design, Urban Design, City Planning, Landscape Architecture, Interior Architecture and Architectural Conservation.

WHAT ARE THE SCHEDULE (STAGES) OF SERVICES OF AN ARCHITECT IN INDIA AS PER THE COUNCIL OF ARCHITECTURE?
The Architect, after taking instructions from the Client, renders services under the following Stages:

CLIENTS BRIEF – STAGE 1:
.The Architect ascertains the Client’s requirements of the project.
.He visits the Site and examines site constraints and potential.
.He examines the Codes, Legislation and standards as they affect the project.
.He prepares in agreement with the Client, a programme of requirements.
.He acquaints the Client with the Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Charges.
.The Client engages the Architect and both effectively enter an agreement by signing a standard Letter of Appointment.
.The Architect is paid a Retainer (Advance) of Rs 20,000/- or 5% of the total fees payable, whichever is higher, as a token of Intent.

CONCEPT DESIGN – STAGE 2:
.The Architect prepares a report on site evaluation, state of existing buildings, if any; and analysis and impact of proposed development on the immediate environment.
.He obtains from the Client or gets a detailed topographical survey of the site, prepared at the Clients expense. This survey shall include all the necessary data related to the existing structure, existing public utility lines, trees, pavements, roads, restrictions, easements and boundaries.
.He obtains from the Client or gets soil tests, site borings or such other tests on sub-soil conditions done at the Clients expense.
.He prepares preliminary conceptual designs to explain his understanding of the Client’s requirements.
.He prepares a rough estimate of the cost of the project on the basis of the area. Under no circumstance does the architect guarantee such estimate of cost.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 10% of the total fees payable.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN AND DRAWING – STAGE 3:
.The Architect modifies the conceptual designs incorporating required changes.
.He prepares the preliminary drawings, sketches, study model etc., for the Client’s approval.
.He prepares a preliminary estimate of cost on the basis of the area.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 20% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stage 2.

DRAWINGS FOR CLIENTS / STATUTORY APPROVALS – STAGE 4:
.The Architect incorporates the Client’s suggestions prepares drawings necessary for approval from the Client / statutory authorities.
.He ensures compliance with codes, standards and legislation as applicable.
.He assists the Client in obtaining the statutory approval, if required.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 35% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2 and 3.

WORKING DRAWINGS AND TENDER DOCUMENTS – STAGE 5:
.The Architect provides Consultants with all the necessary information to allow them to perform their specialist work.
.He prepares Working Drawings, Specifications and Schedule of Quantities sufficient to prepare Estimate of Cost, (in consultation with his consultants).
.He advises the Client and gets approval on the form of Contract and method of placing the Contract.
.He prepares a short list of suitable Contractors with appropriate justification.
.He prepares Tender drawings including large scale details and tender documents including mode of measurement, method of payments, quality control procedures and other conditions of contract, to describe the whole project adequately for the purpose of placing the main Contract.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 45% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3 and 4.

APPOINTMENT OF CONTRACTORS – STAGE 6:
.The Architect invites, receives and analyses Tenders.
.He advises the Client on the appointment of the Contractors.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 55% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3, 4 and 5.

CONSTRUCTION - STAGE 7:
.The Architect prepares Working Drawings and details for the proper execution of works during construction.
.He issues sufficient copies of working drawings, schedules, specifications, Bill of Quantities and other contract documents to the Contractors for the proper execution of works.
.He approves the Works Progress Schedule, prepared by the Contractors.
.He approves samples of various elements and components.
.He .submitted by the Contractors and Vendors
.He advises the Client to appoint and pay a Construction Manager or Clerk of Works or Site Supervisor, (who shall work under the guidance of the Architect), for the day-to-day supervision at site, in order to ensure that the work at site proceeds in accordance with the contract documents and drawings.
.He attends conferences, meetings to ensure that the project proceeds generally in accordance with the conditions of contract.
.He Visits the site at intervals mutually agreed upon, to inspect and evaluate the construction work and keeps the client informed on the quality and progress of work. Where necessary, he clarifies any decision and offers interpretation of the drawings and specifications at site.
.The Architect shall ensure that the drawings are being correctly interpreted at site, and the finishing is of acceptable quality. In case of adverse certification, the payments of the contractor shall be with held until the defects have been rectified.
.He advises the Client if the Contract time is likely to be varied, or if the total authorized expenditure is likely to be exceeded.
.If required by the Client, the Architect checks the Contractors applications for payment (Bills) with the help of the site engineers, and issues Certificates authorizing payment for an additional fees of 1%.
.He issues Certificate of Virtual Completion of works.
The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 90% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

COMPLETION – STAGE 8:
.The Architect prepares and submits completion reports and drawings for the project as required.
.He assists the Client in obtaining Completion or Occupation Certificate from the Statutory Authorities wherever required.
.He issues two sets of as-built drawings including services and structures.
.The fees payable to the Architect at this stage is 100% of the total fees payable, less the payment made at previous stages and the retainer.

WHAT ARE THE ARCHITECT’S RESPONSIBILITIES DURING THE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION?
The Architect’s responsibilities and services rendered at every Stage of the Project have been enumerated above. In addition, the Architect has some more responsibilities that should be mentioned:
.The Architect shall keep the Client informed about the progress of work in his Office.
.The Architect shall appoint specialized Consultants, in consultation with the Client, if necessary.
.The Architect shall be responsible for the direction and integration of the Consultants work. However, the Consultants shall be responsible for the calculations, detailed design and periodic inspection of the work entrusted to them.
.The Architect will supply to the Client, free of cost, upto six sets of drawings at different stages.
.The Architect shall not make any deviations, alterations or omissions from the approved drawings, involving financial implications, without the prior consent of the Client.
.Any revision in the drawings, tenders, once approved, required to be made by the Client shall be compensated on mutually agreed terms as additional services rendered.
.No change shall be made at site from the approved drawings and specifications, without the consent of the Architect
.Any professional services to be rendered by the Architect at the instance of the Client, after the completion of the project shall be compensated on mutually agreed terms.

WHAT ARE THE CLIENTS RESPONSIBILITIES DURING THE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION?
The Client shall discharge all his obligations connected with the project and engagement of the Architect as follows:
.The Client shall provide detailed requirements of the project.
.The Client shall provide property ownership documents.
.The Client shall provide a Site Plan showing boundaries, contours, existing features and structures, roads, and existing utility lines. In case this information is not readily available, the Client shall arrange for the survey of the property for getting the necessary information.
.The Client shall furnish or pay for reports on the soil condition and test as required by the Architect.
.The Client shall pay all the fees, levies and expenses in respect of statutory bodies.
.The Client shall honour the Architect’s bills within one month of submission.

WHAT DOES OWNERSHIP OF COPYRIGHT MEAN WITH REGARD TO ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS?
Architectural Design is an intellectual property of the Architect. The drawings, specifications, documents and models are the property of the Architect, whether the project for which they are made, is executed or not. The Client can retain copies of the drawings, specifications, models and other documents for his information and use in connection with the project. These can not be used for any other project by the Client or the Architect or any other person except for the repetition.

HOW IS AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN AN ARCHITECT & CLIENT TERMINATED?
The Agreement between the Client and the Architect may be terminated by either one giving the other, a written notice of not less than 30 days, in case one of them fails to substantially perform his responsibilities, (so long as the failure is not caused by the one initiating the termination).In the event the Client has terminated the agreement, he has the right to appoint another Architect to complete the work, after paying the previous architect.

HOW ARE DISPUTES BETWEEN THE CLIENT & THE ARCHITECT RESOLVED?
All disputes which may arise between the Client and the Architect shall be referred to the Council of Architecture for arbitration. The Arbitrator shall be appointed by the President, Council of Architecture and the decision and award of the Arbitrator shall be final and binding on the Architect and Client.

WHAT IS INDEMNIFICATION?
In the event that a claim or suit is brought against the Architect by a third party for damages arising from personal injury or property damage caused wholly by the Client or anyone for whose acts the Client may be responsible, then the Client shall indemnify the Architect and fully reimburse any loss or expenses, including Attorney’s fee which the Architect may incur.

See also,

COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS
COA - COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES
COA - SCALE OF CHARGES
COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE

COA-COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

2008-09-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

HOW IS THE ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE REGULATED IN INDIA?
The Practice of the Architectural Profession is regulated by the Architects Act, 1972. The Council of Architecture has defined the Scope of work and Architectural Services to be rendered by Architects with a view to making the Client fully aware of the duties and services which he may expect from the Architect. They stipulate the parameters within which the Architect is required to function and are applicable to all registered Architects and such Architects who have specialized in areas such as Structural Design, Urban Design, City Planning, Landscape Architecture, Interior Architecture and Architectural Conservation.

The Architect is required to provide services in respect of the following:

WHAT ARE THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY AN ARCHITECT IN ARCHITECTURE?
Taking Clients Instructions and preparation of Design Brief.
Site evaluation, analysis and impact on the immediate environment.
Design and Site development.
Structural Design.
Sanitary, Plumbing, Drainage, Water Supply and Sewerage Design.
Electrical, Electronic, Communication systems and Design.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Design (HVAC).
Elevators, Escalators, etc.
Fire Detectors, Fire Protection and Security Systems.
Periodic Inspection and Evaluation of Construction Works.
Quality Control.

ALLIED FIELDS

Interior Architecture.
Landscape Architecture
Architectural Conservation.
Retrofitting of Buildings
Graphic Design and Signage.

WHAT ARE THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY AN ARCHITECT IN INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE?
The primary objective, in Interior Architecture, is to generate a purposeful ambience that will stimulate the user’s creative potential through multifarious activities. The aim is to meld the interiors and exteriors into symbiotic relationships through varied experiences of scale, volume, light and shade. Interiors are not only to protect the users from the extremes of weather but also to nurture them emotionally. Hence, the interior spaces must be designed to fulfill the fundamental functional and aesthetic needs that make the interiors efficient and pleasant to live and work in. The development of design is a very conscious act and it infuses life into interiors subconsciously.

SCOPE OF WORK
Site Evaluation and assessment.
Interior Design – space planning and volumetric study.
Architectural additions and alterations.
Interior related civil works.
Design of fixed items of work and loose furniture.
Illumination design.
Sound and Acoustic design.
Graphic design.
Indoor Plantscape.
Selection of materials, equipment and other interior related elements.
Integration of all Engineering services.
Periodic inspection and evaluation off works at site.
Quality Control.

WHAT ARE THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY AN ARCHITECT IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE?
Landscape Architecture deals with the analysis, planning, design, management, preservation and rehabilitation of land and also determines the environmental impact. It is a science capable of producing an ecologically-sensitive design which is self-sustainable. It integrates from the very conception, the elements of Architecture, Urban Design and Civil Engineering. Landscape Architecture covers a wide spectrum of professional expertise, ranging from Landscape Planning at the regional and city scale on the one end, to the small and medium scale of public and private landscape at the other. It involves dealing with such sites as Office Plazas, Public Squares, Highways, City Parks, Housing Developments, Institutional Campuses, Zoological and Botanical Parks.

SCOPE OF WORK
Site appraisal and suitability.
Site planning.
Landform and grading.
Surface drainage design and water management.
Irrigation design.
Open space design – hard and soft areas.
Planting design.
Landscape structures and features.
Garden Furniture design.
Illumination design.
Graphic Design and signage.
Co-ordination of external services.
Periodic Inspection and evaluation of works at site.

WHAT ARE THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY AN ARCHITECT IN URBAN DESIGN?
Urban Design is architecture of the cities, highly complex and gargantuan in scale. The primary aim of Urban Design is to imbibe and maintain a sense of identity and harmony among buildings, open spaces and other structures by means of a pleasant and memorable visual imagery throughout the length and breadth of an Urban setting. Volumetric relationships, harmonious spatial sequences, transition from buildings to open spaces, streetscape and the services infrastructure must together create a townscape with an exclusive imagery.

SCOPE OF WORK
Taking Client’s instructions and preparation of design brief.
Site evaluation, analysis of architectural character, social issues and heritage.
Feasibility study.
Preliminary proposal for development / re-development and their impact on immediate environment.
Volumetric study and Urban form recommendations including pedestrian / vehicular movement and parking.
Architectural controls and guidelines
Conceptual design of Site Development and their interconnectivity.
Landscape architecture design.
Architectural Conservation design.
Graphic Design and Signage.

See also,

COA-ARCHITECTS PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT REGULATIONS
COA - CONDITIONS OF ENGAGEMENT
COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL CHARGES
COA - SCALE OF CHARGES
COA - SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT

COA - ARCHITECT’S PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY

COA - PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION GUIDELINES

COA - ARCHITECTURAL COMPETITION PROCEDURE