Ashwini
Paigavan

AVĀSA — Earth Sheltered Nexus

This project explores earth-sheltered architecture as a passive design strategy for achieving thermal comfort in the semi-arid climate of Mhaismal, Sambhaji Nagar. Through climate analysis and simulation-based comparison of above-ground, partially submerged, and underground configurations, the study evaluates how ground contact influences indoor temperature stability, humidity, and energy demand.

The design proposes a partially earth-integrated eco-retreat, balancing thermal performance with daylight, ventilation, and spatial experience. Contour-responsive planning, high thermal mass construction, and controlled openings enable climate moderation while minimising ecological impact.

Key finding: the 50% submerged configuration gives the most balanced performance — ΔT 12.6 °C vs 13.3 °C — reducing diurnal swings through ground coupling while retaining façade area for daylight and natural ventilation.

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ATELIER TEN — Building Study

An investigation into the environmental performance and occupant comfort of the Atelier Ten office — Unit 19 and the adjoining courtyard within the Perseverance Works Complex, Shoreditch. Retaining Victorian features (yellow stock brick, timber trusses, slate roof), the un-refurbished envelope struggles with thermal performance at peak seasons.

Field observations, occupant interviews, data-logger recordings and computational simulations identified poor natural lighting and thermal inefficiencies. Passive design strategies were then proposed to optimise comfort and energy performance.

Temperature data captured from three data loggers placed at the centre of each floor, 9–15 October 2024.

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KOSH — Silk Agro Hub

An agriculture hub conceived as a central facility dedicated to rural revitalisation and economic inclusiveness. The project is a fundamental architectural initiative dedicated to uplifting farmers' way of living — proving that architecture can create immense impact in agricultural development.

Form development is derived from a Fibonacci sequence arc, with the golden ratio determining the proportions of rooms, column placement and openings. A radial column layout (300 × 600 columns at 10 m centres) organises the museum, process areas and workshops beneath a segmental dome.

"Pulling the threads of Agriculture Development through responsible Architecture." Sustainability strategies include on-site STP water treatment, rooftop solar, locally sourced materials within 400 km, and native landscape planting.

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Academic Works — Pillai College of Architecture

A collection of eight undergraduate projects spanning hospitality, culture, housing, landscape, structures and urban design — developed between 2017 and 2021.

• Lake View Cafe2018 · Panvel, Maharashtra · 200 sq.m.

  A contextual lakeside dining destination blending local aesthetics, environmental considerations and community needs.

• Art Centre2018 · Kumartuli, Kolkata · 1,100 sq.m.

  Contextual response to a hot-humid climate using terracotta brickwork and bamboo, preserving the cultural heritage of the potters' quarter.

• Dormitory for Professionals2019 · Navi Mumbai · 3,600 sq.m.

  Affordable, community-oriented housing for young professionals in a canal-side setting.

• Tropical Maze Garden2019 · Panvel, Maharashtra · 3,200 sq.m.

  A 40 × 80 m labyrinthine landscape derived from abstract concentric circles, combining leisure, exploration and horticultural diversity.

• Food Court2020 · Tensile Structure

  A semi-open 30 × 60 m outdoor food court using a conical PTFE/PVC membrane tensile roof system.

• Train Station Concourse2020 · Folded Plate Structure · 200 sq.m.

  A futuristic transport hub based on Ron Resch triangle tessellation origami, integrating art, technology and function.

• Library & Community Centre2020 · Dadar, Mumbai · 2,400 sq.m.

  A public building — library, digital centre, day care, art gallery and cafeteria — massed as a stack of books.

• Mixed-Use Layout2021 · Ghansoli, Navi Mumbai · 64,360 sq.m.

  A linear-spine masterplan combining commercial, residential and recreational grounds with vertically segregated circulation.

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CITY ONE — Residential Building

The flagship residential development of the Anmol Nayantara Group, located in the midst of Nashik's vibrant cityscape. The project aspires to reinvent modern living by seamlessly blending form and function, creating places that inspire and captivate the total living experience.

Two residential towers are characterised by their impressive height, offering panoramic views of the city alongside an extensive amenity programme — banquet hall, temple, sports courts, skating rink, bowling, spa and swimming pools.

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AYAANA — Luxury Condominium

A high-end luxury residence in Mumbai offering unparalleled comfort, sophistication and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Nestled in one of Mumbai's prime locations, the residence serves as a haven for discerning individuals who value opulence, privacy and a connection to the vibrant coastal cityscape.

Unit mix ranges from 4 BHK (MOFA 2,095 sq.ft.) to 5 BHK (MOFA 3,296 sq.ft.), with typical floor construction areas of 7,181–8,235 sq.ft.

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SUGEE — Mixed Use Re-Development

Planned to accommodate approximately 430 workplaces along with a residential sales tower in South Bombay's AC Market area. The objective is to provide members with a well-illuminated, climate-controlled and well-ventilated space in an area that is currently cluttered.

Distinct entry and exit zones separate residential and commercial users, while a clear roadway maintains fire-tender circulation and dedicated drop-off lobbies serve each tower. A rehab commercial tower connects to the sale residential tower via sky-bridge amenities.

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