Affordable Housing

A two stage competition, KnowArch in collaboration with Sarayan Consultants are shortlisted among the top 6 finalists by the State Housing Corporation Ltd. Govt. of Andhra Pradesh. A land of 54 acres, located approx. 30kms off a town, was earmarked for affordable housing to accommodate 4,500 dwelling units (families). Taking a cue from the large agricultural tracts surrounding this land, KnowArch transcends mere residential master planning to propose a self-service economy as the overarching vision. Clusters of houses on G+3 are setup, each with a central open space for the community combined with a farm and paved outdoor working platforms that will drive co-operatives and small scale industries within the residents. These open spaces with diagonal walkways culminate into a large central playground with a school to one side. The houses are entered directly through each landing of a split level staircase, contrary to the conventional grim corridor. Four houses share a common terrace as physical extensions for domestic chores. Roof tops become additional spaces for women cooperatives. A market is lined on the main road for trading, storing and transporting the generated produce not only by the residents directly but also from the vicinity, thus emerging as a growth point.