D- spaces list | Gapchoop Viraj

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Sustainable Envelopes, Curated Experiences

KA.MAL is an innovative public sanitation facility in Delhi that combines eco-friendly design with DEWATS technology for effective wastewater treatment. Inspired by the lotus flower, it promotes health and hygiene while utilizing renewable energy, passive cooling, and atmospheric water collection, setting a new standard for sustainable urban infrastructure.

Design Team: Hallie Eskey | Lusiana Morales | Melbourne Palmer | Nan Jiang | Viraj Gapchoop

The architectural insert in suburban Pune redefines schooling paradigms, aiming to elevate perception of corporation-run schools. Serving as a socio-cultural node, it facilitates interaction with the community. Designed for safe learning, it also offers space for endless community possibilities, fostering a dynamic educational and social environment.

The "WETLAND X Architecture" project at Kumbhargaon, Pune, integrates ecological conservation with community engagement and research. It addresses wetland preservation through sustainable land use strategies, architectural interventions, and community workshops. By fostering awareness and participation, it aims to safeguard wetlands as vital ecosystems while promoting economic and environmental balance.

At Studio Roots & Basics, I served as the site coordinator for constructing a co-working space using natural and upcycled materials. Overseeing the entire process from design to handover in three months, I facilitated community involvement to promote eco-conscious practices. The office showcases the fusion of traditional mud construction techniques with modern geometric forms, enabling parametric design possibilities. Utilizing mud concrete, earthbags, and cob, the structure incorporates city debris and indigenous soil, minimizing environmental impact. Through this project, we aimed to educate and inspire others about sustainable building practices, emphasizing adaptability and transferability of the technology.

The Möbius Strip, a non-orientable surface formed by attaching the ends of a plane with a half-twist, inspired our structure. Utilizing space frame technology in bamboo, we employed PVC pipes for their malleability in joineries. Constructed by a group of building enthusiasts, it debuted at the Constro exhibition 2023, showcasing innovative design and construction techniques.

We experimented with natural building materials, constructing a rammed earth curved retaining wall and a stone masonry arch as a gateway for a discussion corner. The seating area featured a roof made of bundled bamboo petals, IPS flooring, and beer bottle backrests, enhancing the design studio ambiance at The Bamboo Tales.

As part of a student initiative, I actively engaged in workshops exploring new building materials. Inspired by a snake toy, we repurposed industrial scrap into retractable furniture for a gymnasium at PVPCOA. The modular seating features a retractable roof, allowing users to enjoy open-air relaxation after exercise sessions.

We embarked on a series of workshops to experiment with new building materials, culminating in the creation of the Meraki Cycle Rim Dome in 2019. We scoured scrap vendors for cycle rims, valuing their lightweight nature, defined geometry, and strength. After identifying a suitable site, we utilized software to develop form models and tested joinery samples to ensure structural integrity. Over 550 cycle rims of various sizes were ingeniously assembled to form three intersecting domes. This innovative shell structure now serves as a welcome pavilion and pause point for students, enhancing the ambiance of volleyball matches at PVPCOA.

As part of an extracurricular activity, I actively participated in building the Meshi Bamboo Pavilion for Pune Biennale 2016, serving as a center stage for the event. With dimensions of 18' x 18' x 18', the pavilion featured bamboo treated on-site with linseed oil and a blow torch. Led by skilled students and faculty from VIT's PVPCOA, Pune, the pavilion was inspired by French architect Yona Friedman's designs. I contributed to the structural resolution team and led photographic documentation throughout the intense five days and nights of construction.

"GET-A-WAY" project aims to restore and protect Pallikaranai wetland in Chennai from urban encroachment. It includes features like tunnels to absorb railway vibrations, waste water treatment, and dehumidification for water conservation. The high-rise serves as a vertical ecosystem and offers bird habitats and community spaces.

© 2023 by Viraj Gapchoop.

All rights reserved. Any duplication or redistribution as a whole or in parts requires written permission of Viraj Gapchoop.

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