The Lodsi Community Project: Fusing Tradition with Modern Sustainability

Nestled in the serene Himalayan foothills, overlooking the majestic river Ganges in Rishikesh, India, the Lodsi community project for Forest Essentials represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Commissioned by a leading skincare company committed to reviving Ayurveda, Morphogenesis embarked on a journey to construct a contemporary manufacturing facility that embodies ancient wisdom within a modern framework.

Contextual Design Approach

Our design philosophy was deeply rooted in the site’s topography, climate, and local context. Adhering to a strict budget and resource constraints, we aimed to create a net-zero, energy-efficient building that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. The existing structure’s footprint guided our design, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment.

Vernacular Inspiration

Drawing inspiration from the traditional Garwahli ‘kholi’ (house), we conceived a rectilinear volume oriented along the East-West axis. This layout, with a central entry dividing the facility, optimizes spatial organization. Functions requiring cooler environments are situated on the ground floor, while preparatory functions with high heat gain occupy the upper level.

Sustainable Features

The North-South oriented butterfly roof not only enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal but also facilitates natural ventilation and daylighting. Large operable windows harness prevailing winds, ensuring optimal indoor comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Passive design strategies, including facade shading and optimized window-to-wall ratios, contribute to the building’s energy efficiency, achieving an impressive EPI of 35kWh/m2/year.

Renewable Energy Integration

A solar roof generating 50kWp offsets the facility’s energy requirements and even generates surplus electricity, contributing back to the state grid. Rainwater harvesting systems meet the facility’s water needs, promoting self-sufficiency and minimizing environmental impact. Waste materials are repurposed throughout the facility, further enhancing its sustainability credentials.

Community Integration

The project incorporates a ‘gaushala’ for animal husbandry, alongside a community gathering space, fostering a sense of communal belonging. Employing local materials, techniques, and labor, the facility serves as a catalyst for economic empowerment, directly benefiting village households. Large communal spaces promote social interaction, reflecting the region’s close-knit community ethos.

Holistic Impact

The Lodsi Community Project exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable development, setting a new benchmark for decentralized communities with a global outlook. By honoring tradition, embracing innovation, and prioritizing community welfare, the project embodies Forest Essentials’ commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

Through the Lodsi Community Project, Morphogenesis has not only created a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility but also a beacon of sustainable living that celebrates the rich heritage of the Himalayan region while paving the way for a brighter, greener future.