Architect Speaks Series 2023

SONA Newsletter | Vol 16

ARCHITECT SPEAKS SERIES 2023

1. YOUNG ARCHITECTS EXPERIENCE SHARING

- Ar. Sabin Maharjan

 

The architectural landscape of Kathmandu witnessed a captivating blend of innovation, creativity, and inspiration as the SONA (Society of Nepalese Architects) Committee of Young Architects (SCYA) hosted “Architects Speaks” on the 25th of August 2023, at the exquisite Bougain Villa, Kathmandu. The event brought together young architects, design enthusiasts, and industry professionals to celebrate the diverse visions that shape our built environment. 

Three distinguished young architects graced the stage, sharing their insights, experiences, and groundbreaking projects that are pushing the boundaries of contemporary architecture. Among them were Ar. Suyog Kayastha from Three Dots Architects, Ar. Toran Pandit from Zero Dia Designs, and Ar. Rahul Bajracharya from Little More Studio 

Ar. Suyog Kayastha, the visionary mind behind 3 Dots Architects, mesmerized the audience with his journey through the world of design. His projects, characterized by a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, reflect a commitment to sustainable and contextually responsive architecture. From innovative residential spaces to dynamic commercial structures, Kayastha’s work captivates not only the eye but also the soul. 

Following suit, Ar. Toran Pandit from Zero Dia Design unfolded the narrative behind his studio’s avant-garde designs. Pandit’s projects seamlessly integrate technology, culture, and sustainability, showcasing a commitment to creating spaces that not only stand out in the urban context but also resonate with the spirit of the community they serve. 

Ar. Rahul Bajracharya, the creative force behind Little More Studio, concluded the event by sharing his distinctive approach to architecture. Bajracharya’s projects provides a sense of playfulness and innovation, challenging conventional design norms. His work reflects a deep understanding of the evolving needs of modern society and a passion for pushing the boundaries of architectural expression. 

The event was not just a platform for young architects to showcase their projects but also an opportunity for the audience to engage in meaningful dialogue. The Q&A session that followed allowed attendees to search deeper into the minds of these architects, gaining insights into their design philosophies, challenges faced, and the future of architecture in Nepal. 

“Architects Speaks” not only celebrated the creative brilliance of these young architects but also catalyzed the exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of community within the architectural sphere. As we reflect on this event, it is evident that the future of Nepalese architecture is in the hands of visionaries who are pushing the boundaries of design, shaping a built environment that is not only functional but also a documentation to the rich cultural shades of Nepal. 

2. CYCLE IN THE CITY

- Ar. Rakesh Maharjan 

Architect speaks episode No. 2 was held jointly by SONA committee for Social Responsibility and Nepal Cycle Society on 1st September 2023, friday at Himalaya college of Engineering, Chyasal on the topic “Cycle in the city”. Three Architects involved in different social sectors namely Ar. Navin Devkota, Urban Planner and Chairperson of SONA committee for social responsibility, Ar. Baburam Bhattarai, currently associated with the City Planning Commission of Kathmandu Metropolitan City and Ar. Rakesh Maharjan, then General Secretary of Nepal Cycle Society presented in the session that was moderated by Ar. Kiran Joshi, Urban Planner, actively involved in Planning bicycle infrastructures in various municipalities in Nepal.

Ar. Navin Devkota, also a regular bicycle commuter, briefed about different situations that bicycle commuters had to face while riding bicycles for commuting in the city and also put forward the need of respect and space that bicycle commuters deserve while commuting in bicycle. 

the limited statements about bicycle commuting and infrastructures that have been mentioned in existing standards like Nepal Roads standards 2070, Nepal Urban Road standard 2076. He also added on the need for standards for sustainable mobility and asked for suggestions on how CPC of Kathmandu metropolitan City can contribute to the development of sustainable urban mobility. 

Ar. Rakesh Maharjan lighted upon the importance of bicycles as a sustainable mode of transportation in the current situation of Nepal of trade deficit, pollution and unhealthy mobility practice. He also shared the experience of development of bicycle infrastructures in Lalitpur Metropolitan city through Nepal Cycle Society. 

The session held a very informative discussion about the role of bicycles in the city and ended in the positive commitment of working together for the establishing dignified and sustainable mobility in the cities of Nepal. 

3. CELEBRATING WOMEN ARCHITECTS IN DIFFERENT SECTORS 

- Ar. Srijana Koirala 

 

The committee on Woman in Architecture and 15th Executive Committee organised the ‘Architect Speak Series’ program on September 8, 2023 at Bougenvilla Events, Tripureswor. The event was participated by more than 100 people from different architecture fraternity. 

The main aim of the Woman in Architecture sub-committee to enhance visibility of women in architecture and increasing their role in shaping the built environment of Nepal through network building, recognition of their contribution and supporting women into architecture. The program aimed to recognize, appreciate and motivate the contribution of Women in Architecture, by bringing together leading women working in diverse sector and celebrating their experience and achievements. 

The speakers for the program were Ar. Sarita Shrestha Maskey, Former Joint-Secretary of Ministry of Urban Development; Ar. Rojana Joshi, Team leader, Interior work of Federal Parliament; Ar. Sujata Tuladhar, LEAD AP, Architectural Manager of KC Group; and Ar. Pragya Pradhan, Country manager of UN Habitat Nepal. All the speakers talked about their experience on studying architecture, returning back from abroad studies, starting their career in Nepal from junior level to pursuing the leading position. They also inspired young and mid-career professional on following their dream, avoiding self-doubt and trying to be out of comfort zone to explore more in opportunities and professional avenues in life. The program was moderated by Vice-chair of Committee on Woman in Architecture, Ar. Dristi Manandhar which included, question and answer session and discussion from the floor. Remarks of Thanks was delivered by chair of the committee Ar. Uma Devi Shangachhe and closing remarks was provided by Ar. Ishwor Lal Joshi, after handing over the taken of love to the speakers and moderator of the event. High tea was served after the closure of the event. 

4. AR. BISMA SAMI ASKARI | Reflection of the ARCASIA Committee on Young Architects

- Ar. Anup Chhetri 

This event was organized to bid a warm farewell to the chairperson of the ARCASIA Committee on Young Architects (ACYA), Ar. Bisma Sami Askari for her successful tenure. The program aimed to honor her achievements and reflect upon the challenges encountered during her term. The event lasted for 1 hour and 30 minutes, with around 100 participants from across the globe, mostly young architects from Nepal, who aspired to sharpen their skills by engaging in different events organized by the SONA’s Young Committee. The program was a total success, with positive responses and feedback from the participants. The entire program was hosted by Ar. Rumi Singh Maharjan and was formally inaugurated with welcoming remarks from the President of SONA’s Young Committee, Ar. Sugandha Subedi. 

Bisma began her presentation by providing the background of the ARCASIA Committee on Young Architects (ACYA) and sharing her personal experiences. She described her vision of making the committee a platform for the growth and evolution of young architects, despite their diversity, by working on their personal, professional, leadership, and advocacy skills. She explained the objectives of ACYA, its current status, working modality, and plans for achieving its goals, highlighting the potential of this committee in shaping the future. 

She emphasized the committee’s dedication to the development of young architects through various collaborative programs aimed at promoting and exchanging ideas. She stressed the importance of responsible and sustainable management of natural resources to ensure their long-term productivity and highlighted the significance of social awareness and environmental sustainability for aspiring architects. For her, this is a lifelong learning process that would imbibe the character of resiliency, adaptability, and interdisciplinary hybridity of young architects, preparing them for future endeavors. 

During the event, she shared her professional experiences and thought process while working on various projects. She also highlighted the challenges faced by the architecture fraternity due to earthquake vulnerability and emphasized the need for collective efforts during such disastrous moments. In the interactive session, she compared the use of steel structures in Pakistan with Nepal and discussed their potentiality.

Her experiences and stories were both inspiring and engaging for the audience, providing new insights on ACYA and the architecture of Pakistan. The session was formally ended with a note of thanks and closing remarks from Ar. Abhishek Mananda Bajracharya, the Joint-Secretary of the Society of Nepalese Architects (SONA).