21/02/2026
While all our projects are eco-centric, the design of Ayesh Baganbari in Barasat goes beyond an anthropocentric approach to encompass the entire ecosystem it supports. Prioritising the reuse of existing structures ensured that no new impervious surfaces were added. Site zoning for landscaping, agricultural areas, and pervious pathways around the built structures was guided by the sun path and shadow patterns created by the existing tree cover, and a water management system based on a survey of the land’s slope.
Enhanced tree cover with local fruit trees was planted along the northern, eastern, and western boundaries, but not along the southern boundary, to prevent shadows cast by the southern sun from obstructing the growth of agricultural crops. On the south and western sides, trees are positioned closer to the house so that the shadow pattern naturally regulates the interior temperature.
For site water management, a retention pond was dug to tap the natural aquifer in the low-lying area at the rear of the plot. The natural slope of the land west of the house directs water toward the pond. This acts as a storage reservoir for rainwater, recharges the groundwater, and prevents flooding of the site. A natural embankment has been created around the pond, with coconut and mango trees and various plants, rather than concrete. It includes an inlet and outlet system for the low-lying agricultural area to the south of the pond.
The land east of the house has been graded to slope toward the swale (nallah) on the road adjoining the plot, and channels have been created in the compound wall for efficient drainage.
It is interesting to note the growth of biodiversity, supported by the fruit trees, flowers, vegetation, and pond, and the creation of natural habitats for a healthy population of birds, butterflies, bees, fish, frogs, and other fauna.
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