Ther Laurie Baker: The Spirit Of Architecture In Kerala
Introduction
Regional character is a necessary property of any authentic architecture. As all buildings form part of a concrete “here” they cannot be alike every¬where, but have to embody the particular qualities of the given place. From ancient times this quality has been recognized as the genius loci and historical buildings normally had a distinct “local flavour." Architecture thus helped-man to identify the "spirit of the place" and offered him a sense of belonging.
Recognized as one of the regionalist architect, Laurie Baker can be considered part of an architectural tradition inspired by powerful landscapes of Kerala. The reference to landscape and the spirit of place is best captured in his works; which can be best understood when one sees the potent landscape of Kerala. We cannot talk of his work without reference to such influences, for he absorbed much from the local craftsmen, the peace of inner courtyards and soft light of Padmannabhpuram palace, the beauty of trees and nature; which is reflected in his buildings. His architecture is filled with mystery, silence and intimacy. Smaller courtyards, framed views dominate his inward looking spaces and create the relation to the earth and bring bit of sky within.
According to Norberg Schulz …show more content…
He was involved in designing and constructing buildings for Leprosy hospitals, rehabilitation homes for more than a decade much of which remains unknown. His larger body of work is in Kerala, the southern state of India where he worked for 50 years, he designed and constructed more than 1000 residences, 150 big and small public buildings; it would be fascinating and edifying to carry out a study that documents all of his work, in order to form a comprehensive base for his architecture and relate it to his formative years in the
Regional character is a necessary property of any authentic architecture. As all buildings form part of a concrete “here” they cannot be alike every¬where, but have to embody the particular qualities of the given place. From ancient times this quality has been recognized as the genius loci and historical buildings normally had a distinct “local flavour." Architecture thus helped-man to identify the "spirit of the place" and offered him a sense of belonging.
Recognized as one of the regionalist architect, Laurie Baker can be considered part of an architectural tradition inspired by powerful landscapes of Kerala. The reference to landscape and the spirit of place is best captured in his works; which can be best understood when one sees the potent landscape of Kerala. We cannot talk of his work without reference to such influences, for he absorbed much from the local craftsmen, the peace of inner courtyards and soft light of Padmannabhpuram palace, the beauty of trees and nature; which is reflected in his buildings. His architecture is filled with mystery, silence and intimacy. Smaller courtyards, framed views dominate his inward looking spaces and create the relation to the earth and bring bit of sky within.
According to Norberg Schulz …show more content…
He was involved in designing and constructing buildings for Leprosy hospitals, rehabilitation homes for more than a decade much of which remains unknown. His larger body of work is in Kerala, the southern state of India where he worked for 50 years, he designed and constructed more than 1000 residences, 150 big and small public buildings; it would be fascinating and edifying to carry out a study that documents all of his work, in order to form a comprehensive base for his architecture and relate it to his formative years in the