Prasad Khanolkar

The central question the studio asks is how does the environment shape the builtform, and vice versa? Environment is often seen as separate from human life, consisting of natural elements like air, water, and light. This Settlement Study aims to rethink that view by examining the environment as an invisible infrastructure that shapes human livelihoods, built forms, and social relationships. Conducted over two weeks, the research studied the overlapping intensities of life, living conditions, and non-human forces in a brackish water lagoon on an island in Chilika Lake, Odisha.

The lake spans 1164 sq km and has seen major ecological shifts due to natural events like cyclones and human interventions, including the dredging of a new lake mouth in 2000. Despite these efforts, local residents report ongoing ecological issues, such as reduced fish catch and increased sedimentation, affecting their socio-economic stability.

The study focused on two villages, Mainsha and Berhampur. Around 60% of families rely on fishing or fish vending, while others farm or raise livestock. Caste dynamics shape fishing rights, with Kaibartas of Mainsha fishing, and Khotiyas of Berhampur vending fish. Other castes engage in farming and labor. Migration to cities like Puri and Bhubaneswar is increasing, driven by declining fish yields and a shift toward tourism-based livelihoods.

The study examined 10 households to understand how ecology influences household forms, land distribution, and family economies. Spatial analysis revealed how homes adapt to the island’s forces. Divided into four groups—weather, settlement, landscape, and daily rhythms—the module studied how socio-natural dynamics shape built environments. The findings reveal the intertwined relationship between humans, the environment, and builtform, positioning them not as separate entities but as responsive and interdependent forces.

The work from the module can be explored here.