Sangath B.V. Doshi Studio
Sangath, the studio of Pritzker Prize winner B.V. Doshi, is an architectural marvel blending nature, innovation, and tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Sangath B.V. Doshi Studio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sangath, the studio of Pritzker Prize winner B.V. Doshi, is an architectural marvel blending nature, innovation, and tranquility.
"Our time spent here will not be forgotten, even in such a short time this studio and the structure alone leave an impression of Doshi's work that is unmatched!"
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Essential for understanding Doshi's vision.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the grounds and studio spaces, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Vaulted Studios
Main Studio Area
Discover the unique, sunken vaulted studios covered in mosaic tiles, a signature of B.V. Doshi's design.
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Tranquil Garden and Water Features
Outdoor Spaces
Find serenity in the lush garden, complete with ponds and innovative water harvesting channels.
Outdoor Amphitheater
Garden Area
An open-air space for lectures and gatherings, reflecting Doshi's community-focused approach.
Mosaic Tile Artistry
Studio Roofs and Walls
Marvel at the intricate mosaic tile work, which not only beautifies but also aids in natural cooling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Sangath
Embrace the Architectural Philosophy
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Essential for understanding Doshi's vision.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the grounds and studio spaces, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Working Studio
Remember this is an active workspace. Be mindful of noise and respect the ongoing work.
Capture the Details
Bring your camera! The intricate tile work and unique architecture are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit with insights from knowledgeable guides. Essential for understanding Doshi's vision.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the grounds and studio spaces, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Working Studio
Remember this is an active workspace. Be mindful of noise and respect the ongoing work.
Capture the Details
Bring your camera! The intricate tile work and unique architecture are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Check Visiting Hours
Access can be restricted as it's a working studio. Confirm hours and tour availability beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sangath for its unique architectural brilliance and serene atmosphere, highlighting B.V. Doshi's genius in blending design with nature. While the studio's working nature means access requires planning, the experience is overwhelmingly described as informative, charming, and unforgettable.
"Our time spent here will not be forgotten, even in such a short time this studio and the structure alone leave an impression of Doshi's work that is unmatched!
The half domes that housed Doshi's practice were covered with small tiles that traversed the domes in an organic fashion. There were pictures hidden in plain sight within the individual placement of these tiles which caught our attention and engaged the interest of the whole group.
This continued into the building where we were guided through a model making studio, creative spaces and offices where the work of Doshi and the firms architects could be seen. They were lovely enough to show some of our group their work and talk us through it. Their auto cad skills were amazing, the beauty and ambiance of their studio was definitely reflected in their work.
The tour ended with an exhibition of Doshi's works and a small store where you could shop prints, postcards and architectural books. Overall the experience here was informative and very charming!!"
Chloe Mcaleese
"Discover Doshi' practices here beginning with half dome roofs viewed from the entrance and garden. A mosaic of white ceramic tiles and an inner concrete cavity cool the office in harsh sun. In the tiles there are inconspicuous visuals like swans. Channel-like gutters create flow from the top of the building to a bottom tank where water is harvested for other uses.
Though next to a main road, the garden is surprisingly tranquil due to the trees, ponds and stone ornaments. The outdoor ampitheatre is where they hold lectures."
Poseidon Dart
"The best place to learn Doshi’s office with thoroughly explained structural detailing. Dome roof to minimise surface area from the sun even adding white mosaic tiles to reflect light. All these aspects were well thought out to match the environment, which taught us the importance of how to combat the sun to maximise one’s comfort."
Teppei Hanazono
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sangath is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services from the city center. While it's near a main road, the garden offers a surprising tranquility.
Public transport options might be limited directly to the studio. It's generally recommended to use taxis or ride-sharing apps for a more convenient journey.
The studio is designed with a flow that guides visitors through different spaces, including the vaulted studios, garden, and exhibition areas. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but it's advisable to check with your tour operator or inquire upon arrival if you are driving. Ride-sharing is a popular alternative.
Yes, Sangath is a significant architectural site in Ahmedabad and can be a key part of a day trip focused on the city's architectural heritage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As Sangath is a working studio, access might be managed. It's highly recommended to book a guided tour in advance, which often includes entry.
Opening hours can vary as it's a professional office. It's best to confirm the latest visiting times and tour schedules directly with the studio or your tour provider.
Ticket prices are typically associated with guided tours. It's advisable to check the current rates when booking your visit.
While spontaneous visits might be possible, booking in advance, especially for tours, is strongly advised to ensure entry and a comprehensive experience.
Photography is generally allowed to capture the architectural beauty, but it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid disrupting the studio's work.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Sangath embodies a unique blend of modernist and vernacular architecture, characterized by its sunken vaults, mosaic tile work, and integration with nature.
Its design emphasizes passive cooling, water harvesting, and a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural landscape, reflecting Doshi's philosophy.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to understand the architectural concepts and the life and work of B.V. Doshi.
Visitors can see model-making studios, creative spaces, offices, and an exhibition of Doshi's works, showcasing the firm's design process and output.
Absolutely. Sangath is an invaluable learning site for architecture students, offering practical insights into sustainable design and innovative spatial planning.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
There are no specific dining facilities mentioned within Sangath. Visitors usually plan meals before or after their visit in Ahmedabad.
Yes, there is a small store where you can purchase prints, postcards, and architectural books related to B.V. Doshi's work.
The store typically offers publications that delve into Doshi's designs, architectural philosophy, and his contributions to Indian architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to observe the details in the tile work and the clever water systems. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to the concept of sustainable design in a tangible way. Remember to emphasize the importance of respecting the studio environment. Pack snacks and water, as on-site dining options are limited.
🎓 Architecture Enthusiasts & Students
Engage deeply with the mosaic tile artistry and understand its functional and aesthetic roles. Visiting the model-making studios and seeing the firm's ongoing projects offers a glimpse into the practical application of architectural principles. A guided tour is highly recommended to gain in-depth insights into Doshi's thought process and the studio's operational ethos.
🌿 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Observe how the design minimizes energy consumption through thoughtful material choices and spatial planning. The integration of the garden and water features not only enhances the aesthetic but also contributes to a cooler microclimate. Sangath serves as a powerful reminder that beautiful and functional architecture can coexist harmoniously with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Genius of B.V. Doshi
+1Sangath, his studio, is a prime example of his design principles. Built in 1981, it was conceived as a place that would inspire creativity and collaboration. The studio's design incorporates elements like sunken vaults, which help in natural cooling by minimizing surface area exposed to the sun, and a sophisticated water harvesting system that channels rainwater to a storage tank. The use of mosaic tiles on the exterior not only adds aesthetic value but also reflects sunlight, further contributing to the building's thermal comfort.
Doshi's influence extends beyond his built works; he was a dedicated educator who mentored generations of architects. His legacy is one of innovation, sustainability, and a profound understanding of how architecture can shape lives and communities. Visiting Sangath offers a tangible connection to his enduring vision and his significant contributions to the built environment.
Sustainable Design at Sangath
Water management is another key aspect of Sangath's sustainability. The studio features channel-like gutters that efficiently collect rainwater from the roofs. This harvested water is then channeled to a bottom tank, where it is stored for various uses, promoting water conservation. The surrounding garden, with its ponds and vegetation, further contributes to the microclimate, providing a natural cooling effect and a tranquil atmosphere.
The use of white mosaic tiles on the exterior of the vaults serves a dual purpose: aesthetic appeal and thermal regulation. These tiles reflect sunlight, preventing excessive heat absorption by the building's structure. This holistic approach to design, integrating climate responsiveness, water conservation, and aesthetic beauty, makes Sangath a timeless example of sustainable architectural practice.
The Experience of Visiting Sangath
The architectural journey through the studio is equally captivating. Guests are guided through the unique vaulted spaces, which house model-making studios, creative areas, and offices. The intricate mosaic tile work on the domes is a recurring point of admiration, with some noting hidden visuals within the patterns. Visitors often appreciate the opportunity to see the work of Doshi and his firm's architects, and some have even had the chance to interact with them.
The visit typically concludes with an exhibition of B.V. Doshi's works and a small store offering prints and books. The overall sentiment is one of deep appreciation for Doshi's genius, the studio's unique ambiance, and the informative nature of the visit. It's considered a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and design.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit