Latest news with #LeCorbusier
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Understanding the importance of urban planning!
Urban planning is a multidisciplinary field that guides and directs the development and design of land, infrastructure, and services in cities and regions. Its goals include ensuring economic development, improving residents' quality of life, and managing resources sustainably. This process involves several components, including land use, transportation, housing, public spaces, and environmental considerations. Why is it needed? Urban planning is important for developing sustainable and resilient cities for the future. It contributes to population management, environmental issues, and social equity. Through directing land use, transportation, and infrastructure, urban planning supports environmental sustainability by managing resources responsibly to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, economic growth by creating opportunities for businesses to thrive, and improved quality of life by enhancing living conditions, including access to jobs, education, healthcare, and recreation. How does India do it? India's rapid urbanisation and population growth necessitate urban planning to manage infrastructure, improve quality of life, and ensure sustainable development. Without it, challenges like traffic congestion, inadequate sanitation, and housing shortages become increasingly difficult to address. A few examples of urban planning in India are: Chandigarh, the first planned city in India, was created soon after India's independence in 1947. Le Corbusier, a celebrated Swiss-French architect, conceived of this groundbreaking endeavour, and the city's layout revolves around well-organised sectors, each serving as a self-sustaining microcosm with a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Gujarat's capital, Gandhinagar, was built in the 1960s to take Ahmedabad's place as the state capital. Its architecture successfully blends functionality and beauty. The emphasis on sizable, well-organised sectors with specific functions, like residential, commercial, and educational, sets Gandhinagar's urban planning apart. The city's dedication to environmental sustainability, demonstrated by its numerous green initiatives and emphasis on eco-friendly practices, allows the city to successfully blend urban life with the natural world. Where we go wrong with it Urban planning can go wrong in several ways, including failing to adequately address community needs, from poor transportation systems to neglecting affordable housing options. Such issues can strain the local economy and increase social issues. It can also cause environmental damage due to inefficient land use and inadequate infrastructure. All these can lead to increased traffic congestion, limited accessibility, and a diminished quality of life for residents. To avoid these pitfalls, urban planners should prioritise a holistic approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental needs of the community. The importance! To manage the rapid urbanisation, cities must have the necessary infrastructure and services (water, sanitation, healthcare, etc.) to accommodate the growing population. This is exactly what urban planning ensures. Numerous issues, such as overcrowding, traffic jams, a lack of basic services, and heightened susceptibility to natural disasters, result from neglecting urban planning. Economic losses and environmental deterioration are further consequences of poor planning. Marginalised groups might be disproportionately impacted by the consequences of poor urban planning, which can also worsen already-existing inequalities. Due to a lack of proper infrastructure and emergency response systems, these cities are also more vulnerable to earthquakes, flooding, and other natural disasters. Cities may become even more susceptible to the consequences of rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events if climate change projections are ignored in urban planning.
Tatler Asia
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
Tatler's picks: Watches that push the boundaries of contemporary craftsmanship
Subtle redefining Above Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor Parmigiani Fleurier's Tonda PF Micro-Rotor continues its quiet homage to the enduring allure of platinum. This new limited edition appears in a moody shade of deep blue stone, sheathed in a 40mm case of 950 platinum—pure, understated opulence. Its standout feature is its remarkable slimness—just 7.8mm, made possible by the 3mm PF703 ultra-thin movement, integrated with a platinum micro-rotor. This enables both mechanical prowess and graceful finesse. The dial, dressed in a grain d'orge guilloché pattern, offers layered texture while maintaining a minimalist sensibility. Rooted in the philosophy of discreet elegance, this piece echoes Le Corbusier's ethos—intentional, poised and considered. With only 25 pieces created, it is a rare find for the connoisseur collector. Read more: What can we tell from Pope Leo XIV's Wenger watch? When snake turns into dragon Above Bulgari & MB&F Serpenti For those who once doubted the synergy between Bulgari and MB&F, the Flying T Allegra of 2019 swiftly silenced them. This year, the two maisons push further, unveiling an even more audacious creation. The new Serpenti is a spectacular metamorphosis reimagining Bulgari's iconic femininity as a feat of mechanical ingenuity. Its layered 53mm case cradles twin rotating aluminium domes, each displaying the time and mimicking the hypnotic gaze of a serpent. At its centre, a 14mm flying balance wheel pulses like the beating heart of a mechanical being. Far from a conventional jewellery timepiece, this is a kinetic sculpture, defying tradition. Each of the 33 limited editions crafted in titanium, rose gold or black PVD-coated steel is the result of three years of research and devotion, a symphony of precision and artistic flair. The openworked dial completes the silhouette—fierce, refined, and utterly singular. Continuing the legacy Above Credor Locomotive GCCR997 The spirit of Gérald Genta lives on in the latest Credor creation, drawing inspiration from the legendary Locomotive. This edition features a 38.8mm titanium case, housing the automatic Calibre CR01, which delivers a 45-hour power reserve combining reliability with refined performance. The watch's defining features include a distinctive hexagonal case, a striking blue dial with precise geometric motifs, and a mix of brushed and polished finishes across the case and strap creating a play of textures that catches the light with sophistication. At 8.9mm thick, it offers a reassuring yet elegant weight on the wrist. With a water resistance of up to 100 metres, it proves to be a versatile companion in varied settings. Set to launch at retail boutiques next month, this design continues the legacy of a true icon. Eternal mark Above IWC Schaffhausen Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Actor Hiroyuki Sanada made a statement in understated elegance at the Producers Guild of America Awards 2025, selecting the IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, an intricate timepiece that marries technical prowess with timeless style. The 43mm stainless steel watch features a slate-grey dial, classic Arabic numerals, and a black leather strap, a combination that strikes a balance between refinement and masculinity. Its design encompasses a perpetual calendar, displaying day, date, month, year and a moon phase, all powered by the in-house Calibre 89630. Beyond the calendar complication, it includes a chronograph with flyback functionality, allowing precise timing with a single seamless motion. A 68-hour power reserve ensures the watch is as dependable as it is sophisticated, capturing the essence of IWC's mechanical artistry. Legend of rebirth Above Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3818 'Cover Girl Carbon' The age of neo-vintage has arrived, and the Zenith Chronomaster Revival A3818 'Cover Girl Carbon' leads the charge. This striking piece revives the spirit of the original 1971 El Primero chronograph, reimagined in three contemporary limited editions. The 37mm case is crafted from carbon composite, offering a featherlight feel at just 60 grams, far lighter than its steel or titanium predecessors. The black carbon dial features a distinctive 'shark's tooth' seconds track, framed by tachymeter and pulsometer scales. Inside, the automatic El Primero 400 movement ensures chronograph precision, a 50-hour power reserve, and compatibility with a variety of strap styles making it a dynamic piece of wearable heritage. Minimalist luxury Above Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro-Rotor Parmigiani Fleurier's Tonda PF Micro-Rotor continues to honour the enduring elegance of platinum in haute horlogerie. This new limited edition appears in a deep stone-blue hue, encased in 40mm of 950 platinum, a study in quiet opulence. Its most striking feature is its svelte silhouette, measuring just 7.8mm thick. This is made possible by the PF703 ultra-thin movement at 3mm, which includes a platinum micro-rotor delivering high performance while preserving the watch's refined form. The dial is embellished with a grain d'orge guilloché motif, offering texture without compromising minimalism. The piece embodies the ethos of understated luxury, echoing Le Corbusier's principles—purposeful, elegant and sincere. With only 25 pieces produced, it is a rare acquisition for the discerning collector. Out to sea Above Panerai Radiomir 8 Giorni Eilean Experience Edition PAM01643 The Eilean, a 70-foot sailing yacht from 1936, gained cult status after appearing in Duran Duran's Rio video, only to fall into disrepair. In 2006, then Panerai CEO Angelo Bonati discovered the vessel in Antigua and began an ambitious restoration, returning it to its former glory. To honour this nautical legend, Panerai unveils the Radiomir 8 Giorni Eilean Experience Edition PAM01643, limited to just 30 pieces. The 45mm Brunito steel case features bronze accents repurposed from the Eilean during its restoration—a seamless blend of legacy and innovation. A beige dial evokes wind-filled sails, while the hand-wound P.5000 calibre delivers an impressive eight-day power reserve. Each owner is invited on a voyage through Sicily—from exploring Mount Etna to sailing aboard the Eilean herself, offering an immersive experience in the spirit of timeless adventure.
India.com
14-06-2025
- India.com
Why Monsoon Season In Chandigarh City Is A Must-See Experience
The well-designed Chandigarh city rests against the Shivalik hill base where people recognize it for its artistic masterpieces together with its abundant plant life and peaceful climate. This union territory maintains its own charm in each season but the monsoon season presents an exclusive magic to the city. Chandigarh achieves its most majestic appearance during monsoon months since rainy seasons revitalize the natural scenery allowing people to appreciate the city at its peak of liveliness. The monsoon season in Chandigarh displays seven important features that create its charm. 1. Revitalized Green Spaces The City Beautiful moniker belongs to Chandigarh due to its precise garden and park maintenance. The green spaces thrive during monsoon season because they display new leaves and blooming flowers. The gentle rainfall strengthens the enchantment of Sukhna Lake and Zakir Hussain Rose Garden together with the Rock Garden. These scenic locations become ideal retreats during the rainy season because the rain enhances their natural splendor. 2. Sukhna Lake – A Monsoon Marvel Sukhna Lake which functions as Chandigarh's signature destination develops into a mesmerizing view when rainfall occurs. The increased water level in Sukhna Lake becomes a sight to behold as mist from the horizon creates a dreamlike setting. People can experience cruising on the lake's peaceful waters as they appreciate the forested surroundings. The local bird sanctuary provides sanctuary to migratory birds as they rest in the area during the monsoon season. 3. Cooler Climate and Refreshing Air Summers in this area end when temperatures become cooler during the monsoon season. Weather conditions become favorable for outdoor fun because of the seasonal changes. A shower brings fresh clean air to the area which reduces the irritating humidity levels. The pleasant conditions draw visitors to walk through the Sector 17 Plaza and cycle along the tree-lined avenues because of the enticing climate. 4. Architectural Splendor Amidst Rain The rainy season allows visitors to experience the extraordinary vision of Le Corbusier's architectural masterpieces in a unique way. The Assembly Building along with the High Court and additional noteworthy structures appear breathtakingly beautiful beneath the partially concealed skies. Snow-like rain droplets enhance the glamorous appearance of modernist architectural designs constructed from glass and concrete. Photographers draw their creative inspiration from this period because they get to capture the illuminated and concealed aspects created by stormy weather. 5. Delicious Monsoon Treats The discussion on Chandigarh monsoon charm requires mention of the delightful seasonal food items which are available throughout the city streets. Hot pakoras and samosas together with chai form an irresistible package offered by street vendors during rainy days. Local restaurants provide monsoon-special menus with comforting options of rajma rice and kadhi chawal for diners to enjoy. The culinary masterpieces enhance the already cozy aspect of wet days. 6. Exploring Nearby Hill Stations Chandigarh provides residents easy access to multiple mountain towns which gain more appeal during rainy seasons. The nearby destinations Kasauli Shimla and Kufri are within easy driving distance of the city offering citizens relief from city life. Thick fog blankets the hills together with numerous waterfalls which produce a magical scene. Residents from Chandigarh use their weekend time to visit nearby places where they can enjoy peaceful nights while observing the lush scenery. 7. Cultural and Festive Celebrations Chandigarh witnesses numerous cultural festivities which match the timing of monsoon season entry. Women celebrate Teej festival as a traditional event when the rainy season starts through musical performances, dance routines and bright clothes. Local cultural groups use their organization power to offer artistic events including exhibitions of art and theatrical stages and poetry readings for entertainment throughout the wet months. Through their festivities Chandigarh residents create community bonds and maintain celebration of the seasonal spirit. Conclusion The monsoon season within Chandigarh demonstrates how the city presents its finest attractions to visitors. The city's multiple attractions bring pleasure to every resident with its restored natural beauty along with lake viewpoints and culinary experiences and cultural events. Naturally the rain acts as a restorative force on both nature and brings attractive chances to spend time with those we love alongside the appreciation of everyday little pleasures of existence. Every lover of nature and of both architecture and culture finds Chandigarh to be a paradise during its monsoon months. The beauty of this season invites you to explore one of India's most beautiful cities while wearing your raincoat and carrying your umbrella.
Globe and Mail
11-06-2025
- General
- Globe and Mail
A vision for Toronto's decayed Canadian Malting silos becomes reality
If there is a curve, a hard ridge, a window, or a vent on the old Canada Malting silos, it needs to be there. There is nothing, absolutely nothing, superfluous. A grain silo is the epitome of form following function, which is why German architect Walter Gropius published photographs of Buffalo silos six years before founding the famous Bauhaus school, and the Swiss-French legend, Le Corbusier, included them in his influential publication Vers Une Architecture in 1923. Which might also be why, when Canada Malting announced in 1987 that it would be vacating its hulking 1928-29 (south) and 1944 (north) silos at the foot of Bathurst Street (designed by the Chicago-based John S. Metcalfe Company) most of the voices calling to save them were those of Toronto's architects. Others, such as then-alderman Tony O'Donahue, told the Toronto Star that 'explosives are the answer.' But some funny – and wonderful – things happened over the next 20 years. In the mid-1990s, Robert Kearns, an Irish immigrant like Mr. O'Donahue, was moved after seeing seven sculptures showing 'the face of famine' by Rowan Gillespie installed at the edge of the River Liffey in Dublin. 'They depict departure,' says Mr. Kearns, a partner in Kearns Edgewater Financial Services, 'and so I said 'I'm going to create a waterfront location [in Toronto] depicting arrival – the link between the two is water.'' Arrival is an understatement: Toronto, with a population of about 20,000 during the Irish Famine's peak year of 1847, saw approximately 38,500 Irish Famine refugees come to the city. But Mr. Kearns needed a site, ideally close to Ree's Wharf (near Simcoe Street) where the refugees landed. The Canada Malting complex, on a piece of prime waterfront, was back in the spotlight as home to 'Metronome,' a flashy (and expensive) proposal to build a museum honouring Canadian music, along with offices and meeting spaces, on top of, and around, the silos. But the Metronome people wouldn't meet with Mr. Kearns. So, he went to then-councillor Olivia Chow, who 'got lit up by the story' and, by 2000, had 'tabled a motion carving off the south-east corner of Bathurst Quay.' Designed by Mr. Kearns architect-brother, Jonathan Kearns, Ireland Park opened to great fanfare in 2007. Featuring limestone from the Feeley family (Kilkenny blue) and new sculptures by Mr. Gillespie, who came to Toronto in 2000 and watched the sunrise from the site, its newness stood in stark contrast to the silos, which were then in decay. A dozen years later, however, all of that changed when the city unveiled plans for Bathurst Quay Common: a new water's edge promenade landscaped by PFS Studio; the silos restored by ERA Architects, Brook Restoration and Moon-Matz Engineers; and a heretofore unnoticed Bauhaus-style office building to the west was leased to the Ireland Canada Foundation for a multipurpose arts centre called the Corleck. That building, says Mr. Kearns, had been used by the city's forestry department, but it was so covered in ivy and its yellow bricks were so filthy, it wasn't on the average person's radar despite its location beside Billy Bishop Airport's passenger pickup area at the foot of Eireann Quay. But it was on his: 'I had no sooner signed the 20-year lease with Olivia that I said, 'I want that building.' That's where the [Canada Malting workers] would go on Friday to get their pay packets, so we've got two old safes in the building.' The Canada Malting plant office was designed in 1946 by Brantford, Ont.-born Frances Hilton Wilkes (1891-1983), who worked, briefly, in the New York office of McKim, Mead & White, and helped introduce 'a modernist vernacular into residential architecture in Ontario in the 1930s,' according to the Biographical Dictionary of Architects in Canada. In 1957 a wing was added (not by Mr. Wilkes) with the same buff brick also found in the R.C. Harris Filtration Plant and Maple Leaf Gardens. On a recent walkabout with Jonathan Kearns, Canada Ireland Foundation vice-chair Eileen Costello, CIF executive director William Peat, PFS Studio's Vinh Van and Kearns Mancini senior architect (heritage) Dan McNeil, it's clear the incredible co-ordination (much by City of Toronto project director Bryan Bowan), intensive restoration work, and overarching vision has paid off handsomely. Not only are the silos shining, the Corleck, which will open to the public in less than a year, is one of the most beautiful early-modernist buildings in the city, with its prominent T-shaped window and curved entrance wall. The Corleck also has one of the most beautiful backyards in the city. With sunlight glinting off the water and the whoosh of airplanes filling our ears, Mr. Peat talked about programming. Four months of the year will be Irish-related arts events, the rest a mixed bag. 'We could use this for a wedding venue in summertime, and then converting over [in fall]; we already have great partnerships with the Luminato Festival … with Young People's Theatre, with Toronto International Festival of Authors, with Mercer Union [artist-run centre], [and] with the Museum of Toronto.' But what about the silos? Leased to OCAD University for its Global Centre for Climate Action, the complex will 'facilitate critical dialogues and presentations on climate resilience' via art (as explained in a 2022 letter to the city). OCAD is also planning on using the taller silos as a canvas for projections. While our walk-through last week revealed only puddles, graffiti and poor lighting, animating the silos and getting people inside them is the only way the average, non-Le Corbusian will fall in love with them too. Maybe install a glass elevator inside one – with illuminated walls and a quick audio interpretation explaining the building's former function – to a rooftop restaurant, and the rest, as they say, will be history.
India.com
31-05-2025
- India.com
5 Must-Visit Instagrammable Places In Chandigarh For Amazing Photography
To fuse contemporary city life with the beauty of nature, Chandigarh is a city of visual wonder. Designed by Le Corbusier, the designed city is an aesthetic wonder for the photographer and Instagrammer alike. Whether you love lush green spaces, architecture or street paintings, Chandigarh is full of picturesque places. Grab your camera or smartphone and let us discover the most Instagrammable locations in Chandigarh to go viral! 1. The Rock Garden To enter the Rock Garden is to enter a fairytale world created from recycled objects. This art installation, by Nek Chand, is a maze of statues, falls and paths. The rough walls, bright mosaics and strange installations offer endless photo opportunities. Whether you're looking to take pictures beside a waterfall or getting a close-up shot of the complex sculptures, you'll surely feel the artistic juices flowing here. Highlights Art installations from reclaimed ceramics and industrial debris. Different pages with different themes and layouts. The best time to visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon for low lights. Quick Facts It was founded in 1957 by Nek Chand, a government official. It occupies more than 40 acres and has over 5,000 sculptures. It is located in Sector 1, near Sukhna Lake. 2. Sukhna Lake Sukhna Lake is a picturesque paradise at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills and offers an environment to explore, photograph and enjoy nature. The shimmering waters, dotted with vegetation, offer romantic views at dawn and dusk. Add in boats skimming on the lake and you have a postcard-worthy image. Remember to take a selfie on the path or click the colors of the sky as the sun sets. Highlights Paddle boats and shikaras for posing. There are walking and running trails around the lake. Golden hour is the time of the day that gives you the most stunning photographs. Quick Facts Artificial reservoir created in 1958 Spread over 3 square kilometers Ideal for picnics, birdwatching, and fitness. 3. Rose Garden (Zakir Hussain Rose Garden) The sprawling, 1,600-plus rose garden is a dizzying explosion of colour and scent. The well-groomed lawns and cul-de-sacs are ideal for candid shots and closer-ups of flowers. Visit in February or March, when the garden is at its most spectacular and every room is adorned with flowers. There's the Rose Festival, which takes it one step further with events and decorations. Highlights The largest rose garden in Asia – 30 acres of roses. Spring blooms and figurines offset the roses. The perfect device to capture nature and woo-woo! Quick Facts The college was founded in 1967, and named for India's third president Zakir Hussain. Organizes the annual Rose Festival every February. Located in Sector 16 4. Sector 17 Plaza Sector 17 Plaza, aka the centre of Chandigarh, is a place full of activity and glamour. The fountains, the gardens and the street musicians are alive. Photograph individuals enjoying themselves, or pose among contemporary buildings. It's particularly wonderful on an evening when the fountains are lit up and the plaza hushed to life. Highlights: Illuminated fountains and lively ambiance Excellent for street and evening photographs. It is flanked by well-known stores and restaurants. Quick Facts A pedestrian mall that serves as a cultural and commercial centre. Live music, festivals, and exhibitions frequent the place. It is located in the heart of Chandigarh. 5. Japanese Garden Hidden within the city, the Japanese Garden lulls you into Zen-inspired bliss. The Japanese-style bridges, pagodas, and koi ponds in this park add a touch of exoticism to your pictures. The greenery and peaceful atmosphere is a popular backdrop for both portrait and landscape shots. Visit in spring for hummingbirds. Highlights Traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture Stone bridges, stone lanterns and koi ponds. Relaxing atmosphere for taking quiet photos. Quick Facts Inaugurated in 2014 Located in Sector 31 13 acres of walking and meditation areas. Final Thoughts Chandigarh is not a planned city but rather, a canvas which is ready for you to stare into. Whether old gardens or contemporary murals, every site has its own story to tell. Whether you're a pro photographer or a casual IGmer, these are places where you can create an infinite amount of images. So take your camera and hit the streets and explore the photogenic city of Chandigarh
