Why mud construction
Mud construction reflects my commitment to eco-friendly practices by using natural, locally-sourced materials to reduce environmental impact. It aligns with my values of sustainable living and harmony with nature.
The versatility of mud also lets me express my artistic creativity, crafting unique patterns and structures. At its core, mud construction provides shelter while staying rooted in the essence of building.
My journey started with a transformative 7-day workshop in Kerala, followed by a 3-month internship where I learned sustainable techniques and explored the cultural history of mud architecture.
I love the hands-on aspect of working with mud, as it offers a tactile connection to the building process. For me, mud construction is a lifestyle choice that combines values, creativity, and a connection to timeless earth-based traditions, leaving a lasting impact on the future.
Project 1
Universal actability toilet
I worked on a Universal Accessibility Toilet project for a person with wheelchair needs, where I learned to coordinate workers and handle challenges in a leadership role. Managing the team and ensuring the project met the specific accessibility standards required adaptability and problem-solving skills. This project taught me how to balance practical design with human-centered needs, while also refining my communication and management skills. It was a fulfilling experience that deepened my understanding of creating inclusive spaces for everyone
Internship 1
During my first internship at Managam, I had the privilege of working under the guidance of the site architect, gaining valuable hands-on experience in construction management and architectural practices. I was exposed to various aspects of site operations, including interpreting blueprints, managing materials, and ensuring quality control throughout the project. This allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of design implementation and how plans come to life on-site.
One of the highlights of this internship was working on a unique project—a pizza oven. This task allowed me to explore the process of masonry construction, where I learned to craft and assemble the oven with attention to materials and functional design. Building the pizza oven not only expanded my skills in hands-on construction but also deepened my understanding of sustainable and efficient building methods.
Throughout the internship, I worked closely with the architect to coordinate workers, ensure that timelines were met, and apply sustainable building practices. This experience sharpened my technical skills, refined my ability to manage a site, and taught me the importance of teamwork and problem-solving.
Overall, my internship at Managam was a foundational experience that laid the groundwork for my future endeavors in construction and architecture, blending practical knowledge with creativity.
Internship 2
For my second internship at Swasthik, I had the opportunity to work on an exciting project aimed at building homestays using cob, rammed earth, and wattle and daub methods—traditional and sustainable construction techniques. This experience deepened my knowledge of earth-based building materials and their application in modern construction.
I was involved in every phase of the project, from preparing and mixing earth materials to constructing walls using rammed earth and cob. I also learned the intricate process of building with the wattle and daub method, which involves creating a wooden framework and applying a mixture of mud and straw to form walls. This hands-on work enhanced my understanding of how these natural materials contribute to sustainability and energy efficiency in buildings.
Throughout the internship, I gained practical skills in site preparation, material selection, and construction techniques, while learning about the cultural significance of these ancient methods. I also worked closely with the team to ensure the quality and efficiency of the construction process, all while maintaining a strong focus on eco-friendly practices.
This internship was a powerful experience that expanded my skills in sustainable construction and solidified my commitment to working with natural materials that promote environmental sustainability and community well-being.