Architecture: Balancing Idealism with Real-World Demands

Nothing can be more inspiring for a budding architect than listening to a successful designer explaining designing as “an opportunity for magical realism, where things are at once familiar but different. Where arches bow, and the door handles reach out to shake your hand as you approach the space.”

As the architecture students progress through their semesters, they are eager to join the world of professional designers and deliver something unique, something mesmerising. They want to believe that “architecture isn’t just methodology and science; it’s a chance to invent another reality.” However, the reality that awaits them on the other side of university can be quite different from what they have been dreaming of for the past five years.

The idealist will argue that “architecture can’t always be practised as a formula. It’s also an art form that can be infused with personality and emotion.” But in the real world, where project abundance lies, the personality and emotion in question belong to the people who call the shots—the developers!

In the world of development, there are no “seamless blends of fantasy and reality.” The only things that blend seamlessly are demand and supply, and the focus is on who can place the right product in the market before others. What sells most, matters most and what sells today at a premium might have to sell at a discount tomorrow! Drenched in romanticism, the young architect dreams to mingle the “whiffs of once upon a time with hints of tomorrow,” but the market wants the scent of today with the assurance of the day after tomorrow.

Being in the industry for some time now, this is what I have observed. Developers like the master chefs want to maintain the core recipe of a successful or signature dish. If they were fortunate to discover the magic sauce, why mess with that except for a very high level variation.  Here are the five cardinal rules any successful developer adopts for their commercial residential market offerings:

1. Unit Size & mix: Study the target audience and establish the ticket price to arrive at the right unit sizes. Maintain the mix that sells. Typically Studio: 5%; 1 Bedroom: 40%;   2 Bedrooms: 45%; and 3-4 Bedrooms/ penthouses etc: 10%; 

2. Design repetition: Retain the core of a successful design, making only minimal adjustments.

3. Prime views: If one room can face the sea, it must be the living room.

4. Maximise typical floors: More typical floors mean more efficient construction, easy for the sales team.

5. Minimise variation: Less variation in unit types simplifies the construction process, joinery & modular units and appeals to a broader market.

Understanding of each of these rules is crucial for meeting market demands and striking the right balance to ensure commercial success of a project. Details could be the subject for another post and for another day.

While this practical approach may seem disheartening to young architects, it’s essential to understand that creativity and market demands can coexist. Balancing the artistic vision of architecture with the practical demands of the market is a challenging yet essential skill for evolution as a successful professional. By understanding both perspectives, young architects can navigate their careers more effectively and find ways to infuse creativity within the boundaries of reality.

I also post in the LinkedIn page below:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/architecture-balancing-idealism-real-world-demands-suman-2njif

Art in My Room: A Journey Beyond Matching Curtains

Art is a profound form of expression, a medium through which artists convey emotions, stories, and perspectives. It’s not merely an aesthetic addition to our living spaces; it’s meant to resonate with our innermost feelings and spark reflection. When we buy a piece of art from an artist, we're not just purchasing a decorative item; we’re investing in a journey filled with experimentation, failures, and triumphs. By looking deeper into the art, we can appreciate that path.

Art’s primary purpose is to connect with us on a deeper level. It’s not confined to the limitations of matching our home decor or blending seamlessly with our furniture. Instead, it should provoke thought, evoke emotions, and speak to our soul. Whether it’s a vibrant painting, a poignant sculpture, or an intricate piece of digital art, its value lies in its ability to communicate beyond words.

Every brushstroke, every chisel mark, and every pixel represents hours of dedication, experimentation, and, often, failure. Artists pour their hearts into their work, and each piece is a culmination of their experiences, skills, and emotions. When we commission an artist to create an art piece for us, it brings together pieces of two hearts, and magic happens. By acquiring art, we’re supporting this creative process and valuing the unique narrative each artist brings to their craft. It also ensures that they will continue their passion and contribute to the cultural tapestry of our society.

While it’s tempting to choose art that complements our home decor, we should consider the stories and emotions that each piece holds. Art can transform a space by adding depth and character that goes beyond color coordination. It can inspire conversations, evoke nostalgia, and even challenge our perceptions. The true beauty of art lies in its ability to transcend the visual and tap into the emotional and intellectual realms.

The next time we consider purchasing a piece of art, let’s look beyond its aesthetic appeal and appreciate the story, effort, and emotions embedded within. Let our spaces be a reflection of the profound connections that art can foster and celebrate the creativity and dedication of the artists who bring these pieces to life.

A Nostalgic Journey: My Brush with Reader's Digest Fame

Growing up in a small town in 1970s India, I, like many other boys, harbored dreams of a bit of fame. Not excelling in studies, sports, or the arts meant the odds were heavily stacked against me. If I were to hear my name on the radio, it would likely be through a "request-a-song" program. As for seeing my name in print, it would only happen if an editor appreciated my contributions.

Reader's Digest was our popular window to the outside world. Each edition brought us inspirational stories of perseverance, fascinating information, and humor from the Western Hemisphere. It introduced us to the world of subtle humor. I remember one particular story where someone was advised to apply grease on his car bonnet when their town faced a sudden onslaught of flies. The next time he took the car for service, the mechanic asked if he had a tight garage. This type of humor was fresh and delightful to us.

We were particularly captivated by the letters from readers, sharing life experiences or humor, which the editor chose to publish. We thought, "If only one of our letters could be selected," it would be like hitting the jackpot.

Although my letters never made it into Reader's Digest, I did have my wish fulfilled elsewhere. Recently, I picked up the latest issue at the airport, and those old aspirations resurfaced. So, here I am, writing to you once again, hoping to check off this item on my bucket list.

Why Reader's Digest?

Reader's Digest has long been a staple in households worldwide, known for its engaging and diverse content. For many, it was more than just a magazine—it was a portal to stories that inspired, informed, and entertained. Its ability to connect with readers through real-life experiences and humor made it a beloved publication.

The Impact of Reader's Digest

For my friends and me, Reader's Digest wasn't just about reading; it was about dreaming. Each story we read added a little more to our understanding of the world beyond our small town. The humor, often subtle and witty, provided a refreshing break from our daily routines.

My Personal Connection

The aspiration to have a letter published in Reader's Digest may seem small, but for us, it was monumental. It represented recognition and a connection to a larger world. The memory of those days and the joy of reading each issue still linger.

A New Attempt

As I picked up that recent issue at the airport, the old dream came alive again. Writing this blog post feels like a step towards fulfilling that long-held wish. Whether or not this gets published, the journey of recalling and sharing these memories is satisfying in itself.

Conclusion

Reader's Digest played a significant role in my childhood, shaping my aspirations and providing countless hours of joy and inspiration. Here's to hoping that this post finds its way to an appreciative editor and that the dream of seeing my words in print, just like those many years ago, finally comes true.

indomitableness

An ode to the desert trees of Bahrain. 

In the parched realms, it seldom rains,

Life is sparse,  yet the hardiest reins,

In those barren lands to nature’s dare,

Trees stand resolute but few and rare.

Adversities turn to occasion for brilliance, 

Not soil sweet, strong winds built resilience,

In the arid silence, their roots entwine, 

With each storm, their strengths redefine.

Twisted but resolved,  the sentinels of hope,

Throughout time, they persist, they cope,

Silhouetted, against the expanse of sand,

testament to the enduring spirit of this land.

That old boat

When I looked at the boat, I got a bit emotional and reflected on the life in general.....

The Old Boat

Towering waves, I twirled with grace, 

Each fierce storm, a fleeting embrace,

Sang melody to the gulls, carefree, 

Flirted along fishes silver and glee.

To wind’s might, my sails aligned,

Salt and Sun in  journey intertwined,

Forces then I braved, as a child’s play,

Those memories now softly sway.

Old and abandoned is today’s reality,

Time is relentless in its truth or cruelty, 

To kings and paupers, its march unkind, 

In its silent hands, all destinies entwined.

 

At the piano

“I have never been in a haunted house,” said Anita to her friends. The girls were having a sleepover at her place, and the theme for the night was paranormal experiences. “But my aunt was in one such situation in her teens.”

“Sean had lived there with his parents since childhood. When the siblings grew up, they moved out of their parents' home to start their families but never left the locality. He moved to a house down the street from my aunt’s home and as he was married to her uncle’s sister, she used to call him uncle Sean.” 

“One night, their daughter, who was 7 at the time, complained about a terrible headache and the doctors failed to save her from a rare cardiovascular ailment”.

“I am keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be another of those creepypasta,' one of the girls quipped. These young horror story enthusiasts were not prepared to settle for just any story. Hannah’s yawning was a signal that they could get bored rather fast.

“My aunt learnt much later that this was one of those places where many households observed strange things at odd hours. If rumors were to be believed, the deceased souls found it difficult to depart if they died here,” Anita added to keep the interest. “It should come as no surprise that many visitors report strange happenings.”

“The family was devastated, and a sense of Guilt constantly gnawed at their heart, questioning if they could have prevented the tragedy, if they had missed a red flag, a silent sign maybe. Yet, woven through the sorrow was a fierce love, a refusal to let go. They clung to memories by putting up large, framed photos on the outside and feeling her laughter echoing through the inside.”

“They went away temporarily to another city after the funeral, leaving the house in the care of her close relatives. Sean's wife, a musician, opted for music as her therapy and solitude as the vehicle to get her out of this grief” Anita continued.

My aunt’s family often visited the house to ensure it was not falling into disrepair and one afternoon they took my aunt along. She was very excited to find a grand piano in the living room and could not resist the desire to try it. 

“You go check the house while I check out the piano” she told her father. Letting her try the piano, her father and uncle went to check out a few things in the house. 

As she played the piano, she felt something soft brush against her ankles. “It must be my dress”, she thought, dismissing the sensation, and continued playing. Trying to pull her dress up, she realized that she was only wearing a short dress. “Maybe it was one of the neighborhood cats, who strayed in finding the lights on” she assumed. But then, she felt it again.

Fear gripped her heart as she peered under the piano, searching for the source of the touch. But there was nothing there. She resumed playing, her fingers trembling over the keys, her mind racing with a mix of curiosity and dread. Suddenly, she felt tiny hands clasp her legs tightly, pulling them upwards. A scream caught in her throat as she struggled against the unseen force. She leapt from the piano bench and rushed to the basement door, her heart pounding in her chest. She looked up at the wall to notice the picture was missing from the frame.

"Uncle! Dad!" she exclaimed, her voice quivering with fear. Hurriedly, her uncle and father emerged from the basement, their expressions etched with deep concern. "What happened?" uncle inquired, his voice tinged with worry. With her breath still catching, my aunt began to recount the harrowing encounter she had just endured. As she spoke, her uncle's complexion grew visibly pale, and he whispered in a hushed tone, almost inaudible, "It's her."

 The girls were now closer to each other and looking at Anita with curiosity mixed with fear.

“My sister, a talented pianist, used to play this game with her daughter," he said, his voice filled with sadness. "In the evenings, she played the piano, the daughter would crawl underneath, grab her ankles, and push her feet up and down on the pedals.”

 A collective shiver coursed through the spines as the girls envisioned an ethereal presence in the house. Not as a mere ghost, but embodiment of a young girl's playful spirit. The home where she spent all her life has transcended the boundary of life and death to become a sanctuary for her, a place where she could continue to play around her beloved piano, even in death.

Just then, they all turned towards Anita’s piano in unison, did they just hear it playing!

 

 

 

The pink Diamond

 

Many million years ago, when humanity as we know it had yet to evolve, the world was a vastly different place. A place of primal beauty, where creatures roamed the Earth with no knowledge of language or civilization. Amidst this ancient world, there lived two lovers named Ron and Ana, their names unspoken but their bond unbreakable.

Ron and Ana were inseparable, their connection transcending the primitive boundaries of their time. Their love was wordless, expressed through their actions, their eyes, and the warmth of their touch. They shared a unique connection, a deep and unspoken understanding of each other.

One fateful day, a natural disaster struck their land. The earth trembled, and the skies rained fire and ash. Ron and Ana, like many others, perished in the cataclysmic event. Ron's body was reduced to dust, mingling with the winds, and becoming one with the elements. But Ana's fate was different.

As the disaster unfolded, Ana's body was thrust deep beneath the Earth's surface. Thousands of miles below, under immense heat and pressure, carbon atoms began to crystallize, forming a precious gemstone. Ana's essence, her very being, slowly transformed into a radiant diamond.

Time marched on, and life on Earth evolved in countless forms and shapes. Souls wandered the world, reincarnating into new bodies and experiencing life in its various dimensions. Yet, even in these new incarnations, Ron's soul remained restless, an undying ember of love that continued to seek out its counterpart.

Then, one day, something extraordinary happened. Ron's soul, in its eternal quest to find Ana, encountered a breath-taking sight. In a bustling city of the new world, he spotted the most beautiful lady he had ever seen. Her eyes sparkled with the same depth of understanding he had shared with Ana, and her presence held an inexplicable familiarity.

But it was not her beauty alone that captivated him. Around her neck hung a pendant—a magnificent pink diamond, a rare gem that glowed with an inner light, much like the love that had bound him and Ana together in that primordial era.

That night, as Ron drifted into a dream, he found himself in a realm beyond time and space. In the dream, he stood beside Ana, their essence transcending physical forms. Ana spoke to him, her voice a harmonious whisper carried by the winds of eternity.

"Ron," she began, her words echoing through the timeless void, "I have waited for you through countless ages. Deep beneath the Earth's surface, I endured unbearable pressure, my essence slowly transforming into this beautiful pink diamond. I've watched over you, as you continued your journey through time, seeking me."

Tears welled in Ron's dreamlike eyes, and he reached out to touch the diamond pendant around the neck of the lady who resembled his long-lost love.

Ana's voice continued, "Our love is eternal, Ron. It has endured through the ages, and now, we have found each other again. The diamond that you see is my heart, crystallized but still pulsating with the love we once shared."

In that timeless realm, Ron and Ana embraced, their love transcending the boundaries of time, space, and form. Even though they had evolved into new bodies and the world had transformed, their love remained a constant, an unbreakable bond that not even the passage of millions of years could erode.

As Ron awoke from his dream, he knew that he had finally found Ana. Their love, symbolized by the beautiful pink diamond, was a testament to the enduring power of love, a love that had traveled through time itself to reunite two souls, bound by a connection that not even the Earth's deepest depths could sever.