National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA India)

NASA India mourns the profound loss of Ar. Christopher Charles Benninger, former Chief Advisor of NASA India in the 55th Year (2012-13), a beacon of wisdom and inspiration, who passed away earlier this morning. “My first meeting with Prof. Chris was at the CCBA with my council members. I remember spending the day at his office, where he sketched at his desk and sat with his staff. He treated us like friends, always encouraging and fun.” ~ Samruddhi S Chaphale  National President (2012-13) Rest in peace Sir, the impact created shall live on!

More than just a theme - It’s a Call for Action!! With 67th Year Annual NASA Design Competition, participants will get a chance to create designs that uplift humanity and drive a positive change. Moderated this year by Ar. Dean D'Cruz architect , the trophy takes a unique hands-on approach by adopting a more thoughtful stance crafted to benefit the society. The challenge is to build a 1:1 scale structure, having some functional value and solving challenges by identifying opportunities in the public domain, seeking to encourage participants to take responsibility for the impact of their designs. The trophy is open to students worldwide! So, have you checked out the brief yet?? Head over to the poster and Scan the QR Code attached to it. 

In the picturesque Suru Valley, Ladakh, the NASA India Summer Winter School: Suru Valley Community Project Program took place from July 29 to August 2, 2024. This immersive 5-day program offered students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in construction techniques using locally available natural materials such as wattle-daub, rock slab flooring, and mud walls. Under the virtual guidance of Ar. Jan Glasmeier and practical sessions with the Crashpad, participants engaged in informative lectures, experimental learning, and direct construction activities. Additionally, the program emphasized community engagement, helping participants understand the impact of architecture and shelter on remote communities and fostering sensitivity towards their needs. This program not only enriched students with practical skills but also deepened their appreciation for sustainable building practices and community-focused design. By merging tradition and innovation, the participants left with a profound understanding of how architecture can positively influence and support remote communities.

NASA India is pleased to announce the successful conclusion to the Summer Winter School - "Earth Architecture for Sustainable Development" program hosted in collaboration with Auroville Earth Institute (AVEI), the UNESCO chair for Earth Architecture in South East Asia. The special course crafted by AVEI exclusively for the NASA India students. Led by Ar. Radhika Soni and Co Director T. Ayyappan , it was a unique blend of theory, and hands on experience to actually give the know how knowledge of building with earth to the students. Through out the course, the students got to learn including -  - Soil testing and properties like, Carazas test, identifying the correct moisture content of the earth. - Making of Adobe bricks. - Exploration on Rammed Earth construction techniques. - Exploration of arches, vaults and domes of various geometries using the principles of compression.  The program was supplemented by a site visit to Sharanam Convention Centre, which follows the Gandhian philosophy of low-cost sustainable construction.  The conclusion of the program on 31 August, 2024 coincided with the 35th Anniversary of Auroville Earth Institute. Satprem Maini, the Founder and Director of the Institute, addressed the students in an interactive virtual session.

#Architecture #Research #NASAIndia

We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the Seoul Architecture Tour Program, a remarkable initiative by NASA India in partnership with Happymiles Outdoor Learning. Our architecture students have undergone an exceptional transformation through this program, and we are proud of their incredible experiences and knowledge gained. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Students had the opportunity to delve into the architectural wonders of Seoul. This unique program combined theoretical aspects with practical experiences while touring one of the most vibrant cities on earth. 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀:   The tour commenced with the breathtaking architectural “fiber-clad” KOLON ONE&ONLY and a visit to the Seoul Botanic Park with its awe-inspiring greenhouse, home to thousands of florae from around the world.  The National Museum and the National Aviation Museum brought forth a contrast between magnificence that rises above humans and the bridge which brings the skies to the ground by the former and latter respectively. The visit to Leeum Museum and the War Memorial helped paint the rich history of South Korea in stark colors to the students along with introducing the effect of contemporary styles as opposed to classical architecture to places of history. The students got in depth information regarding the construction of the current 6th tallest skyscraper in the world, Lotte World Tower and witnessed the spectacle of Dongdaemun Design Plaza as intended by Ar. Zaha Hadid.  The walks through Bukcheon and Donuimun village was a trip through the past, taking us through the vibrant yesteryears while Seoullo 7017 took us through the heart of Seoul and all its urban splendor. 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘀: Students engaged in a thought-provoking seminar by Ar. Choi Dong-Kyu of Seoinn Design Group which concluded with a thorough exploration and documentation of their Star Project, The Saemoonan Church. 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻:  The program also included cultural experiences, enabling participants to understand the societal and historical contexts that shape Seoul's architecture. Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work and dedication. #NASAIndia #ProgramsNASAIndia #HappyMiles #SeoulArchitectureTour #ArchitectureStudents #UrbanPlanning #SustainableDesign

𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗙! The NASA India Scholarship Fund (NISF) proudly supports over 50 dedicated students till date, across NASA India associated colleges, honoring their commitment and hard work. The NASA India Thesis Grants (NITG) alleviates the financial burden of final year architecture students by providing essential funds to cover for travel, stationery, and other expenses. We invite members from the fraternity and beyond to make a mark in deserving student's journeys and contribute to this philanthropic cause at the same time spreading awareness on the vital role architects play in everyday life. Your contribution and support will make a lasting impact in a student’s life. Find the detailed Scholarship Brochure: https://tr.ee/LN_LJPV7T_

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀 - 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴  𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘂𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀: Operational guidelines were meticulously detailed by Nexus committee chair Likith Jain and co-chair Kashish Saini, providing a solid framework for the forthcoming year. Nexus, a platform for students to connect, collaborate, and create, fosters networking through various events, these guidelines provide a framework for consistency, quality, and evaluation, helping to maintain order and achieve desired outcomes of the event. 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Chembian Barani, Vice President of NASA India, presented a comprehensive vision for the organization. Chairing the Marketing and Outreach Committee of NASA India, presented the plans and opportunities available with the newly obtained CSR certification, which allows the student association to expand its initiatives. Tanuja Sunkara, Trophies Head, outlined her strategic initiatives, emphasizing the encouragement by revamp of Winners' Way, an online discussion with previous past edition's winners and brief decode sessions aimed at enhancing student understanding. Furthermore, the discussion on Reubens, India’s largest architecture academic exhibition, was highlighted. With 67th year NASA India C P Kukreja Trophy opening to the international participation, highlighted the international presence where enhancing the NASA India trophy experience. With the successful completion of Louis I Kahn jury of the 66th NASA India year edition at the National Institute of Technology Trichy, continuing the initiative, further announced the welcoming of the bids to host the jury of all the trophies. 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗺 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆: A surprise trophy for this tenure was unveiled: the Short Film Trophy. This new addition aims to inspire creativity and storytelling within the architectural community, encouraging students to explore architectural narratives through film. Moderated by Ar. Rohan Shivkumar, the Short Film Trophy promises to be an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their cinematic skills and perspectives on architecture. 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁: Additionally, the launch of the NASA India Research Conference (NIRC) was announced. This conference aims to enhance students' research skills and provide a platform for showcasing innovative research in architecture. The NIRC will be moderated by Ar. Bijoy Ramachandran, principle architect, Hundredhands, who will guide students in leveraging their research capabilities to contribute to the field of architecture. With the conclusion of Day 3, the 67th First General Body Meeting of NASA India has laid a strong foundation for innovation and growth. The strategic initiatives and visionary plans unveiled promise an exciting and progressive year ahead.