top of page

STUDIO NAQSHBANDI EXTENSION

2018

PROJECT INFORMATION 

Client: Mona Doctor-Pingel

Year: 2008 (Extension 2019)

Location: Auroville, Tamil Nadu

Site Area: 485 m²

Existing Built Up Area: approx. 100 m²

New Built Up Area: 35 m²

Type: Architecture Studio

Team: Mona Doctor-Pingel, Nancy Agarwal

Structure: Mr. Ramaradjou

Contractor: Mohan Constructions

Photo Credits: Ridho Cairns, Naga Sai Santhan K

This small-scale project is an extension to the existing architecture studio based in Auroville. Completed a decade after the first phase was constructed, by the same architect. It imbues the same refined architectural qualities from the interiors to the landscaping. It is a space for art, discussion, wonder, as well as work. This is felt as one brushes their feet against the rough Cuddapah stone, or admires the calligraphy pinned to the sliding panels next to the wooden desk. Numerous textures, from the low concrete ceiling made from mango wood formwork, to the achakali brick cladding the vault’s underside, to the smooth shell-lime plaster of the walls, give the user a constant tactile experience of the space.


Located at the Yantra Community within the industrial zone of Auroville, surrounded by residences and indigenous vegetation that is drought-resistant. The project is in a hot-humid coastal climate and makes use of cross-ventilation. The original architecture studio was built in 2008 by the same architect, integrating interior design and landscaping. The extension was squeezed into a tight space between the road and the original studio.

bottom of page