It gives me immense pleasure and a sense of pride when young Indian architects succeed in various nations with their creativity, overcoming challenges in spite of tough competitions. The GEN Z Series travels from Milan to Munich to meet Indian architect Sushmitha Omkar, a 2022 graduated M. Arch student from DIA – Dessau International Architecture Graduate School, Germany. She hails from Bangalore. In the year 2019, she graduated with a B. Arch degree from Acharya’s NRV School of Architecture, Bangalore, India. Sushmitha Omkar is currently working as an Architect at Limehome, Munich office in Germany.
KGF – Sectional View of the Site
She reveals, “I come from an academic family, with most of the members being teachers. My father started his career as a Cashier and worked with great commitment, inspiring me with his kindness and generosity. His passion for sketching is something I inherited from him (smiles). My mother, a homemaker, provided a nurturing environment teaching me ethics, good manners and valuable life’s lessons. She has played a vital role in shaping my values. I am deeply grateful for my parents’ love and guidance. I feel fortunate to be their daughter and carry their wisdom with me, in both my personal and professional lives.”
Sushmitha Omkar comes across as a very articulated and meticulous in her approach. It was certainly a pleasure to interact with such pleasing individual, who is always eager to learn new things in life. Johnny D interacts with Sushmitha Omkar about her quest in the architecture world and her magnificent thesis ‘Connecting Timelines, Kolar Gold Fields’.
Site Plan
What was your childhood ambition? Have you always wanted to become an architect?
As a child, I was drawn to art watching my father sketching. I often used to sketch in class. Coming from an academically focused family, my creative path set me apart. My turning point was after winning a mathematics-themed painting competition. I chose architecture as my theme. Accidentally, I had watched a documentary on architecture and was fascinated by what humans could create, blending art and mathematics. From that moment, becoming an architect became my passion and life’s pursuit (smiles).
Realm Plan
How has architecture influenced your life as a student?
Architecture has greatly influenced my life as a student. It allowed me to express myself and tap into my potential, something I struggled with before. It pushed me to think critically, reflect and constantly keep improving. This journey not only honed my skills, but also boosted my confidence. Over time, I developed and refined my unique style with architecture becoming a transformative force that has shaped both my personal and professional growth.
KGF – Site History
Briefly tell us about your University and the Master’s Course.
I earned my Master’s in Architecture from DIA – Anhalt University in Dessau, graduating in 2022. The program, near the iconic Bauhaus Dessau, blends historic legacy with innovation. It focuses on refining design skills through a comprehensive curriculum. With diverse electives, we could explore individual interests. University life was enriching, as I interacted with students from all around the world, exchanging ideas and gaining cultural perspectives on design. The Course also emphasized modern research, technologies and materials, providing a well-rounded architectural education.
Site Plan – Cyanide Mounds
Having completed your B. Arch in India, what was the most challenging thing you experienced to pursue your Masters in Germany?
The most challenging part was embracing minimalism, as Germans value simplicity and efficiency. In India, the focus was often on doing more and showcasing extensive work. However, in Germany, I learned to appreciate balance and the importance of knowing when to stop. Adapting to this mindset took time, but it has significantly influenced my work. I have learned to value white space and intentional design choices. Today, I continue to refine this approach, striving for harmony and thoughtful design in every project.
Program diagram – Past, Present and Future
Briefly describe the significance of your project with the ‘Title of the Project and Site Location’.
The thesis ‘Connecting Timelines, Kolar Gold Fields’ examines the history of the KGF, once a symbol of industrial achievement, now representing environmental and urban decay. Making it one of India’s most significant extraction sites, KGF’s legacy spans from the Gupta Period to British Colonial Rule. It is located in the southern State of Karnataka in India. The project explores the transition from prosperity to abandonment, focusing on the emotional and physical ‘Nothingness’ that now characterizes the region.
Site Section
By studying the environmental impacts of gold mining, including cyanide pollution and the socio-economic consequences of mine closure, the thesis highlights the changing human-environment dynamics at KGF. It investigates how vibrant industrial hubs transform into relics, raising themes of urban migration, industrial decline and community resilience.
Exterior View of the Realm
‘Connecting Timelines, Kolar Gold Fields’ questions whether such decayed spaces can inspire new urban models or remain as cautionary tales of unsustainable growth. It serves as a case study for post-industrial sites globally, emphasizing redevelopment, heritage conservation and sustainable futures, while urging stakeholders to consider possibilities for revitalizing KGF while respecting its glorious history.
Architectural Composition
Which National or International architect has inspired / influenced you? Please specify as to why?
I have always been fascinated by poetic architecture – spaces that speak for themselves and influence people socially, mentally or personally. One architect who inspires me is Japanese architect Tadao Ando. His works go beyond structures; they communicate with humans through a unique medium. Ando’s designs create a deep connection between people and nature, often using light, shadow and simple materials to evoke tranquility and spirituality. His approach has reshaped my perspective on architecture, emphasizing harmony and the emotional power of space.
Contour Analysis
As an Intern, what is the most important lesson(s) you have learned from senior architects, while being a part of a project?
As an intern at ‘SPACEMAST’, a small architecture firm in Bangalore, I learned many valuable lessons from experienced seniors. The most important lesson was how to deliver work professionally, while managing client relationships. I learned to maintain professionalism and high-quality work, while also approaching clients with kindness and compassion. This balance taught me the importance of interpersonal skills in architecture that is crucial for building strong client relationships, thereby ensuring satisfaction and contributing to both personal and professional growth.
Farm Land – Plan and Detail
What are the current prospects and challenges of jobs’ opportunities for fresh young architects in Munich, Germany? Elucidate briefly.
Working as an architect in Germany offers great work-life balance, which I appreciate. However, a key challenge is that many firms are not international and architecture is a service-based profession. To practice in Germany, knowledge of local building regulations, DIN standards and proficiency in German are essential. Even in international environments, learning the language is crucial for integrating into the work culture and sustaining a successful career in architecture. The demand for passion and time in the profession remains a constant challenge.
View of Farm Land
What role do you perform as an Architect at Limehome, Munich?
As an Architect at Limehome, I work with an in-house planning and design team to transform old buildings into service-apartments for short and long-term rentals. Our focus is on analyzing and re-planning existing spaces according to company standards. This sustainable approach challenges the norm of demolition, reducing construction waste by innovating existing structures. By giving new life to old buildings, we promote sustainability and align with environmentally conscious practices, thereby preserving the essence of buildings while minimizing environmental impact.
Farm Land Section
Against the ethos of architecture field, ‘Hostile Architecture’ has become an eyesore and fast changing the urban landscape of prominent cities around the world. Elucidate your perspective about this unwanted trend in urban landscape.
I started noticing hostile architecture when I first visited Berlin, with elements like slanted chairs, spikes on benches and deterrents on gas outlets to prevent the homeless from resting. These designs prioritize exclusion over inclusivity, reflecting a lack of empathy for diverse needs in public spaces. They harm human well-being and urban biodiversity. As an architect, I strongly oppose this trend, as it disrupts the urban landscape and contradicts the principles of inclusive, humane design.
Hositle Street Furniture, Germany
Which significant aspects of the global platform ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ did you liked the most, and why?
I appreciate ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ for providing emerging architects with a platform to present ideas and address important, often overlooked questions. It offers a unique opportunity to showcase work on a global scale, facilitating growth and collaboration within the architectural community. By connecting professionals across the borders, it promotes knowledge-sharing and enhances accessibility, ultimately fostering the collective advancement of architecture in a global, interconnected context.
Site Analysis
The “Global Urban Failure” has seen all the major cities being flooded 365 days of each year. Elucidate your views as to how can the future of urban planning of cities be tackled to overcome this existential crisis?
The future of urban planning must prioritize the integration of natural systems with urban development. As a resident of Bangalore, I have witnessed how unchecked expansion, especially in low-lying areas, and prioritizing roads over natural spaces has led to flooding. Cities, like the human body with its organs intact, function best when natural elements like rivers and green spaces are preserved. Rethinking urban development and prioritizing water bodies and green spaces is crucial to prevent flooding and ensure sustainable cities.
Interior View of the Realm – I
Local charm of cities has diminished due to Modern Architecture as every city looks alike and somewhat similar. How should architects / urban planners / landscape architects modernize cities, while maintaining the local charm intact?
The local charm of cities has diminished due to modern architecture’s uniformity and minimalism. While Europe excels in preserving history, today’s trends often overlook context, local materials and craftsmanship, thereby causing a decline in traditional art forms. If today’s architects had been present in the past, we might never have seen landmarks like Hampi or the Taj Mahal. Architects, urban planners and landscape architects must embrace local materials and craftsmanship, ensuring that modern designs respect and enhance local heritage and environment.
Interior View of the Realm – II
Looking at the past in the current present, what are the futuristic architectural changes you would like to see in your home city / town? Elucidate the reasons for your vision.
Growing up in Bangalore, I was fortunate to experience its pleasant weather and abundant greenery. However, today, the city has lost much of its charm, with green spaces diminishing, rivers polluted and concrete structures dominating. The traditional courtyard houses with small kitchen gardens are now rare and space for planting is scarce.
I believe integrating urban farming, similar to the ‘Klein Garten’ concept in Germany, could offer a solution. These allotment gardens allow city dwellers to grow fruits and vegetables, reconnect with nature and promote sustainability. This concept could enhance green spaces, foster healthier living and revitalize urban environments in Bangalore.
Realm Architectural Composition
Honours and awards related to architecture, if any.
I received an award for ‘Building Design and Materials’ at the Archotsav Architectural Festival, a national competition. As part of a four-member team, we had designed structures using bamboo and local mud, emphasizing sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Our approach addressed Karnataka’s moderate climate, demonstrating how traditional materials can offer eco-friendly, modern solutions. This recognition reinforced the importance of sustainable architectural practices.
View of Survival Pods
Image Courtesy: Sushmitha Omkar