Having enthusiastic readers spread across 191 nations in the world, ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ has created another milestone in its feathers in just 3 years 5 plus months. Our GEN Z Series dedicated especially for the younger professionals have made a huge impact across international architectural institutions and firms. Fresh graduates, post graduates and younger professionals, who are either never permitted to give interviews about the projects they have worked diligently by respective firms or are never approached by various publishing media, are showcasing some of the most amazing design creations with their theses. I have learned a great deal from these outstanding individuals, who have displayed empathy, compassion, great imagination and creativity with their design creations.
The GEN Z Series travels from Munich to Piacenza in Italy to meet Soumitra Pandey, a creative landscape designer – architect from India. Having completed his Master in Sustainable Architecture and Landscape Design from Politecnico di Milano in 2023, he is currently working as a Teaching Assistant at the University. He is also working as a freelance contributor as an architect at Studio Marco Piva. Soumitra Pandey is passionate about sustainable and biophilic design.
Nature to Nurture, Bangalore
Soumitra Pandey hails from Bhagalpur in Bihar and comes from an academic family. He enthuses, “My father retired as a Professor from TNB Law College in Bhagalpur. Beyond academia, he is a writer, poet, dramatist and a social activist, addressing pressing social issues in our town. My mother retired as a Science Teacher and currently runs a skill development centre, empowering women with various skills to foster independence. Growing up in a household rich in intellectual and social engagement, I imbibed values of creativity, resilience and a commitment to community betterment. These influences shape my design philosophy, which integrates natural systems and human needs to create spaces that inspire and nurture.”
It is always enchanting and a pleasure to interact with young individuals, who have been imbibed with cultural values by their parents. I hold great respect for such parents, who inculcate cultural values to their children for their better future. These young individuals are truly a gift to better the society at large. Soumitra Pandey is one such amazing soul! His creativity and empathy reflect in his Master’s thesis ‘Nature to Nurture, Bangalore’. Johnny D interacts with Soumitra Pandey to explore his journey from Bihar to Milan and his thesis.
Master Plan and Landscape Species Matrix
What was your childhood ambition? Have you always wanted to become a landscape architect?
Architecture was not my childhood ambition, but rather an interest that developed during my teenage years. My fascination began with the National Geographic Channel show Mega-structures, which explored the intricate processes of designing and constructing iconic buildings. This sparked my curiosity in architecture.
Later, while working on my Bachelor’s thesis exploring how nature influences human behaviour, particularly within built environments, I was drawn to ‘biophilia—the connection between humans and nature’. This concept, requiring a deeper understanding of ecology and landscape systems, led me to pursue Landscape Architecture, where I could integrate nature into our modern, fast-paced world.
Macro Scale Design – Conceptualisation Process
How has architecture / landscape architecture influenced your life as a student?
Firstly, Architecture has trained me to visualize the intangible aspects of our surroundings – elements that often go unnoticed, but are essential to the users’ experience. This has made me more observant and detail-oriented, as I strive to design spaces that enhance how people perceive their environment.
Secondly, Landscape Architecture has opened my eyes to the transformative power of nature in our daily lives. It has deepened my understanding of how natural elements can influence well-being, fostering a connection to the environment.
Mental Health Issues in India
Briefly tell us about your University and the Master’s Course.
I earned my Bachelor’s in Architecture from the School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada (2014–2019) and worked as an architect for 1 year 5 months. Pursuing my interest in sustainability, I completed a Master’s in Sustainable Architecture and Landscape Design at Politecnico di Milano, defending my thesis in May 2023.
Meso Scale – Conceptualisation Process
Having completed your B. Arch from School of Planning and Architecture, Vijaywada in India, what was the most challenging thing you experienced to pursue your Masters at Politecnico di Milano in Italy?
I pursued my Masters at Politecnico di Milano for its international exposure. Transitioning from India’s architecture education posed multiple challenges. Indian programs focus heavily on practical skills, often sidelining creativity, while Politecnico di Milano emphasizes conceptual exploration and innovation. Adjusting from a technical, practice-driven approach to a more experimental, creative environment was difficult but rewarding, as it shifted my perspective from replication to innovation, enriching my understanding of architecture’s transformative potential.
Micro Scale Design – Vision and Zoning
Briefly describe the significance of your project with the ‘Title of the Project and Site Location’.
Project title: ‘Nature to Nurture’ – Exploring the role of nature in boosting people’s mental health in Bengaluru, India.
Bengaluru is one of India’s fastest-moving cities, characterized by a booming IT industry, usually at the cost of citizens’ mental well-being. Additionally, there is an acute shortage of mental health professionals in India, amplifying the criticality of mental well-being. The research explores how nature can be used as a healing element within the Indian context, using Bengaluru as a template. The project is constructed on the theme of landscape design, tapping into the inherent potential of Bengaluru’s lakes and reinstating the importance of its gardens, due to which it is has earned the epithet of the ‘Garden City’.
Social Zone
The research follows a transversal, multi-scalar approach and uses the following methodology:
The first stage analyses and formulates city level strategies and policies along with the involvement of various stakeholders; the second stage serves as a transition between the city and the neighbourhood level, while the third stage focuses on creating a prototype in a particular neighbourhood which can be transposed to other contexts across the city or region.
The research achieves a framework whereby green – blue infrastructure can be integrated close to people’s workspaces and dwellings. The project envisions a significant improvement of citizens’ mental health and well-being through the implementation of the strategies proposed, and in a longer term, would make India a better and happier place to live in.
Sectional View of Social Zone
As an Intern, what is the most important lesson(s) you have learned from senior architects, while being a part of a project?
During my internship with Ar. Karan Grover at KGA, Vadodara, I learned to value site and context in architecture. While school idolized monumental buildings, Mr. Grover emphasized that a design should belong to its site, not dominate it. This philosophy reshaped my perspective, highlighting the importance of harmony with the environment. His approach deeply influenced me. Now, I strive to incorporate this sensitivity into all my architectural projects.
Local Survey – People’s experience in Nature
What role do you perform as a Teaching Assistant at Politecnico de Milano?
As a Teaching Assistant to Prof. Eugenio Morello at Politecnico di Milano, I guide students in the Urban Planning studio focused on Segrate, near Milan. The project addresses energy, climate, urban metabolism, mobility and biodiversity. My role emphasizes environmental and biodiversity aspects, particularly green-blue connections between Milan and Segrate. I also assist in design reviews to ensure students’ work aligns with project goals, while fostering their understanding of sustainable urban planning principles.
Biodiversity Networks
Which National or International landscape architect has inspired / influenced you? Please specify as to why?
PWP Landscape Architecture has greatly shaped my design approach through their blend of artistic vision and sustainable functionality. Projects like ‘Menlo Park Civic Center’, ‘Nasher Sculpture Center’ and ‘Changi Airport’s Jewel’ highlight their mastery in creating visually stunning, yet contextually grounded spaces. Changi’s lush gardens exemplify sustainability and enhanced users’ experience. PWP’s focus on composition, materiality and ecology inspires me to design inclusive and enduring landscapes that address environmental challenges, while fostering human connection.
Horticulture Zone
Against the ethos of architecture field, ‘Hostile Architecture’ has become an eyesore and fast changing the urban landscape of prominent cities around the world, thereby creating inconvenience to public. Elucidate your perspectives about this unwanted trend in urban landscape.
Spikes on Seating Spaces, Piacenza, Italy
Hostile architecture, with features like anti-homeless spikes or sloped benches, undermines architecture’s role in fostering inclusivity and public life. Such designs stigmatize vulnerable groups, prioritizing control over compassion and creating unwelcoming urban spaces. Instead, urban design should emphasize inclusivity, safety and accessibility. Community-driven solutions, adaptable spaces and multi-functional designs can address social challenges empathetically. Shifting from hostility to empathy is crucial for building humane and equitable cities that reflect shared urban identities.
Sectional View of Horticulture Zone
Which significant aspects of the global platform ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ did you liked the most, and why?
I admire ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ for showcasing innovative global architecture and fostering collaboration among designers. Its focus on sustainability and futuristic design resonates with my interest in biophilic spaces. By highlighting emerging talents and offering educational insights, it serves as a valuable platform for inspiration and professional growth.
Macro Scale GI Plan and Policy Framework
Local charm of cities has diminished due to Modern Architecture as every city looks alike or similar. How should architects / urban planners / landscape architects modernize cities, while maintaining the local charm intact?
Modernizing cities, while preserving their charm require a context-sensitive approach. Integrating vernacular architecture, traditional materials and cultural motifs retains local identity, while community engagement ensures designs reflect shared values. Place-specific solutions that respond to climate, topography and natural landscapes enhance authenticity. Adaptive reuse of historic structures blends tradition with innovation, maintaining urban continuity. Inclusive public spaces celebrating culture foster belonging, creating cities that balance contemporary progress with their rooted heritage.
Serene Zone
The “Global Urban Failure” has seen all the major cities being flooded 365 days of each year. Elucidate your perspectives and solutions as to how can the future of urban planning of cities be tackled to overcome this existential crisis?
Urban flooding underscores the need for resilient planning to address climate challenges. Integrating urban resilience ensures cities can adapt and thrive in the face of environmental stress. Green-blue infrastructure, like wetlands and green roofs, manages stormwater sustainably and enhances biodiversity. Nature-based solutions, such as permeable surfaces and urban forests, help mitigate flooding and heat island effects. Urban planners must prioritize adaptive designs that balance development with ecological restoration, creating sustainable and livable environments for future generations.
Sectional View of Serene Zone
Looking at the past in the current present, what are the futuristic landscape and architectural changes you would like to see in your home city / town? Elucidate the reasons for your vision.
My hometown, Bhagalpur, lies on the banks of the Ganga, the river that is both a vital water source for the town and a significant part of its heritage. Unfortunately, due to the lack of effective water management strategy, urban waste is often discharged directly into the river, and there are few opportunities for the community to engage with this important resource.
To address this, I envision a riverfront development along the Ganga’s banks, creating an active public space where residents can walk, jog and interact with the river. This project could also incorporate wetland parks, providing a natural habitat for indigenous flora and fauna, including the Indo-Gangetic dolphins.
Moment of Pride
Beyond promoting wildlife conservation and local tourism, this development would enhance the town’s flood resilience, reducing the damage that occurs every year during the monsoon season. By integrating both ecological preservation and public engagement, we can create a sustainable and vibrant space that honors the river, while improving the community’s well-being.
Honours and awards related to landscape architecture, if any.
Urban Design Lab – Shortlisted in the ‘Top 35 Theses’ projects worldwide – August 2023.
Image Courtesy: Soumitra Pandey