Prolific architect and a Staunch Gandhi follower, Laurie Baker was famously known Gandhi of Architecture. He represented a unique tradition of architecture that blended man and nature. He emphasised local materials and traditional concepts in constructing dwellings, demonstrating a strong commitment to mass, affordable housing.
EARLY LIFE: Born on 2nd march 1917. He was the youngest child of the family. His father was an Accountant.
EDUCATION: After his matriculation, he joined the Birmingham School of Architecture and became an Associate Member of the Royal Institute of Architects in 1938.
RELATION WITH INDIA: In 1945 Baker’s initial commitment to India was to work as architect for an interdenominational Mission dedicated to the care of those suffering from leprosy. Baker lived in Kerala with Doctor P.J. Chandy, He received great encouragement and later married his sister.
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE:
- Designing and building low cost, high quality structures.
- Baker creates a variety of textures and patterns by simple manipulation of the bricks.
- Usage Brick Jali walls.
- Traditional Indian sloping roofs and terracotta tile.
KEY WORKS:
- Centre for Development Studies, Ulloor, 1971.
- St John’s Cathedral, Thiruvella, 1973.
- Fisherman’s village, Poonthura, 1974.
- Chitralekha Film Studio, Thiruvananthapuram, 1976.
- Indian Coffee House, Thiruvananthapuram, 1989.
AWARDS:
- Padma Sri, 1990.
- Great Master Architect of the Year, 1990
- UN Roll of Honour, 1992.
INFERENCE: Laurie baker stood as stalwart in the architectural field with his sustainable architectural methods which is being neglected in this generation.
As the most important aspect for Baker was the building cost; it had to be minimal and usage of locally available materials which are environment friendly. Me as a architecture student and admirer of Baker would like to inherit his principles in my future designs.