Keenly observe the photographs above which have been clicked in South Bangalore. The facade is dominated by a series of staircases. The presence of the staircase which occupies most of the front elevation area blocks out natural light and hinders natural ventilation. More importantly, every building has only one house per floor and a staircase leading to the same. The adjacent buildings are designed with similar concepts.
Under the given circumstances, a new possibility in design crossed my mind. Could one single common staircase serve a couple of buildings? This could save space per plot, cut on construction costs and improve ventilation. The available space can be optimised and several advantages can be achieved.
Is the story of repetitive numerous staircases an indication of the lack of integrity amongst us! We are all too isolated today in our own bubbles and have forgotten to communicate, co-operate and work together. Maybe the staircase disconnectivity is synomynous to our own distanced relationships with our neighbours. Laws instruct us to leave setbacks between buildings but friendships can create gardens co-owned by neighbours.
Is it time to rethink and co-exist as a symbiotic society?
