Layered Spaces

The Papdi Talav site in Vasai reveals a fragmented relationship between its dense lakeside market and the natural element of the lake, separated by a rigid boundary that limits interaction. The design seeks to create spatial porosity, seamlessly connecting the built environment with the lake to foster engagement and interaction. By analyzing site axis points and pedestrian pathways, a primary access axis was established and intentionally disrupted to enhance visual and physical connections with the lake. Inspired by the concept of transitioning from compressed to expansive spaces, the design incorporates narrow sunken pathways leading to periodic courtyards and cascading terraces that descend toward the lakeside. These terraces activate the site by creating interconnected zones for diverse functions, with the lake serving as a central marketplace and upper levels accommodating storage, recreation, and community spaces. The design morphology harmonizes with the natural terrain, blending architecture and open spaces to redefine the market’s edge as a porous interface. This approach transforms the lake into an integral part of daily life, offering visual and spatial connections that foster a sense of belonging. The cascading terraces, open pathways, and tiered functions enhance the syntactical relationship between active and passive zones, creating a vibrant, dynamic hub where architecture and nature coexist. By dissolving the hard boundary and reimagining movement patterns, the design integrates the lake into the community’s cultural and functional framework, transforming Papdi Talav into a harmonious space of interaction, activity, and connection.