Kozhikode
The National Institute of Technology, Kozhikode, takes pride in its design of the renovated Kuttichira pond that was thrown open to the public by Minister for Ports Ahamed Devarkovil recently. The project was conceptualised and designed by the faculty members and research scholars from the Department of Architecture and Planning of the institute.
The Kuttichira pond is the centre of Thekkeppuram, a predominantly Muslim settlement along the coast of Kozhikode. The region is known for its unique culture and traditions, besides its architecture, which is a blend of traditional Kerala style and Arabic style. While renovating the pond, the NIT team has made sure that the new design was in sync with the existing layout and lifestyle of the region, preserving its natural heritage and highlighting the culture that added quality to the public open space. The Ibn Batuta walkway along one side of the pond is a unique structure and the highlight of the whole project.
The renovated pond now has open pavilions on the north and east side, besides a sheltered pavilion with seating overlooking the water body. A traditional Kerala style bathhouse has come up on the south side. All the above have exposed laterite walls. The open structures on the east side have been incorporated with sloping canopies that merge with the area’s character. The park adjacent to the cultural centre CIESCO building behind the stage has been upgraded as a children’s play area with landscape and play fixtures.
The walkway was paved using granite on the east and north sides of the tank. The Ibn Batuta walkway, located on the west side of the tank serves as a living museum with a paved path, signage and relief works, contributing to the historical awareness of Kuttichira with reference to Ibn Batuta’s travelogues. Other works and design interventions were the renovations of existing drainage, paving of pathways and steps leading to the tank, the provision of lighting, signage and waste disposal all around the pond.
The design team led by Kasturba A.K., Head of the Department, consisted of architects Shereena Anwar, Shahim Abdurahiman, and Shalu M.K. The project was undertaken by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) under its heritage conservation project and was implemented by Nirmiti Kendra at a cost of ₹2 crore.
