MM School of Architecture organized 10 days’educational tour from 1st Feb to 10th Feb for 3rd year B. Arch and B.Sc.ID students to South India under the guidance of Ar. Shreya Gupta covering the sites of Chennai, Pondicherry, Auroville, Mysore and Bangalore to interact, learn and understand the traditional cultures and lifestyle of South India.

The main focus of study was Indo-Sarcenic Architecture style (an amalgamation of two or more architectural styles) which was seen in Pondicherry by studying  traditional Tamil houses & French colonies. It was quite interesting to know their planning aspects, building features and architectural details of the residences. Tamil houses were visitors friendly towards visitors, with their inviting verandahs they make a traveller comfortable in seeking refuge or rest while french colonies have  high compound walls which make sure that personal and social lives of the inhabitants inside remain private.

Auroville ‘the city for future’ sets the best example for human unity and the sustainable practices followed in terms of construction method, material used etc. Each building gives a very different lesson in its own way that’s about this place. The main focus in Auroville was learning the various construction techniques, use of eco-friendly material, role of light & ventilation in buildings. Students were amazed to visit the combination of detailed & simple structures, it was a very informative plus refreshing tour for them.