Where innovation meets functionality, the concept of 'Jugaad' holds a special place as a testament to human ingenuity.
Originating from colloquial Hindi, Jugaad embodies the ethos of finding quick fixes, workarounds, or hacks to solve complex problems using limited resources—a quintessentially Indian approach celebrated for its creativity and resourcefulness.
Interview with Architect Sharon Rotbard: Could you explain what Jugaad is and why it holds such significance in your work, particularly from an environmental and economic perspective?
Sharon Rotbard: Jugaad is a concept from colloquial Hindi that embodies finding quick fixes or hacks to solve complex problems using limited resources. It's celebrated for its creativity and resourcefulness, crucial for sustainable design and economic efficiency. It shows how we can achieve more with less, which is vital in today’s resource-constrained world.
Nibedita Sen: How did you first encounter Jugaad, and how did it impact your approach to architecture and design?
Sharon Rotbard: My introduction to Jugaad came during my Halvad program in Ahmedabad. I observed the disparities between skilled labourers and architects and sought to bridge this gap by emphasizing inclusive design practices. This experience showed me the power of resourcefulness and innovation in creating sustainable, cost-effective solutions that stimulate the local economy.
Nibedita Sen: You've coined the term 'spontaneous architecture' from Jugaad. Can you elaborate on what this means in the context of sustainable design?
Sharon Rotbard: 'Spontaneous architecture' refers to integrating Jugaad techniques into architectural practice. It involves students inventing experimental techniques, exploring improvised construction materials, and developing immediate technologies. Jugaad is not just a solution technique; it’s a philosophy that enhances creativity while minimizing environmental impact and promoting economic sustainability.
Nibedita Sen: How does Jugaad contribute to design education, particularly regarding sustainability and economic efficiency?
Sharon Rotbard- Jugaad teaches resourcefulness, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving. It encourages students to embrace constraints, explore unconventional solutions, and create impactful and sustainable designs. These qualities are essential for developing environmentally friendly and economically viable design practices.
Nibedita Sen: Could you share your observations on Indian Jugaad during your projects in Ahmedabad, especially regarding environmental and economic benefits?
Sharon Rotbard: During these projects, I observed the remarkable ability of Indians to innovate and adapt using unconventional materials and techniques. Jugaad is a self-aware approach to improvisation and problem-solving, often finding practical solutions amidst constraints. These low-cost and environmentally friendly solutions contribute to both economic savings and reduced ecological impact.
Nibedita Sen: What are the broader implications of Jugaad in architecture globally, especially regarding sustainability?
Sharon Rotbard: Jugaad’s relevance extends globally, inspiring architects to rethink traditional practices and embrace sustainable, community-centred design solutions. It challenges architects to create spaces that resonate with cultural authenticity and environmental stewardship, which is increasingly important as we face global environmental challenges.
Nibedita Sen: How can incorporating Jugaad into architectural education benefit students and the economy?
Sharon Rotbard: Incorporating Jugaad into architectural education enriches students' technical skills and instils a mindset of resilience and creativity. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, adaptation, and innovative thinking, which are crucial for developing cost-effective, sustainable solutions that can stimulate economic growth and resilience.
Nibedita Sen: Tell us more about your collaborative projects with local architects in Gujarat. What were the outcomes, particularly regarding sustainability and economic impact?
Sharon Rotbard: My collaborative projects with local architects in Gujarat highlighted the transformative potential of integrating indigenous knowledge with contemporary architectural principles. We focused on sustainable building practices and inclusive design, leading to environmentally friendly and economically viable innovations.
Nibedita Sen: Finally, could you sum up the essence of Jugaad and how have you personally used it in teaching?
Sharon Rotbard: The spirit of Jugaad embodies human imagination and resilience. It inspires architects to create culturally authentic and environmentally sustainable spaces while being economically efficient. It's about challenging conventional boundaries and embracing the power of ingenuity to solve modern environmental and economic challenges. We created a temporary building out of plastic waste, and the department used it as a tent for the night. Later we gave it to a homeless man on the streets of Jerusalem.