---
title: "Community-Led Design for Socially Inclusive & Sustainable Spaces - mytribe"
description: "Transform your vision into reality with expert community-led design. We partner with you to create socially inclusive and sustainable architecture through a participatory process that empowers and endures. Hire Biome on Tribe and build with your community."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development
last_updated: 2025-09-04
---

# Community-Led Design & Development in Bengaluru

By [Biome Environmental Solutions](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture) · We design and build spaces with full community involvement, using local skills and materials so every project truly belongs to the people who use it.

## Locations

Studio in Vidyaranyapura; projects across Bengaluru & India

### Travels to

- Community projects across Bengaluru (Bengaluru, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India)
- Takes projects across India (India, India)

### Visit at

- Design studio at Vidyaranyapura, Bengaluru (serves projects near Hebbal, Yelahanka, Sahakar Nagar, Jalahalli, Manyata Tech Park, Indiranagar, Koramangala)

## Pricing guide (estimates)

These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote.

### End-to-End Architectural Design & Supervision

Covers detailed earth architecture drawings, passive climate engineering, and periodic site supervision to ensure execution quality.

Typically ₹450-700 per sq. ft. (estimate)

#### Detailed Design
* Good for Construction drawings for earth architecture like CSEB, Adobe, and Rammed Earth.
* Custom detailing for incorporating reclaimed materials and waste upcycling into structures.
* Passive climate engineering for natural ventilation and thermal mass planning.

#### Systems Integration
* Water cycle design including RWH sumps, greywater recycling, and eco-friendly sanitation.
* Landscape design integrating recharge wells and social gathering spaces.

#### Execution Support
* Periodic site visits to monitor specialized mud techniques and masonry vaults.
* Assistance in selecting contractors skilled in earth and lime work.

### Eco-Cottage Prototype Design

Replicable design for a 400 to 600 sq. ft. unit including structural details and mason training manuals.

Typically ₹1.8-2.8L per typology (estimate)

#### Prototype Development
* Design of a cottage typology utilizing local mud and timber aesthetics.
* Load bearing structural design optimized for local artisan capabilities.

#### Interior Specs
* Integration of built in furniture like mud benches and niches.
* Design of attached eco sanitation blocks or twin pit toilets.

#### Implementation Tools
* Simplified training guide to teach local masons replication techniques.
* Guidelines for soil mix selection and timber treatment.

### Master Planning & Feasibility Study

Includes topographical surveys, aquifer mapping, soil testing for mud blocks, and a conceptual master plan for sites up to 2 acres.

Typically ₹2.5-4.5L per project phase (estimate)

#### Site Analysis
* Ecological survey mapping topography, wind patterns, and native vegetation.
* Hydro-geological survey to identify aquifer recharge zones.

#### Community Integration
* Visioning workshops with local stakeholders and future users to determine needs.
* Resource mapping to identify local building materials and available artisan skills.

#### Strategic Strategy
* Feasibility report outlining ecological carrying capacity and water management.
* Conceptual master plan showing zoning, building footprints, water bodies, and circulation.
* Broad budgetary projections for construction based on vernacular techniques.

## About Community-Led Design & Development

### Building With, Not Just For, Communities

I see design as a shared journey, not a solo act. The best spaces come from people working together, not just blueprints. My process brings everyone to the table - elders, kids, artisans, NGOs, even local sarkari (government) folks if needed. Projects are shaped by listening: we talk, argue, learn, and sometimes even unlearn. It's not always neat, but that's how spaces get heart.

### How Collaboration Happens

- participatory building design means everyone’s voice counts, not just the architects
- Local skills aren’t just showcased, they drive the work - village artisans, school kids, neighbours, all pitch in
- Each build is rooted in place: mud houses for rural tourism, community wells that double up as addas (hangouts), and school spaces full of local craft
- vernacular architecture collaboration - we use local styles and materials, right down to finding gems in the kabadi ki dukaan (scrap dealer’s shop)
- Projects don’t just give a building, they spark jobs, pride, and sometimes, new traditions

### Why It Matters

Every project is different, but the goal stays the same: spaces that feel like they truly belong. I’m not chasing magazine spreads; I want buildings that talk about the land, the hands, and the people who made them. If you want a place that fits your community, not just the architect’s vision, let’s have that first conversation.

## Highlights

Browse through Biome Environmental Solutions's best work.

### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/featured)

- ![This vernacular homestay in rural Madhya Pradesh is the result of a deep collaboration with the local community. The space is built with earth, shaped by local hands, and decorated with murals that tell the stories of the families who live here, offering a truly authentic and sustainable travel experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b7712a33-b076-4e7c-9429-3ac648f2e092)
- ![At the Atelier School in Bangalore, learning happens everywhere. This collage shows how we designed spaces that are as much a part of the education as the curriculum, using playful elements like a water channel and partitions made from reusable paper tubes, all inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cde6f560-d241-4bdd-ad1a-837f0bef6943)
- ![The ASA Office in Bhopal stands as a testament to ecological design on an institutional scale. This building, raised on stilts to create a natural wetland below, is powered by solar energy and built with locally made composite blocks, showcasing how modern workspaces can be both functional and deeply connected to nature.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/58d768c1-6fa0-4d77-823b-acee74ca246c)
- ![The heart of our process is in the hands of the community. Here, a woman from a village in Madhya Pradesh makes adobe bricks from the local soil. This image captures the essence of participatory design, where local skills and materials are not just used, but celebrated.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8aa18d81-379b-43c3-9692-bd219bbd6877)
- ![We believe architecture should be playful and invite interaction. At the Sai Kirupa Special School in Tiruppur, a student finds a moment of rest in an inverted arch, a feature that has become one of the most loved elements of the campus, showing how design can create moments of joy and belonging.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0feec9d7-0e7e-4acc-9295-511e1402869d)
- [Video: Our design process begins with understanding the place and its people. This animated sketch shows the evolution of the amphitheater roof for the Jhamtse Gatsal Community Centre in Arunachal Pradesh, a design choice that gives a large, usable open space back to the children on a narrow mountain ridge.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3216e4e5-9429-4f47-ab49-d398c37cc75c)
- ![A building should live and breathe with its environment. The facade of the Eklavya campus in Bhopal, made from reclaimed railway windows, has become a vertical garden, with creepers weaving through and providing nesting spaces for birds, as its reflection shimmers in the collected rainwater below.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/27372bf6-b93b-4777-a66e-e3a607fb7470)
- ![We design spaces that feel like home because they are born from the local culture. This bedroom in a Madhya Pradesh homestay features walls adorned with traditional patterns, simple wooden furniture, and textiles made by local artisans, creating a warm and welcoming retreat.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e3c71110-8647-4783-bd30-67a7dec1738d)

### [Vernacular Homestays of Madhya Pradesh](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/vernacular-homestays-of-madhya-pradesh)

- ![An exterior view of a community-built homestay, showcasing the rounded structure and traditional striped paintwork that reflects the local aesthetic. The building sits naturally in the landscape, a product of the earth it stands on.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4f48c59a-cb73-4a99-a48f-94dc8399d4c0)
- ![A local woman sits proudly outside her family's homestay. The project is not just about building structures, but about empowering the community, especially women, who bring the walls to life with their artistic skills.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6e6b25b9-9334-4cb0-a571-e0745696fc80)
- ![Every project begins with the community. Here, villagers and our team collaborate on marking the foundation for a new homestay, a crucial first step in our participatory design process where every voice contributes to the final outcome.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bf4be077-862a-4d72-b736-060f06032bb0)
- ![Local artisans and masons work on the brick and timber structure of a homestay. We prioritize using traditional building techniques and local expertise, ensuring the knowledge of generations is passed on and valued.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8520c5ac-06fd-47a3-9669-89dd777ab0c7)
- ![Community members work together to prepare the foundation, moving earth and stone by hand. This collective effort fosters a deep sense of ownership and pride in the project, creating spaces that truly belong to the people.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/546aad4f-2ad3-45eb-b720-e1e93b6823c8)
- ![A close-up of a wall niche adorned with a peacock mural, a common motif in local folk art. These details, painted by the women of the family, transform a simple wall into a canvas for storytelling.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e6ce5782-38b1-4215-8491-2bcc44393403)
- ![A relief carving of a tiger on a mud wall, showcasing the rich textures and artistic traditions of the region. This kind of earth art is an integral part of the homestay experience, connecting guests to the local culture and wildlife.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9dbfa182-6c17-4f07-b06f-5de6c89c6f3d)
- ![This charming mud relief depicts a woman carrying a pot, a scene from daily village life. By incorporating such art, the buildings themselves become a narrative of the community's identity and traditions.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/930a2eca-4657-45f4-a47a-cdaf253085c3)
- ![An interior view of a homestay bedroom, showing the clean lines of the bed against walls decorated with tribal patterns. The design balances rustic charm with comfort, creating a serene space for guests.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d8b2c1f8-58eb-477d-9087-868bea1cf671)
- ![A completed homestay nestled amongst the trees, with its tiled roof and earthen walls blending seamlessly into the rural Madhya Pradesh landscape. The design respects the scale and character of the village.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4881f6a3-6c6d-424c-bfac-70ebb567997b)
- ![This illustration was part of our design communication process, helping the community visualize how a new homestay would integrate into their existing village fabric, near the river and local temple.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9c6d1b3-0f2c-47c0-8f75-352e681a30e6)
- ![A detailed site plan illustration showing how a homestay unit relates to the family's main house, the cattle shed, and the kitchen garden. This visual tool was essential for our collaborative design discussions with the villagers.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e0898bca-906d-435f-8d34-e0e5870342e5)

### [Schools & Learning Environments](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/schools-learning-environments)

- ![The vibrant facade of the Mathru Centre for Developmental Disabilities in Bengaluru, made entirely from reclaimed windows painted bright yellow. The design creates a cheerful and welcoming landmark while demonstrating our commitment to resource circularity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/35d286b5-641d-4bcf-a981-df6313e692a3)
- ![The Buddhi School in Bengaluru is designed around a large, shaded courtyard that serves as the heart of the campus. The building's orientation and use of earth blocks create a comfortable, passive-cooled environment for outdoor activities and learning.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/caaa7233-de06-4951-ab67-47e0c60db076)
- ![The central courtyard at Sai Kirupa Special School in Tiruppur, featuring a sensory room and shaded gathering spaces under a tensile fabric roof. The architecture is designed to be a therapeutic and engaging environment for children with special needs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/22f30d13-9e14-4dfd-96aa-73c2142c3e9c)
- ![Originally a bus shelter, this arts classroom for the Spastic Society of Karnataka was built in just five weeks on a tight budget. Now standing for decades, its playful brickwork and accessible design show that thoughtful architecture can be both temporary and timeless.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6258c1cb-7c40-46e1-b417-f0f3490d29c9)
- ![The Eklavya campus in Bhopal, where the building's design actively integrates with nature. The facade provides nesting spaces for birds, and the grounds are lush with plants, creating a living, breathing learning environment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/786e7654-2fad-487d-9858-7961b566ab9e)
- ![An informal performance space at Buddhi School, where students can gather, share, and learn from each other. The stage is decorated with broken tiles, another example of creatively reusing materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e84d36ad-a256-49cc-aa79-23bcc9a04739)
- ![A therapy and play area at the Mathru Centre, featuring equipment for physical development under a skylight. The space is designed to be both functional for therapy and joyful for children.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c6dd4ebd-5d69-452c-a89f-a35e4cdfc3ab)
- ![Playful cutouts in the brick walls of the Spastic Society classroom, shaped like animals. These small details spark imagination and bring a sense of delight to the learning space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7c3c162a-95f8-4c01-aa54-a512e03449e3)
- ![A collage from the Atelier School, showing children interacting with a water play area and moving through partitions made of paper tubes. The design encourages hands-on exploration and can be disassembled and reused in the future.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cde6f560-d241-4bdd-ad1a-837f0bef6943)
- ![A view of the Promise Center Montessori from the late 90s, showing a child-scaled kitchenette and a spiral staircase. The design thoughtfully considers the perspective and needs of its youngest users.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9de3ae15-747c-4ff9-9ead-ae5338290eb3)
- ![A multi-purpose room at the Mathru Centre, with exposed brick walls and large windows that connect the interior to the green spaces outside. The simple, honest material palette creates a calm and focused atmosphere.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3cbb8bb5-f556-43ff-be8a-8e10b29224fb)
- ![The open corridors at the Mathru Centre are filled with natural light, connecting different learning spaces. The design uses large glass panels to create a sense of openness and visual connection to the outdoors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6b3a6dd1-6176-44ec-a07b-4eeed2d9b9ed)
- ![A classroom at the Mathru Centre defined by low brick walls, creating distinct zones for different activities while maintaining a sense of openness. The colorful furniture adds a playful touch to the space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/191fefa5-0218-4cd9-9826-a54f332caf97)
- ![The interior of the Spastic Society classroom, with a high, ventilated roof and colorful furniture. The space is bright and airy, designed to be a comfortable and stimulating environment for art and creativity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2b963b75-364e-4f09-9939-2cab8d478e0b)
- ![An early photo of the Spastic Society classroom interior, showing the arched roof structure and light filtering in. This demonstrates the evolution of the space over time.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0ee9f421-40a8-4a9b-b4b5-01e8f95dfcca)
- ![The floor plan for the Spastic Society classroom, illustrating the simple, efficient layout designed for accessibility and flexible use.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a7282e2d-868d-4e74-8c3a-ecb2d3eda7a1)
- ![The entrance to the Spastic Society classroom, with its charming brick detailing and a small overhang. The design is humble yet dignified, creating a welcoming entry point for students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bb965413-b7cb-4b6d-9eda-52dc2f6183cd)
- ![A before-and-after comparison of the Spastic Society classroom, showing its original thatched roof and its later, more permanent tiled roof. This highlights the building's durability and adaptability over three decades.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a9c5a434-fc5b-4663-8c10-d97d456b9b37)
- ![The rear facade of the Spastic Society classroom, featuring stepped brick buttresses and small window openings. The design is both structurally sound and visually interesting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9ba3d465-9c0a-4c25-9760-05c57de6358d)
- ![Children at Buddhi School find a quiet corner to play a game using leaves and stones. Our designs often include informal nooks and ledges that encourage spontaneous play and social interaction.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ac5eae60-abb4-4cb4-b7c3-04ae3f463738)
- ![Students gather in the library at Buddhi School, illuminated by a large skylight. The space is designed to be a cozy and inviting corner for reading and quiet learning.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/428f0306-eead-424d-a24c-1434c651bef7)
- ![A classroom at Buddhi School where curtains are used to create flexible learning zones. The vertically patterned brickwork allows for diffused natural light while maintaining privacy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d2e4c2d9-d5d2-4db4-8166-3d35c7a37fa0)
- ![A child plays along the wall of Buddhi School, which features playful circular windows. The building itself becomes a part of the playscape, engaging students at their own scale.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/aa2e27ef-dd96-4f6e-a176-87632608046a)
- ![A rope bridge and play structure at Buddhi School, integrated directly with the building. We believe that play is essential to learning, and our designs create numerous opportunities for physical activity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/56510177-fe2b-4a71-b08e-b06f35552c07)
- ![The sand-filled play area at Sai Kirupa Special School, surrounded by the arched corridors of the classrooms. The design provides a safe and stimulating outdoor environment for children.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c6422183-ab3f-467c-80a5-e0e1cb0650d2)
- ![Another view of the playground at Sai Kirupa, showing various types of play equipment designed to aid in the children's physical and sensory development.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/476b6688-b383-4d9a-a3f6-b1eeda970908)
- ![Our team on-site at Sai Kirupa, discussing details in the shaded corridor. Collaboration between architects, clients, and contractors is fundamental to the success of our projects.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/81d800c9-dfc3-472c-87bc-3654c53686d3)
- ![The central rotunda at Sai Kirupa Special School under construction, showing the exposed brickwork and circular window openings that define this key gathering space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/80c3ca4d-7c8d-4f2d-9e17-07df29fbeadf)
- ![The classroom block at Sai Kirupa during construction, with its repeating arches and built-in corridor seating. The design creates a rhythmic and orderly facade that is also highly functional.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1b6361a2-8b23-4cbd-a55a-d4afed854ac0)
- ![Creepers and vines grow up the facade of the Eklavya campus, made from reclaimed louvered windows. This "living wall" is a direct expression of our goal to create architecture that coexists with nature.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/314ab6d5-8814-4ad8-9005-0bceee19f7d4)
- ![A wide view of the Eklavya campus building, showing how the green facade has matured over time, blending the structure into its surrounding landscape.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d6877e12-9129-4225-8ec9-eb6e330dd002)
- ![The entrance of the Eklavya campus, where modern concrete structures are complemented by vibrant murals on the columns and the warmth of a large wooden door.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e1657a47-5f64-4316-8275-84e0eca935ff)
- ![A dining and activity area at the Mathru Centre, with large sliding glass doors opening to a green patio, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/85e34b3a-eb80-432e-8446-2041697ec7f9)
- ![A duplicate of image 27, showing a classroom at the Mathru Centre.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fbf20fa3-62c7-4823-ab47-ded7299299f0)
- ![A duplicate of image 25, showing a therapy area at the Mathru Centre.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fff3e903-46a0-4b09-90d6-2570738553c0)
- ![A duplicate of image 24, showing the open corridors at the Mathru Centre.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0c1e7529-cd62-4807-9859-9ce737e9afdc)
- ![A duplicate of image 31, showing the facade of the Mathru Centre.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4dbcb45f-278a-4e91-b25e-5b1e7d1b54b5)
- ![A duplicate of image 51, showing the interior of the Spastic Society classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cdca509c-b259-493d-a7fe-53553f2dced2)
- ![A duplicate of image 53, showing playful window cutouts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f801e24e-01d0-4bd2-8ec7-948ef736a629)
- ![A duplicate of image 52, showing an early photo of the classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f8a056c5-2411-4daf-bdb9-d8fb2c0969e8)
- ![A duplicate of image 58, showing the exterior of the Spastic Society classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c329ce9a-7ef2-469a-9e6d-396bd51f6193)
- ![A duplicate of image 53, showing playful window cutouts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b808e93a-29e0-4882-93a1-3346cfe15e1a)
- ![A duplicate of image 53, showing playful window cutouts.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b954b90d-defa-4fcf-87ba-0d961f0ca21a)
- ![A duplicate of image 63, showing the before-and-after of the classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/009ac3c1-cb2f-4fa1-9be4-6aca72600636)
- ![A duplicate of image 60, showing the entrance to the classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8f276370-209b-4daf-bfa0-df7dcbbf5f80)
- ![A duplicate of image 62, showing the rear facade of the classroom.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fe4da3be-5aa7-4c37-9fd8-8f710758e9ce)
- ![The textured brick walls of Buddhi School serve as a backdrop for student artwork, turning the building's corridors into a living gallery.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b150090c-e98b-4583-9ece-d1aa3906a470)
- ![A duplicate of image 100, showing the living wall at Eklavya campus.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5c274cac-acaf-4fbe-957d-1da04129214f)
- ![A duplicate of image 99, showing the Eklavya campus exterior.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fe2ff771-0b7f-4b02-ba9a-941208076daa)
- ![A duplicate of image 101, showing the facade and its reflection.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d38e64a5-64fe-4b1d-8d1f-ab2c76239838)
- ![A duplicate of image 105, showing a wide view of the Eklavya campus.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/de7ef35e-307f-45c3-b223-4b16ea23877e)
- ![A duplicate of image 107, showing the entrance of the Eklavya campus.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f21fd992-9271-4726-b364-2267b3bda5f5)
- ![A duplicate of image 110, showing the play area at Sai Kirupa.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/423a0d30-ae64-42e0-9bbc-cd649c2e3f87)
- ![A duplicate of image 113, showing the playground at Sai Kirupa.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e1270ca3-656d-4894-9d72-9eb9db6e1f62)
- ![A duplicate of image 114, showing our team on site.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e2df3e5d-08e3-4eb3-b7ba-298e6ee31af9)
- ![A duplicate of image 111, showing the central courtyard at Sai Kirupa.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4454edc1-16aa-4e50-bf02-c8a8e465462b)
- ![A duplicate of image 120, showing a student in the inverted arch.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5b7589eb-8983-4870-9437-48848ef1ed8c)
- ![A duplicate of image 118, showing the rotunda under construction.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a65649ba-d9e9-43be-bf47-1799e8ab40ef)
- ![A duplicate of image 119, showing the classroom block under construction.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/90395fee-012b-445f-81b2-a8163849da70)
- ![The facade of the Mathru school, built with reclaimed windows from a demolished house. This is a clear example of our circular economy approach, where waste from one project becomes a resource for another.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/774ac69f-b7a9-43ba-a44c-c9ee34f30319)
- ![A duplicate of image 126.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d30e8f5b-61a6-42e2-adc9-7dc3006c947c)

### [Community Hubs & Workspaces](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/community-hubs-workspaces)

- [Video: This animation shows our design for the Jhamtse Gatsal community centre in Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the mountains. The design features an amphitheater on the roof to maximize usable space and integrates traditional architectural patterns.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9014e8c-2c04-495b-9250-b8104e36e476)
- ![The ground floor of the ASA Office in Bhopal was designed as a wetland to manage seasonal waterlogging. A raised brick walkway meanders through the plants and water bodies, creating a tranquil entrance that speaks to the organization's focus on natural resource management.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/25675bc8-b29e-4418-be04-91d178af8763)
- ![A quote from the founder of Oorjaa, a paper-making studio we designed, reflecting on two decades in one of Bangalore's first green buildings. The space, with its sun-soaked interiors and exposed brick, was designed to foster creativity and sustainable practice.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/206c5e9c-16ec-4599-9091-b533576d5c40)
- ![An overhead view of the stepped well at the ASA Office, designed as a community gathering space. This feature is a modern interpretation of a traditional Indian 'baori' and serves as a social heart for the building.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/84bff30c-c075-4dd4-b05b-5886946fbce1)
- [Video: Construction progress at the Jhamtse Gatsal community centre, showing the concrete amphitheater taking shape against the stunning backdrop of the Arunachal Pradesh mountains.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1b1e51f2-b128-49a4-81f5-1d9b930c6107)
- [Video: A close-up of the facade at Jhamtse Gatsal, showing the exposed brickwork and precast concrete elements featuring the traditional "Pema Choetse" pattern, crafted by local artisans.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b42bedce-c9be-420d-810b-005498bce35e)
- ![A collage showing the intricate craftsmanship at Jhamtse Gatsal. It features traditional stone and plaster work, carved wooden beams, and an artisan painting colorful patterns, highlighting the integration of local craft.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/50d43818-3870-4035-85fb-a130e4c6be07)
- ![Artisans at work inside the Oorjaa paper-making studio. The workshop was designed to be a functional and inspiring space, with high ceilings and ample natural light for detailed craftwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a3acf316-10a8-4b04-959d-5a415fd0bdd5)
- ![The Oorjaa studio in full swing, with artisans weaving and crafting paper products. The building's honest material palette of brick and concrete provides a robust backdrop for the creative process.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1fef1b4-2ff5-4049-acd9-c38c88e79f3c)
- ![A quote from Oorjaa's founder highlights the importance of the water recycling system we designed for their paper-making process. This focus on circularity and resource efficiency was central to the project from its inception.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a311adc7-0296-4bbf-8972-6ed6bfb3cc35)
- ![The workspace at the ASA Office, with desks arranged in an open-plan layout to foster collaboration. The fly-ash brick walls and large windows create a bright and healthy indoor environment.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/41ba896b-04d0-44b7-ad12-d485a139e9d4)
- ![The office interior is filled with potted plants, creating an "edible landscape" and improving indoor air quality. This biophilic design approach connects employees with nature throughout their workday.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5e00aaa9-4642-475e-b127-a08370635de1)
- ![The large conference room at the ASA Office, featuring a coffered ceiling and exposed brick walls. The space is designed for large meetings and workshops, with ample natural light from the clerestory windows.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cdf34485-c1fa-48c2-88a1-a1d59d98e7e1)
- ![A sectional drawing of the ASA Office, illustrating the building's passive design strategies. It shows the deep overhangs, courtyard spaces, and roof insulation that help regulate temperature naturally.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2265bd45-75f1-4ee5-a13b-681ce2210229)
- ![The ground floor plan of the ASA Office, showing the layout of the stepped well, wetland, and building columns. The design strategically lifts the building to embrace and manage the site's water.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cb5b4796-9784-4488-9e69-edff9d65368c)
- ![A typical floor plan for the ASA Office, detailing the arrangement of workspaces, meeting rooms, and common areas designed to encourage interaction among staff.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1a3574f1-a20e-4636-bb91-3946b3d49624)
- ![An open-air corridor at the ASA Office, with a curved bridge connecting two parts of the building. This space features a large mural of Mahatma Gandhi and overlooks the surrounding landscape.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9264586-8f14-4c22-a400-d5549c8a2f3e)
- ![A duplicate of image 70, showing the plant-filled office interior.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/51962b9f-d3bf-4bd3-a2ad-f7de50376306)
- ![A duplicate of image 71, showing the conference room.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/40eb1050-12d5-4702-a7a5-2effcbec7eec)
- ![A duplicate of image 68, showing the open-plan workspace.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9e6bf7b1-281a-4108-bfb1-ca15809cb979)
- ![A duplicate of image 69, showing the stepped well from above.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b719e724-cfed-4e5a-8c7f-c97f0db56742)
- ![A duplicate of image 76, showing the building section.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4724efcf-1ce5-4e1d-8a64-971316b35e2f)
- ![A duplicate of image 78, showing the ground floor plan.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/23a6c543-38ec-4c0a-81d7-b0f2b6d4700a)
- ![A duplicate of image 80, showing a typical floor plan.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e3498bd4-e67f-48c1-85f1-aed02ecabffc)
- ![A duplicate of image 82, showing the wetland entrance.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ce2a8760-7503-4a02-aaf0-731c919e8b77)
- ![A duplicate of image 83, showing the full exterior of the ASA Office.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6984df02-031f-466e-b5b6-4b41eda65c45)
- ![A duplicate of image 85, showing the open-air corridor.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/67f0f294-405c-45c2-8f2d-5cd592ae6a66)

### [Eco-Retreats & Residences](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/eco-retreats-residences)

- ![The Waghoba Ecolodge at dusk, overlooking a man-made lake designed to restore the area's biodiversity. The resort, built with adobe blocks from site soil, offers a tranquil experience of living in harmony with the forest near Tadoba Wildlife Sanctuary.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5cc1ebe3-6aed-4c9b-a89a-b1bd1644b044)
- ![A nostalgic photo from a house in Chettinad, designed in 2003. The doors and windows were sourced from the client's ancestral home, weaving family history and reclaimed materials into the fabric of the new building.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/96aaf52c-811b-4fc1-b309-9f3650deca52)
- ![The "Prof's Residence" in Bengaluru, an early experimental project from 2003. It featured a universally accessible ground floor and a crocodile sculpture on its vaulted roof, serving as a laboratory for many of our design ideas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/003ffa1f-d28c-463c-809c-45b51c225a39)
- ![The "Elephants by the Lake" residence under construction, framed by trees. The design uses exposed brick and creates large openings to connect the inhabitants with the natural beauty of the site.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6710187a-68bb-4e93-a57a-c934d57fec8c)
- ![A view of the landscape design at VAY, Hulical, showing terraced lawns and water channels that manage rainwater flow on a sloped site. This project integrates public space, water management, and residential villas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f58c9322-9a0a-4ced-ad31-87c72de76efd)

### [The Art of Building: Materials & Craftsmanship](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/the-art-of-building-materials-craftsmanship)

- [Video: The "caterpillar" roof of the Gamaya clubhouse takes shape. This video shows the construction of the ferrocement shell, a technique that allows for strong, lightweight, and expressive forms while using minimal material.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/71f8c532-1ff4-4618-842b-31e862795182)
- ![Art is not an afterthought; it is part of the architecture itself. This terracotta mural depicting the Dandi March is integrated into the brick wall of a courtyard, turning a structural element into a powerful storytelling canvas.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2756f69c-62be-4d2d-b289-5a6444a632d4)
- ![A large terracotta jali wall with an intricate leaf pattern at the entrance of the ASA office. This functional screen provides ventilation and privacy while serving as a beautiful piece of architectural art.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e8235f8a-7f49-48e5-8c2b-97af10fe8e43)
- ![A framed terracotta tile mural depicting lotus flowers, hung against a textured brick wall. This piece highlights how we collaborate with artists to create custom works that complement the building's material palette.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5cf1f891-8577-4f29-b3ea-e5045656d4e1)
- ![A decorative panel featuring a traditional motif, made with inlaid pebbles and colored plaster. This detail, placed next to a brightly painted door, shows our love for combining different textures, crafts, and colors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/50a0bbe4-7a4b-4cab-abf0-fbf30875b6d2)
- ![A relief mural sculpted directly onto an earth-block wall. The fluid, organic forms of the artwork contrast with the geometric lines of the windows, adding a dynamic and artistic layer to the building's facade.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3a17f38c-fde4-4e89-aae7-158c63bdff81)
- [Video: A montage showing the Gamaya project in Vikarabad through different seasons and stages of construction. It highlights the use of inverted brick arches and the building's response to the changing landscape.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/623ebb82-049f-4b36-a72a-2f5d20f0d5a8)
- ![The process of building with reclaimed stone for the foundation of an MP homestay. We believe in finding value in what is already there, whether it's old materials or the earth under our feet.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7612737a-a279-4574-8199-9ed3e5ecf8bd)
- ![A wide shot of the construction site for a homestay, with community members working together. This image captures the scale of the collaborative effort involved in our community-based projects.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a9f39643-67fb-4437-9735-773960303487)

### [Our Journey & Design Principles](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/community-led-design-development/our-journey-design-principles)

- ![A photo from our archives, showing our young team sharing a meal in the basement office of our founder's home. Even in our earliest days, our conversations were always about design, water, and building a better world.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/67cc404d-993a-46d7-ba08-6b0a2091c3ed)
- ![The facade of the Mathru school, built with reclaimed windows from a demolished house. This is a clear example of our circular economy approach, where waste from one project becomes a resource for another.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/774ac69f-b7a9-43ba-a44c-c9ee34f30319)
- ![A duplicate of image 126.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d30e8f5b-61a6-42e2-adc9-7dc3006c947c)

## Meet your expert

[Biome Environmental Solutions](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture)

### My story

We started out wanting to get our hands dirty, literally. For us, design kicks off with the land, the local folks, and whatever materials are lying around. It’s not just about making buildings, it’s about stories—like those homestays in MP, where elders and kids slap on mud murals together. We love digging through kabadi ki dukaan (scrap shop) for old windows, or giving Chettinad doors a second life. Every wall’s got a memory, some future too.

### My work

- **What We Build**: Private homes, schools, big community spaces, vernacular homestays, and sometimes interiors, always with an eco-first mindset.
- **Earth & Ecological Architecture**: We use mud, stone, adobe, cob—keeping natural mud wall construction alive and local architecture from fading out.
- **Community Collaboration**: Every project is participatory. We work with NGOs, governments, and locals—craftsmen lead, we follow.
- **Circularity & Reuse**: Recycled building materials are our jam. We turn waste into windows, old doors into new stories.
- **Future-Ready Design**: Design for disassembly means spaces can change, adapt, and get reused—buildings aren’t forever, but their purpose can be.

## More services from Biome Environmental Solutions

- [Sustainable Architecture](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/sustainable-architecture) · ₹100-250 per sq ft (design consultancy) (estimate)
- [Ecological & Sustainable Interiors](https://mytribe.in/biomearchitecture/ecological-sustainable-interiors) · ₹1,500-3,500 per sq.ft. (estimate)

## Book

To book Biome Environmental Solutions, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Community-Led%20Design%20%26%20Development%20by%20Biome%20Environmental%20Solutions.)