SPACES Sept issue 2017

Editorial
Karkhana is revolutionizing the education sector of Nepal as we know it, and the premises that houses the
company is making a statement in the Kathmandu architectural and interior design scene as well. The building
has a rich history, from being the residence of the Pudasaini family to the former International school. After the
2015 earthquake, the building needed urgent renovations, which has been carried out now in spectacular fashion.
Spaces features Karkhana and Galli Galli’s offices in Gyaneshwor, providing anecdotal accounts of the building’s
history as well as the earthquake resistant retrofit and redesign process.
Art, architecture, and interior design competitions and conferences have always been a great way of promoting
the field, and the past month has been full of very exciting events. Spaces believes that it is critical to report
about the winners, sponsors and the operations of these events to spread awareness within the art community
and beyond. Started as an attempt to provide a platform for fourth year architecture students to expand their
theoretical knowledge base and utilize it in the practical field, the winning entries of the Kaleidoscope are much
appreciated evidence of wonderful vision of the students. Shrawan Thakuri’s concept of Dasharath stadium
could be next functional beauty that Nepalese will truly aspire.
As the author Kirati Kusum Joshi well reflected that ‘What connects, can also divide’ regarding the usage of roads
as ‘we’ do. He amalgamated so many seen and unseen habits of reclaiming our streets that it simply incites
us not just to think but act right away. What simply has been the practice since ages has grown into chaotic
confusion of who or what exactly is the priority now. A spectacular piece, discussing the significance and history
of the streets in Kathmandu also provides some wonderful ideas for our beloved city to be more eco-friendly.
Bringing vitality to the public space it inhibits, a delightfully new concept of travelling exhibition takes the
museum experience into the public spaces providing more than a frame for the museum’s art prints, it brings a
spatial and visual experience through a replication of architectural expressions in both form and program. The
taste for interior décor and lighting is becoming a substance of style from designer as well as the owner. The
everlasting color of stone has been of deep influence and inspiration since ages. Application of the natural stone
in their varying color and contents in interior designing and architecture, the combinations makes us feel close to
mother earth.
The universally celebrated mastery of Nepalese art on metal for their eternal beauty and spiritual relevance is
eminent all over. The Newar master artisans are giving shape and life to the not so fortunate real substance of
Nepalese heritage which suffered multitude of damages on 2015 earthquake. The technicality and sensory ability
of these craftsmen is well cherished for ably restructuring the missing to bring back the esteem that was lost for
a while. With innovative participation of these master visionaries, the legacy of Newar art is here to endure.
Wishing all readers and well wishes a peacefully joyous festive season,
Ashesh Rajbansh / CEO
12 / SPACES SEPTEMBER 2017