Global Visions, Local Disconnects: ‘Starchitects’ in the Himalayas
Nepal, a country with a rich architectural heritage, has long inspired architects worldwide. From the ornate palaces of the Malla dynasty to intricate temple designs, the country reflects a balance between aesthetics and practicality. However, questions arise about the harmony between international visions and local traditions as global icons of architecture attempt to leave their mark on Nepal. The Indian Himalayas, much like their Nepali sister, are an architectural enigma. At HAP, Bhimtal, we believe that while global attention gravitates toward high-profile "starchitects" reshaping urban skylines worldwide, the delicate balance of the Himalayan region—its culture, environment, and identity—requires a distinct approach.
Recent articles by Himal Southasian and Nepali Times have sparked a discussion on the works of globally acclaimed architects—Tadao Ando, Rem Koolhaas, and Shigeru Ban—in Nepal. While these ‘starchitects’ are celebrated, their projects in Nepal have drawn mainly criticism. The articles also question the readiness by the Nepali public at large, to recognize great contemporary architecture, in this case a building by Louis I.Kahn in Kathmandu.
Vernacular Wisdom: A Foundation for Sustainable Design
The traditional architecture of the Himalayas, from the Nepali Newar to the techniques of Koti Banal and Kathkuni of the Indian Himalayas, reflects a profound ecological and cultural wisdom. These time-honored structures embody sustainability principles, skillful usage of local materials, taking in account climate and customs, creating designs that harmonize seamlessly with the Himalayan cultural landscapes.
However, many traditional practices are presently completely overshadowed by reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structures with brick infill. Cold Formed Steel (CFS) and cement boards are also getting popular. While functional, pure modern technique buildings often lack the internal comfort, environmental sensitivity (heaters and AC-s are needed) and the cultural depth of vernacular designs. As Professor Anne Feenstra notes, "Vernacular knowledge is not to be copied, but to be inspired from."
The arrival of several starchitects in Nepal brought excitement. But while their design intentions are innovative, they also lack an understanding of the disconnected from the Himalayan wisdom. These projects often appear as adaptations of global portfolios rather than bespoke responses to Nepal’s, or Uttarakhand’s unique needs.
Tadao Ando’s minimalist exposed concrete style, contrasting with nature, seemed a very interesting opportunity for Nepal’s landscape. However, his hospital design did not redefine modern Nepali architecture at all. Rem Koolhaas's oeuvre of groundbreaking architectural interventions has struggled to provide a clear direction for Nepal's contemporary architectural ambitions. Shigeru Ban, known for his sustainable material projects, also fell short in creating meaningful and useful works in the post 2015 earthquake scenario of Nepal’s reconstruction. In the two articles, the works of these architects have been questioned and criticized.Â
We at HAP would argue that perhaps in the Himalayan setting, they all miss the "slow architecture" ethos—an approach that embraces time, local engagement, and a deep understanding of place. This critique underscores the delicate balance between global innovation and contextual relevance.
The articles describe that Louis I. Kahn, the modernist giant, was perhaps the unluckiest of the four. Despite his visionary design for a Public Health ministry building, it was based on an approach which embraced time, local engagement, and a deeper understanding of place. While the building in Kathmandu was under construction, Kahn tragically passed away.Â
Contemporary Himalayan Architecture experiments
Attempts in Nepal fail often to resonate with the region's socio-environmental reality. Similarly, in the Indian Himalayas, global architectural philosophies must evolve to account for local topographies, climatic sensitivities, and cultural underpinnings. India's Himalayan region has long served as a crucible for architectural experimentation—whether through colonial-era hill stations like Shimla or contemporary projects such as the Dalai Lama's temple in Dharamshala.Â
In the field of architecture, Nepal and Uttarakhand find themselves at a pivotal juncture. As these regions embrace modernization, they risk losing touch with their architectural heritage and the influx of modern architecture into these ecologically fragile zones raises pressing questions about sustainability, cultural preservation, and local engagement.Â
At HAP we do try to follow a methodology where contemporary designs can honor traditional principles while addressing modern needs. Our design (HAP and SMA) of the Snow Leopard Conservation Center (under construction) incorporates local materials, local skills and eco-sensitive practices (passive solar energy, double glazing etc.) ensuring harmony with the ecosystem. We are using local Deodar timber, stone and mud mortar. Similarly for the just completed Fiddleheads Farm in Kumaon, we reimagined vernacular techniques for the ‘food-practitioners laboratory’ cum mountain lodge, thus making inroads for sustainable farming and eco-sensitive tourism, creating a novel innovative typology.
Architecture at a Crossroads
As the South Asian nations embrace modernity, they risk losing touch with its rich traditions. Yet, there is potential for a harmonious blend of both. The global expertise of inspiring and innovative architects can act as a catalyst for innovation while drawing inspiration from the enormous diversity of the architectural roots all over the Himalayas.
The critical review of the four starchitects works in Nepal, serve as a reminder of the subjectivity of architecture and the necessity of designing with sensitivity to the local context. By combining contemporary techniques with vernacular principles, Nepal can create a future where architecture honors its past and embraces modernity.
The question for us at HAP remains: How can Himalayan architecture evolve to reflect global aspirations while staying grounded in its cultural and environmental context? The answer lies not in imitation, but in inspiration—drawing from the wealth of local knowledge and reimagining it for a modern world.
