Durgam Cheruvu
The project preserves and advances their geographic and social context, strengthening a vibrant public realm
Recipient of the IGBC Green Landscape Award, the Durgam Cheruvu Lakefront stands as a paragon of eco-sensitive development and cultural preservation. Showcased at the Agora Design Festival in Bordeaux, France, in 2018, this project successfully halted the encroachment of the lakebed and rejuvenated the ecosystem with aquatic plants that purify the water.
Initially the architect conceived to have Waterfront Cafés, boat jetty to be positioned near one of the entrances.
Site Area : 115 Acres
Service : Conceptual Master Planning
Location : Hyderabad, India
Client : State Government of Telangana
Status : Completed
Through steps and platforms these spaces would function as earth-retaining structures and which offer outdoor seating with lake views, the arrival experience thus evokes the mystical descent into the Earth, reminiscent of riverfront urban spaces.
The lakefront features a diverse array of amenities, including a Ganpathi immersion pond, boulder walk, a large screen showcasing documentaries, newscast, art films etc on greens, temple of trees, waterfront promenade, the green fingers catering to a wide range of recreational interests. Existing vegetation, trees were seamlessly integrated into the master plan. The restoration of weir and cleaning of the water were also integral to the project.
The state's first cable-stayed bridge, built by L&T Constructions, further enhances accessibility and connectivity. Local language signage strengthens community engagement, while the visibility of boulders from outside offers a glimpse of the lakefront’s features. The striking entrance gateway is complemented by ample parking and a hardscape plaza, envisioned by the architect to host weekly farmers' markets and festive events such as kite flying festivals, Holi, and dandiya during Dussera.
