Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CONTENTS
List of figures 1. Introduction 1.1 What is form? 1.2 Methodology of study 2. Aspects of form 2.1 Proportion/Scale 2.1.1 Introduction: 2.1.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2.1.3 Estuary Resort 2.1.4 Centre for development studies 2.1.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.1.6 Comparison 2.1.7 Inference 2.2 Composition 2.2.1 Introduction: 2.2.2 Padmanabhaswamy temple 2.2.3 Estuary Resort 2.2.4 Centre for development studies 2.2.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.2.6 Comparison 2.2.7 Inference 2.3 Form Organization 2.3.1 Introduction: 2.3.2 Form organization of Padmanabhaswamy temple 2.3.3 Form organization of Estuary resort 2.3.4 Form organization of Centre for Development Studies 2.3.5 Form organization of Padmanabhapuram palace 2.3.6 Comparison 2.3.7 Inference 2.4 Effect of function / activity: 2.4.1 Introduction: 2.4.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9
2.4.4 CDS 2.4.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace 2.4.6 Inference 2.5 Effect of climate 2.5.1 Introduction: 2.5.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2.5.3 Estuary resort 2.5.4 Centre for Development Studies 2.5.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.5.6 Inference 2.6 Effect of vasthu principles 2.6.1 Introduction 2.6.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2.6.3 Estuary Resort 2.6.4 Padmanabhapuram Palace 2.6.5 Inference 2.7 Transformations 2.7.1 Introduction: 2.7.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2.7.3 Estuary resort 2.7.4 Centre for Development Studies 2.7.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace 2.7.6 Inference 2.8 Site in relation to building 2.8.1 Introduction 2.8.2 Estuary resort 2.8.3 Centre for Development Studies 3. Bibliography 3.1 Books 3.2 Websites
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FORM ANALYSIS
List of figures
Sl No. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. Figure no. 2.1.1 2.1.2 2.1.3 2.1.4 2.1.5 2.1.6 2.1.7 2.1.8 2.1.9 2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 2.2.6 2.3.1 2.3.2 2.3.3 2.3.4 2.4.1 Details Front view of temple North gate of temple Gopuram of temple Gopuram of Madurai meenakshi temple Padipurra at Palace Poomugham Upparika Malikka Indra vilasom Thekke kottaram East gate of Temple North gate of temple Entrance of guruvayoor Temple Front elevation of resort Interior of mantrashalla Comparison to Chinese architecture Plan of Temple Plan of resort Plan of CDS Plan of Palace View from resort Page Number 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6
Windows of palace Window of Upparika Malika Navaratri Mandappam Scale of Treasury door of Palace Typical Kerala temple roof Window without sunshade at CDS Roof Alignment of palace Main building CDS Slope of theatre at CDS
7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 9
2.4.2 Organic form of green room of theatre at CDS 2.4.3 Fenestrations of computer centre at CDS
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FORM ANALYSIS
1. Introduction
1.1 What is form? Architectural form is the point of contact between mass and space . . . Architectural forms, textures, materials, modulation of light and shade, color, all combine to inject a quality or spirit that articulates space. The quality of the architecture will be determined by the skill of the designer in using and relating these elements, both in the interior spaces and the spaces around the buildings. (Edmund N. Bacon, 1974) Form is an inclusive term that has several meanings. It may refer to an external appearance that may be recognized, as that of a chair or the human body that sits in it. In art and design we often use the term to denote the formal structure of a work-the manner of arranging and coordinating the elements and parts of a composition so as to produce a coherent image (D.K Ching) Form has a number of aspects which defines it. Form analysis of a building is done by taking into consideration these aspects of form. The different aspects of form that we have taken into consideration are 1. Proportion / Scale 2. Composition of form 3. Form massing 4. Effect of function 5. Effect of climate 6. Effect of Vasthu Principles 7. Transformations 8. Relationship of the site with the form of the building.
The aspects of form was taken into proper consideration and related to each of the buildings that were visited. The plans, elevations and sections were sketched out and studied. Photographs of buildings were taken to provide apt references showing the aspects of form. The Padmanabhapuram palace and temple was given an extra consideration in the aspect of Vaastu as they were very old buildings and Vaastu is the science of architecture that was followed during olden times in India.
Visit to location.
Detailed form analysis done from the sketches, notes and photos in hand.
Each aspect of study chosen and studied extensively in each building with the help of references from books and the internet.
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FORM ANALYSIS
2. Aspects of form
2.1 Proportion/Scale
2.1.1 Introduction: The physical dimensions of length, breadth and depth determine the proportions of form and its scale is determined by its size relative to other forms in its context. Scale can also be the size of something as compared to reference standards whereas proportion refers to harmonious inter-relation of one part of the structure to another or to the whole. An important aspect in the study of proportion is the proportion known as the golden section. The golden proportion is equal to 0.618. It is the most harmonious of all proportions. 2.1.2 Padmanabhaswami temple 2.1.2.1 East Gate The east entrance(Fig 2.1.1) is found to be nearly 7 times the height of an average human being, thereby giving the appearance of grandeur. One can feel like one is entering into a place that is above all other. Being the main entrance, the height should be sufficient to allow an elephant to enter along with the processions happening. The gate is wide enough to allow large number of people to enter the temple during festivals or utsavs. 2.1.2.2 North Gate The ratio of the height to breadth of the gate (Fig 2.1.2) is found to be nearly 1.25.The proportions of the ground floor are huge compared to the first floor. This serves the function of defining a grand entrance. As it is a side entrance, it need not be as grand as the east gate as it is not used by so many people. This gate is used only for the entry and exit of people. Thus, the proportions are in accordance with that. This gate has Fig 2.1.2.North gate of temple similar proportions with gateways of other temples of Kerala. That is, it is built in the Kerala style of temples.
Fig 2.1.1. Front View of Temple
2.1.2.3 Gopuram The height of the gopuram (Fig. 2.1.3) is nearly 15 times the height of an average human being. The gopuram of the temple was initially proposed to be seven storey high. However, the construction was stopped at five. The Fig 2.1.3.Gopuram of Fig 2.1.4.Gopuram style of architecture of Kerala never of Madurai Padmanabhaswamy temple allowed the Gopurams to outshine the Meenakshi Temple sanctum sanctorum. This is probably why the construction was stopped midway. The gopuram of Madurai Meenakshi temple (Fig 2.1.4) would have been similar in proportion to that of the Padmanabhaswmy temple , had the latter been completed. 2.1.3 Estuary Resort 2.1.3.1 Human Proportions The proportions of the resort are in correspondence with the activities taking place. It is used as a leisure centre by people of the upper classes. The scale is with respect to human beings. The main entrance is given the height of two floors in order to give a spacious look to make the guests feel welcomed. All the buildings of the resort complex are of similar scale. None of the buildings stand out in particular thus giving all buildings equal importance. 2.1.4 Centre for development studies 2.1.4.1 Human proportion The Centre for development studies is an educational institution. Thus, all the buildings are in scale to a human. Laurie Baker designed this complex in order to serve the minimum basic requirements of he space. He has given importance mainly to the functions of each building and the scale is according to that alone. 2.1.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.1.5.1 Padippura The gateway entrance(Fig 2.1.5) called padippura is built on the western boundary in line with the thekkini verandah. The ratio of first floor to ground floor is 1:1.5. This is approximately the golden ratio which is considered as the most harmonious of all proportions. Also the ratio of the length to breadth of the gateway entrance is 1:2.This gives the feeling
Fig 2.1.5.Gateway entrance of Padmanabhapuram palace 4|Page
FORM ANALYSIS
of entering into a large space and also takes in the security issues into consideration- a large crowd of people cannot get inside together thus reducing the intensity of any attack. 2.1.5.2 Poomugham Poomugham (Fig 2.1.6) is the first building that we come across when we enter into the palace complex. The ratio of ground floor to the first floor is 1:1. The plinth given to the building is more than that of other buildings. The building thus seems to sit at a height giving it a feeling of importance and respect. The roof is gabled showing typical Kerala style of architecture. 2.1.5.3 Upparika malika
Fig 2.1.6. Poomugham Fig 2.1.9 Thekke Kottaram
2.1.5.5 Thekke Kottaram The thekke kottaram (Fig 2.1.9) is a different complex of buildings which stand outside the perimeter of the palace complex. It was used by the ladies during the time of pregnancy. In these buildings the scale reduces due to the smaller number of users. The proportions correspond to an ordinary house as it is used as a private space.
Upparika Malika (Fig 2.1.7) served as the kings chamber. It is four storeys high. The breadth to height ratio is 1:2. It is the tallest building in the palace complex. The scale of the building gives it, its own grandeur. The ground floor is used as the treasury. The doors of the treasury are smaller in proportions (1.8x1.6) for security reasons. Only a single person can get inside at a time. As a result group looting is not possible and will take a lot of time.
Fig 2.1.7.Upparika malika
2.1.6 Comparison The proportions of temple are in accordance with the activities going on in a public space and hence are made to accommodate a large number of people. However a palace has more of private spaces which influences the proportion and reduces the scale. The resort is much more of a private space than the palace and accordingly the scale is smaller everywhere except at the places where spaciousness is appreciated. Center for development studies is an educational institution and hence Laurie Baker stuck to human scale and proportions. All the buildings there are constructed just to serve the basic requirements of the space. 2.1.7 Inference The scale and proportion of a building is determined by the type of activity happening in that space and the appearance required to show splendor. The scale increases when the space is used by a large number of people or when grandeur is to be shown. Similarly the scale is smaller when the building is accessed by lesser number of people.
2.1.5.4 Indra vilasom The Indra vilasom (Fig. 2.1.8) was built as a guest house for the kings foreign guests. The scale of the building is much larger compared to the other buildings of the palace complex. a) Influence of western architecture The columns of Indra vilasom (Fig 2.1.8) are western in their style of architecture. Moreover they are simple and not intricately carved like the other columns of the palace complex buildings. Thus it shows direct relation to western architectural style.
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FORM ANALYSIS
main gate (Fig 2.2.3) is similar in compostion. It is also composed of trapeziums and triangles. We can also observe the intersection of two trapeziums at the topmost tier, like in the case of the north gate of Fig 2.2.3 Entrance of the temple in study. guruvayoor temple 2.2.2.3 Gopuram The gopuram (Fig 2.1.3) primarily follows the contours of a square pyramid. The gopuram was initially supposed to have seven tiers however, the construction of the gopuram was stopped at five tiers hence the structure takes the form of a frustum of a square pyramid. Each of the tiers is decorated extensively by sculptures. These sculptures depict various stories from the temple as well as the life of Anatha Padmanabhaswamy. These follow irregular forms but seem to have a flow. They are dynamic and full of life. This is obvious in the form. 2.2.3 Estuary Resort 2.2.3.1 Main building
2.2 Composition
2.2.1 Introduction: A collection of forms stand together to produce a composition. Each form may have its own qualities however it may or may not reflect on the actual form that has been composed of these individual units. The composition can have regular geometric forms and irregular organic forms. Regular forms refer to those whose parts are related to one another in a consistent and orderly manner. They are generally stable in nature and symmetrical about one or more axes. The sphere, cylinder, cone, cube and pyramid are prime examples of regular forms. Irregular forms are those whose parts are dissimilar in nature and related to one another in an inconsistent manner. They are generally asymmetrical and more dynamic than regular forms. They can be regular forms from which irregular elements have been subtracted or result from an irregular composition of regular forms. (D. K Ching, Form, space and Order, 2007) 2.2.2 Padmanabhaswamy temple 2.2.2.1 East Gate The east gate (Fig 2.2.1) is composed of irregular forms but is symmetrical about a single central axis. It is composed of dynamic forms carved out of stone. In this case the individual units have come together to create a new form which actually seems to be a subtraction of forms from a regular form (i.e. triangle).
Fig 2.2.1 East gate of temple
The main entrance building of estuary resort (Fig 2.2.4) is a composition of a number of forms and their intersection and interpenetration. All the forms are regular geometrical forms like semi-circle, triangle, rectangle, trapezium etc. The building is symmetrical about the centre. It is composed of a rhythmic series of forms. The repetition of a single unit is seen. 2.2.4 Centre for development studies 2.2.4.1 Form of buildings Most of the buildings of CDS are compositions of regular forms. The numerous fenestrations given are also regular in their form and mode of arrangement. Irregular curves are used in some of the structures like the theatre so that it blends with the surrounding area. The form of each building taken individually may seem uninteresting, but the composition of all the buildings together has been worked out excellently by Laurie Baker. 2.2.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.2.5.1 Gateway The gateway when analyzed in terms of composition of forms is made up of intersection of regular forms (two trapeziums and a triangle). The trapeziums intersect to give a new polygonal form in the elevation. The decorative wood carvings inside the triangular portion are irregular in form.
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2.2.2.2 North gate The north gate (Fig 2.2.2) is built in the traditional Kerala style. It is composed of regular geometric forms such as triangles and trapeziums. The topmost tier is composed of two intersecting trapeziums. Whereas, the lower tier is made up of a single trapezium. There is also a triangular portion which forms
Fig 2.2.2 North gate of temple
the gabled roof which is common to most temples of kerala. The Guruvayoor temples
FORM ANALYSIS
2.2.5.2 Mantrashala 2.2.5.2.1 Interior The interior of the mantrashala(fig 2.2.5) is decorated with different regular forms made up of stained glass and wood. Fenestrations are provided to let light Fig 2.2.5 Interior of inside which again results in the creation mantrashalla of new forms. Here forms have been used to give a decorative effect to the interior. 2.2.5.2.2 Exterior The mantrashala exterior(Fig 2.1.6) is made up of basic regular forms of trapeziums and triangles. Additions and subtractions have been made. Wood carvings give the desired decorative effect. It also represents typical Kerala architecture. 2.2.5.3 Upparika malika The upparika malika shows the influence of Chinese architecture (the structure of pagoda).(fig 2.2.6) The form of the roofing of the uparika malika has noticeable similarity with Fig 2.2.6 Comparison to that of the pagoda.
Chinese architecture
2.2.6 Comparison The Padmanabhaswamy temple and the Padmanabhapuram palace are very similar in the composition of form. This is probably because both of them were influenced by the same ruler, Maharaja Marthanda Varma. The use of triangles and trapeziums in the gateways is observed in both the temple and the palace. On the other hand, The main building of the Estuary resort is composed of a variety of regular forms. The composition is very different from that of the temple or the palace, firstly because it is from two different time periods and also because it serves very different functions. The centre for development studies is all together composed of several buildings of various regular forms whereas the main building of the resort is essentially a rectangle which is composed of various regular forms. 2.2.7 Inference Various regular and irregular forms can be used together to create new and more visually appealing forms .One can either use different forms of the various buildings of the same complex in order to bring out the connections between them or by using different forms to compose a single major form.
is
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FORM ANALYSIS
clustered form promotes interaction of people as the proximity increases. This is very necessary in an educational institution. 2.3.5 Form organization of Padmanabhapuram palace The plan of palace (Fig 2.3.4) is given a complex form massing with little extra emphasis given to the kings chamber (made as the tallest building). It can be considered as a subtle form of centralized form massing. The form massing is made complex in order to consider security matters. An outsider who gets into the palace complex should not be able to get an idea of the entire place easily. This makes the invasions difficult and the palace secure.
Fig 2.3.4 Plan of palace
2.3.3 Form organization of Estuary resort The Resort plan (fig 2.3.2) shows the application of linear form organization. It consists of repetitive spaces which are alike in size, form and function. It gives equal importance to each of the cottages and no one cottage is given special attention. It is also can adapt to the topography of the land. This type of planning gives individuality to each unit and a moderate degree of diversity. The linear form of organization always has a sense of direction, which in this case is Fig 2.3.2 Plan of Resort towards the spa and other recreation centers. The main purpose of such a resort is to provide methods of relaxtion for its guests and the linear form drives the people to move in that direction. The linear organization also gives a view of the sea to all the cottages. Another advantage of a linear form is that it can be extended at a later stage if an expansion of the resort takes place. 2.3.4 Form organization of Centre for Development Studies
2.3.6 Comparison The temple has a centralized form massing which is apt as the temple gives emphasis to the sanctum sanctorum. Similarly the palace tries to give emphasis to the kings chamber though in a much subtle way. The chamber is given the maximum height however the plan is not centralized due to security issues. The plan is made complex so that an invader who comes from outside does not get a full grasp of the pathways easily. The plan of the resort is linear which suits its functioning. Linear form massing gives individuality to each unit and a moderate degree of diversity. Also there is no special emphasis given to a particular building. The buildings are constructed according to the topography of the site. The plan of cds is a mixture of linear and clustered form of massing. It being an educational institution consists of a number of buildings but none is more important than the other.
2.3.7 Inference Form massing is done according to the importance that needs to be given to each of the building which in turn is directly related with the activity or use of the building.
The plan of Centre for development studies (fig 2.3.3) shows a clustered cum linear form organization. Being an educational institution, there is no building that is given priority. The
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FORM ANALYSIS
2.4.3.2 Buildings
2.4.3.2.1 View An estuary is the meeting point of a lake, river, sea and beach. The estuary resort aims to provide maximum view (Fig 2.4.1) of the estuary from the rooms. A series of balconies is visible in the front faade itself. There is extensive use Fig 2.4.1 View from resort of subtraction of forms to create more openings in order for the guests to be able to enjoy the beautiful view that is present. 2.4.3.2.2 Level In order to blend in with the surroundings, the plinth level visible above ground is very little. Thus, giving the illusion that one isnt moving into a different form. Level difference is thus taken care of by adjusting the plinth of the form. 2.4.4 CDS
Fig 2.4.2 Organic form of green room of theatre
2.4.4.1 Theatre The theatre (Fig 2.4.2) is made up of curved irregular forms to suit its function. The curves are used to enclose a green room and an entrance to the stage of theatre from both the sides.
the
2.4.4.2 Fenestrations A lot of fenestrations (Fig 2.4.3) are provided in order to serve the function of ventilation and aesthetics. This is done by the subtraction of form which will reduce the usage of material and make the building economical. 2.4.4.3 Computer center
Fig 2.4.3 Fenestrations of computer centre
Laurie Baker evolved an innovative system of curved double walls to save on cost and to conserve the energy that goes into air-conditioning a building of this scale and
purpose.
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FORM ANALYSIS
2.4.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace 2.4.5.1 Security The plan of the palace and most other aspects of the palace had been designed after considering the security issue. Thus the function of ensuring security played a major rule in the design of the form of the palace. The plan is made complex and the pathways complicated accordingly defining the overall form of the palace. 2.4.5.3 Mandappam The mandapam (Fig 2.4.6) is built with stone especially to serve the function of a stage during the festival of navarathri. Also a cabin in the form of a cuboid is built with wood for the queen and her female servants to view the programs going on. Also the others standing outside will not be able to view the queen.
Fig 2.4.6 Navaratri Mandappam
2.4.5.2 Windows In those times women were not allowed public appearance. Many of the windows (Fig 2.4.4) of the first floor were constructed for the females to view the activities happening in the courtyards. These windows facilitated proper view of the courtyards but no one could make out anything about the first floor interiors with the help of these windows. person
2.4.5.4 Treasury doors The treasury doors (Fig 2.4.7) were built to smaller scales than other doors in order to restrict the entry of people in large numbers. This actually checks that not any looting gang is able to run away easily with the treasures. Only a single
Fig 2.4.7 Scale of treasury door
The large window of the upparika malika (Fig 2.4.5) was provided for the king to view the army selection process that was carried out in the courtyard below. Also since it is provided at a good height it is given larger dimensions to increase air circulation by wind.
2.4.5.5 Thekke Kottaram Thekke kottaram(Fig 2.1.9) was built for the ladies of the palace to stay during the time of pregnancy. The Nalukettu is the traditional style of architecture of Kerala, wherein a house has a quadrangle in the centre. The thekke kottaram was given three nalukettu for ventilation and cooling effect. 2.4.6 Inference Buildings are built to serve their various functions. An ideal building can serve all the functions it has been built for in the best of possible ways. Additions and subtractions of forms are done to a building to suit the functions it is used for.
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FORM ANALYSIS
2.5.5 Padmanabhapuram palace 2.5.5.1 Roof The roofs of the palace are also gabled as in typical Kerala architecture. It serves the function of effective draining of rain water off the roof.
Fig 2.5.1 Typical kerala roof
2.5.2.2 Plinth The plinth of the temple gateways are given little more height which is also to adjust with the humid and rainy climate. Water clogging should not affect the walls of the building and hence the plinth is raised to give protection for the wall against such water accumulation. 2.5.3 Estuary resort 2.5.3.1 Placement of windows The windows are placed in directions were the maximum amount of wind is available. (The view is also considered.) The location of the resort is near water bodies which results in continuous wind. 2.5.3.2 Level The level of site on which the resort is situated is raised in order to protect the buildings and other structures from water rise during high tide and rainy season.
2.5.5.2 Sunshades The palace buildings which are oriented in directions where direct sunlight wont be available does not have sunshades. 2.5.6 Inference All buildings should be built in accordance and by taking into proper consideration, the climate of the area. In kerala the major climatic factors that needs to be taken into consideration include: 1. Rainfall 2. Direction of wind 3. Humidity
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The Thekke kottaram (Fig 2.1.9) is a private space as it was being used only by pregnant ladies. The vastu principles have different definitions for public and private spaces. The slope of the roof of a public space is 45 degrees whereas that of a private space cannot exceed 30 degrees . 2.6.5 Inference Vastu principles have an influence on the form of buildings whether it was constructed hundreds of years ago or recently. Some of these principles have scientific backing also and it is not merely a blind belief.
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2.7.2 Padmanabhaswami temple The temple gates are formed by the subtraction of different form from the basic cuboidal form. Also the gopuram of the temple is a subtraction of irregular forms from the square pyramid that serves the function of a basic form. 2.7.3 Estuary resort The main building is composed of a number of forms. The basic form is that of a rectangular prism. Additions and subtractions of a lot of smaller forms have shaped the entire building. 2.7.4 Centre for Development Studies Each and every building of centre for development studies (Fig 2.7.1) clearly shows how subtraction and addition of forms can create useful forms. In one case a hollow curved region is subtracted to let in air but not light. In another case the balcony is formed as an addition to the entire form of the building. This increases the visual cone of the people standing there.
Fig 2.7.1 Main building at CDS
2.7.5 Padmanabhapuram Palace Addition and subtraction of forms is observed extensively. It is applied to carry out various functions like providing privacy for meetings. 2.7.6 Inference Not a single building can be designed without transformation of basic form. In some cases it is done to carry out a function while in another case it is given to increase the aesthetics of a building.
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FORM ANALYSIS
3. Bibliography
3.1 Books
1. Form, Space and Order , Francis D.K. Ching, 2007 2. Form Based Codes , Daniel T.G. Parolek,2008 3. Proportions , Richard Padovan,2001 4. Vastu Vidhya : Indian art of Placement , Juliet Pegrum ,2000 5. Analysing Architecture, Simon Unwin ,2000
3.2 Websites
6. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/padmanabhaswamy_temple 7. www.cds.edu 8. www.lauriebaker.net 9. www.keralatourism.org/padmanabhapurampalace
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