Laurie Baker, known as the "Gandhi of Architecture," studied architecture at Birmingham School of Art and Design. During World War II, he served in the Friends Ambulance Unit and later settled in India, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophies. His architectural works embody Gandhian philosophy.
Laurie Baker's buildings are known for their sustainability, indigenous, eco-friendly, and cost-efficiency. Adapting to local materials and residents' issues, Baker studied traditional vernacular architecture, solidifying cultural identity without compromising functionality. He employed local residents and used local products in construction. His home, The Hamlet, blends seamlessly with lush flora, using the 'Baker style' brick work and rat trap bond, reducing brick usage by 25%. The furniture is made from old boats, and the entrance features a mural.
Laurie Baker, inspired by Bach's music, viewed architecture as a crescendo, leading to his creation of numerous famous buildings. These projects, showcasing his architectural style and construction techniques, showcase the beauty of simplicity.
Laurie Baker's 1958 Indian Coffee House in Thiruvananthapuram is a visually stunning curved cylindrical structure with a spiral floor, jaali work, and seating. Located near a bus and train station, it serves as a quick rest stop for the diaspora and provides natural light and ventilation.
The Laurie Baker Centre for Development Studies, founded by economist KN Raj, is a 10-acre campus designed by architect Laurie Baker. It features curved double walls, extensive 'jaali work' for natural ventilation and light, a tower, Mangalore tiles for roofs, false 'jaalis' for insulation, and local produce like laterite and wood. The building adapts to climate and topography.