In India, the torrential rains come once a year and can cause catastrophic flooding. And these floods are only going to get worse: A 2017 study found that the monsoon in northern and central India has steadily strengthened over the last 15 years, at least partially due to rising land and sea temperatures. At one metal parts factory in Mumbai, located near a body of water that forms during the rainy season, the architect Sameep Padora has designed a clever solution for when the monsoon flows and the area floods.
“This low-lying part of our site is hence a natural receiver for groundwater levels that rise up during the monsoons,” Padora tells Co.Design in an email. “We decided to retain this natural seasonal occurrence rather than keep the water out.”
The depression, nicknamed the “Concrete Void,” can hold 185,000 gallons of water, and, if it continues to overflow, the water will be routed into storm drains. A concrete passageway enables workers to cross the void with ease.
But the best part about Padora’s design is that it creates a functional, recreational space when it’s not pouring outside. The different levels act almost like an amphitheater, where employees can socialize and take breaks. Structurally, the void’s layered steps are reminiscent of India’s historic stepwells, subterranean temples built into the rock.
As storms get more intense with the impact of climate change, this kind of resilient architecture will be far more effective than simply building a wall to keep the water out.