The project
In 2019, The WHISE Foundation Hopper Engineering & Consultancy BV asked to draw up a master plan. The founder of this company is Alessandro Marasca. Previously, as a construction engineer, he played an important part in the research that Arup, an international construction and consultancy firm, has conducted into the condition of the monastery's buildings. The master plan describes the different phases of the entire renovation. It provides insight into what needs to be done in the short, medium and long term.
The plan pays attention to all relevant aspects of the renovation, such as good drainage of the site, sufficient ventilation in the buildings, a safe electricity supply, environmentally friendly sewerage, a sustainable clean (hot) water supply, insulation and heating, as well as a clean waste processing.
The objective of The WHISE Foundation is to realize the various phases of the master plan over the next 10 – 15 years. The basic principle is: first do what is necessary and urgent and then what is feasible. The monastery determines the urgency in consultation with the engineers, architect and The WHISE Foundation.
The first step
The first step of the master plan is an in-depth, additional structural and geological survey to map out the situation of the site and the buildings in detail.
During the survey, soil samples are taken from various depths to determine the condition of the underlying soil of each soil layer and location. This collects information on the basis of which substantiated choices can be made for the restoration of safety and long-term use of the buildings.
Preparations for this investigation started in 2019 and everything was ready in March 2020 to conduct the investigation on site. Unfortunately, this could not take place due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. The investigation will proceed as soon as it is possible.
Explanation
From his first involvement from Arup and now from his own company Hopper BV, Alessandro Marasca feels very involved with the monastery and he is committed to making the situation there safe, sustainable and healthier.
Click here on the presentation from a clear explanation of Alessandro Marasca. It shows which steps are required to arrive at a solid plan of action.
Next steps
After the first investigation has been carried out, it will be examined how repair and reinforcement of the various buildings is possible.
The school building and teacher's residence are in poor condition and appear to be the first to be considered for renovation.
Drainage of the site will probably also be given high priority.
A lot of work will have to be done by many people to realize all these things.
Goals
- The realization of sustainable, safe monastic buildings that can withstand earthquakes and landslides in the Kullu Valley.
- Tackling the environmental problem by realizing clean waste incineration, a proper sewerage system and good drainage of the site.
- The realization of a safe school building for primary education.
- Rebuilding the housing of the medical post.
- Good heating and cooling in all buildings.
