When you remove the notation of planning regulations and building contract codes, you immerse yourself into a world of architecture totally and completely based on connectedness. After 2 years of volunteering my time on project work for isolated, rural regions of India, I decided it was time to take the plunge and go over myself. A few designers and builders from Australia rallied together and flew over in December to work on the construction of a community building in Madhya Pradesh. Working with the local people was incredible; everyone’s enthusiasm and willingness to get involved made the whole experience unbelievable. We began prepping the site and everyone in the community, from the tiny kids, to the elderly pitched in. During my time in India I learnt the importance of starting with the strengths of a community and to be inspired by their values. At Smith and Tracey we start our process by understanding the culture of our clients and of place, through our collaboration and workshopping process. As designers we are the facilitators for change. Janine Dias from smith+tracey.

URL ==== https://www.instagram.com/p/BdzAG5rB6Wh/
DESCRIPTION ==== When you remove the notation of planning regulations and building contract codes, you immerse yourself into a world of architecture totally and completely based on connectedness. After 2 years of volunteering my time on project work for isolated, rural regions of India, I decided it was time to take the plunge and go over myself. A few designers and builders from Australia rallied together and flew over in December to work on the construction of a community building in Madhya Pradesh.
Working with the local people was incredible; everyone’s enthusiasm and willingness to get involved made the whole experience unbelievable. We began prepping the site and everyone in the community, from the tiny kids, to the elderly pitched in.
During my time in India I learnt the importance of starting with the strengths of a community and to be inspired by their values. At Smith and Tracey we start our process by understanding the culture of our clients and of place, through our collaboration and workshopping process. As designers we are the facilitators for change.
Janine Dias from smith+tracey.

About the author
Janine Dias joined Smith + Tracey in 2014 after graduating with a Master of Architecture from the University of Melbourne. Before joining Smith + Tracey, Janine worked as an architectural student in Canada, Nepal, Netherlands and Germany on residential, multi residential and public building projects. Janine brings with her a strong passion for environmental design and community development.