1. Architectural principles that will stand the test of time
In particular during the initial phase of his stay in India, Laurie Baker had his critics, several of whom described his architecture as “loincloth” architecture, which according to them would not last long. He refused to convince his critics. Interestingly, the idea of sustainable architecture had not yet come to pass, but many of its ideals form a firm basis for the same.
2. Take what you can deliver
Accept only a brief which is reasonable. Taking a job that you can carry through is best.
3. Keep it simple
Never promote snobbery or extravagance. Do not take any of those ventures that smell like either.
4. Know your site well
You need to know the site well. Study site reland, topography, climate, water, and local area (Do you have noisy temples or smelly factories around?)
It is essential to obtain the exact details of the site. Facts such as plants, rocks, well or body of water, the position of wind and rain, etc. are relevant in-situ.
5. Create unique buildings
Each building will have to be special. After all, there are no two individuals or families or circumstances alike, so buildings should be separate too.
6. Explore local materials and workmen
learn more about supply, efficiency, costs, and techniques, local materials should be studied. It is also important to learn about the workmen who are experts at using them.
Research on the energy used in the production and transport of goods is also required. The use of energy-intensive materials should be avoided, wherever possible.
7. Save natural resources
Should not exploit human capital. It is important to prevent excessive or wasteful use of the capital.
8. Be honest
You should be frank and accurate in the use, installation and expense of product and materials. Consider the errors which you have made. Get deep freeze on your consciousness and use it. Anything you do, and not just the homes, will be frank and real.
9. Don’t be a show-off
Evite opulence and show-off still. Don’t use the so-called gimmicks that are now in trend.
10. Respect yourself and others
You have to have faith in your own beliefs, this is the only way you can hang on to them. You should also respect others’s though.
11. Cost efficiency for all
Your lifestyle will be cost effective. Keeping buildings cost-effective not just for the poor, simplicity is for all. Do as you preach.
12. Keep yourself updated
Holding your facts and skills up to date is crucial. However, before employing them, you should make sure the current trends are better than the established ways.
13. Don’t do what is unnecessary
Don’t do what isn’t needed. If their requests are unreasonable, you will explain that to your clients too.
14. Use common sense and have fun
Architecture is no exception to the requirement to use common sense in any walk of life. Have fun designing them.
15. Be a minimalist
Be a minimalist; cut your sketches, your staff, your supplies, your travel and your expenses.
The design ideas developed and embraced by Laurie Baker give us a clear understanding of the temperament of the man-plain, direct, truthful, fair, with great regard for the atmosphere and, of course, for the needs of the poor. He’s been leading a life based on the same values and sticking to his beliefs.