Sustainable University Campus Architecture in Jaipur

When we took on the IIHMR campus project, our goal was to create a place that felt alive. Architecture should not fight the climate; it should dance with it. In Jaipur, where the sun can be unforgiving, we utilized passive architecture techniques to ensure the indoor spaces remain cool and breathable.

The heart of the campus lies in its series of linked courtyards. These are not merely decorative voids; they are the lungs of the institution. They facilitate natural ventilation, allowing air to move freely through the academic and residential blocks. By orienting the buildings to maximize shade and minimize exposure to the harsh western sun, we created a microclimate that is naturally temperate.

Core Elements of our Passive Strategy

• Local Materiality: We sourced local pinkish-grey quartzite. Using materials from the immediate vicinity not only reduced the carbon footprint of construction but also ensured the campus visually harmonized with the rugged terrain of Rajasthan.
• Evaporative Cooling: The service cores and cooling plants were engineered to deliver noise-free, draft-free air. This was vital for a campus meant for focused research and quiet study.
• Water Stewardship: The valley between building sets serves a dual purpose. We designed a causeway at the edge that functions as a dam, impounding rainwater to recharge the local water table, turning water management into a landscape feature.
• Traditional Craft: Through workshops with local artisans, we developed precast jaalis and chajjas (overhangs). These serve a dual purpose: they filter sunlight to prevent glare while adding a layer of architectural beauty that respects traditional Jaipur craftsmanship.

This project was a labor of love, ultimately earning a nomination for the Aga Khan Award. It stands as proof that institutions can be both high-performing and deeply rooted in their environment.