The Rajakumari Ratnavati Girl’s School – An Architectural Marvel | Diana Kellogg Architects
The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School is an architectural marvel designed by Diana Kellogg of Diana Kellogg Architects and commissioned by CITTA, a non-profit organization that supports development in some of the most economically challenged, geographically remote or marginalized communities in the world.
Visit: Diana Kellogg Architects
The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School will serve more than 400 girls, from kindergarten to class 10, from below the poverty line residing in the mystic Thar Desert region of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India — where female literacy barely touches 32%. The school will be the first in a complex of three buildings known as the GYAAN Center, which will also consist of The Medha – a performance and art exhibition space with a library and museum, and The Women’s Cooperative where local artisans will teach mothers and other women weaving and embroidery techniques from the region.
The GYAAN Center will empower and educate women, helping them establish economic independence for themselves, their families, and their communities. Since the GYAAN Center is designed by a woman for women, Kellogg looked at feminine symbols across cultures when starting the design process — specifically symbols of strength, landing on a structure of three ovals to represent the power of femininity and infinity, as well as replicate the planes of the sand-dunes in the region of Jaisalmer.
The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girl’s School is made entirely out of local hand-carved Jaisalmer sandstone by local craftsmen. It was vital to Kellogg to include the community in a building made for the community.
Using local material to create infrastructure helped reduce carbon emissions, and Kellogg chose to build a solar panel canopy on the roof as a cooling system where temperatures peak close to 120 degrees. Both the canopy and jalis keep the heat out and the elliptical shape of the structure also helps bring aspects of sustainability creating a cooling panel of airflow.
The GYAAN Center will equip young women with the tools to further their education and independence as well as raise awareness surrounding the issues faced by women in India on a global scale.
Fact File :
Designed By: Diana Kellogg Architects
Project Type: Institute (School)
Project Name: The GYAAN Center
Location: Salkha, India
Year: 2021
Photographer: Vinay Panjwani
Client: CITTA Foundation
Source: ArchDaily
Nestled amidst the scenic hillocks of Hosapete, Karnataka, the House of Terraces is a spacious 8,000 sq ft residence thoughtfully designed for a multigenerational family comprising grandparents, their two sons, and their respective families. Gentle hills dotted with windmills envelope the site, providing a picturesque backdrop that the design thoughtfully engages with. Situated on a […]
The client, a high-profile corporator from the Thane Municipal Corporation, desired a modern bungalow design that epitomizes class, quality, and luxury. The design requirements included 5 bedrooms, visitor and informal living areas, and amenities such as a spa and jacuzzi, all distributed within a G+1 structure covering approximately 10,000 sq. ft. His emphasis was clear […]
This elegant residence is constructed using locally available Jodhpur sandstone. The elevation is thoughtfully designed using stone to seamlessly blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design, creating a captivating combination of historical artistry and contemporary elegance. It showcases majestic, timeless stone architecture. The central arch stands tall in a concrete jungle as a focal point, harmoniously […]
When it comes to construction, two of the most common materials are concrete blocks and bricks. In architecture, choosing the right materials can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options available, how do you determine which is best for your project? Both materials have their unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Let’s dive deep […]
With sheer simplicity and understated elegance, the estate house intertwines harmoniously with the mountain on three distinct levels and blends seamlessly into the natural landscape. Staying true to our philosophy, the materials used are natural, with wooden flooring, random-rubble walls, cobblestone pathways, and log rafters. Estate Paathri is a Private Residence spread across a forested […]
The design of 2×2 has multiple meanings in this project but primarily signifies the “double duplex”, a concept that this house originates from. Today’s family in the Indian context is one that advocates for independent-living, yet the tradition of a joint-family is what makes our culture so closely-knit. Privacy yet togetherness – a key balance […]
In this Baroda house project, we bring together a blend of two seemingly different styles – contemporary and ethnic – to create a unique and visually stunning space bathed in understated luxury. Interior design is all about creating spaces that reflect the individuality and style of the homeowner. The client Yashwant bhai Shah came to […]
Having spent their childhood growing up in old colonial home in New Delhi, the clients wanted one that would reflect their fond memories and take them back to their roots. Since it was their first, they wanted to build a simple residence that allowed a lot of natural light in and felt open and inviting […]
This six bedroom house design stands as an embodiment of elegance and innovation. Meticulously designed, this six bedroom house design, complete with two living rooms and a state-of-the-art kitchen, epitomises sophisticated architecture and thoughtful planning. Every element of this residence tells a unique story, offering a living experience that is both refined and deeply personal. […]
The door design for main door is a defining feature of any Indian home, embodying both style and cultural significance. In a country rich with diverse architectural traditions, the entrance to your home reflects not only personal taste but also cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate carvings of traditional Indian door designs or […]