search
  • The University Of Kashmir | ANA Design Studio

    The University Of Kashmir | ANA Design Studio

    Client’s Brief:

    Kashmir University in Srinagar is one of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning in the valley. The University has grown in size and stature over the years, and a need was felt to create an administrative hub, which could accommodate the office of the Vice-Chancellor, the Register, and Deans, apart from the administrative heads such as Finance and Accounts, Estates and Development and various other administrative functions.

    visit: ANA Design Studio

    The University wanted a building that was respectful of the vernacular language, and yet a high fit and high-performance contemporary building. They wanted a building that would utilize current trends in open work culture, natural light, informal interaction spaces, and all-weather comfort conditioning. At the same time, the building needed to be secure, allowing for confidentiality and security in keeping with the environment.

    Concept:

    The New Administration facility for the University of Kashmir in Hazratbal, Srinagar, is a showcase of the openness, inventiveness, and contemporary nature of the University, while respecting the sense of place, culture, and environment. The building is designed for spatial and material optimization, energy efficiency, human interaction, comfort, and the celebration of traditional timber design in a contemporary context.

    Design Process:

    The building is located on the main campus, at Hazratbal, adjacent to the existing Vice-Chancellors secretariat. The building overlooks the cricket ground, and onwards to a fabulous view of the Dal Lake, and Zabarwan hills beyond. An existing Fir tree provided the impetus to a “central” space. The building functions are developed in two distinct blocks, defined by the level of security, and planned around a central atrium space. The tree forms a focal point from the entrance, through the atrium space, with interconnecting bridges flying through the atrium space.

    This atrium becomes an “all-weather” space for gatherings, chance meetings, discussions, and setting up of temporary exhibitions. The two blocks on East and West form the bulk of the offices. All the offices are naturally lit. There is the extensive usage of glass, and colour, to create well defined, and yet visible “departments”. Workstations and cabins are planned to encourage interactions and collaborative working.

    Each zone or department is independently climate controlled, using all-weather VRV air-conditioning. The circuits of the glare-free LED lighting, are designed to maximize the use of natural lighting. So lights close to the windows and glazing can be switched off separately, while some interior lights may continue to be used. The air-conditioning system also has enthalpy control, so when the outdoor conditions are pleasant, the compressors shut down and only fresh air is circulated through the building. Even in very warm and cold conditions, adequate fresh air is provided to ensure healthy indoor conditions. The central atrium also has heat sensors and mechanical ventilation fans. These switch on to flush warm air, in case it rises above a set point. The atrium is also lit with high efficiency, high bay lighting, to allow its usage after sunset.

    The façade is made from glass wool insulated panels and high-performance glass. The façade allows light to enter but controls heat entry as well as heating loss during winter. All service areas such as ad pantries and toilets, that are near the façade, have a built-in Trombe wall system. The Trombe wall provides pre-heated air within the office spaces and can be shut during summer months. This free heating complements the electro-mechanical heat pump in the central climate conditioning system.

    All the toilets have insulated piping, including drain pipes, to avoid freezing and cracking during winters. The toilets and ablution areas are provided with eco-friendly low flow fixtures. The entire structure of the building including the façade panels, insulated roofing, and beams/columns are made from factory-fabricated steel. The interior partitioning of the building is also made from dry walls, insulated with glass wool. Despite being difficult to reach the place, with its own peculiarities, the building was successfully built, using local contractor teams, by the use of BIM.

    Since all the building design details, elements, and components were modeled and coordinated using BIM, the contractors were able to prep fabricate and erect the components without running into fouling and difficulties. The 3D imagery and live models allowed them to “walk” through the building and understand each component, including the erection sequence for a well-oiled project schedule. The total built area of the building is 40,000 sq ft, and it was completed in a total construction time of 11 months.

    FACT FILE:

    Design Firm: ANA Design Studio

    Client: University of Kashmir

    Location: Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India

    Typology: Institutional 

    Status: Built

    Year: 2018

    Size: 40,000 Sqft

    Principal Architect: Amin Nayyar

    Photo credits: Suryan//Dang 

    Website: https://ana-design.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ANADESIGNSTUDIODELHI/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amin_nayyar/

    Marble House: 25 Classic Indian Marble Design Ideas

    Marble house designs in the Indian context constantly change and upgrade with time but never go out of style. Marble a timeless and versatile material, finds its application in various settings ranging from flooring to ornamentation. If you are looking for marble house ideas to add a touch of quality and luxury to your home, […]

    Read More

    Small Bathroom Layouts: How to Maximize Space and Style

    In small bathroom layouts, every square inch counts. Without a thoughtful plan, a small space can quickly become cluttered, making it feel even more cramped. The right bathroom layout not only enhances functionality in interiors but also creates a sense of openness. Think about it—how frustrating is it to move around a bathroom where the […]

    Read More

    TV Unit Design In Bedroom: 15 Stunning Ideas For Indian Homes

    Creating a TV unit design in bedroom requires the right balance of functionality, optimization, and aesthetics to enhance the space. Apart from cots and wardrobes, TV units in a bedroom play a pivotal role in captivating an individual’s attention. Keeping in mind, the design theme and concept of your home, the TV unit design in […]

    Read More

    An Indian Retreat Nestled Amidst The Vast Paddy Fields Exudes Quiet Grace and Rustic Elegance | UNBOX

    In the serene countryside of Vaiyampatti, an Indian retreat nestled amidst the vast expanse of paddy fields stands a humbly placed farmhouse exuding quiet grace and rustic elegance. It is a perfect setting, reminiscent of William Wordsworth’s “Solitary Reaper”. Editor’s Note: “Inspired by the timeless charm of Nalukettu architecture, this Trichy residence is enveloped by […]

    Read More

    The Interior Design of this House is Designed with Close Attention to Detail | Nirman Solutions

    Nestled in the serene locale of Banswara, Rajasthan, the exquisite interior design of this 6500 sq.ft. house epitomizes elegance and functionality, which the designer and now the house owners call is “sukoon.” Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this 3 BHK home seamlessly integrates a library, a rejuvenating jacuzzi, a modern gym, and an inviting […]

    Read More

    The Ekam Retreat Breathes Nature and Life into an Abandoned House | Ark Architecture Studio

    Ekam Retreat is a renovation project amidst the scenic terrains of Amboori, Trivandrum, Kerala. The project aimed at breathing new life and nature into an abandoned house. The walls of the house had significant damage and were left to the forces of nature. Editor’s Note: “The renovation of this residence in Trivandrum is a harmonious […]

    Read More

    20 MM Marble: The Industry Standard Globally

    20 MM marble has become the industry standard used by architects, designers, and builders alike, though there are many options for what material to use. It is not an accident that it is rapidly becoming the global number one. This thickness in marble provides special advantages, with 193 of the 195 countries using only 20 […]

    Read More

    This House in Amritsar Whispers the Grandeur of Indo-British Architecture | Studios PMB

    This 5,735 square-foot house in Amritsar whispers the timeless grandeur of Indo-British architecture with a quiet yet commanding elegance. The residence and its elegant and subdued design pays homage to a regal past, offering a subtle yet impactful narrative through its carefully curated interiors. The house in Amritsar essence captures the delicate balance between heritage […]

    Read More

    This Aesthetic House Design is of an NRI Family | Prashant Parmar Architect | Shayona Consultants

    Beautiful interiors blends with the aesthetic and functional house design, creating spaces that are visually appealing and comfortable. Featuring a harmonious colour palette, thoughtful lighting, a mix of textures and materials, and personalised touches. Elegant furniture arrangement and smart storage solutions further enhance the overall design, making each room both inviting and practical. Creating a […]

    Read More

    This Baroda House Brings Together Contemporary and Ethnic | JIHAN ASSOCIATES

    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 […]

    Read More
  • 5 Simple Details That Are Often Overlooked When Building a New House

    Electricians Work Portfolio - A Quick Look