Students Chapters And Clubs

Works

2024-25

Site Visit to Old High Court Building

Subject: Institutional Project (3rd Semester) and Architectural Conservation (7th Semester)

Date: 13/09/2024

Total Participants/ Beneficiaries: 36 students, 5 teachers

Teacher In charge: Dr. Neeta Lambe, Dr. Tarika Dagadkar, Ar. Sneha Bodhankar, Ar. Sneha Mandekar, Ar. Sarika Joshi

Objective of visit: To develop understanding about the importance of historical and heritage buildings and to provide knowledge about the various techniques of conservation in architecture and the development of the commitment to conserve old buildings of cultural importance.

SMMCA INTACH Heritage Club organized visit to the Old High Court Building in Nagpur, On 13thSeptember 2024, 30 students from the 3rd and 7th semesters of B.Arch, accompanied by five faculty members. The visit was coordinated and permitted by the Dr. Madhura Rathore, Covener, INTACH Nagpur chapter. The visit was as part of the Institutional Project for the 3rd semester and the Architectural Conservation course for the 7th semester. The objective was to provide students with insights into the conservation efforts undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to preserve this historic structure.

The purpose of the visit was to help students understand the architectural significance of the Old High Court building and the processes involved in its conservation. The site visit aimed to enhance their knowledge of colonial architecture, heritage conservation techniques, and the role of ASI in preserving India’s built heritage.
The Old High Court building is an iconic structure that dates back to the British colonial period. The students were particularlyinterested due to interaction with the ASI officials who described the unique architectural features and techniques that are used in the building.

Also, students observed the ongoing conservation work undertaken by ASI, which involved structural stabilization of roof and roofing materials, restoration of deteriorated terracotta roofing tiles, and careful cleaning of stone surfaces. Techniques such as lime plastering, stone replacement, were explained, providing students with a real-world understanding of heritage preservation.

The students learned about the challenges faced during the conservation process, such as availability of the skilled labour, balancing the need for modern functionality with the preservation of original materials and features. They also gained insights into the importance of documentation required for such projects.

The students actively participated in taking photographs, and discussing the techniques used in its conservation. ASI engineers and archaeologist guided them through the process of documenting the site and encouraged them to critically analyze the conservation efforts in relation to the building’s historical context.

The site visit to the Old High Court building provided a valuable opportunity for the students to understand the practical aspects of architectural conservation and institutional architecture

Gandhi Ashram, Sewagram, Wardha

Date: 12/08/2024

Accompanying Faculty:

Neeta Lambe
Tarika Dagadkar
Sarika Joshi
Ar. Sneha Bodhankar

Participants:

30 Students of the 5th Semester, Architecture

Subject: Vernacular Architecture

On 12^th August 2025, 30 students of the 5th semester, accompanied by four faculty members, visited Gandhi Ashram in Sewagram, Wardha, as part of the Vernacular Architecture. The primary objective of this visit was to document and understand the vernacular architecture specific to the Vidarbha region, which is well-preserved in the Ashram’s buildings.

The purpose of the visit was to provide students with an opportunity to explore and analyze the indigenous architectural styles and techniques that are characteristic of the Vidarbha region. The site visit aimed to complement the theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom by exposing students to real-world examples of vernacular architecture.

The architecture of the Gandhi Ashram reflects simplicity and functional design, which is emblematic of the Gandhian philosophy. The structures are primarily built using locally available materials such as mud, stone, and bamboo, showcasing the sustainable practices inherent in vernacular architecture.

The buildings predominantly use adobe walls, thatched roofs, and earthen floors. The use of these materials not only aligns with the climatic conditions of the region but also contributes to the sustainability and low environmental impact of the structures.

Traditional construction techniques, such as wattle and daub, are evident in the walls, providing excellent insulation and thermal comfort. The layout of the buildings is designed to optimize natural ventilation and lighting, reducing the need for artificial cooling and lighting.

The Ashram’s architecture is deeply rooted in the cultural and social context of the region. The design and layout of the spaces reflect the communal and self-sufficient lifestyle promoted by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing the importance of harmony with nature.

The spatial arrangement of the Ashram buildings reflects a blend of private and communal spaces, which are interconnected by open courtyards and pathways. This layout not only facilitates interaction but also enhances the sense of community among the inhabitants.

The students actively engaged in documenting the architectural details through sketches, photographs, and notes. They were encouraged to observe the relationship between the built environment and the natural landscape, as well as the functional aspects of the design.

The visit to Gandhi Ashram provided the students with a profound understanding of vernacular architecture in the Vidarbha region. It allowed them to witness first-hand how traditional building practices are adapted to local climatic conditions and cultural contexts. This experience will undoubtedly enrich their academic journey and inspire them to incorporate sustainable and contextually relevant practices in their future architectural endeavours.

NaiTalim School, Gandhi Ashram, Sewagram, Wardha

Subject: Institutional Project (3rd Semester)

Date: 12/08/2024

Total Participants/ Beneficiaries: 55 students, 4 teachers

Teacher In charge: Dr. Neeta Lambe, Dr. Tarika Dagadkar, Ar. Sneha Bodhankar, Ar. Sarika Joshi

Objective of visit: To develop understanding about the importance of historical and heritage buildings and to provide knowledge about the various indigenous vernacular construction in architecture.

On 12 th August 2024, SMMCA INTACH Heritage Club organized visit to the Old High Court Building in Nagpur, for 3rd sem. students of Institutional Project elective, with the goal of documenting and understanding the unique architectural design of the school, which is deeply rooted in the principles of experiential learning and sustainable practices. 30 students of the 3rd semester, along with four faculty members, visited Nayi Talim School in Sewagram, Wardha. The visit was organized as part of the.The primary purpose of the visit was to enable students to explore the architectural aspects of an institution that is historically and culturally significant. The students were tasked with documenting the spatial organization, construction techniques, material use, and the overall design philosophy of the Nai Talim School.

The students were actively involved in documenting the architectural features of the school. They sketched floor plans, elevations, and sections, and took detailed notes on the construction techniques and materials used. The visit also provided them with an opportunity to understand how architectural design can reflect and support educational philosophies.

The visit to Nai Talim School offered the students a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can be used to create educational environments that are sustainable, functional, and culturally relevant. The insights gained from this visit will be invaluable as they continue their studies in institutional architecture and design.

Visited Bajaj Institute of technologies (BITs), with an objective of site planning and campus. Understanding the placement of activities as per circulation and climate responsive design which was designed by master Ar. Christofer Beninger

Start your inspired journey
with SMMCA

About SMMCA

Smt Manoramabai Mundle College of Architecture offers a five year degree course in Architecture (B.Arch), two year post graduate course (M.Arch in Architecture Education and Urban Planning) and Ph.D. in architecture.