1.

Introduction

Leh Palace, also known as "Lhachen Palkhar," is one of Ladakh's most iconic
historic buildings, embodying the height of medieval Tibetan architecture. Built
in the early 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal, the palace was home to
Ladakh’s royal family until the Dogra forces took over in the 19th century.
Sitting on Tsemo Hill, the palace offers a panoramic view over Leh town,
making it both a strategic defensive site and a recognizable landmark. As a
symbol of Ladakh's royal heritage and Tibetan Buddhist influence, Leh Palace
has deeply influenced the region's identity. Today, its design principles
continue to inspire modern architects, especially for its use of local materials
and its adaptability to Ladakh’s extreme climate.

Fig 1 : Before Renovation and Conservation

Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/
Fig 1 : After Renovation and Conservation
Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

2. Justification for Study

Leh Palace provides valuable lessons on adapting buildings to harsh

environments in a sustainable way. Constructed using traditional Ladakhi
methods, the palace is a great example of how local architecture can
conserve resources, withstand climate extremes, and maintain a low
environmental impact. Studying Leh Palace is crucial for anyone interested in
sustainable architecture, as it demonstrates how ancient techniques can
shape modern practices. By examining this palace, we can explore how
construction choices like material use, layout, and passive climate control can
inspire resilient, environmentally friendly buildings today.
3. Parameters

Concept

 The palace was both a royal residence and a fortress, designed to

reflect the social order of Ladakhi society.
 Influenced by Tibetan Buddhist ideals, its design integrates symbols of
spirituality and harmony with the environment. As a central cultural and
religious site, it also contained spaces for worship and meditation.

Orientation

Fig 1 :Site Planning Of the Leh Palace

Source: [Link]

 Facing south, Leh Palace maximizes sunlight exposure, which is

important for warmth in the cold, high-altitude desert of Ladakh.
Fig 1 :Sun path and Leh Palace Orientation.(Top view )
Source: [Link]

This orientation enables passive solar heating, reducing the need for
additional heating while making the most of natural light. Placing the palace
on a hill also improves air circulation and shields it from floods and snow
buildup.

Fig 1 : Leh Palace Orientation (south view)

Source:[Link]
Planning and Spatial Configuration

Fig 1 : Leh Palace Cross Section

Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

 Leh Palace has a tiered layout with spaces that become more private
and important as one moves higher. Lower floors were used for
storage, animals, and servants, while the middle levels housed the
royal family. The top floors were reserved for the king and religious
ceremonies
Fig 1 : Leh Palace Longitudinal Section
Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

 This layout not only highlights social hierarchy but also helps distribute
heat more effectively, with warmer areas dedicated to living spaces
and cooler zones for storage.

The Leh Palace, a magnificent nine-story royal structure in the Himalayas,

features over a hundred rooms, although the purpose of many of these rooms
remains unknown. Here’s a look at each level’s main features:
Fig 1 : Leh Palace Section
Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/
Levels 1-2:
The bottom two floors were used for storage and as the palace’s foundation,
with stables on the lowest floor. The palace entrance is on the eastern side
through a beautifully decorated wooden gate called the Singe-Sgo, or "Lion
Gate," leading visitors up to the higher levels.

Fig 1 : Basement Plan At LVL 0

Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)

Fig 1 :Floor Plan At LVL 1

Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)
Fig 1 :Floor Plan At LVL 2
Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)

Level 3:
This level housed rooms for cooks, staff, and other helpers. The floor begins
with a long, dark corridor (now lit with artificial lighting). The main attraction
here is a large hall used as a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India,
which displays significant artifacts.

Fig 1 :Floor Plan At LVL 3

Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)
Level 4:
Level four includes an open courtyard known as Khatok Chenmo, where
social and cultural events, such as music and dance performances in honor of
the royal family, were held. The royal shrine, a sacred space, is located in the
northwest corner of the courtyard

Fig 1 :Floor Plan At LVL 4

Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)
Level 5:
This level held the audience hall, known as Tak Chen, where ministers and
officials would gather. Today, it’s used as a museum showcasing Ladakh’s
historical artifacts, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Fig 1 :Floor Plan At LVL 5

Source:The Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI)

Level 6:
The sixth level housed the royal family’s private living quarters and a large
kitchen. This floor is more organized and luxurious compared to the others,
reflecting its importance for the royal family.

Level 7:
Reserved for official ceremonies, this level includes the king’s royal
apartments and throne room, which are kept private and aren’t open to
visitors.

Level 8:
This level has seven rooms used for support services in the northeast corner.
From here, you get stunning views of Leh city in front and the Shanti Stupa
behind.

Level 9:
The top floor has a single room dedicated to "Gurtha," the protector deity of
the royal family. This area is kept private and closed to visitors.
Fig 1 : Leh Palace Roof
Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

The Leh Palace stands as a remarkable piece of Ladakhi heritage, filled with
layers of history, culture, and beautiful views.

Construction Techniques

Thick Rammed Earth and Stone Walls

Leh Palace's walls are built using a mix of locally available stone and mud,
combined with the Tibetan technique of rammed earth. This method involves
compacting layers of earth to create thick, dense walls that are excellent for
thermal mass, which means they naturally store heat during the day and
release it slowly at night. This feature is essential for Ladakh’s high-altitude
desert climate, where temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and
night.
Fig 1 : Tibetan technique of rammed earth
Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

The walls of Leh Palace are strategically tapered, with thicker bases that
gradually become thinner as they rise. This design technique enhances
structural stability, ensuring that the palace is resilient against the high winds
and other environmental stresses common in the region. The thickness of
these walls also acts as a natural insulator, keeping the interiors warmer in
the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the need for additional heating
or cooling resources. Furthermore, the tapering technique makes the structure
more resistant to seismic activity, an important factor in Ladakh’s earthquake-
prone terrain.

Earthquake Resilience through Tapering

To improve earthquake resistance, Leh Palace uses a design technique
where the walls are made progressively lighter and thinner toward the top.
This lowers the building’s center of gravity, improving stability during seismic
events. Additionally, minimizing the use of wood—a relatively flexible
material—within the walls helps reduce the risk of heavy timber beams
collapsing during an earthquake. This approach to wall construction makes
Leh Palace a rare example of a medieval structure with an intentional focus
on seismic adaptability, achieved without modern technology.

Fig 1 : Leh Palace

Source:[Link]
Flat Roof and Floor Design
The roof of Leh Palace is crafted with a flat, mud-coated surface. Flat roofs
are especially practical in this region, where heavy snow can accumulate in
winter. A flat roof helps reduce the load from accumulated snow, as it can
easily be swept off, preventing excess weight on the building’s structure. The
mud coating on the roof acts as additional insulation, helping to trap warmth
within the palace during cold months.

Fig 1 : Flat Roof and Floor Design

Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

Timber beams—a valuable resource in Ladakh due to its scarcity—are

selectively used to support floors and ceilings. These beams are arranged
strategically to balance structural needs without overusing this limited
resource. They are often treated and seasoned to extend their durability,
given that timber has to be transported over long distances in this
mountainous region.

Fig 1 :Timber beams

Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

This careful planning ensures that the timber contributes significantly to the
palace's lifespan without requiring extensive timber resources.

Material Usage at Leh Palace:

Locally Sourced Stone and Mud

Leh Palace predominantly relies on locally sourced stone and mud. These
materials are chosen for their availability and low environmental impact,
reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting building materials
over long distances. Locally sourced stone provides a strong foundation and
forms the bulk of the palace’s structure, while mud acts as a natural binding
agent, giving the walls a cohesive structure while maintaining breath-ability.
Fig 1 :locally sourced stone and mud
Source:[Link]

Mud is also naturally insulating, which is vital in Ladakh’s extreme climate. By

using mud in combination with stone, the palace maximizes thermal
efficiency. Additionally, both stone and mud are abundant, cost-effective, and
perfectly suited for Ladakh’s climate, further demonstrating the
resourcefulness of Ladakhi vernacular architecture.

Timber Conservation and Strategic Use

Wood is a limited resource in the mountainous region of Ladakh, with forests
located far from the construction sites. Consequently, wood is used only
where structurally necessary, and then only in smaller, selective quantities to
avoid wastage. Timber is used for the floors and ceilings in the form of timber
beams, which provide stability to the structure without overloading it.

Fig 1 :Timber beams / Structure load

Source:[Link]
palkhar-astonishing-leh-palace-of-the-himalaya/

To make the most of limited timber resources, the wood used in Leh Palace is
seasoned and treated—methods which increase its durability by preventing
decay and pest infestation. In a region where sourcing wood is challenging,
these conservation strategies reflect a thoughtful and sustainable approach to
resource management. The treatment process further extends the life of the
timber elements, making them a long-term asset in the palace's construction.
Sustainable Practices

 Passive Solar Heating: The palace’s south-facing design, thick walls,

and small windows optimize warmth in winter and ensure natural
ventilation. This approach uses minimal resources while maintaining
comfortable [Link] Shown In (Fig 1)
 Local Material Sourcing: By using materials that are readily available
in the area, the palace minimizes transportation impact and preserves
the region’s [Link] Shown In (Fig 1)
 Adaptive Insulation: Thick walls coated with mud retain warmth
during winter and stay cool in summer, providing comfort in Ladakh’s
extreme climate with simple but effective [Link] Shown In (Fig 1)

Innovative Approaches

 Tapered Walls for Stability: The walls taper from bottom to top, a
design that helps the palace stand strong against earthquakes and
other [Link] Shown In (Fig 1)
 Blending with Landscape: Built directly into the hill, Leh Palace
merges with the natural landscape, adding stability while reducing
exposure to [Link] Shown In (Fig 1)
 Temperature Regulation: The design maximizes temperature control
through natural elements, showing how traditional methods can be
used for climate-responsive architecture today.

Inference

 Leh Palace demonstrates how traditional construction techniques can

create resilient, sustainable architecture that’s adapted to the
environment. By using local materials, passive heating, and an efficient
layout, it shows how historical building practices can inform modern
sustainable design.
 The palace’s structure and materials are particularly relevant for
building in high-altitude, arid climates. Its design principles, like its
 orientation, thick walls, and use of local materials, provide a foundation
for environmentally friendly construction today.
 Modern architects can draw from Leh Palace’s design to create
buildings that blend with nature and culture, balancing innovative
techniques with respect for local resources and traditions.
1. Introduction
Location - Tanpo village, Zanskar river ,Ladakh
Architect - Cosma’s Room Foundation
Area - 64 [Link]
Year -2017

Fig13
Source .[Link]
CSRF_TANPO_01.jpg?1508928974

The Tanpo Solar School in Zanskar, Ladakh, is an inspiring example of

sustainable architecture in a region known for its extreme climate. Zanskar
Valley, located in northern India, experiences severe winters with
temperatures that can drop well below freezing, making heating essential for
any building. Designed by Austrian architect Martin Rauch and his team, the
school was built to provide a comfortable and warm environment for children
to learn, even during harsh winters. Completed in the early 2000s, the school
is a testament to the power of using the sun’s energy and locally sourced
materials to create a sustainable, energy-efficient building that fits perfectly
into its surroundings.
Today, the Solar School is seen as a pioneering model in sustainable design
for high-altitude, cold climates, especially in regions like Ladakh where
resources are limited. It combines traditional building techniques with passive
solar heating, making it a valuable case study for architects, builders, and
communities looking to build in cold climates while preserving local traditions.

2. Justification for Study

Studying the Tanpo Solar School helps us understand how traditional building
methods can be adapted to meet modern needs, especially in remote, cold
regions like Zanskar. Built with a focus on sustainability, the school relies on
natural solar energy for heating and uses materials found in the local area,
like stone and earth, to create a building that stays warm and requires minimal
maintenance. By studying this school, we can learn how to design buildings
that are both environmentally friendly and resilient to harsh weather
conditions. The school’s design also demonstrates how modern architecture
can respect and incorporate local traditions, showing that sustainable design
doesn’t have to mean sacrificing cultural identity.

2. Parameters of Analysis

Cultural Integration

The architectural style of the Tanpo Solar School reflects local traditions
through the use of cultural motifs and community gathering spaces. The
design considers local educational customs and the importance of communal
activities, thus reinforcing community identity within the educational context.
Concept

 The Solar School was created to be a self-sufficient learning space for

children in a remote area where winters are long and cold. The idea
was to use sunlight as the main heat source, allowing the school to
function without relying on external heating systems.
 The design of the school teaches students about sustainable practices
by showing them how the building itself is built to use the sun’s energy
efficiently, reflecting the importance of sustainability in daily life.

Orientation

 The school is oriented to face south, which allows it to capture the

maximum amount of sunlight during the day. In cold regions like
Zanskar, south-facing buildings are ideal because they receive the
most sunlight, helping to keep the interiors warm naturally.
 Large windows on the south side let in a lot of sunlight, while the north
side has fewer windows and is more insulated to prevent heat loss.
This orientation is an example of how the school is designed to make
the most of natural resources.

Plan and Spatial Configuration

 The layout of the school is simple, with classrooms and shared spaces
organized to receive plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
Fig13 Plan
Source .[Link]

Fig13 Section
Source .[Link]
Fig13 Section
Source .[Link]

 Thick walls made of earth and stone absorb heat from the sun, keeping
the building warm during the day and slowly releasing that warmth at
night, which helps maintain a steady temperature indoors. This natural
temperature regulation makes the school comfortable even during the
coldest months.

Construction Techniques

Excavating The foundation of Tanpo solar school

Fig 1 : Excavating The foundation of Tanpo solar school

Source:[Link]
Fig 1 : Stone-foundation
Source:[Link]

Fig 1 : Mud Brick

Source:[Link]

 Rammed Earth and Stone Walls: The building is made primarily from
stone and rammed earth, a traditional construction method where
layers of earth are compacted to form solid walls. These materials act
as natural insulation, keeping the inside warm.
 Passive Solar Heating: The school is designed to trap and store solar
heat. Thick walls and floors absorb sunlight and then slowly release the
stored heat at night, providing a consistent indoor temperature.
  Thick, Insulated Walls: The walls are built very thick, which helps
keep the cold out. Minimal wood is used since timber is scarce in
Ladakh, and it’s used only where necessary for supporting the roof and
ceilings.

Fig 1 : Mud Brick

Source:[Link]

Material Usage

Locally Sourced Stone and Mud: By using materials found in the area,
like stone and earth, the school reduces its environmental impact and
maintains a close connection with the local environment. This approach is
also cost-effective and makes repairs easier since these materials are
readily available.

Fig 1 : Mud Brick

Source:[Link]
  Limited Timber Use: Wood, which is rare in Zanskar, is used
sparingly, mainly for essential structural support. This reduces the need
to import materials from far away, saving resources and energy.

Fig 1 : Import Of Materials Like Timber .

Source:[Link]

Sustainable Practices

 Passive Solar Heating: The design of the school takes full advantage
of sunlight to provide natural heating, minimizing the need for external
energy sources. South-facing windows and thick, insulated walls allow
the building to capture and store warmth effectively.
 Minimal Energy Dependence: The building relies on natural heat and
light, reducing the need for other energy sources. This approach is
essential in remote areas like Zanskar, where access to electricity and
heating fuel can be challenging.
 Thermal Mass: The thick stone and earth walls act as thermal mass,
which means they store heat during the day and release it slowly at
night. This natural insulation maintains a stable temperature inside,
 making the school warm in winter and cooler in summer.

Fig 1 : Mud Brick

Source:[Link]

Innovative Approaches

 Solar-Focused Design: The building is specifically designed to make

the most of sunlight, using it as the main source of heat. By placing
windows in the south-facing wall and designing thick, insulated walls,
the school naturally retains warmth.
 Blending Tradition with Modern Needs: The construction uses
traditional rammed earth and stone techniques with modern passive
solar design principles. This blend respects local culture while meeting
the demands of sustainable design.
 Efficient Use of Local Resources: The design makes efficient use of
local resources like stone and earth and only uses wood where
absolutely necessary. This approach minimizes environmental impact
and lowers the building’s overall cost.

Inference

 The Tanpo Solar School demonstrates how traditional construction

methods can be adapted to create modern, sustainable buildings that
 meet the needs of their environment. By using natural solar energy for
heating and relying on locally available materials, the school shows
how sustainable design can succeed even in a remote, high-altitude
region.
 The building’s principles—like using sunlight for warmth, thick walls for
insulation, and minimal external energy—are especially useful for cold-
climate areas. The school proves that environmentally friendly
buildings can be both functional and culturally respectful.
 This project provides a valuable model for similar cold regions, showing
that traditional methods combined with smart, energy-efficient design
can create comfortable, sustainable spaces without relying on
expensive, high-maintenance heating systems.

1. SECONDARY CASE STUDIES AND ANALYSIS

5.1 Case study on Vernacular Residential Buildings

1. Onpo house
2. Balay House
3. Lakruk House
4. Kalmak House
5. Akbar House
6. Lhaba House
7. Lhaba Yangchen House
8. Gotal Murup house
9. Shangara House
10. Ama Yangchen House
 1.1.1 Introduction
1.1.2 Justification
1.1.3 Parameters

[Link] Cultural Integration

[Link] Environmental Adaptation
[Link] Material Usage
[Link] Spatial Configuration
[Link] Natural Ventilation And Lighting
[Link] Landscaping And Site Integration
[Link] Sustainability Practices
[Link] Aesthetic and colour use
[Link] Innovative Approaches
5.1.4 Inference

5.1 Onpo House, Ladakh

5.1.1 Introduction

The Onpo House is a traditional three-storey Ladakhi home, historically

belonging to an astrologer’s family who served the royal family of Ladakh. It is
located in the Goksum area of Leh, which was once a fortified town with three
gates marking its entrance. The house had been abandoned for decades and
suffered significant damage due to a heavy rainfall in 2016, leading to its
partial collapse. The Onpo family sought to preserve their ancestral home,
leading to an emergency restoration project.

Fig-12 Old Onpo house before restoration .

Source:[Link]

The Onpo House ( Before Restoration)

The restoration aimed to stabilize the structure, reconstruct damaged parts,

and adapt the house for modern use while preserving its historical and cultural
significance.

After Restoration
Fig13- New Onpo house After restoration .
Source: [Link]

5.1.2 Justification

The restoration of Onpo House represents an important effort in preserving

Ladakh’s architectural heritage. The house holds cultural and historical value,
being closely linked to the region's traditional practices, such as astrology and
religious rituals. Its restoration was essential to saving not only a physical
structure but also the intangible cultural heritage of the region. By stabilizing
and restoring the house, the project not only preserved the historical legacy of
the Onpo family but also adapted the house for contemporary use, making it a
valuable case study for integrating heritage conservation with modern
functionality.

5.2.3 Parameters
[Link] Cultural Integration

Onpo House was historically associated with the role of the Onpo family,
astrologers who worked for Ladakh’s royal family. The house's spatial
organization, with rooms for meditation and rituals, reflects the cultural
importance of astrology and religious practices in Ladakhi society. The
restoration retained these culturally significant spaces, including the shrine
and meditation rooms, which were integral to the family’s spiritual and
professional identity. These spaces have now been repurposed, but their
original intent remains preserved, showcasing a blend of heritage and
contemporary usage.

[Link] Environmental Adaptation

Like most traditional Ladakhi houses, Onpo House was designed to adapt to
the extreme climate of the region. The restoration project maintained the
original design's environmental responsiveness by using local materials, such
as stone and mud, which offer natural insulation against the cold desert
climate. The introduction of two sunrooms during the restoration improved
light and heat gain, enhancing the house’s suitability for the Ladakhi climate
while preserving its traditional structure.

[Link] Material Usage

The restoration of Onpo House employed traditional materials such as stone

and wood, ensuring that the reconstruction was in harmony with Ladakh’s
vernacular architecture. The stone walls were rebuilt from the foundation, with
wooden reinforcements (sketching) added to enhance structural stability,
particularly in case of earthquakes. Taloo twigs and wooden beams were
renewed for the ceilings, maintaining the original materials while improving
structural strength and durability.

[Link] Spatial Configuration

The house follows the traditional Ladakhi layout, with functional spaces
spread over three floors. The ground floor includes cattle stables and storage
areas, while the upper floors are used for living and religious purposes, such
as the shrine and meditation rooms. During the restoration, the spatial
configuration was slightly modified to include modern amenities like sunrooms
and a roofed gallery (Yaps) on the rooftop terrace. These additions provided
more light and better views while maintaining the traditional arrangement of
the house.

[Link] Natural Ventilation and Lighting

The addition of two sunrooms during the restoration greatly enhanced the
natural lighting inside the house, a feature that was previously limited in
traditional Ladakhi homes. The small, strategically placed windows were kept
for their thermal efficiency, but the introduction of sunrooms allowed for more
natural light and warmth. Natural ventilation is facilitated through small
openings and gaps in the stone walls, keeping the house well-ventilated
during warmer months without compromising insulation in winter.

[Link] Landscaping and Site Integration

The Onpo House is nestled within the historical Goksum area, which was
once a fortified town. The restoration maintained the house’s relationship with
its surrounding urban context, ensuring that it remained in harmony with
adjacent structures. Although there was no extensive landscaping due to the
urban location, the house was carefully integrated with the surrounding
historical architecture, preserving its visual and functional relationship with
Leh’s main bazaar, visible from the rooftop gallery.

[Link] Sustainability Practices

Sustainability was a key consideration in the restoration project. The use of

locally sourced stone and wood reduced the carbon footprint, while the
reconstruction of the dry toilet system ensured the house remained self-
sufficient. The restoration also improved the house's energy efficiency by
incorporating modern insulation methods while maintaining traditional thermal
mass through thick stone walls. The sunrooms added during the restoration
allowed for passive solar heating, reducing the need for artificial heating
sources.

[Link] Construction Techniques

The restoration followed traditional Ladakhi construction techniques, such as

using sun-dried mud bricks and stone masonry for the walls. Special attention
was given to earthquake resistance by incorporating wooden reinforcements
in the walls. The construction process began with stabilizing the foundation
and rebuilding the collapsed sections, ensuring that the traditional
craftsmanship was preserved while incorporating structural improvements for
safety. The ceiling rafters and taloo twigs were renewed to restore the original
roofing structure.

[Link] Innovative Approaches

While the restoration primarily adhered to traditional construction techniques,

it also introduced modern innovations to enhance living conditions. The
inclusion of sunrooms and the rooftop gallery (Yaps) added modern comfort
and functionality while respecting the building’s historical integrity.
Additionally, the updated dry toilet system separated the toilet and washroom,
improving hygiene standards. Electrical wiring was also embedded within the
walls, ensuring the house met contemporary living standards without
disrupting its historical aesthetics.

5.4 Inference

The restoration of Onpo House demonstrates a successful balance between

heritage preservation and modern adaptation. By maintaining traditional
materials and techniques while introducing functional innovations like
sunrooms and improved sanitation, the project highlights how vernacular
architecture can be sensitively adapted for contemporary use. The house now
serves as an art studio and gallery, ensuring its ongoing relevance in the
community while preserving its historical and cultural significance. The case
study of Onpo House underscores the importance of integrating traditional
building practices with modern needs to create sustainable, culturally rich
architecture.

Site;
Site selected for the SECMOL campus is located in the Phey village
approximately 18 kms away from the Leh Town of the Indus Valley.
Site is located at an altitude of 3500 meters, from MSL, in one of the most
hostile cold desert climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C in summer
and -30°C in winter
Site is flat, with no undulation and is spread over an area measuring 20-acre,
having little vegetation and water.
ii.
. Design Approach
* **Design with limitations:** Design approach used for SECMOL school was
primarily led by options of overcoming the challenges posed by trinity of
tough terrain; peculiar climatic conditions and difficulty in bringing outside
building materials.
* **Design with Nature:** Approach adopted for planning and designing of the
buildings in the campus, is based on the principle of, designing with nature
and using natural elements of Panch-bhutas, comprising of Agni(Sun),
Prithvi(Land), Jal(Water), Vaayu(Air)and Aakash (Space), as integral part of
design solution.
* **Design with Climate:** Design of the buildings and the campus also
included challenges posed by Climate; options created by Orientation and
sunlight/heat provided by Solar movement besides ably supported by local
materials and ancient construction technologies.
* **Design Compact:** Considering the need for conserving heat and avoiding
loss of heat, buildings have been designed compact, so as to seal the inner
spaces for minimizing the heat loss.
* **Opting for Passive Architecture:** Design option used for buildings is
based on Passive Architecture, which involves creating supportive
environment within buildings, for human living and working, without resorting
to mechanical means of air, light, ventilation and air conditioning. In addition,
buildings have been designed to have large thermal mass due to thick
earthen walls which are known to retain lot of solar radiation fallingii.
. Design Approach
* **Design with limitations:** Design approach used for SECMOL school was
primarily led by options of overcoming the challenges posed by trinity of
tough terrain; peculiar climatic conditions and difficulty in bringing outside
building materials.
* **Design with Nature:** Approach adopted for planning and designing of the
buildings in the campus, is based on the principle of, designing with nature
and using natural elements of Panch-bhutas, comprising of Agni(Sun),
Prithvi(Land), Jal(Water), Vaayu(Air)and Aakash (Space), as integral part of
design solution.
* **Design with Climate:** Design of the buildings and the campus also
included challenges posed by Climate; options created by Orientation and
sunlight/heat provided by Solar movement besides ably supported by local
materials and ancient construction technologies.
* **Design Compact:** Considering the need for conserving heat and avoiding
loss of heat, buildings have been designed compact, so as to seal the inner
spaces for minimizing the heat loss.
* **Opting for Passive Architecture:** Design option used for buildings is
based on Passive Architecture, which involves creating supportive
environment within buildings, for human living and working, without resorting
to mechanical means of air, light, ventilation and air conditioning. In addition,
buildings have been designed to have large thermal mass due to thick
earthen walls which are known to retain lot of solar radiation fallingiii
Planning;

* **Rectangular Shape:** School building has been planned and designed,

based on opting for a rectangular shape, known for its simplicity in working
and providing efficient planning of inner spaces. School Building has an
overall length of 45 meters and depth of 13.5 meters with spaces planned in a
symmetrical manner, along a central corridor. Proportions of the depth to
length of the building have been placed in the ratio of 1:3, for reasons of
efficient working and optimum space utilization.
* **Low-rise structure:** Considering the limitations imposed by cost, climate,
materials and construction, buildings have been planned and designed to be
low-rise, double storeyed structures.
* **Compact Planning:** Buildings have been planned and designed around a
centrally positioned, doubly loaded corridor for reasons of simplicity, space
efficiency and having higher order of carpet area.. Doubly loaded corridor,
Planning of the building revolves around a central
corridor, to minimize the area under circulation and to increase the efficiency
of
the building. Higher proportions of space have been allocated to the area to
be
used for main/primary uses as compared to spaces which are supposed to be
sub-servient/secondary to the main use of the building.
Classifying Spaces; Spaces within the building have been categorized
into two distinct zones. Spaces which are largely inhabited by human beings
and spaces where human habitation remains minimal. Looking at the
positivity of the Southern side, spaces which are inhabited by human beings
including; class rooms, offices, technical workshop, assembly hall, have
been placed in the Southern side whereas spaces where human habitation
remains minimal i.e ., earth lab, stores, toilets, reception-cum-waiting, stairs
etc ., have been placed on the Northern side.
Trapping Heat, For facilitating and creating conditions which are , warm, cozy,
conducive and comfortable, class rooms and activity spaces , have been
placed
on the Southern side and have been appropriately recessed from the
adjoining
space allocated to Assembly Hall, workshop and office, for sourcing solar heat
during winter by putting a thick polythene sheet in the winter.
Zoning Spaces; In order to minimize heat loss; making optimum use of space
and effectively managing the inside temperature , the entire building has
been
divided into three distinct zones, which despite being connected through a
common corridor could still be made to operate and function independently.
Entrance ; For minimising heat loss from the building, entry to the building
has
been provided from East side with minimum opening.
Natural Light; Building has been planned in such a manner , that all inner
spaces have the distinct advantage of adequate natural light till it is available
outside, in order to eliminate the need of using power sourced from
conventional
sources, for lighting the inner spaces.
Making use of Geo-thermal Energy; Northern side/portion of the building,
housing, stores, toilets and part of the assembly hall, staircases etc ., have
been
designed to be one meter below ground level, in order to source earth
required
for construction of the building and for making use of geo-thermal energy for
heating the cool northern side.
Multiple use of Spaces; In order to make optimum use of limited pace
available
in the building and to overcome the limitations imposed by the cold climate,
large central space earmarked as assembly area, is used for performing
multiple activities like teaching , meeting, undertaking cultural activities and
entertainment and accordingly remains heart and soul of the school building.
Making use of Geo-Thermal energy; Portion of the building falling on the
northem side, has been planned and designed to be lower than normal
groundlevel- and has accordingly been kept, one meter below the prevailing
ground
level - because earth's temperature at this depth has been recorded to be
relatively warm in winters / cool in summers- which helps in creating
comfortable
living conditions in the northern part of the building, through the use of geo-
thermal energy
11
10 00 5
Reception
UP
UP
cum mating
22.20 Sqm
15:38 5qm
15:36 Sqm
15:58 5qm
LML-0.30m
1
11
11
1
Ground Floor Plan of the School Building
iv.
Orientation
· Understanding Solar Movement; Buildings have been planned and designed
after detailed study and in-depth analysis of the orientation of the site and
behavior/movement of the sun during summer and winter seasons in the cold
and dry climatic region.
Optimizing Solar Heat; Orientation has been embedded as integral part of
building design in order to make optimum use of solar heat and light, in order
to
overcome the challenges posed by extreme cold and non-availability of the
light
from the power grid/conventional sources of power.
Orienting South; Considering the distinct advantages offered by the
Southern side, building have been oriented with larger part of buildings
housing human activities, facing South direction. South orientation keeps
buildings warm in winters through passive solar heating, providing most cost-
effective option of creating ambient living and working conditions within
buildings.- Large Windows provided on Southern side; For making best use of
sun light
and sun heat, building envelop has been designed with larger openings
provided
on the southern direction.
v.
- Structure
Simple; Structure system adopted for the building has been kept simple, for
the
ease of construction; use of locally available material and avoiding the use of
steel and concrete.
- Walls; The compact double-storied building has been constructed with one-
two
feet thick walls, made of rammed earth, sourced from the site itself, which
also
act as load bearing structures. Thick rammed earth walls keep building warm
in
winters/cool in summers; act as heat bank; absorbing heat from sun during
day,
storing it and releases to rooms at [Link].
- Material;
- Using Local Materials; Considering the non- availability of latest building
materials and high cost of building technologies used in the modern
construction and restrictions imposed by the cost and absence of skilled
labour ; using available local building materials based on earth and traditional
construction technologies were considered the best and most appropriate
option for making of the buildings.
- High Mass Building Envelop; Majority of material used for construction in the
campus buildings includes, wood, sand, earth and clay, which are known for
its distinct qualities to have a high thermal mass and low thermal
conductivity, which has helped in creating high mass building envelop,
ensuring the retention of solar heat within the building.
- Using Rammed Earth; Material used for construction of thick walls is made
out of rammed earth, sourced locally, by digging the north portion of building.
Earth sourced from site, mixed with sand and clay, in a pre-determined
proportion and put in a wooden frame at the site. The mixture is then
rammed/compacted with pounders to create bricks, which are then used for
construction of walls.
- Building Envelop; Building envelop has been carefully and thoughtfully
designed so as to minimise heat loss, maximize heat gain and admit
maximum day-light within the building. Accordingly, for making building
envelop efficient, material used for creating building envelop is bricks made of
rammed earth. Thickness of walls has been varied from one- two feet, which
not only act as structural walls, supporting the live and dead load of building
but also work and operate as the heat bank. Thick earthen walls help in
storing day-time radiated solar heat which is emitted by walls at night to
provide required heat to keep inside warm. Outer walls, are insulated by
erecting another jacket wall, which is separated from inner wall be a gap of 6
inches. Gap between two walls is filled with low-cost insulating materials
involving saw dust, wood shaving, waste paper and plastic. Cow dung mixed
with clay and earth is used for wall finishes, which have been found to be both
cost-effective and energy efficient.
- Sourcing Earth from Site; Earth used in the construction was sourced from
Northern portion of the building, which was dug one meter below the ground
level, in order to source earth required for construction and making optimum
use of geo-thermal energy to promote heating during winter and cooling
during summer and cooling of the northern side. In addition, the space dug
out on the northern side was also made to act as the foundation and to
provide stability to the building.
- Minimising Carbon footprints; Sourcing earth, the main building material
used in building, from site itself eliminated the need of transportation
basicSea buck thorn and Leh Berry, which provide edible fruit and juice for
human
consumption.
* All this has been made possible by the use of grey water, which is generated
through the kitchen and bathrooms and used for meeting the needs of the
water
for the landscape and plants.

viii Outcome
* **High Degree of Energy efficiency:** Building during its successful
operation
for last more than 25 years, has already demonstrated and established that
building has remained highly energy efficient and resource efficient. The
success of the building and building envelop in combatting cold, can be
observed from the fact that when outside temperature was recorded as low -
25°C in winters; inside temperature recorded was as high as +14°C, without
support of any mechanical means/fuel used for heating.
* **Net Zero Carbon:** Considering the fact that building does not have any
grid-
based electric connection and also does not require fossil fuels for heating,
even
during peak winter months, and accordingly building remains net zero carbon.
* **Using Local Material and Technologies:** SECMOL also has clearly
demonstrates and established the role, relevance and importance of local
culture, local materials and traditional construction technologies in creating
sustainable buildings.
* **Establishing the Role of Building Design:** SECMOL has also established
the
fact that role of designing buildings, making optimum use of orientation,
studying
the climate, site conditions and traditional system and practices of human
living,
remain always relevant and critical in creating climate responsive buildings.
* **Role of Natural Elements:** SECMOL has also established that buildings
designed with nature and making optimum use of natural elements of
Prithvi,Jal, Agni, Vayu and Akash remain the best option of creating most
climate
responsive, resilient and sustainable buildings.
• Reducing Operation and Maintenance Cost; Studies have revealed that
considering the life-cycle cost of a building, initial cost has been estimated to
be
merely 10% of the total cost, whereas the cost of construction/maintenance of
building over its entire lifespan has been estimated to be as high as 90%.
Accordingly, in order to make the building cost-effective in real sense of the
term, more important shall be to reduce the maintenance and operational
cost
of building, in addition to reducing the initial cost. Considering the need for
conserving heat, building design and use of mud as material of construction
ensures that building stays warm. In addition, to combat cold and to
overcome
the problem of heating the water SECMOL has also innovated by creating its
own solar water heater, costing merely Rs 3000/100 liters as compared to
commercial heater costing Rs 25,000/100 liters in the market. Moreover, since
it is homemade and accordingly can be repaired by the inhabitants itself.
Further, since water is heated by Solar heat so no cost is involved in the
heating
of the water also, reducing the operational cost of building.
Multiple use of Spaces- Assembly Hall- SECMOL