Project details
KAVIATRI BAHINABHAI RESEARCH CENTRE
The Site: The site is located in Jalgaon and will be the largest and an university for Northern Maharashtra.
Client Requirements: Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University wanted the building to reflect ‘Bhainabai’s Aura, Identity and love for Nature.
Design Methodology: Dev kuthe dev kuthe – aabhaayaachyaa aarpaar Dev kuthe dev kuthe – tuzhya bubuyamazaar (Where is God where is God – beyond the skies Where is God where is God – in your eyes)
Bhainabai’s poetry is said to capture the essence of life and reflect the culture of the village and farming life and present her wisdom. The architecture of the iconic university will incorporate the elements of Bhainabai’s poem such as flow, rhythm, repetition, personification, emergence, inspiration and life
The building design thus has an earthy texture and feel with ample green spaces and openness. The design is welcoming and radial inspired by Jata used in villages. This design radiates a feeling of acceptance and inclusion for anyone and every one belonging to different societies and backgrounds. A semi-open library with adequate seating area and active spaces for poetry recitation, elocutions & debates, storytelling & acting, and study & research are designed.
Openness in the design structure allows the building to breathe and works efficiently for ventilation and natural light. An auditorium and amphitheater too are designed for various programs taking place in the building. A computer lab for the students to work on their research, a cafeteria with an open landscape area to relax and refresh their mind and a recreational area in the resource center are beautifully designed.
The main spaces include the poet’s museum, a literature exhibition hall and an interpretation hall which reflect her work and the reforms she brought to society.
A centrally located lily water pond helps to keep the surroundings of the university cool in the hot and dry climate of Jalgaon. The roof of the structure incorporates hydroponics to efficiently use the stormwater/rainwater and improve the air quality of the environment. Part of the roof has photovoltaic cells for energy generation and reducing the environmental impact. The Brick Jali wall on the South Facade reduces the intensity of heat and harsh sunlight entering the building and embodies KAVIYATRI BHAINABAI CHAUDHARI’S BRICK MURAL. The active spaces and the radial form of the University design promote empowerment, independence and boldness while embracing wisdom and simplicity.
- Plot Area: 26,800 Sq. M.
- Built-up Area: 3230 Sq. M.
- Scope : Landscape concept and execution
- Stage : Under Construction