case study on the gyaan center jaisalmer in india

the gyaan center case study

1. THE GYAAN CENTER, JAISALMER, INDIA Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

2. Introduction to the Project Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India Client: CITTA Foundation Architect: Diana Kellogg Purpose: School + Women's Cooperative + Cultural Center Focus: Sustainable, Contextual, Empowering Design

3. Context & Site Analysis Climate: Hot & arid, desert environment Local materials: Sandstone, lime plaster, jute, etc . Cultural sensitivity: Rajasthani motifs and forms Surrounding built form and topography

4. Project Objectives Interior Aim: Blend modern function with traditional aesthetics

5. Spatial Zoning Zoning: Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls School Medha Women's Cooperative (Textile & crafts) Performance & Exhibition Hall Flow: Central courtyard → learning spaces → crafts → gathering spaces

6. Material and Palette Materials: Hand-carved Jaisalmer sandstone, sandstone flooring, brass accents Palette: Earth tones – ochre, sand, dusty rose, muted indigo Texture Use: Natural stone, woven fabrics, handcraft textures

7. Key Interior Element Furniture: Locally made, minimal yet traditional Craft Integration: Mirrors, embroidery, block prints in upholstery and wall accents Lighting: Skylights + woven pendant lamps (handmade by local women ) Elliptical Shape: Inspired by traditional Indian woman’s bangles Interior Motifs: Local craftsmanship; symbolic geometry Jali Patterns: Feminine, protective, breathable

8. Interior Zones Classrooms: Minimal, functional, cool-toned interiors Floor seating + custom furniture Craft Workshops: Open, well-lit spaces Display walls for textile work Multipurpose Hall: Acoustically conscious materials Movable partitions, community use

9. Furniture and Fixtures Built-in seating along curvilinear wallsLocally made desks, cushions, and traditional charpoysLow-height furniture for children’s comfort and flexibilityLocally inspired motifs engraved into wood and metal works

10. Cultural Integration in Interiors Motifs inspired by Rajasthani art and architectureUse of Jharokhas, jaali patterns, and arch formsInterior storytelling through murals and wall carvingsEmpowerment messaging integrated into space graphics

11. Interior Mood Boards & Renderings Material palette board (stone, fabric, wood)Visual samples or renderings of classrooms, library, seating areas

12. Construction & Craftsmanship Collaborations with local artisans and womenEmphasis on traditional building practicesLow-tech, high-skill workmanship

13. Impact and Community Integration Interior design supports learning and healingSpaces are inviting, empowering, and culturally relatableSafe, inspiring environment for girls and community

14. Thank you