The new building blocks for the University of Kashmir in Hazratbal, Srinagar, are a showcase of the openness, inventiveness and contemporary nature of the University, while respecting the sense of place, culture and environment.

The buildings are designed for spatial and material optimisation, energy efficiency, human interaction, comfort and the celebration of traditional timber design in a contemporary context.

The buildings are located in the main campus, at Hazratbal, adjacent to the existing Vice Chancellors secretariat. It 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 atrium within the built masses became an “all weather” space for gatherings, chance meetings, discussions and setting up of temporary exhibitions.