Cloister in the Forest, Hostels at IIT-B
Cloister in the Forest, Hostels at IIT-B
The intent of this design is to strengthen the invaluable natural habitat and unique social life of IIT Bombay. In line with this, the concept is based on the creation of a large, cloistered courtyard between the cluster of three hostels which not just gives them unique identities while retaining the dense tree coverage of the site.
Common amenities such as the dining, study, recreational areas and the cafe are distributed at the two lower levels. The hostel blocks rise above this podium along the periphery of the site. The two boys hostels (Hostel 7 and 8) are at the northern and western edge of the site and the girls hostel (Hostel 21) is at the eastern edge of the site adjacent to the existing girls hostel. Each hostel block has a distinct form that gives it a unique identity and strengthens the sense of ownership.
The hostel complex has been designed to achieve a GRIHA, IGBC and EDGE rating. However, going beyond a checklist to be ticked off to achieve these ratings, one has seen it in the larger context of climate change.
The design has been informed to maximize the passive performance of the building and provide visual and thermal comfort – cooling and ventilation –with minimum use of energy-consuming mechanical systems. This passive design is achieved through a combination of building orientation, provision of break-out spaces, and the openings.
The framework of Circular Economy, a restorative principle of consumption was adopted in this project to optimize material utilization in this resource-constrained world. Old windows and doors salvaged from the existing buildings are repaired and used as fenestration for the dining block and café – a nod to the memory of the old hostels.
The ample number of informal public realms interconnects the social life of the students with the nature. With its multi-layered approach to sustainability, social life and architectural expression, the project can set a benchmark to underline the institutes’ reputation as a leader in socially responsible innovation.
2021-2025