Designed by AE Studio, this school is a perfect epitome of vernacularism. Aravali Public School, nestled in the semi-rural region of Mewat with the Aravali Hills as a scenic backdrop is in Firozpur Jhirka, District Nuh of Haryana. Commissioned by an educational trust devoted to providing education to underprivileged rural society, the institution embodies a deliberate commitment to climate change, sustainability, vernacular, and local architectural design. The institutional design architecture was chosen for the SMARTEX’ 2024 Climate Challenge Award.
The primary directive from the clients was to conceive a cost-effective solution that serves as an educational beacon for the general populace. The architectural emphasis was on creating an impactful façade, utilizing locally available materials in their natural state to promote sustainability and celebrate vernacular aesthetics. An exposed brickwork façade and rubble stone masonry for extensive compound walls, meticulously chosen to avoid external plastering and painting, not only achieved cost savings but also showcased a conscious effort toward sustainable construction practices deeply rooted in the local vernacular.
Curated with locally available materials
In response to this mandate, the design strategically avoids conventional RCC, opting instead for arches to replace lintels, not only contributing to cost savings but also aligning with a sustainable and vernacular architectural vision. These arches in vernacular design, serving as a central design element throughout the campus, not only add a contemporary touch but also underscore the commitment to sustainable, vernacular, and climate-conscious design practices.
The spatial allocation of different wings in this institutional design architecture, such as primary, secondary, senior, science, and activity blocks, follows an open courtyard concept- a deliberate choice well-suited for the hot and dry climate of the region and deeply rooted in local architectural traditions. This layout not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes natural ventilation and reduces energy consumption, further emphasizing the school's commitment to sustainability and local vernacular practices.
Noteworthy attention has been given to interaction spaces, including courtyards, corridors, and staircases, fostering open communication and collaboration among students and faculty at all levels, echoing the warmth of local communities. This strategic design choice for such an institutional design in India, not only promotes a sense of community but also contributes to a sustainable, vernacular, and environmentally conscious educational environment.
In the words of Mr. Mohd Israil Khan, the esteemed Chairman of the Trust and a Retired Chief Engineer, "The aim of establishing this institution is to impart education to the weaker section of society and the underprivileged people of this area, particularly the girl child. The attempt was to have a low-cost solution but an emphatic vernacular design and architectural façade which can attract the common masses through the built-up form. We used local material, and the use of exposed brickwork façade allowed us to cost-cutting by avoiding external plastering and painting, aligning with our commitment to sustainability, vernacular traditions, and climate-conscious construction practices.
Imparting education with sustainable ethics
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