Institute of Engineering and Technology, Ahmedabad University

Timeless yet contemporary, this cloister anchors a community of students and scholars – many of whom are the first in their families to attend college.

The structure compliments the sequence of space with an array of columns, creating flexible large-span spaces, suitable for an evolving academic program. The building circulation – in the form of cantilevered stairs and screened galleries – weaves alongside the courtyard, creating a dynamic relationship between landscape and architecture. The galleries and corridors are designed to facilitate seamless movement, while offering repose with a line of sandstone benches oriented towards views of the garden. The architecture engages an intense climatic condition – summer temperatures soar to 45 degrees Celcius – with sensitivity, employing red sandstone screens to filter the sun while enhancing the play of light and shadow in the rooms.

The landscape design evokes micro-climates within the building: a sunken garden “kund” is situated between the canteen and the auditorium, creating an informal gathering space for students; the roof of the auditorium is designed as a shaded terrace “maidaan” – a paved garden – offering views of the Ahmedabad University plaza. Red sandstone screens weave a kinetic sculpture within the central courtyard, filtering light by day and emitting a soft glow at dusk.

Ahmedabad nurtures a rare and remarkable legacy of excellence in education and in architecture. The Institute of Engineering and Technology at Ahmedabad University celebrates a renewal of this vision.