SMVDU architecture students gain hands-on experience through site visit

Jammu, March 16: In an effort to provide students with practical exposure and real-world learning, B.Arch. 6th semester students from the School of Architecture and Landscape Design at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) recently undertook a site visit to Sainik Colony, Jammu, as part of their Architectural Design Studio curriculum. This visit was designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of group housing projects, with a strong emphasis on aesthetics, affordability, and sustainability.
As part of their coursework, students were assigned the task of designing a group housing project that balances functional efficiency, visual appeal, and environmental sustainability. To develop a practical understanding of site conditions, they visited the designated location, where they analysed topography, climate, and the surrounding built environment. This hands-on experience enabled them to assess real-world challenges that influence architectural planning and design.
To further deepen their understanding, the students also visited an under-construction group housing project, ‘Royal Nest Hill View’ in Sainik Colony, as a case study. This experience allowed them to observe construction techniques, planning strategies, and material applications firsthand, providing valuable insights that they could integrate into their own designs.
The site visit was coordinated and guided by faculty member Ar. Vinod Kumar, the course coordinator of the Architectural Design Studio, with support from Ar. Navin Gupta and Ar. Abhiney Gupta, Head of the School of Architecture and Landscape Design. Student team leaders, Aditya Kumar Singh and Dia Gupta, played a key role in ensuring the smooth execution of the visit.
The students expressed their gratitude to the university administration for facilitating such an enriching learning opportunity. They also expressed their gratitude to the site engineers and staff of ‘Royal Nest Hill View’, who provided them with in-depth insights and practical knowledge, addressing their queries regarding project execution and construction methodologies. By incorporating experiential learning into the curriculum, SMVDU remains committed to developing a new generation of architects who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the built environment. The university’s focus on hands-on training and site-based education is a fundamental aspect of its academic philosophy, ensuring that students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of architectural principles. The site visit and case study proved to be a valuable learning experience, reinforcing the importance of practical engagement in architectural education. Through initiatives like this, SMVDU continues to empower its students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become innovative and responsible architects in the future.