Eco Campus IIT–Mandi, H.P

Following an international competition, BDP's Indian studio was appointed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to prepare a masterplan and detailed design proposals for a new 230 ha learning Eco-campus on the outskirts of Mandi, H.P. BDP's design for Ecocampus which can assist the institution to move towards environmental sustainability through good operational and management practice, won the competition.

The human scale sustainable campus is on a site with great natural serenity and beauty. Its layout responds to the microclimate and topography of the steep site in the part forested hills in the western Himalayan region.

As per the proposal and design, the project would be completed in a phased manner where Phase I includes shared state-of-the-art laboratories and workshops in learning houses situated on various levels and connected via pedestrian bridges. A market square forms the heart of the campus and creates a place to encourage social interaction and celebration.


The faculty staff housing element forms a retreat on the higher levels at the campus peninsula. It is laid out in a village setting offering fantastic views. Proposed building typologies echo the traditional style of Himalayan vernacular and strive toward a new architecture for the region.


IIT Mandi is the latest of a new generation of Indian Institutes of Technology being promoted by the Indian government. Manisha Bhartia, Urbanism studio leader says: "The Institute's new campus will set a benchmark for developing innovative, contextual and environmentally sensitive building in the Himalayan region."


This project will be led by BDP's New Delhi studio with support from the UK headquarters. Phase I could start on site early next year, with phased completion between 2012 and 2015.