Interior Architecture & Design Students Immerse in Vernacular Construction at Prajuri River Acres, Dehradun

In January 2025, our Level 4 Interior Architecture and Design students embarked on an enriching and transformative field visit to Prajuri River Acres, a serene riverside organic farm stay near Dehradun. This unique educational experience was meticulously designed to blend academic rigour with profound personal rejuvenation.

The highlight of the trip was an intensive, hands-on workshop focused on vernacular construction methods. Under the expert guidance of trained tutors, students actively participated in building a mud house. This immersive learning journey provided invaluable insights into the theory of mud construction, encompassing everything from the sustainable sourcing of mud to understanding its inherent advantages and properties as a building material. Students gained practical expertise in preparing the mud for on-site application and were also introduced to the intricacies of lime and mud plastering techniques.

Beyond the classroom and construction site, the farm stay offered a much-needed respite from urban life. Staying riverside, savouring organic meals, spending leisurely afternoons sunbathing, and enjoying warm bonfire nights with faculty and peers created an atmosphere of camaraderie and relaxation. This collective experience proved to be an extremely rejuvenating escape, allowing students to disconnect from their laptops and phones and reconnect with the tranquil landscape of the Doon Valley, the exotic birds, and the fundamental elements of nature.

The trip left an indelible mark on our students, fostering not only creative and knowledgeable growth but also a profound emotional connection with the earth. It was a refreshing reprise from the usual hustle and bustle of mega cities, offering a holistic learning experience that touched both mind and spirit.