2. Historic Architecture of Kashmir
In traditional Kashmiri homes, refinements such as the Zoon Dub – or a cantilevered balcony designed to view the
moon (called zoon in Kashmiri) – were common.
Balconies and eaves with beautiful fret worked details known as pinjarakari, pendants of wooden chimes shaped like
jhumkas are still visible, but the violence of nearly three decades combined with the terrible onslaught of modern
building methods, have not boded well for the heritage.
Both vernacular and colonial architecture in the Valley celebrate the historical skill of Kashmiri craftsmen and
demonstrate how traditional homes adapt to geography by utilising local stone, wood and brick.
The most typical examples of vernacular architecture are found in Srinagar along the Jhelum and in areas where
mohallas developed according to occupation, as in Kralepur Zadibal (or the potters enclave) and Kagaz Saz Mohalla, or
according to clan, as in Razdan Kocha.
3. Modern Architecture of Kashmir
The lifestyle and architecture of the inhabitants of Kashmir
have changed dramatically, as a result of technological
advancements.
In place of mud and wood, Kashmiri house designs now
include use of cutting-edge technology such as concrete and
iron.
The use of traditional construction methods is dwindling in
Kashmiri house design and they are being supplanted with
houses made of non-native cement. Every new home is
equipped with the most modern amenities.
4. Modern Architecture of Kashmir
As part of the Kashmiri house design, a hamam or underfloor heating is a
must in winters when the temperature drops to far below zero.
A hamam is a chamber with a hollowed-out base covered with large, hand-
hewn symmetrical blocks of limestone. The slabs are supported between the
brick columns and the cement-sealed seams.
5. Model Making procedures
Historic & Modern Houses
• Step 1- Knead the air dry clay until softened and moldable
• Step 2- Roll out the clay until one or one and a half centimeter thick
• Step 3- Cut out the pieces according to the shape of the house to be acquired
• Step 4- Let the cut out pieces dry
• Step 5- Use strong glue to stick the pieces to the shape of the house.
• Step 6 - Carve out a few details, like Door, windows, bricks using a needle or a small
knife
• Step 7 – Paint the model house according to the theme , being either Historic or
Modern House
• Step 8 – Let the paint dry
NOW YOUR MODEL IS READY TO BE PRESENTED