In the blistering heat of the Thar Desert, where summer temperatures often exceed 50 degrees Celsius, the Rajkumari Ratnavati girls’ school stands as a beacon of cool comfort, blending ancient techniques with modern design.
Built using the same yellow sandstone as the nearby 12th-century Jaisalmer Fort, the school features thick rubble walls that reflect heat, while its lime-plastered interior helps regulate humidity and enhance natural cooling. Unlike the ancient fort, the school’s roof is outfitted with solar panels, ensuring a steady power supply despite frequent electricity outages.
Designed by US-based architect Diana Kellogg and constructed by local artisans, many of whom are parents of the students, the school maintains indoor temperatures up to 20 percent cooler than the sweltering outdoor heat. The building’s layout includes classrooms arranged around an open elliptical courtyard, reminiscent of a Roman coliseum, and walls with grid vents that provide shade and facilitate airflow.
Elevated windows help expel hot air, and rainwater is harvested from the flat roof. Traditional “jali” perforations, originally used for modesty, now serve to improve ventilation, creating a breezy, oval-shaped airflow throughout the building.
The school’s eco-friendly design is especially appreciated in a state experiencing its longest-ever heatwave, where temperatures have soared above 50 degrees Celsius. The reliance on solar energy eliminates concerns about power cuts, making the school a welcome respite for students.
Supported by the US-based CITTA Education Foundation, the school offers free education, uniforms, and meals, addressing the challenges faced by students in a region with a female literacy rate of about 52 percent.
Architect Kellogg emphasized that her design, inspired by symbols of feminine strength, merges traditional methods with sustainable practices. However, climate change is introducing new challenges, such as intensified rainfall that threatens the building’s structural stability and thermal performance. Despite these issues, the school remains a vital and transformative place for its students, providing a cool refuge from their often harsh home environments.
