Table of Contents
Gyan Bhandar
This project is a library building for ancient Jain literature, developed by Sanmarg Pariwar Trust. The structure is conceived as a load-bearing stone masonry system, designed on compression-based structural principles using arches, vaults, and domes.
The foundation is constructed in black basalt (Deccan Trap) using hammer-dressed stone masonry. The superstructure is executed in Jodhpur stone, forming a stepped pyramidal geometry integrated with vaulted and domical systems.
As high-quality hydraulic lime is not readily available in India, lime production is carried out on-site using controlled kiln processes to ensure material consistency and performance.
The masonry is built using high-quality hydraulic lime mortar, achieving compressive strength exceeding 10 MPa at 28 days without the use of chemical or biological additives.
The project demonstrates integration of traditional masonry knowledge with modern structural analysis methods.
Concept and Structural System
Wani-Gyanbhandar
Construction Process
Excavation and foundation preparation in hard rock
Basalt stone masonry foundation using hydraulic lime mortar
On-site lime kiln for hydraulic lime production
Precision stone cutting and dressing
Arches, Vaults and Domes
Large-span stone arch under construction
Centering arrangement for circular vault construction
Dome construction showing radial masonry pattern
Completed dome interior demonstrating compression behaviour
Superstructure Development
Plan geometry and spatial organisation
Progression of stepped stone superstructure
Near-completion view of Jodhpur stone superstructure
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