Abstract:
Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is a historic hill city located in the northeastern region of India. With over 16 recognised tribes, Kohima acts as the capital and a hub for cultural and administrative activities of Nagaland. Despite its importance, the city faces significant urban challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited public spaces, traffic congestion and unregulated growth. The issues are further complicated by the challenging topography and socio-cultural diversity demanding sensitive urban planning that balances modernization with heritage preservation. The project arises from the pressing need to reorganize and revitalize the existing urban fabric which addresses these issues. As a city with rich indigenous heritage and strategic geopolitical relevance, Kohima lacks a central urban hub that reflects its identity while meeting contemporary civic, commercial and social demands.
The aim of the thesis is to propose a multi-functional vibrant urban node that integrates administrative, commercial, cultural and recreational facilities, promoting pedestrian engagement and socio-economic interaction. It envisions a contextually responsive design that gives a glimpse of local identity through built form, materiality, planning and landscape.
As the site is located in the heart of the city, the main strategy was to study the planned and unplanned activities that occur daily and occasionally (festive season), providing a design approach allows permeability into the site, prioritizes human-scale development, open public plazas, and flexible community spaces that adapt to both everyday use and seasonal events.
The project’s outcome is intended to establish a civic landmark that fosters community pride, stimulates local economy, and gives a glimpse of Naga heritage.
Keywords: Contextually responsive design, urban planning, heritage preservation, public spaces, socio- cultural integration.
