The architecture of a traditional Jalali House in Srinagar, Kashmir, showcases a unique blend of Kashmiri, Central Asian, and Mughal influences. These homes are an embodiment of the region’s architectural heritage, crafted to withstand harsh winters and resist seismic activities common in this region. Building materials include Kashmiri houses, including Jalali houses, extensively use locally sourced timber for frames, doors, windows, and interior decorations. This provides insulation and flexibility against earthquakes. Brick (often baked mud bricks known as “tauf”) is commonly used for walls, and stone is sometimes used for the foundation and lower levels, providing thermal mass and stability. Lime-based plaster, called “choona,” is used for finishing surfaces, often decorated with intricate patterns. The Jalali house features a unique “Dab” construction technique, a timber-laced brick framework (also called “taq” in Persian). Timber laces are incorporated into the brickwork, creating a mesh that flexes under seismic pressure, making it highly earthquake-resistant. The interiors often feature exquisite Khatamband work, an intricate wood paneling technique made from interlocking pieces of wood in geometric patterns. This ceiling style is not only decorative but also provides insulation. The Zoon Dub is an elevated balcony or small turret at the top level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is often used for watching the moon (“zoon” means moon in Kashmiri) and enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and gardens. Alongside the Dab construction technique, Jalali houses are designed with small windows, wooden beams, and modular structures to absorb shock and allow the house to “sway” slightly during seismic events, reducing structural damage.