The Design Gesture

Author: Riya Ahuja

Green Architecture: An Essential and Sustainable Choice
The world green building council defines green building as, “a building that, in its design, construction or operation, reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on our climate and natural environment. Green buildings preserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life.”
Green architecture gives impacts on sustainable construction practice while reducing the harmful effects on the environment and conserving the energy for future use.
Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash
Need For Green Architecture
The construction companies produce the second-largest amount of demolition waste and greenhouse gases. Later, when the building is in use, the lighting and air conditioning cause more harmful gas emissions and consumption of electricity. The occupants’ activities also generate a large amount of waste and pollutants, which have a major role in the depletion of resources leading to climate change.
COP 26 – Together for our planet, an initiative by the UN Climate Conference brought together 120 world leaders and riveted on all factors of climate change and came out with many initiatives to prevent climate change and green architecture.
In ted Talk by Elon Musk: The future we’re building – and boring, he explains his future goals for sustainability and the need for it.
Principles Of Building Green
Site Design
Analyzing the site features and designing accordingly and not taking away the essence of the site.
The climatic conditions, vegetation, topography, natural slope, and viewpoints these factors should be taken into consideration for designing a green building.
Water Management and Conservation
Water usage should be minimised during construction and post-construction also to achieve sustainable building. To achieve this, one can install grey water treatment plants and rainwater catchment systems to recycle water, prevent surface runoff, and recharge groundwater through pits and trenches. Using water-efficient appliances such as low-flow showerheads and low flush toilets.
Energy And Environment
For green building, the use of renewable energy should be increased along with low-affected energy sources. Consideration of both active and passive techniques should be done.
Passive Measures
Passive measures like natural sunlight, wind flow, orientation and topography will dramatically reduce the cooling costs of a building. Natural daylight and proper orientation of openings reduce buildings’ electricity needs to accomplish sustainable building.
Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash
Active Measures
Green buildings also incorporate energy-efficient lighting, solar panels for electricity, solar heating to reduce the load, and other renewable energy technologies to reduce energy consumption.
Indoor Environment Quality
The indoor environment quality is very essential for the health of the people occupying the space. Using non-toxic and sustainable construction materials for construction will reduce the chances of sick buildings and also increase the productivity of people living. Openings, well-lit and ventilated rooms, less usage of air conditioners will automatically make the space cleaner and healthier.
Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash
Materials For Green Architecture
Minimizing the use of non-renewable resources or wasting materials like sand will lead to depletion, and excessive use will create problems for the future. Therefore, the use of recycled materials, renewable, sustainable construction materials, and eco-friendly materials is advisable for a better future.
Green Building Certifying Agencies
Because of climate change, there are a few agencies in India that help a building go green.
GRIHA
GRIHA is an acronym for Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment. GRIHA works on the aspects like energy consumption, waste generation, renewable energy adoption, of a building in all 3 phases of construction- Pre-construction, building planning and construction, and building operation and maintenance.
ECBC
The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) was launched in May 2007 by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power. Its main aim is to establish minimum requirements for energy efficient design and sustainable construction of buildings.
IGBC
The Indian Green Building Council formed by CII to build a sustainable building and environment for all. This council is based out of the CII-Sohrabji Green Business Centre, Hyderabad, which is India’s 1st Platinum rated green building.
Green Building Materials
Recycled Materials
Using recycled construction material is effective for green architecture. Construction and demolition waste can be used effectively in prevention of depletion of over usage of materials. Some examples of these can be recycled bricks, recycled plastics, or even recycled timber.
Steel is the most commonly used recycled material in the construction industry, no residue is left in the demolition site as well.
Other everyday materials, like newspapers and cardboard, can be used for insulation. Concrete is recycled into recycled aggregate concrete and can be used as a natural aggregate.
Renewable Materials
Renewable materials and resources can be used in green architecture. Resources like geothermal energy or solar energy.
Nowadays , there have been many materials related to solar shingles or solar tiles.
Photo by Jeremy Bezanger on Unsplash
Locally Available Materials
Vernacular materials or Eco-friendly or sustainable construction materials should be used. The most commonly used examples are wood, mud, or bamboo.
Bamboo
Bamboo’s strength to weight ratio is like that of timber. It is a fast-growing plant. Bamboo can resist more tension than compression.The fire resistance is very good because of the high content of silicate acid. Bamboo is used in scaffolding, doors and windows, walls and roofing too.
Photo by Shazaf Zafar on Unsplash
Rammed Earth
This technique has been used since civilization as a green building material. It is affordable and can be used in construction of foundations, floors and even walls .There are many firms in achieving this technique and making it popular. One such example is Hunnarshala Foundation, Bhuj.
Hempcrete
It is a concrete like material but it is lightweight and a latest addition to the construction industry. It is especially planned to be used to construct walls, floors, and roofs. Its biggest property is that it is CO2 Negative , it absorbs more CO2 than it emits. Another enormous advantage of hempcrete is that it can be recycled by adding a plus point to green building material.
Its use has already been started in India. In Uttarakhand, a startup is using hemp fibre to build a house.
Projects on Green Architecture In India
Hand in Hand India, Kanchipuram
Firm-Green Evolution
The aim was to design a sustainable learning centre in Kanchipuram on a linear site showcasing the ideology of hand in hand.
The design methods followed were:
- From the very start, the conservation process was started by preserving the topsoil at the time of construction.
- Site analysis was done and accordingly the challenge of linear site was used as an advantage to provide openings in the wind’s direction.
- A centrally located courtyard to provide ventilation and shade and exposed hollow clay block walls for energy efficiency and, provide aesthetics.
- Low water fixtures for preserving water.
Bamboo Research And Training Institute, Chandrapur
Firm-SHIFT
The campus is designed by using locally available bamboo and not mainstream materials like bricks and concrete. The excavated soil was used to create rammed earth walls while the structural elements like column, beam and roof are from bamboo. The bamboo used is treated and, through research and experimentation, this structure is designed .
Photo by Simon Maage on Unsplash
October 29, 2024
Landscape Urbanism: A Fresh, New and Greener Approach
Landscape urbanism is a concept of urban planning along with the landscape. It is the planning of cities, towns, or other urban areas not through infrastructure or built form but with the art of landscape. The term ‘landscape urbanism’ was first coined in the 1990s and since then it is evolving according to techniques and modern approaches.
According to Sarah Kathleen Peck, she states, ‘Landscape urbanism is a mode of thinking about the design and functioning of cities that places landscape architecture as one of the first steps in urban development, rather than the last.’
History of Landscape Urbanism
The word landscape urbanism came into existence by Peter Connolly when he was exploring the field of landscape architecture, urban planning together with architecture in late 1980s, to reach new boundaries.
Landscape Architecture
Landscape architecture in the 1960s was based on designing public or private gardens and was considered the last step of architecture planning. But with the emergence of botanists, urban planners, and landscape planners, and their collaboration to create a bridge between urban planning and landscape to manage cities. These principles were mainly derived by Ian McHarg, Peter Connolly, and Charles Waldheim.
Industrialization was the era in which planning and construction were at their worst phase i.e the dark age. Due to the rush of migrants from rural to urban, the planners realized that only construction of roads and buildings were not an effective way to develop a city where one can raise a family, this thought led to the initialization of new urbanism that is around ecology.
Importance of Landscape Urbanism
This concept of landscape urbanism inhibits not only the planning of the city but also works on technical management like water management, infrastructure, and biodiversity and moves a step towards sustainability.
Landscape as Urbanism – A general theory a book by Charles Waldheim the author presents a clear picture on how to rethink and develop cities in collaboration with the landscape. Landscape as Urbanism examines works from around the world by designers ranging from Ludwig Hilberseimer, Andrea Branzi, and Frank Lloyd Wright to James Corner, Adriaan Geuze, and Michael Van Valkenburgh.
Through various chapters, he tries to explain how the landscape has evolved from the renaissance to industrial cities and later to the early 20s with urban planning, and how the landscape plays a vital role to maintain the social and cultural order of the contemporary city.
Important Ideas
Some important ideas by James Corner in Terra Fluxus for the process of designing
According to him, Landscape urbanism is the dissolution of two words, ‘landscape’ and ‘urbanism’. With this, he derived four themes-processes over time, the staging of surfaces, the operational or working method, and the imaginary.
Process Over Time
Which states that our life and future should grow considering the ecology and environment, therefore one should respect the surroundings while urban planning.
Staging of Surface
While city planning is due to a lack of horizontal space, the development is done vertically. But according to this theme, horizontal alignment should be considered rather than depending on vertical alignment.
Working Method
While designing an architect should adopt new technologies of the environment and move accordingly.
Imaginary
Limiting the new construction of traditional urban infrastructure and developing according to social and geographic conditions and opening scope for new imagination.
Genesis
Frank Lloyd Wright’s – Broadacre plan
Urban Landscape Architecture
Every city once was a swamp filled with landfills or nooks or corners which are unplanned. These parts of the city need to be planned and not just with infrastructure but with beautiful elements which can enhance and add value to the urban public space. Urban landscape planning is taking a piece of land big or small, corner or centre analyzing, evaluating it to make the place interesting and useful.
Process for Planning
- Assessment of the issues
- Site survey
- Site analysis
- Plot plan
- Site plan
- Structure and utility blueprints
Elements of Landscape Urbanism
Today urban planning aims to develop cities in collaboration with natural surroundings. This is the requirement of the hour in the time of global change. Urban landscapes must be designed to meet the needs of today and the growth of tomorrow.
Safety and transportation
- Streets and sidewalks
- Parking lots
- Signs
- Transportation infrastructure
Public Spaces
- Site Amenities
- Parking
- Restrooms
Cultural preservation
- Public artwork
- Historical monuments
- Local colleges and universities
Residential Living
- Noise and safety
- Commute
- Proximity
How to Merge Landscape and Urbanism
Vegetation – Plantation and tall trees help to slow down stormwater and increase the groundwater, this, in turn, will prevent surface water runoff to drains where industrial pollutants are present which can be harmful to the cities growth. Also, the groundwater increase will help to provide effective water for usage for citizens. Tall trees will also provide shade in public areas and streets. The shade will therefore cool down the region both outside and inside creating a comfortable environment.
Green belts- Green belts refer to preserved wildlife corridors, streams, parks, wetlands, coastal dunes, and other natural spaces in a city. This helps to preserve wildlife and create a safe way between wildlife and city dwellers. By preserving this wildlife and insects, urban landscaping can ensure that honeybees, birds, and other species continue to bring calmness to city dwellers.
Park Pockets- after the covid times, planners need to ensure to create spaces with pockets for playing and breathing clean and purified air to stay fit. Small pockets and also individual gardens should become a necessity for better urban planning.
Source
Benefits of Urban Landscape
Environmental benefits
Climate Change
Social Integration
Physical and mental health
Food security
Historic Urban Landscape Project
- This project is started jointly by UNESCO, Government of India and Madhya Pradesh to conserve the historical and cultural values. It is being initiated in the cities like Orcha and Gwalior.
- These two cities were added in the list of UNESCOs world heritage cities under its urban landscape city programme in December 2020.
- The expected changes under this project for Gwalior will be chemical treatment of Mansingh Palace, Gujri Mahal, Sahasrabahu temple and other heritage structures
Bill and Melinda Foundation Campus
Bill and Melinda foundation campus converted a 12-acre parking lot in Seattle into an ecological and social interaction hub. The foundation’s requirement was to help all lead healthy, productive lives. This project was designed by Gustafson Guthrie Nichol Landscape Architecture. Over the years. The industrial activities contaminated the site with chemicals which led to the isolated site.
The transformation was done to the streets which developed into furnished sidewalks with amenities and elements. Inside, there is a space for global meetups and a passage. The center has a tree-covered plaza and the local ground has meadow-like drifts of grass. Rainwater harvesting is also present to make the landscape more green
Source
Place Making
Placemaking is a multi-disciplinary process that uses an urban planning approach to plan and design public places with the aim to promote people’s health and well-being. This can be a private, government, or community initiative to utilize urban spaces and bring them to the maximum benefit of the citizens.
Photo by Gunnar Ridderström on Unsplash
75 Hours- Placemaking Marathon
Placemaking marathon is an initiative under the Smart Cities Mission which promotes cities to develop one or more public spaces within 75 hours.
The three key principles for making a placemaking project impactful are:
Light, quick, and cheap transformation– while keeping citizens at the heart
Build for the citizens and by the citizens to co-create a brave and bigger future together
Anchor with events that educate citizens and celebrate our public spaces.
Pahari Bus Stand at Chetak Circle, Udaipur
The street chosen for placemaking as it plays an important role in connecting many important landmarks, the site acts as an unauthorized parking space.
- The major development which happened is the planning of dedicated zones for street vendors and parking.
- For pedestrian safety traffic calming elements were introduced
- For social interaction , interactive zones are created.
Before
After
Conclusion
Similarly, many other projects are started by the government for effective urban development, the most famous is the smart city initiative which is in process in many cities. With a smart city mission aiming for a digitally forward city simultaneously working towards a greener world.
October 29, 2024
8 Inspiring Ted Talks for Every Architect
Role of ted talks
Technology, Entertainment, Design this is where currently life revolves around.
Ted talks help you find motivation, explore new options, gain a little more perspective and find role models. And you get to learn something new in just a few minutes.
Here is a compilation of talks architectural and non-architectural from prominent speakers with meaningful insights.
Architecture
Ted talk: An Ultra-sensory Narrative | Bijoy Ramachandran

Bijoy Ramachandran, founder of ‘hundredhands’ in his ted talk talks about the book ‘The eyes on the skin.’ He talks about four factors that help to design better by providing many architectural examples and comparing them with famous art or paintings. To begin with, he states that modern buildings are more just visually physically and not all senses are stimulated, secondly, Game of Light and Shadow and gives an example of a town hall in Finland by Alvar Aalto. Next, he talks about the importance of Frames in structure and the idea of change. Lastly, Meaning and its link with evoking memories.
Mumbai’s Architecture is Killing Us !! | Sameep Padora

In this Ted Talk, the author talks about the alarming situation of Mumbai and compares buildings of various scales with the respective reason for planning. Earlier, when migration happened the people didn’t know the importance of housing and due to migration started living in cramped spaces. Later, due to the plague, the worth of light, ventilation, and sanitation was realized. He takes an example of a swadeshi market and explains the planning and role of the courtyard. He takes into consideration both affordable housing by government and privately built apartments and states that both do not consider the issue of life and health but simply are based on maximizing profits and building laws.
Urban architecture inspired by mountains, clouds and volcanoes | Ma Yansong
Available on youtube
Available on youtube
The architect, Ma Yansong links New York and China skyline and correlates it with matchbox designs. Later, he takes a cubic fish aquarium for research and then an organic aquarium and tries to understand the emotions. He then starts to present his work and elaborates on how they enhance the city skyline and seem out of context but are in harmony with nature. His buildings take inspiration from natural elements.
For example, the Opera house, China which resembles a snow mountain, and Quzhou sports park, China a volcano. He states that’ The natural element in the city makes you feel curious and explore further.’ He emphasizes hand sketching rather than software-based drawing as they bring out the soul and spirit which should be visible in the structures too.
NATURE BECOMES ARCHITECT: Growing our next generation of buildings | Eric Corey Freed

In this ted talk, the speaker has pointed out the Architectural issues by giving out funny references throughout the talk. He starts by how there is no progression in the building typologies and style even though there is so much advancement in technology. He asks the question of why the buildings cannot be self-growing or healing. He has coined a new term in this talk – PROSTRUCTION which is the opposite of construction.
With the team of biologists, he has started research on how buildings should correlate with DNA and gives emphasis on the scaffolding of both plant-based DNA and scaffolding in built forms. Also, by presenting amazing instances by animals. At last, he tells about XPrize healthy homes who are researching this concept to provide healthy buildings that grow.
Cubicles don’t work. How architectural design affects your brain | Scott Wyatt

Then he introduced the concept of Biophilia and gave a brief understanding of it and how it is important and helps in the performance at the same time keeping one healthy. He later gives an example of Massachusetts General Hospital and how biophilia has increased the hospital’s profits. Ending with another building Amazon, Seattle, and giving a brief description of its planning.
Stop searching for your passion | Terri Trespicio

This is an inspirational non-Architectural Ted talk for Budding Architects who are at a crossroads. In this talk, the speaker states that how is it okay to not have a plan by telling her lifestory when she was in her twenties. This is a Ted talk everyone will relate to as once in a lifetime each one is at this point in their lives. The main focus is to not have a tunneled vision and to deviate your energy and time to work on a job and passion will follow you.
Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson

Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson
When one hears about a zero-waste lifestyle, it might seem difficult or even impossible to accomplish but Bea Johnson along with her family has successfully skilled this area. This talk was added in this article because it tells that to proficient zero waste one must start at a very personal level. Today waste management is also an alarming situation for Architects as most of the landfills are filled with construction and demolition waste. An environmentalist Lauren Singer in her Ted talks Why I live a zero-waste life talks about the same issue on how she got inspired to do the same thing at a very young age.
Zero Waste
Innovating to zero! | Bill Gates

Innovating to zero! | Bill Gates
This ted talk is not just inspirational or informative but also so ahead of its time and you might actually feel like being a part of it. The talk raises the issue, the cause of the issue, the present scenario, and also what should be the solution. This talk is not just for Architects but for each and every individual. It is filled with astonishing moments.
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash
So, if you are bored with watching Netflix and want to feel good about yourself, ted talks are additive so go ahead browse through these and start binge-watching guilt-free.
October 29, 2024
Vastu and Climatology: Value of Plants in creating Positive Environment
Vastu combines 5 important elements – Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space, which help to create balance and harmony between nature and humans. When an individual follows Vastu, it is believed to bring wealth, positivity, and health. The Vastu is based on gravitational forces, magnetic forces of Earth and Sun, and moon directions.
Certain elements and plant science are also considered to be auspicious according to Vastu. Climatology plays an important role when designing a home or office and so does Vastu, this is the reason that some factors are the same in both.
Entrance
The entrance of the house is from the flow of energy begins and changes with each house. The entrance of the house as per Vastu shastra should not be from the South as this direction invites a lot of direct and harsh light, which can be a sign of negativity. So it should ideally be in the North-East direction.
Elements and Plants for Entrance
According to vastu for home, the door should have a welcoming feeling and dustbins should be avoided to avoid negative energy. The colour of the door should not be black or any dark colour. A Ganesh painting or hangers should be used as it will encourage entering with happy thoughts.
The auspicious plants for home recommended according to vastu is Lotus. The Lotus stands for strength, morality, and purity. It should be placed in front of the house to reap maximum benefits and also it can be merged with the water body to create a classy entrance element.
Moropankhi is another plant which can be grown at the entrance. It adds beauty and a positive approach to your home.It is helpful in mitigating the effects caused by vastu defects at your home.
Place the laughing Buddha facing the inside of the house, diagonally opposite or facing the main door. The energy entering the house from the main door is welcomed by the laughing Buddha and unwanted energy is cleansed in the opinion of Vastu shastra.
Photo by Patrick Seguin on Unsplash
Living Room
The living room is a space in the house where multiple activities are followed. In the living room, guests are entertained as well as it may be a private space for the family. Due to this the living room should be in the North and North-East direction according to vastu for home as well as climatology.
The sun’s rays are soft and will keep the indoor well lit, sending in positive and happy emotions.
Also, to increase the effect of sunlight, the walls of the living space must be cool and neutral colours to enhance the interiors.
Elements and Plants for Living Room
Chrysanthemum plants can be planted in the living room according to vastu for home and plant science. It brings positivity and optimism. This plant requires indirect sunlight, and it blooms all year long, filling the living room with the right amount of colour and energy.
Another plant is Lucky bamboo plant, as the name suggests stands for good luck and comes in varied sizes and sticks. It can be used as a good table top decor. The number of sticks has different significance, so research on the report of vastu shastra and choose what best suits your living room.
Paintings with beautiful scenes and colours, like sunrise, waterfalls, should be hung instead of paintings depicting war or sorrow. The living room is the first thing a person sees and enters, so it should have the right amount of inviting, homely energy and auspicious plants for home.
Photo by Naomi Hébert on Unsplash
Bedrooms
For the master bedroom following vastu and climatology, locating it in the south direction is a good choice as the utility of bedrooms is less during the day and the sun’s rays are harsh in the south and south-west direction. This way the walls of the room will absorb the warmth from the evening sun and keep the indoors warm at night during winter.
As for the kids’ bedroom, it is observed by vastu for home that the primary aim is to illuminate it with natural light as sometimes the study room is also in the same room. So placing the kids’ bedrooms in the North and North East is beneficial according to vastu.
Elements and Plants for Bedroom
Plants for the master bedroom can be peace lily or lily as they are symbolized to keep harmony and increase the bond, thus affecting happy union and bonding.
Photo by Bellava G on Unsplash
As for the kids’ bedroom, snake plant can be grown in a corner of the bedroom as it is known according to the vastu shastra to reduce stress. I did this as it promotes the flow of oxygen in the room, which regulates the blood flow and stress level.
Photo by Noyo creatif on Unsplash
The primary emphasis should be given to the mirrors in the bedroom. It is auspicious to place the mirror on the side of the bed, as it will ensure that no part is reflected in the mirror while sleeping.
Also Aroma therapy, essential oils should be used to invite calming thoughts in the bedroom in keeping with vastu for home.
Kitchen
The kitchen should be ideally on the Agni part of the house which is in the south-east direction and it is known according to the Vastu that the prepared food will have much more benefits if it is placed on the south-east direction. As per Vastu, the person cooking should face North or East as there is bright sunlight from the north and east and not Harsh sun rays which will create problems while cooking.
In climatology, it is addressed that the south wall heats the most therefore the walls require a buffer, so, to create this buffer wall, cupboards and shelves can be provided on the south-west side to reduce the effect of sun rays. In Vastu, it is observed that constructing storage on the Southwest side will bring prosperity and luck .
Photo by Teodor Skrebnev on Unsplash
Elements and Plants for Kitchen
Aloe vera is a plant which is good for hair, skin and digestion in agreement with plant science, so it’s beneficial to keep this in the kitchen for easy access. As per vastu, it brings prosperity. And also it helps to refresh the air and emit carbon dioxide.
Holy Basil, or ‘Tulsi’, is considered a very sacred and auspicious plant for home. The best place to plant it is in the North or East or even the combination – North-East Direction.Much more than being Vastu compliant, Tulsi/Basil is a medicinal plant. Its leaves purify the digestive and circulatory system by removing toxins from the blood.
Water tanks should be placed in the north-east direction as in the morning the sun rays are beneficial and the ultraviolet rays can also be beneficial to kill the germs therefore it is advisable to keep the water tank in this direction as per both Vastu and climatology.
Pooja Room for Meditation Room
The early morning sun makes the house well lit subtly. The sun’s rays from the North Eastern part of the house make it an ideal time for yoga, meditation, prayer or even study. For peaceful activities like these and also for Surya Namaskar and yoga, placing the meditation or prayer room in the north-east direction is important to match up with vastu shastra. While praying, it is auspicious to face the north-east, north or east.
Elements and Plants for Pooja Room
Placing incense, puja materials, flowers, lamps and holy books in the Pooja room brings a sense of warmth and connection to God. Avoid keeping unnecessary items below the temple or dustbins in this area as this disturbs the process of introspection.
Jasmine has a sweet fragrance which helps to uplift the spirit with its fragrance. As per jasmine plant science, it attracts positive energy and soothes frayed nerves.
Photo by Canna Curious Club on Unsplash
Photo by Aditya Shetty on Unsplash
Plants for Office
Money plant
Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash
Money plants, as the name suggests, bring wealth and prosperity as determined by vastu shastra. Due to its evergreen properties and the fact that it requires very little water and sunlight, it can thrive easily.
Jade plant
Jade plants, an auspicious plant for home and office, represent the 5 elements of nature and thus are considered being very lucky and can be easily accommodated in office desks. Thus, it emits positivity around it. Also, it is in an evergreen plant and requires less maintenance as per plant science.
Photo by Kara Eads on Unsplash
Rubber plant
Rubber plants are considered bringing good fortune and wealth in the office environment. The lush, smooth green leaves emit prosperity and it is beneficial to place them in the southwest direction and is helpful in line with vastu and climatology.
Avoid using cactus and other thorny plants in both office and home, as it attracts sorrow and sadness.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Keynote
The vastu talks in terms of prosperity, happiness and climatology that the impact of sun and wind on human behavior will influence positivity, which will lead to prosperity and good health.
Plant science also provides a sense of growth and calmness, so it is essential to keep healthy and hydrated plants indoors to gain motivation and lead a positive and healthy life.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
October 29, 2024
House Design In Indian Style: A Fascinating Harmony in Architecture
House design in Indian style has been rich in traditional and vernacular architecture throughout History. Indian architecture house design has different residential typologies available in India, such as Haveli of Rajasthan, Wada of Maharashtra, Nalukettu of Kerala, Bamboo architecture of Assam, and Rajbari of Bengal.
North Indian- Leh, Ladakh
The Indian architecture design of homes in the North is inspired by the Tibets. The main essential component is the role of material due to extreme climatic conditions. The materials used were locally available, stones, timbers, mud, and sun-dried bricks, and rammed earth for plastering.
The plastering is done to insulate the house from cold winds. The rooms planned to face the south to receive maximum heat gain. This technique is used for solar energy nowadays. Roofs are basically flat as it rarely rains. The doors and windows are wooden.
The walls are thick and are made with wood, insulation goes inside those walls, plastic vapour barrier keeps it in tight, and seals out any airflow.
House Design in India Style: Trekhouse
North east-Assam
Whenever one talks about Indian vernacular architecture construction techniques in the North-East, the first word that pop-ups are Bamboo. The houses were made considering bamboo as the main structural element and were used for columns, beams, and roofs. The design of these houses was done considering bioclimatic strategies.
The main materials used were bamboo and timber on stilts and metal sheets and thatch for roofing. In Assam mainly 2 methods of construction(a) Ikra which is designed keeping in mind lightweight houses and locally available materials are used like bamboo, wooden planks, and thatch. The main factor is that these houses fulfill the earthquake safety requirement.
The other is Chang house which is built on a hilly region and is on stilts. This is to prevent flooding and landslides. The Indian architecture style house design are usually one story and have open spaces at both ends for seating and socializing. The stilts also provide protection from wild animals.
House Design in India Style: Assam
Punjab
The Indian traditional house design of Punjab Kothi was designed considering the Punjabi and colonial design elements. The rooms were planned around the courtyard. The courtyards were like living rooms also known as baithak used for family gatherings. The room height was kept low and had a thatch roof.
The material used for construction is baked brick, surkhi (powdered brick), and timber doors ideal to eliminate uncomfortable heat. For landscaping, small gardens were kept in the baithak area. The courtyard was also used for sleeping during the summers. A verandah ran along with the courtyard where all the house chores were performed. The kitchen (Chula) was outdoor.
There were Havelis also in a Sikh culture which were inspired by Sikh and Sufi Islam culture. The courtyards were surrounded by verandahs for transitions and had arches all around.
House Design in India Style: Punjab
House Design in India Style: Punjab
Rajasthan
The haveli architecture design of the home was designed considering the regional climatic conditions. The word haveli means a mansion and was a symbol of power and prestige. They also depicted the local culture and had lush green landscapes.
The planning of Havelis was done around the courtyard. The purpose of the courtyard design was that it kept the inner spaces airy and well-ventilated in the hot and dry region of Rajasthan. Also, it acts as a transition space and has a corner for a family deity with tulsi plants.
The materials used for construction were sandstone, marble, wood, and plaster. The Havelis were constructed close to each other so that there is not much space between them and it forms a narrow lane from which when air passes it is cooled which in turn keeps the interiors cool.
The Havelis were owned by rich landlords or noblemen and were a blend of Rajputs and Mughal elements. The jharokhas were not merely used for aesthetic purposes but also created a private space for women to have a panoramic view of the celebration and other activities. The climatic purpose of jharokhas according to modern ideology is to avoid direct sunlight inside. The Havelis nowadays are considered for adaptive reuse and turned to museums or hotels.
House Design in India Style: Rajasthan
House Design in India Style: Rajasthan
Kolkata
The mansions of Kolkata borrowed their grace from Europe’s Greco-Roman heritage. The houses consist of large terraces and spacious porches. These one-storeyed mansions are surrounded by wide verandahs to fight the Bengal humidity.
These Indian architecture house design are also centered around a courtyard called Aangals and have a tulsi plant at the center. Mostly all Indian vernacular architecture has a courtyard. The floors are connected by curved corridors and staircases. The doors and windows have arches around them with vibrant colours.
The houses of Bengal are extravagant and full of intricate details and this lavishness is seen in movies like Devdas and Parineeta. The elements like jhilmils or wooden slates between high columns were designed to keep the direct sunlight from entering the interior. The houses had high ceilings and long pillars to keep the interior temperature down.
House Design in India Style: Kolkata
House Design in India Style: Kolkata
The landscaping had huge gardens with tall trees which enhanced the entrance facade. The houses in Kolkata have bold facades, lushful gardens, and red oxidized floors in the interiors.
Wadas of Maharashtra
The wadas represent the culture, religion, traditions, and pride of Marathas. Examples of wadas were seen in the movie Bajirao Mastani where the richness of Maratha and Peshwa culture is clearly visible and felt. Wadas were planned keeping in mind the climatology of the region and also the functionality of the spaces. Indian traditional house design was mostly based on bioclimate.
Wadas were planned to be rectangular in shape with two or three courtyards. The wadas had 3 gathering spaces for different purposes, the first for gatherings, next for office, and last for spaces like kitchen, storerooms, and balanthini kholi( delivery room). This gives us the idea of how the key idea behind planning was functionality. They were constructed in a modular and simple manner with a square grid pattern.
The aesthetics of the exterior were also kept in mind, with fine surface plastering, decorative windows, and exposed brick and wood as materials. The essential element that separates these wadas from other houses is the use of wooden brackets on the beams with the forms of dragons and lotus.
House Design in India Style: Maharashtra
Indian traditional house design: Maharashtra
Pols of Ahmedabad
The pols of Ahmedabad represent Indian architecture house design which was designed keeping in mind climate, local materials, and social aspects of the community. There is a raised platform sitting space before entering the house called otala. Like other vernacular houses, pols also have a courtyard inside. The function of the courtyard is to collect rainwater. This is the essential part of the pols. The courtyards have tanks or tanku under them to collect water which is used throughout the year.
The pols have common walls which are economical and act as shear walls which in turn reduces the vibrational effect of Earthquakes and the front facade is less in width but the houses are more in-depth to keep the lane narrow. This shades the elevations which reduces the heat gain.
The planning depicts the social behavior, the front spaces are for the public while the depths for private rooms. The windows of the courtyard’s house are open at night to attract the cold wind and are closed during the day to minimize solar heat gain.
House Design in India Style: Ahmedabad
House Design in India Style: Ahmedabad
Indian traditional house design: Ahmedabad
Nalukettu of Kerala
It is correct to call Kerala god’s own country, spacious lush greenhouses with complimentary scenic beauty. The materials used were derived from natural wood, terracotta roofing tiles, or laterite. The word nelukettu, ‘nelu’ meaning four, and ‘kettu’ meaning block. The blocks can be increased to eight or twelve i.e Ettukettu or Pathinaarukettu according to the owner.
The Indian architecture house design are unique and blend with nature from inside through the courtyard ‘Nadumuttam’ and tall trees and garden from the outside. The houses are constructed according to Vastu shastra with an entrance on the East and have a lot of windows and other openings for light and ventilation.
The roofs are either pitched or sloped and are embellished with incredible tiles. The entrance ‘padippura’ comprises a decorative door and tiled floor. After the padippura one enters the shaded verandah ‘Poomukham’ which is for seating purposes also known as ‘charupadi’.
House Design in India Style: Kerala
Indian traditional house design Kerala
Conclusion for Indian style house design
It is evident from these that the most essential feature of Indian traditional house design is the courtyard. It reflects the amazing and versatile concepts of Indian houses based on bioclimate and functionality which should be derived in designing today. The uniqueness and essence of Indian vernacular Architecture are getting lost in the rush for the concrete jungle.
FAQ
Q: What is Indian architecture house design?
A: Indian architecture house design encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques influenced by the country’s diverse cultures and climates. From the bamboo architecture of Assam to the havelis of Rajasthan, Indian architecture is known for its use of local materials, traditional techniques, and cultural significance.
Q: What are some key features of Indian architecture house design?
A: Indian architecture house design often includes courtyards, verandahs, and open spaces to maximize natural light and ventilation. Traditional materials such as bamboo, timber, mud, and sun-dried bricks are used to create sustainable and climate-responsive homes.
Q: What is India style house design?
A: India style house design refers to the unique architectural styles found across the country, influenced by its rich history and diverse cultures. From the palatial havelis of Rajasthan to the bamboo houses of Assam, India style house design reflects the country’s cultural heritage and environmental context.
Q: What are some popular Indian architectural styles?
A: Some popular Indian architectural styles include the havelis of Rajasthan, wadas of Maharashtra, nalukettu of Kerala, bamboo architecture of Assam, and pols of Ahmedabad. Each style is unique in its design, materials, and cultural significance, reflecting the region’s history and traditions.
Q: How does Indian architecture house design incorporate sustainability?
A: Indian architecture house design emphasizes sustainability by using locally sourced materials, traditional building techniques, and passive design strategies. Courtyards, verandahs, and open spaces are designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Q: What are some key considerations for designing an Indian-style house?
A: When designing an Indian-style house, it’s important to consider the local climate, cultural traditions, and available materials. Courtyards, verandahs, and open spaces should be incorporated to maximize natural light and ventilation, while traditional materials such as bamboo, timber, and mud should be used for construction.
October 29, 2024
The Legacy of Colonial Houses: Simple yet Significant
Colonial house designs are traditional and classic family homes designed in the U.S colonial era. They typically are of rectangular shape with gabled roofs, large symmetrical windows with a neutral colour palette.
Colonial houses are simple and have an influence over the residential sector.
Colonial houses evolved from cabin houses which can be built easily with wood which is easily available by the colonists hence the name originated.
History
In the colonial era, America was full of foreigners like the Spanish, French, Dutch, and British and all contributed to the culture of America especially the British. The Colonial-style can trace its influences to England.
The way architecture has evolved throughout the world so has the colonial houses. This house has a very basic, symmetrical design with two rooms, a fireplace, and a door at the center. But with time, they had taken on the opportunity of being basic and adapted new materials, techniques, and designs. Colonial houses are not just limited to one region but are shattered all over the world but with differences in ornamentation, although following the basic structure of traditional colonial houses.
Elements of Colonial House
As stated earlier, colonial houses are simplistic and symmetrical. The shape is rectangular which provides a spacious layout. Wood, brick, or modern vinyl siding material is used which provides a classy nature to the house. A gabled roof, central staircase, and fireplace are the enduring features of the colonial house.
As time evolved the design, roofing materials, roof design, planning, and materials changed according to the different regions which led to different styles of colonial houses.
Styles of Colonial Houses
Georgian Colonial
The colonists in the 1700s were introduced to the Georgian colonial home style during the time of King George. The features were similar to the classical colonial house architecture but a porch was added in the entrance with columns extending from the main structure.
Characteristics features of Georgian house
- Two story houses, with balconies above the porch which can be small and round or wide and rectangular.
- Twin chimneys
- White columns with brick walls in the exterior.
- Living and dining on the first floor.
- Minimum pitched roof design with less overhangs.
French Colonial
These styles are colourful and are found in hot regions of the Southern United States like Louisiana and Mississippi. French Colonial stands out from simple style because of the two-story porches and vibrant colours.
Characteristics features of French house
- Rooms are accessed by porch and not interior hallways
- Wide porches surround the house with a lush green garden.
- Overhangs past the house to keep the house cool
- French doors and windows.
- Hipped roof with dormers
Dutch Colonial
Dutch house architecture is one of the most popular among colonial houses. The unique feature is the gambrel roof. A gambrel roof is a gable roof with steep slopes on either two side. These were highly popular in the 1920s
Characteristics features of Dutch house
- Chimneys at two sides
- Material can be brick or stone
- Gambrel roof design with different roofing materials
- Dutch doors- half doors can be opened or closed for sunlight and breeze to flow in while keeping the children and pets inside.
- Symmetrical facade
Cape Cod Colonial
Source
Colonial Architecture in India
Colonial architecture in India was introduced by British architects with the term Indo-Saracenic architecture. The basic layout was taken by other revivalist styles, such as Gothic revival and Neoclassical with a touch of Indian elements. In terms of Indian elements, Indo-Islamic decorations and ornamentations were designed and not architectural features from Hindu temples.
Some famous colonial-style architectural structures which are still there and famous are-
Fort St. George, Chennai
Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
Photo by ADITYA PRAKASH on Unsplash
Rashtrapati bhavan, Delhi
Photo by Chaitanya Metkar on Unsplash
Colonial Bungalows in India
Source
Colonial bungalows emerged during the time of the British Raj in India. The name bungalow emerged from Bangla meaning from Bengal. In India, originally the bungalows’ house architecture were huts with thatched roof design and mud walls. But after the arrival of the Britishers, the bungalows evolved completely.
The original planning of an Indian bungalow was around a courtyard where gatherings would take place, but the Britishers wanted a front and centered entrance with different roofing material than thatch. The bungalow should have separation in private and public spaces. The structure was then surrounded by a verandah on three or four sides. The essence of Indian bungalows was changed and made to suit the Britishers. Later, bungalows became a symbol of power and prosperity.
The bungalow has more spaces for servants as maximum work like laundry, cleaning, nanny, and headstock were all managed by the British madam/lady of the house. So this, in turn, increased the requirement of the rooms thus, expanding the size. But as time moved, families became nuclear and technology emerged the work of servants decreased, therefore, nowadays colonial houses are not that famous in India
Colonial Bungalows Today
Indian colonial bungalows or house architecture are now converted into retreats that offer luxurious stays in many different locations with lush green surroundings and a historic and elegant vibe. India’s diverse culture and traditions had lured the architects for the adaptive reuse of these colonial residences into the finest retreats.
The Imperial – Delhi
When looking at the exterior facade imperial retreat looks minimal and clean art deco lines, but the interior is a contrast to the exterior. The interiors are of Victorian and colonial architecture. This was built in 1931 by Blomfield and was designed to explore Lutyens Delhi and surrounding areas. A glimpse will take you to the olden colonial architecture times and luxury.
Colonial Manek Manor, Mount Abu
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This is a famous ancient colonial house-style building in Mt. Abu built during the British raj. It is surrounded by greenery and sits at Aravali hills. It is home to a mesmerizing view with features of colonial architecture and represents symmetry.
Hotel Le Dupleix, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
Hotel Le Dupleix, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
This was initially built as a governor’s residence in the 18th century. It is a combination of Tamil elements and French architecture to form a colonial house. The roof design is not sloped as American colonial architecture. Now it is a 14room luxurious hotel with all the amenities in Pondicherry.
Example of Modern Colonial Houses
The Bald Hill Neighborhood of San Anselmo
.The home front entrance was also remodeled, an inviting porch was made with a gravel path, the rooms were increased in size and a walk-in closet was added. The renovation was done by combining old and new materials, by merging rustic and industrial details. The walls are floor-to-ceiling glass walls that provide views of the wildlife and greenery. The east wall is opened and provides flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The roof design is similar to the Dutch colonial house design.
Dutch Colonial Inspired Beach House
This colonial space is located in Florida, designed by McAlpine Architects. It is 4800 square feet with five bedrooms and is three-story. It is not a typical beach house but has a layer of organic materials like wood, plush and organic fabrics which adds a layer of sophistication to the Dutch colonial house.
The house has large french windows overlooking the sea and the entrance has a dutch door, the overall house is of a neutral colour palette with lots of natural browns.
The Bottom Line
Colonial architecture over the years has evolved from a simple and symmetrical form to a more complex and asymmetrical form. Each region has added its bit to the basic style and multiplied the charisma of colonial architecture and made it theirs making it difficult to track its origin. After so many years, it is still in trend because of its minimalistic approach.
October 29, 2024