NATURE’S BOUNTY
A look at three innovative eco-friendly projects that are great examples of how to incorporate green design practices
What’s your carbon footprint? From corporates to think-tanks, everyone is asking this question. Why? Because technological comfort has led to maximum utilisation of energy resources. Therefore it has become critical to adopt design solutions which do not have an adverse effect on the environment and help reduce the carbon footprint. A lot of design elements and materials from traditional and local architecture such as courtyards, thick insulated walls, natural light and ventilation and water bodies are being incorporated in the present day design by adding a touch of modernity to them. Apart from this, the use of materials, green architecture techniques, passive methods of heating and cooling are also used. Here are examples of three such spaces.
MAKE THE DESIGN SUSTAINABLE
The residence ‘Green One’ located in Chittaranjan Park, Delhi was India’s first residence to achieve a 5 star rating by TERI-GRIHA. The form of this house was achieved by staggering and stacking, in order to maximise diffused light. The design has deep-shaded balconies with double-glazed fenestrations to reduce heat gain, and incorporate eco-materials such as fly ash bricks and ACC bricks for walls. To maintain a micro-climate vermiculite insulation, earthen pots and green roof (for added insulation), and internal and external water bodies have been used. Other green features include artificial lights with LPD (low power density), solar panels on the roof, solar heaters instead of electrical geysers and a rain water storage tank connected to the recharge pit.
THE RIGHT BALANCE
Using similar principles as Green One, of maximising day light and ventilation along with water harvesting techniques is the Cherai Beach House in Kerala that
overlooks the magnificent Arabian Sea. It is contextually designed respecting the vernacular and sustainable architecture of Kerala. Large windows are incorporated in the design which let the fresh breeze from the sea in into the house, thus making the living space breathe in harmony with nature.
MARVELOUS MUD
Nestled within the woody perennials of Jim Corbett National Park, Camp Forktail Creek is a retreat that consists of mud huts and informal structures (tents). It has been designed respecting and incorporating the natural surrounding into the design by virtue of use of local materials mixed with technology. The design addresses vernacular as the focus for sustenance and shelter, preserving the natural heritage and using local craftsmanship along with local artisans.