Traditional Indian architecture - The future solar buildings

Built environment is a manifestation of the technological innovation. The way technologies are applied in design and construction of buildings, have direct implications on the amount of energy consumed. In modern context buildings represent enclosed, isolated boxes/systems where environment is artificially controlled. This requires considerable energy. A problematic relationship between architecture and technology is evident. A large part of Indian Subcontinent has for majority of year ample Sun- renewable, nonpolluting, abundant and direct source of all present natural cycles on earth. For building design in majority of these regions, the necessity is to control and utilize this abundance. History shows the importance of relationship between human activity and nature. Human lives remained much dictated by solar and seasonal cycles, instead of trying to homogenize living conditions throughout the year. The future is in living and working with nature rather than against it. In traditional Indian architecture this harmony with nature was an important design element. During the course of development, somewhere, harmony was subdued for artificial control resulting in buildings without context. Can we revive and refine these forgotten principles of traditional Indian architecture? The study deals with exploration and understanding of these principles. This approach is sustainable and a site sensitive approach. The fundamental principles of this approach are- - Buildings to be a buffer against uncomfortable environmental conditions. - Buildings to enhance the positive natural conditions to reach the internal space. - Buildings to be environmentally responsive to their natural surroundings. Case examples from different regions in Indian subcontinent were studied with respect to their climatic context. The results indicate that the buildings in harmony with nature have lesser need for energy as compared to energy hungry architecture of today.