Indigenous architecture for a bright, sustainable and chic future

Every imagined cooler and well-lit homes built without much use of electricity? Now it’s possible. Slowly, steadily and impressively, indigenous architecture is making a grand entry into the urban world.

The term indigenous architecture is used to describe traditional methods and locally available material for building a home. It was born out of constraints that turned out to be better choices to be harmonious with the environment. As proven by history and culture, indigenous architectural forms are more flexible and adaptable to environmental changes. That’s why with crucial concerns of global warming and sustainability haunting our daily lives, a lot of designers, architects and environmentally conscious people are turning to Indigenous house models.

But what is so different about indigenous architecture.

Standing apart in sustainability
The focus of this unique style of architecture is on sustainability. For instance, saving electricity for cooling by installing clay partitions instead of solid walls or going for a Madras terrace and sloped clay tiled roofs. Such constructions are highly resistant to radiation and help in conduction of heat to bring thermal comfort to homes in hot and humid regions. Moreover, building verandahs as buffer spaces secure outer walls from direct sunlight – bringing down the temperature even further.

Rethink and recycle
Another aspect of the architecture is about reusing and recycling. Discarded wood is brought back to life with innovative styles of furniture. Bottles, cans and others disposable items are sprinkled with creative ideas for surprising results.

Seamlessness and balance with the surroundings combined with the power of imagination, has always been at the heart of indigenous architecture. So, when you have the space and liberty to design something beautiful without the rules and bylaws of the outside world, why build the mundane?