The evolution of mankind and architecture
has always moved hand-in-hand. Many elements of architecture have developed
across eras, civilizations, climate change and geographies such that there
evolved an established indigenous style in every part of the world. These
elements have metamorphosed in design over time, from traditional to
contemporary. The story of Indian architecture, through history till date, has
numerous unique architectural elements which are still imbibed in our
contemporary structures in interesting ways. Here are a few such elements which
have made it to modern Indian homes.
Jaalis
As soon as we hear the names of palaces
in Rajasthan and Gujarat, the first thing that comes to our minds are the
intricately cut-out patterns on the doors and windows of these structures,
known as ‘jaalis’. These patterns allow sunlight to filter through the openings
and create an interesting play of light and shadow. Jaalis also prevent direct
sunlight from entering the room as they dissipate the light. Also, they enable
ventilation in the room and provide privacy for users of the space.
While
passing through the jaali holes, the air is compressed and hence the
temperature is lowered, thus cooling the home. Jaalis are represented in modern
home designs as an external aesthetic feature or in internal partition walls.
L- Traditional Jaali in at Sarkhej Roza; R- Contemporary Jaali style in Brick Curtain House by
Design Work Group
Jharokas
A
traditional balcony which also acted as a semi-open space is called a
‘jharoka’. This architectural element is generally designed in the form of an
overhang with intricately carved railings in stone or wood. Jharokas are also
covered on top with domes or other semi-circular styles, usually supported by
posts or columns. The original use of these jharokas in palaces or houses was
primarily for the female members of the family who preferred to be a part of
functions without being visible to the public. Jharokas also have a romantic
element involved in the stories from our history, as the princess was generally
‘spotted’ standing in the balcony. Apart from this, jharokas also added to the
aesthetic appeal of the structure.
In
contemporary structures, jharokas have been imbibed using different materials
such as brick, concrete or marble. They add a traditional appeal to the design
and also provide a semi-open space in the house which can be an inlet to
natural light and ventilation.
Courtyards
Courtyards
are open spaces within the structure itself; in India courtyard styles vary
based on the climate of the region. Be it the Wadas of Maharashtra, Havelis of
Rajasthan, Pols of Gujarat or Nalukettu of Kerala, courtyards played a major
role as a functional and aesthetic space of these houses. Courtyards work on
the principle of convection currents, where warm air is drawn out and replaced
by cool air. Therefore it works in both summer and winter- to keep the house
cool and to bring in the winter sun, respectively. These centrally located
courtyards also serve as spaces of congregation for family get togethers and
other functions. They also act as buffer spaces between public and private
areas of the house.
In
modern day homes, this architectural element is a mark of luxury where
architects use their creative energies to make the space unique and well
connected to nature.
Verandah, Pitched Roof and Mangalore Tiles
Pitched roof with Mangalore
tiles or red baked tiles are a common sight in Indian villages. Coupled with
this, we usually find a verandah or a semi-open space - generally at the
entrance or as a buffer between the closed and completely open spaces. Mangalore
tiled roofs add to the beauty of a house more than a concrete one. They are
also suitable for India’s climatic conditions as they keep the inner spaces of
the house cool. Pitched roofs add on to the height of the ceiling of the house
as well.
Verandahs, which make the
intermediate space- are also a symbol of the Hindu tradition of welcoming
guests with an open heart or more precisely- an open and welcoming house.
L- Pitched roof with Mangalore tiles and a verandah in an
old house in South India; R- Pitched roof with Mangalore tiles and Verandah in
Fernandes House by Khosla Associates
The wonderful aspect about
architecture is its unstagnant nature- it will always change with time. This
gives one the chance to keep modifying necessary elements of structures in
one’s own creative way. At House of Hiranandani, we explore with design and
meld the traditional with the modern. Our residences boast large living spaces
with spacious balconies. Our project in Devanahalli boasts roofs with the
classic Mangalore tiles. To quote from a movie- ‘we have to take the tradition
and decorate it in our own way’.
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