How architects are converting homes into sustainable spaces

Bengaluru's weather facilitates fresh air and cross-ventilation, eliminating the need for heavy air conditioning, says Gayathri Shetty, director at Gayathri and Namith Architects (GNA), and chairperson of Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID), Bangalore chapter. "Large windows, skylights and open courtyards keep your home bright and airy; so you do not need to use air conditioning or artificial lighting during the day. Solar heating instead of geysers and standalone solar lighting for the garden is recommended." She suggests that home automation technologies are also a way to moderate energy consumption.

Uma Reddy , 53, founder of HiTech Magnetics, has taken into consideration light and wind direction while building her home. She is also experimenting with arch-panelled roofing in her farmhouse, reducing use of steel and concrete, and keeping heat radiation in check. Dispelling the myth of how sustainable homes are costlier than normal homes, she says, "If planned right, a sustainable home can turn out to be more cost-effective in the long run."

Read more: http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-01-16/news/58149547_1_air-conditioning-energy-consumption-indian-interior-designers

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