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Sustainable Residence with Passive Solar Heating and cooling

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H.No. 1494 Sector 40 Chandigarh  A TWENTY YEAR OLD HOUSE We ended up as the "replacement architects" for a house being constructed in Ph 2, Chandigarh. The owners were from Patiala, and were not getting the kind of service they were looking - viz. proper oversight of the ongoing construction - starting with a basement. That's when we were pulled into the project - more as in a PMC role rather than pure architecture. First thing - we made sure that the basement walls were properly waterproofed from the outside, along with its protection layers, and with subsoil drainage. Then we ensured that the back-fill was done properly - in layers of of around 3-4" thick (it was a mud-sand mix) And most importantly - we had brick walls starting at the basement foundation levels to ensure that the abutting walls did NOT SINK INTO THE SOIL OVER THE YEARS because of soil settlement. Beams were also placed at the junction of these walls - to ensure stability. At the regular Plinth lev

Building Dreams in the Hills: A Prefabricated Cottage in Chandigarh

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Introduction: Nestled in the hills near Chandigarh, a quaint and sustainable living solution is taking shape - a small prefabricated cottage designed for simplicity, functionality, and eco-friendliness. In this article, we will delve into the intricate details of its design, construction, and the sustainable materials chosen for a minimal ecological impact. Design Concept: The design of the cottage is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty and aims to seamlessly blend into the serene hills. With one bedroom, a storage area, and a toilet, the cottage is tailored for comfort and efficiency. The focus is on maximizing the use of space while maintaining a connection with nature. Material Specifications: Structural Framework: The cottage's frame is constructed from sustainable timber, sourced responsibly to ensure minimal environmental impact. Timber is not only renewable but also provides a warm and inviting aesthetic, connecting inhabitants with nature. Walls and Insulation: Prefa

Durga Temple

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Durga Temple  Architectural Conservation Location: Gadshankar, Punjab SIGHTS OF THE SITE ... Work in progress on this Durga temple which is hundreds of years old nestled on a hillside in Gadshankar, Punjab. Architectural conservation is a very meticulous process with great attention to detail at every step of the project.

Prefabricated Roof top residence

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NO BRICKS !  - This 2 Bedroom residential extension located in Chandigarh has been constructed employing prefabricated tech - which is a building process in which modules of a building are assembled at a remote location, then transported to the building site. This particular construction method is very cost-effective and often makes it possible to complete a building project in as much as half the time required for more traditional methods. The lightweight panels used as walls and roofing are insulating and in this case provide higher insulation values than the permanent concrete structure on which it is built. The plan shows this as a two bedroom unit with toilet and a verandah space. In this specific building, this extension shall house the staff.  

Koti Resorts: A Sustainable Haven in the Himalayas

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Introduction: Nestled in the picturesque town of Baldeyan, Himachal Pradesh, Koti Resorts stands as a testament to sustainable architecture and eco-friendly hospitality. Constructed in the early 1990s, this haven in the Himalayas has not only captivated the hearts of travelers but has also become a beacon of responsible tourism. In this article, we'll explore the unique design, construction, and growth of Koti Resorts, emphasizing its material specifications, ecological impact, use of vernacular technologies, and cost-effectiveness. Design and Construction: Material Specifications: The design of Koti Resorts embraces the natural beauty of the surroundings, using locally sourced materials. The structural framework primarily comprises sustainable timber from the region. This not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the resort but also ensures that the construction remains in harmony with the environment. Ecological Impact: Koti Resorts places a strong emphasis on environmental