As winter nears, sustainable architecture can naturally keep homes warm and cut energy costs. Here’s how traditional methods blend with modern design for cosy, eco-friendly living.

Passive solar heating:  Utilise the sun’s natural energy by designing homes with south-facing windows. This maximises sunlight absorption, keeping interiors warm during winter.

Thermal insulation: Homes built with thermal materials like mud walls store heat during the day and release it at night, keeping interiors warm naturally. Using locally sourced materials like bamboo and mud not only lowers the carbon footprint but also blends with traditional Indian architectural aesthetics.

Lucknow architect Anant Krishna’s sustainable office design uses mud walls to maintain temperature in tune with the weather, providing natural insulation and thermal comfort. "With this setup, my electricity expenses have reduced by 3-5 times," he notes. 

Green roofs: Creative ways like vegetation layers can provide additional insulation. They help retain heat and reduce energy needs for warming the house. Proper insulation reduces heat loss. Techniques such as insulated walls, roofs, and floors play a critical role in energy efficiency.

Courtyard Designs: Traditional Indian courtyards are designed to trap sunlight, creating a warm microclimate that helps in naturally heating the surrounding rooms.

Ventilation optimisation: Proper ventilation techniques like ross-ventilation involves strategically placing windows or vents on opposite sides of a room to create a natural airflow, efficiently remove moisture and prevents cold air from entering, ensuring a cosy and healthy indoor environment.