A Review of Energy Efficient Techniques in Vernacular Architecture of North Indian Plains

Abstract

Objectives: This paper explores the building materials and construction techniques that have been used by the people of this region which are the successful examples of the Vernacular Architecture. Methods/Statistical analysis: As the importance of energy is increasing day by day, we keep on exploring new and better energy efficient techniques. In the process, we should also turn back to our past and understand how our ancestors lived a comfortable life in an age when there was no electricity and other modern age equipments. Findings: In India, Northern region is the most populated plain, people have been living there for ages and its architectural character has evolved over time with due understanding of the climate, customs, traditions of the region. This paper tries to identify some of the successful vernacular construction techniques of this region which can be suitably used in today's modern buildings for better comfort conditions. Today's modern buildings consume higher amount of energy and it is very important for us to reduce energy consumption and reserve it for future generations. The vernacular strategies discussed are not only traditional strategies creating good comfort conditions but also have the potential to reduce the energy consumption in buildings. Application/Improvements: Vernacular buildings are climatically responsive shelters and consume less energy for maintaining living conditions and this result to energy efficiency. The findings of this study suggest the possible integration of the vernacular strategies in the energy efficient building design guidelines.