search
  • World Bamboo Day: Exploring Bamboo House Design in India

    With the shift in contemporary house designs, do you think bamboo house design is still relevant in India? However, Bamboo house design has the outstanding ability to generate an “ambient” and demonstrates how bamboo can establish the tone of a landscape. On September 18, the world celebrates Bamboo Day, emphasizing its potential for future sustainable development. Bamboo house design in India is an emerging example of eco-friendly innovation in solving environmental concerns. With its quick growth, sustainability, and versatility, Bamboo also plays a crucial function in preventing erosion, protecting riverbanks, preventing landslides, and restoring land.

    Bamboo House Design
    Project by: Art on Architecture

    Uses of Bamboo in Construction

    Scaffolding

    Bamboo scaffolding, a traditional Asian construction method, is known for its hurricane resistance, but now faces competition from steel scaffolding due to its standardized dimensions and quick assembly and dismantling capabilities.

    Affordable Housing

    Bamboo offers affordable housing options, including design features such as an overhanging roof, bamboo culms, split bamboo walls, and ventilation.

    Pre-fabricated Foundation

    The Costa Rican National Bamboo Project created a prefabricated foundation for a bamboo house that ensures stability even in hurricanes. The bamboo column is tightly attached to the base with concrete that penetrates the bamboo for 400mm and continues outside for more than 600mm. A PVC tube serves as formwork, offering a simple and practical solution based on thorough problem analysis.

    Mass Housing:

    Bamboo can be utilized for mass housing; however, prefabrication methods are required. It requires 17 panels per house and also emphasizes an industrial procedure. More industrial processes are required to help house the homeless people in India and create large-scale employment, which is critical in developing countries.

    Reinforcement:

    Bamboo can be used as reinforcement in four different ways, including as roofing sheets in cement mortar and as split bamboo in concrete. Additionally, as formwork in concrete, and as soil reinforcement due to its high tensile strength.

    Job-Creation:

    Bamboo has significance for job creation because of its low capital investment, as well as the establishment of cooperatives and education in bamboo product manufacturing. A bamboo chair, for example, requires simple equipment and smart design while keeping aesthetic value, durability, and marketability in mind.

    bamboo house design
    Project by: STUDIOARO

    Parameters Influencing Bamboo House Design:

    India, home to 45% of the world’s bamboo forests, has developed special focus schemes to develop applications with bamboo, aiming to boost the estimated US $15 billion annual trade. Bamboo is an important economic and cultural resource in North-East India, particularly in Assam and Mizoram. It is grown in natural woods, homesteads, groves, and private plantations and is utilized for construction, fencing, agricultural equipment, basketry, firewood, and food.

    Land Resource

    Land resource: Consider the example of Assam, where the landscape is primarily constituted of the Brahmaputra valley and its sub-tributaries, Also the plain is rich and the ground is suitable for a variety of flora and animals.

    Species of Bamboo

    Species of bamboo: A large number of species employed in the building have the local name ‘Bhuluka’ and the scientific name is Melocanna baccifera.

    Age of bamboo

    Households usually have bamboo bushes in their courtyards, with the head preserving mature ones for personal use. The major pillars are made of 5-year-old bamboo, while 3-year-old bamboo is selected for wall panels.

    Local equipment

    Local construction tools include the Kapida, katari, Hexasa blade, Misida, hammer, cane ropes, coconut ropes, steel wires, bamboo, and GI sheets.

    Artisans

    In most cases, one skilled individual and three people of the same level are sufficient. A nuclear family’s dwelling typically consists of three rooms, one kitchen, and a porch.

    Role of family member

    The household’s males help with construction, while females finish up work and use waste for cooking.

    Duration

    The construction of dwellings, as described above by the locals, takes 15 to 20 days.

    Period of construction of houses:

    The construction time of bamboo houses in India is critical to their sustainability and durability. The material’s qualities are affected by its growth cycles and harvesting time, which ensures the optimum balance of moisture and density for structural integrity. Proper timing improves longevity, stability, and performance across a variety of climate situations.

    Picture credit: archdaily.com

    Applications Beyond Houses : Architecture, Interior & Product

    a) Pavilion | STUDIOARO

    Project by: STUDIOARO

    An Organic Bamboo Structure Making for a Rejuvenating Gazebo. This exquisite bamboo pavilion offers a heartfelt tribute to the ancestral abode of its proprietors. With an eloquent embrace of its indigenous environs, the bamboo framework artfully captures the essence of its natural milieu.

    b) Railing | Abin Design Studio

    Project by: Abin Design Studio

    With metal elements kept to a minimum, the design language is dominated by the delicate weave of bamboo – locally available, but more importantly, a material familiar to the inhabitants of the land. A thatched roof above renders the pavilion a harmonious addition to the landscape.

    c) Canopy | Otherworlds

    Project by: Otherworlds

    This restaurant in Goa echoes that spirit with a bamboo canopy and dancing sunlight, creating a serene space where connections flourish and time gently unfolds.

    d) Landscape | GALI Associates

    Project by: GALI Associates

    The open terrace is landscaped with yellow bamboo bushes along the edge of the parapet to create privacy and also to show the green layer on the façade.

    e) Partition | Art on Architecture

    bamboo house design
    Project by: Art on Architecture

    With its durability and aesthetic appeal, Treated bamboo partitions enhance bamboo’s natural properties, making it more resistant to moisture, insects, and decay, further making them ideal for outdoor areas in house design.

    f) Cladding & Ceiling | Loop Design Studio

    Project by: Loop Design Studio

    The bar surfaces (sides, roof, and back) are covered in bamboo and plaster, which merge to make a homogeneous beige coating. A textured ceiling made of bamboo and wooden beams lends weight to the tenderness of the internal space.

    g) Bamboo Mira Mirror | Mianzi

    Product by: Mianzi

    The bamboo mirror is intended to enhance the ambiance of any bedroom or living room wall, adding a modern and stylish touch to your house while boosting the effects of natural light and creating a sense of larger rooms.

    h) Pecker Frames | Studio Skapa Architects

    bamboo house design
    Project by: Studio Skapa Architects

    A statement wall installation by Bamboo pecker frames the living, created wholly in woven bamboo that celebrates the various natural tints of the material, positioned snugly amidst a pair of brass and glass wall lights.

    i) Curtains | MISA ARCHITECTS

    bamboo house design
    Project by: MISA ARCHITECTS

    The exposed RCC ceiling is patterned with bamboo curtains, with a complete green cover on the terrace.

    Why is Bamboo Earthquake Resistant?

    Bamboo is an excellent material for earthquakes due to its lightweight and stiffness. However, determining its seismic resistance is difficult. The National Bamboo Project of Costa Rica used hydraulic jacks to conduct static tests on conventional bamboo walls. The findings were satisfactory, with a 120mm distortion and no damage to the plaster or panel. The bamboo housing system was believed to be earthquake-resistant, with approximately 20 dwellings surviving near a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in April 1991.

    Conclusion

    As one can immediately tell, contemporary practice architects and interior design studios in India. How many influential architects/designers in India do we know who practice closely with bamboo house design or just bamboo? On this occasion of World Bamboo Day, we encourage all of you to recognize and appreciate architects who are creating a positive impact using bamboo in the Indian architectural landscape.

    Content Writing And Research By: Ar. Baarat Krishna

    The Liquescent House is a Testament to Organic Architecture | Shaili Banker Architects – Arkytos

    The Liquescent house, located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, is a testament to organic architecture, a dialogue between the built and unbuilt, and the careful integration of natural elements. The architect’s inclination towards the design language is imbued with a natural fluidity, shaped by a childhood immersed in clay. This formative experience—working with a material […]

    Read More

    This Simple Contemporary House Emphasizes Minimalist Living | Bread Architecture

    The rural residence is thoughtfully situated on a 9,000 square foot plot in Pappanadu, a village renowned for its rich communal life and cultural heritage in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Designed to accommodate a couple and their mother, the objective was to create a distinctive home that not only stands out aesthetically but also remains accessible […]

    Read More

    This Farmhouse in Pune is Deeply Rooted in Organic Living | Roheena Nagpal Design Studio

    The design philosophy of Bhide’s Farmhouse in Pune, deeply rooted in organic living, embraces modern minimalism while incorporating elements of rustic charm. The emphasis is on creating a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the lush landscapes of Maharashtra. The design prioritizes simplicity, authenticity, and sustainability. Editor’s Note: By beautifully incorporating rustic […]

    Read More

    This House by the Lake is Inspired by Wada Architecture | Studio Prakriya

    This modern house by the lake is inspired by traditional Wada architecture while incorporating contemporary aesthetics and functionality. Embracing nature, the architectural design reflects cultural heritage, technological advancements, and natural surroundings. With its exposed brick exterior, central courtyard, landscaping, a swimming pool by the lake, and a narrow alley entrance reminiscent of old Wadas, this residence […]

    Read More

    This Hyderabad House Harmonizes Two Distinct Units | Lalith and Jyothi Architects

    If you were to step into this Hyderabad house, you would sense harmony in paradox as it harmonizes two distinct units. With both units seamlessly woven together with open-to-sky transitional spaces. Moving around, you get the impression of belongingness, thriving in complete balance with a respect for individuality. This Hyderabad House Harmonizes Two Distinct Units […]

    Read More

    This Classical Delhi House Reflects Grandeur And Elegance | Fab Studio

    Reflecting grandeur, this Delhi house, also called as Nievus Villa reinterprets classical architecture through a contemporary lens, resulting in a sophisticated, and inviting home. FAB Studio undertook the challenge of creating a residence that seamlessly integrates into Delhi’s architectural landscape, while blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Editor’s Note: “By merging classical elements with contemporary […]

    Read More

    The Luxe House Captures Affection an Togetherness | Shreesh Design Studio LLP

    The sentiment of togetherness is conceptualised the best way by Shreesh Design Studio LLP in this luxe house and has executed it with brimming affection. ‘The Luxe Wave,’ as so appropriately named, is a residential haven located in the warm arms of a homely neighborhood in Rajkot, Gujarat. The coming together of familial bonding and […]

    Read More

    The Design of this Green Building Revolves Around a Jackfruit Tree | Uru Consulting

    A building that is constructed and designed to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient design is called a green building. Green buildings are designed to maintain or improve the quality of the environment around them. Deep under its stylish mien, with Nature running through the veins of this house of 3732 square feet, is a green […]

    Read More

    This East Facing Plan Contributes to a Breathable House | Living Earth Architecture Studio

    Coloured glass is incorporated into the east facing elevation of the house with a plan designed to interact beautifully with morning sunlight. As the sun rises, light filters through the coloured glass, casting vibrant, colourful rays throughout the interior and creating a dynamic, uplifting atmosphere. Each piece transforms into a radiant, gem-like feature when struck […]

    Read More

    25 Stunning False Ceiling Designs for Your Living Room

    When you walk into a room, what’s the first thing you notice in the interiors? The furniture, the walls, or the ceiling? Often overlooked, the ceiling plays a significant role in defining the ambiance of a room. If you’re looking to add some flair, sophistication, or a modern touch to your living room, false ceiling […]

    Read More
  • Magazine December Edition 2024
  • This Eco-Conscious Villa Design Is A Model For Sustainable Homes | Aagaram Architects

    This Residence Project Exudes a Sense of Calm and Sophistication | Studio Maroon