Sustainability in architecture is not just a trend, but an imperative!

Sustainability in architecture is not a trend but an imperative! Ar. Jugal Mistri elucidates this through the design principles of Tellado Villas in Goa, India.

Today’s challenge is to design buildings that minimise environmental impact without compromising aesthetics. Embedding energy efficiency in the very fabric of a project rather than treating it as an afterthought is the need of the hour.

Passive design as the foundation
The most effective way to reduce a building’s energy footprint is to prioritise nature. Carefully designed orientation, well-placed openings, deep overhangs, and cross-ventilation are some key strategies to create environments that naturally regulate temperature. These principles reduce reliance on artificial cooling and heating systems while reducing energy consumption.

The Parabole roof at Tellado Villas, Goa best exemplifies this principle. This doubly curved roof is not just an architectural statement but a well-engineered response to climate. The design facilitates airflow, keeping interiors cool during peak summer, and efficiently directing rainwater exit during the region’s heavy monsoons. Instead of confronting the environment, the design works in sync with it, reducing energy-intensive climate control.

The need of the hour is smarter materials, not harder
Material selection plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability. The goal is to balance tradition with innovation, using materials that enhance functionality and design. To achieve this, architects can focus on locally sourced, climate-responsive materials that ensure longevity while reducing environmental impact. A typical example is the traditional red mission tiles, commonly used in Goan architecture. These are testament to heritage and offer excellent thermal insulation and durability. Polished terrazzo flooring can be employed in the interior of buildings to amplify natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination. It may be a simple choice but can contribute to long-term energy savings.

Water conservation as an integral part of design
An energy-efficient building is just incomplete without a strategy for water management. Some resource conservation strategies include rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and incorporating permeable surfaces. These could be done without compromising the design aesthetics. Tellado Villas is a classic example of how rainwater harvesting was built into the design from the outset. Instead of letting rainwater flow into drains, the system captures and repurposes it, reducing dependency on external water sources. This approach is not just about sustainability; it also enhances self-sufficiency and resilience.

Futuristic designing
Energy efficiency and aesthetic integrity should not be seen as competing factors. A careful balance of thoughtful design choices, material intelligence, and passive strategies can help achieve both. The best projects are those where sustainability is invisible but intelligently embedded into the design rather than being an overt feature.

Architecture must evolve along with the world around it. By combining tradition and innovation, architects can create buildings that are not only visually compelling but also environmentally responsible. The future of design is not about compromise. It is about finding smarter, more beautiful ways to work with the forces of nature.

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