CHAPTER-6: DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

1. The proper orientation of the building in hilly areas can be done so that maximum sun can penetrate the building, providing daylighting as well as thermal comfort which will help in reducing the mechanical load of the building.

Ideally, buildings should be positioned slightly east of the south to expose them to the morning and afternoon sun, and to allow them to heat up during the day.

2. The building should be designed according to the natural slope of the area not by excavating land which not only reduces the soil but also increases the risk of soil erosion and landslides.

3. The use of locally available materials like wood and stone can be promoted rather than using bricks which will not only help in reducing the material cost but also the transportation cost.

4. Cow dung can be used in the flooring beneath the tiles or marbles which will not only help in insulation but also acts as an insectiside.

5. The floor to ceiling height should be kept minimum as per the requirement so that the interiors remain warm during winters. Also the overall building heights should be kept low so that less heating and cooling energy is wasted.

Fig 29: Sun orientation for cold climates

(Source: On site study)

Fig 30: Building design along contours

(Source: On site study)

6. Open plan interiors should be promoted so that cross ventilation can be facilitated, and natural ventilation can take place without using mechanical means.

7. The windows can be carved out of wood to maintain the regional identity of the area.

Fig 31: Window details of a Kumaoni window

(Source: Source: Pages-from-Likhai-Book-Draft-2_)