Significance and Importance of Subterranean Architecture for Hot Climates in India
Author : Ar. Syed Zain Mohammed and Dr. Yashaswini Somashekar
Abstract :
In India's hot climate, subterranean architecture provides a creative and sustainable way to deal with the problems of resource scarcity, urbanization, and climate change. This design strategy makes use of the earth's natural thermal insulation qualities to produce energy-efficient areas that require fewer artificial cooling systems. Subterranean buildings reduce the effects of intense surface heat by using passive cooling strategies like natural ventilation and geothermal energy to maintain consistent interior temperatures.
This idea is especially pertinent to India, where environmental resources and urban infrastructure are under stress due to the country's dense population and high temperatures. Stepwells and haveli courtyards are examples of traditional architectural designs that can be combined with underground architecture to create contemporary public, commercial, and residential spaces. These designs use solar tubes, skylights, and biophilic components to improve natural lighting and psychological comfort, ensuring livable and aesthetically pleasing environments.
This allows us to investigate the planning and building of subterranean structures that combine environmental harmony with practicality. It makes use of the insulation and protection that the soil naturally provides to create sustainable and energy-efficient habitats. From commercial and residential spaces to cultural and military installations, the concepts and conceptual designs can be used for a variety of reasons. Subterranean architecture tackles issues including scarce land, severe weather, and urban overpopulation by fusing cutting-edge engineering methods with aesthetic concerns. It is a developing trend in sustainable development that might provide creative ways to maximize resilience and spatial efficiency while reducing environmental effect.
Keywords :
Subterranean architecture, contour study, feasible design, urbanisation, a new vision for New Delhi, new India vision with subterranean architecture.
