Sathya Prakash Varanashi has created the ‘Varanashi House’, a home that is a perfect balance of nature and design. Situated with sustainability at its core, this house serves as a sanctuary for his wife Ishala and daughters Gauri and Siri, offering a living space that is not just eco-friendly but also comfortable year-round. The house stays cool in summer without relying on air conditioning, showcasing Varanashi’s commitment to eco-conscious living.
Innovative Building Materials
Instead of using traditional heat-trapping cement walls, Varanashi chose hollow clay blocks for the construction of the house. These blocks naturally regulate the temperature, ensuring the house stays cool during the heat of summer and warm in the cooler months. The use of sliding doors opens up the living areas to the garden, creating an airy atmosphere. The design features strategically placed openings that allow hot air to escape, maintaining a fresh and pleasant indoor environment.
Energy-efficient Design Features
The home incorporates the principles of cross ventilation, displacement ventilation, and body-level breeze. The integration of French windows enhances the ventilation, while the use of recycled pine wood and thick granite stone for the stairs and kitchen brings an earthy, natural touch. This combination of features ensures the house remains two to three degrees cooler in the summer, making it an ideal example of how sustainable choices can enhance comfort while reducing energy consumption.
Water and Green Spaces
Water plays a central role in the home’s design. A fish pond, cascading streams, and an open well are incorporated into the landscape to regulate temperature and help recharge the groundwater. Above the car porch, a flourishing garden adds color and vibrancy to the surroundings, while beneath it, 15,000 liters of rainwater are stored for practical use. This holistic approach to water conservation further underscores the home’s sustainability.
Natural Interior Design
Inside the house, nature continues to influence the design. The red oxide floors, pine wood interiors, and the natural chimney replace the need for artificial cooling. The natural materials used not only contribute to the house’s eco-friendly status but also add a warm, earthy vibe that makes the house feel like a true home. According to Varanashi, “A house truly becomes a home when it reflects the way the family lives in it,” and his house is a reflection of that philosophy.
A Sustainable Model
Even after 21 years, the house remains low-maintenance, comfortably cool, and a prime example of sustainable living. The design of Varanashi House stands as a testament to how thoughtful architecture and eco-conscious choices can result in a harmonious, lasting, and comfortable living environment. This home continues to be an inspiration for sustainable living and a model for those seeking to balance nature with modern design.
