Modern-day Sustainable Stone

Architecture Feats
May 8, 2019 Natural Stones

Architecture is a reflection of the relationship between time, space and culture and
therefore, it is regarded as the art of innovation and creativity. There were times
when architecture was linked with politics and political economy. So it means that
architecture is a relative art which is basically an architect’s perspective and
standpoint.

Architecture is standing evidence of a society's cultural and traditional values and

acts as a shield against the cultural invasion of foreign countries. For example,
constructions of cities in the Mughal reign did not imitate western urban architectural
models and were not influenced by western perspectives and outlooks. This means
they reflected the traditional point of view. As the traditional architect follows their
own traditions, they did justice to appreciate the values of their own original
masterpieces. This lead to the evolution of better and beautiful architecture.

On the contrary, during the 19th century, western architects were influenced by
technological developments including prefabricated construction, the introduction of
cooling and heating systems which were criticised in the mid 20th century for its
sterility, "institutional" anonymity and negligence for the regional traditional
architecture. Over the years, architects began understanding the value of traditional
models which frequently came to be identified as "historical awakening".

Considering both instances, today, there is no perfect appreciation of modern

architecture and the timely understanding of its rightness leaves a negative effect on
our own traditional buildings. Hence, as disregard of traditional architecture led to the
neglect of its fundamental principles, the same way the use of modern architecture
was limited to the superficial features.

Sustainable Architecture Techniques From Ancient

Times - Now Used In Modern Buildings
Sustainable architecture techniques came into existence a few thousand years back
when people were living in close connection with their immediate environment. The
traditional Indian architecture is the best example of how construction was created
by involving nature. Despite a hot and humid climate of India, people used to live
without air conditioners which are significant contributors to global warming.

Manit Rastogi, Architect and co-founder of Morphogenesis who designed Pearl

Academy of Fashion in Jaipur by implementing old techniques proved that green
buildings are cheaper to build, cheaper to operate and at the same time more
comfortable to live in.

So, let us explore the sustainable architecture techniques which prove that high-tech
is not the solution to every problem and hence buildings can be constructed without
hurting our environment.

1. Jharokha
Jharokha is an overhanging enclosed balcony that is designed to manage air
ventilation and keep the interior temperatures low. It is shaped by forming small
perforations in the building in a manner that naturally cool buildings in a hot and
humid place. This is one of the most distinguished elements of the Indian traditional
facade which can be profusely seen in the architectural feats of Rajasthan.
Quality Marble Exports (India) is one of the largest natural stone manufacturing
companies in India having a team of skilled men who have mastered the art of
Jharokha.

2. Jaali
Jali broadly meaning ‘net’ is an architectural technique that involves environmental
dynamics to create comfort. It is a traditional building element that protects the
structure from the harsh environment using a double skin which acts as a thermal
buffer between the building and the surroundings. It is created by small perforations
in a wall that make the direct sunlight to scatter while it enters the interiors.
Moreover, it allows the daylight to get inside without glare. Jaali follows the Bernoulli
and Venturi laws which state that the speed of air increases when it passes through
smaller holes. Therefore, even if the wind is mild outside, Jaali is able to create a
profound effect in the indoor areas. Jaali is used to promotes light, air, and privacy
together, in a smart way.

Quality Marble Exports (India) offers a variety of Jaali designs to complement

sustainable architecture. We have designer stone Jaali, urban carved Jaali, and
patios Jaali to enhance the penetration of daylight and air.

3. Roshandan
Roshandan is another sustainable architecture technique that allows both air and
light to penetrate inside the room. It is a combination of a skylight and ventilating
window. This is a key element of many houses seen in the northern parts of India.
Roshandans are traditionally located towards the high-end of the ceiling wall or on
top of windows. The location of a Roshandan is of utmost importance as it allows the
hot air close to the ceiling to escape and maintain cooler air inside. In winters, these
are closed and used as skylights.

4. High Ceilings
When entering the hallway of a traditional building, one can observe high ceilings.
This is mainly because a high ceiling allows the hot air to rise and escape from
ventilators, forming a natural cooling effect.

Today, Indian cities are building structures that operate against the immediate
environments. Urban planners and architects in India and around the world should
learn from the traditional architectures that not just support sustainable living but stay
in harmony with the environment.

Quality Marble Exports (India) - Preserving Traditional

Architecture Techniques In Modern-day Stone
Architecture

Quality Marble Exports (India)'s expertise

is reaching different parts of the globe including Kuwait, London, Karachi, Busan,
Doha, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Istanbul, and Cairo.

Our company has supplied a broad range of natural stones to iconic construction
projects. Two of them are The Dar-El-Salwa, Official Palace of the King of Kuwait,
and Al Baker Mosque in South Surrah - Zahra in Kuwait.

Dar-El-Salwa is the residence of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-
Sabah, Amir of Kuwait and the 15th ruler of Kuwait. The architecture is adorned with
Indian Pink Dholpur Sandstone, Dholpur Beige, Red, and Chocolate Sandstone
delivered by Quality Marble Exports (India). The natural stones are incorporated in
wall cladding, arches, gazebos, domes, corniche, railing, pillars, copings, and
landscape floor patterns.

Al Baker Mosque is constructed with Sarpagenti, Bottocino, Alicante, Shivakashi,

Kashmir White, Indian Green, Lavender Blue, and Tan Brown. The mosque reflects
traditional construction techniques like Jali and High Ceilings.

If you dream of a palatial home reflecting a sustainable combination of the Indian

architectural style and modern architecture, reach out to Quality Marble Exports
(India), the leading marble suppliers and granite suppliers, for a comprehensive
construction solution.