India’s diversity is evident even from its architecture that spells a rich heritage dating 4,000 years.
Indian architecture has continuously evolved since then. Today, the country’s architecture has graduated to meet global standards. But one cannot deny that the Indus Valley Civilization was one of the world’s oldest urban civilizations. Its advanced architecture and town planning mesmerized the world. Excavations revealed the well-planned brick structure and drainage systems as early as 2700-1700 BCE!
From the ancient to the medieval period, Indian architecture caught the fancy of visitors, rulers, and invaders from other countries. The country's architecture reflects the era in which it was created and a stamp of the then ruler.
After the colonial rule, a blend of both modern and traditional architecture prevailed. Indian architecture is still evolving to meet the needs of growing urbanization while retaining the monuments. Aesthetics coupled with functionality has become commonplace today.
Vertical development became the solution to accommodate an ever-increasing urban population. While ancient and medieval architecture focused on natural light and air in the designs, air-conditioned offices and homes became an integral part of the design in modern architecture. Like in every other field, technology in architecture became the norm. Immersive technology will change the future of architecture and will help in better planning. 3-D printing and virtual reality are expected to give the architect a virtual experience of the structure to be created.
A handful of architects, however, stuck to eco-friendly constructions, and many gradually followed suit. The country today can boast about architecture that strikes a harmony between the environment and plush structures. Even materials used for construction are environment-friendly to the extent possible. Green architecture satisfies the requirements of the consumers while preventing, minimizing, or even eliminating impact on the environment by retaining natural elements during construction with reasonable use of technology.
A country’s architecture speaks volumes about its socio-cultural fabric and lifestyle
In our latest edition of Insights Success, The 10 Most Promising Architecture and Designing Firms, 2021, we featured architects who have employed sustainable ways while expressing their creativity and satisfying their clients' needs.
