Life as we knew it has changed and changed for the better…we hope! It’s time to make smart choices that help us live a more resourceful lifestyle. We’ve all noticed and admired how smart gadgets make daily living an effortless model, but some super-efficient ones are more than just that. They help us drastically reduce consumption of electricity, minimise our need for water and optimise the way we keep up with our hygiene needs.

In this exclusive, we tour two projects that showcase how smart planning can go on to make a big difference. We start with a peak into the home of Saba Kapoor, Principal Designer, Nivasa. “Our house in the Aravali range has been designed in keeping with our design ethos of sustainability hence both the material and the colour palette appears raw yet refined."

SUNLIGHT

At Nivasa, the first step of any project is to get an in-depth understanding of the sites natural surroundings. The floorplan and elevations are designed to harness the power of nature that surrounds us- from sunlight to trees to the direction of the breeze. The Magnolias project was no different- the placement of large windows, cantilevers and an open layout with glass doors and windows instead of walls have been incorporated to ensure that during the winters the home is flooded with the low winter sun- filling it will natural light and providing heat. Whereas in the scorching summer heat the direct sunlight is cut off keeping the house cool.

So much more than just a sheet of glass through which we can enjoy a view! Windows are crucial to a smart design.Windows

INSULATION

Insulation is integral while building an environmentally friendly home- it helps keep the home cool during the summers and warm during the winters. It harness the suns natural energy, reducing the need for external heating and cooling. In the Magnolias project we have used insulated glass in all windows and doors. Additionally, we have used fittings to ensure that the project is insulated from the wind. The apartment being on a high floor insulation from the wind was extremely important while designing and selecting the doors and windows.

WATER SAVING FIXTURES

Water is one of the most valuable resources on Earth and it is integral for designers to incorporate designs that help save and recycle water. In the Magnolias project we have installed water fixtures that reduce water wastage by reducing the flow in the taps, toilets and shower heads.

FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS

Sustainability is at the heart of Nivasa’s brand values- we create products ensuring that they are built to last using environmentally friendly materials, indigenous craft as well as sustainable manufacturing practices. The house is adorned with locally sourced hardwood, majority of which is treated with with chemical-free environmentally friendly stains. The artisanal craft of canning is celebrated throughout the house in accent chairs, loungers and beds, promoting environmental as well as cultural sustainability. Each and every element of the house has been designed keeping sustainability in mind- from the use of natural textiles to metal accents for durability. In fact the curtains are fabricated using of pure white raw silk, giving that understated luxury to the home.

The next project we take you on a journey through is an opulent home in Thane, Maharashtra, with an uninterrupted view of mountains, forests and a river. Vyoma Patwa Motiramani, Principal Architect, Design Lav Vyoma, crafts a period-inspired living with an energy-efficient blueprint. This was very important for her.

Vyoma planned and executed the layout so that the view becomes part of the interiors. Her arsenal for this missive includes 24 feet French windows, a stunning balcony area that is comfortable, stylish and self-sufficient. But this planning also addresses the intense summers this part of the world sees. Her solution is calculated and aesthetic. “Mumbai sees hot humid temperatures almost through the year, hence it was important to formulate a solution that maintained lower temperatures in the indoor sections. To increase energy efficiency and to reduce the load on the air conditioners, double-glazed glasses were used in all the windows of the house as they reduce the harsh rays of the sunlight and help maintain a lower temperature in an energy-efficient manner. Besides, providing an uninterrupted view of the hills and river, the 24 feet in-length French windows brings clean healthy fresh air and improves the quality of indoor air. The furniture arrangement and layout is also kept such that, it not only provides sprawling lobbies for air circulations but also makes sure that no furniture piece obstructs the flow of cross ventilation in the house.” Vyoma brings science to this period home, and we love this marriage of efficient planning within an opulent narrative. To elaborate on that: We found modern technologies like home automation systems, wireless wi-fi access, latest bath fittings, smart kitchen solutions, home theatre systems, etc. Behind the guise of a classical Victorian-style home, we have here a smart home.

So, now that you are inspired by these projects and their energy-efficient approach…we bring you designs that are working overtime for the living room. They are all unique in function and showcase incredible technology.