In the heart of Bengaluru, Sathya Prakash Varanashi has crafted a masterpiece of sustainable living—the Varanashi House. Designed as a sanctuary for his wife, Ishala, and daughters, Gauri and Siri, this home is a testament to thoughtful architecture that seamlessly integrates nature, comfort, and sustainability. By eliminating the need for air conditioning, Varanashi has demonstrated how intelligent design can keep a home naturally cool while reducing environmental impact.
A Home That Breathes
Instead of using heat-absorbing cement walls, Varanashi opted for hollow clay blocks, which naturally regulate temperature, ensuring warmth in winter and coolness in summer. The home embraces cross ventilation, displacement ventilation, and body-level breeze, allowing hot air to escape through strategically placed openings. Sliding doors blur the lines between the indoors and the lush garden, inviting natural airflow and enhancing the sense of openness.
Merging Functionality with Aesthetic Appeal
The Varanashi House is a tribute to both functionality and artistry. French windows flood the interiors with natural light while ensuring ample ventilation. Recycled pine wood and thick granite stone, used for the kitchen and stairs, add an earthy charm, reinforcing the home’s commitment to eco-conscious choices. The result? A space that is not only visually stunning but also two to three degrees cooler in summer, proving that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.
Water as the Lifeline of the Home
Water plays a pivotal role in the home’s climate control. A serene fish pond, cascading streams, and an open well contribute to temperature regulation and groundwater recharge. Adding to the ecological harmony, a flourishing garden blooms above the car porch, while a 15,000-litre rainwater harvesting system beneath it ensures a sustainable water supply for daily needs.
Sustainability in Every Corner
Stepping inside, the house radiates warmth and tranquility. Red oxide floors, pine wood interiors, and a natural chimney eliminate the need for artificial cooling. Every detail echoes Varanashi’s belief that a house should be an extension of the lives it shelters. “A house truly becomes a home when it manifests the way the family lives in it,” he reflects.
A Living Legacy of Sustainable Design
Even after 21 years, the Varanashi House remains low-maintenance, comfortably cool, and an enduring example of sustainable living. More than just a residence, it is a living model of how architecture can create a harmonious and eco-friendly environment that withstands the test of time. Through its innovative yet simple design, this home continues to inspire a future where sustainability and comfort coexist effortlessly.