Gujarat’s Bharuch district, where temperatures often soar above 40°C, a pioneering residence stands as a testament to sustainable architecture.
The ‘Cool House’, designed by architect Samira Rathod, maintains an ambient temperature of 30–35°C year-round, all without the aid of air conditioning or coolers. Spanning 10,500 square feet, the Cool House employs passive cooling techniques rooted in traditional Indian architecture. The design features a central corridor flanked by rooms and punctuated by two courtyards. This layout facilitates the Venturi effect, where narrow passages accelerate airflow, drawing in cool breezes from the southwest and expelling warm air through the northeast. One courtyard houses a shallow water body that further cools the incoming air before it circulates through the home.
Architect explains, “We used the direction of the winds, design, and cooling materials to lower the heat of the house.” The structure’s introverted design—solid exteriors with strategic openings—maximizes natural ventilation while minimizing heat gain. Thick 18-inch walls and lime plaster interiors enhance thermal insulation, keeping interiors cooler even during peak summer. The Cool House also integrates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. Reclaimed wood accents, solar panels, and solar water heaters contribute to its eco-friendly footprint. Despite its modern amenities, the home remains deeply connected to its environmental context, offering a blueprint for climate-responsive living in India’s urban landscapes.
In a country where air conditioning is often the default response to heat, the Cool House in Bharuch demonstrates that thoughtful design and respect for local climate can create comfortable, sustainable living spaces without relying on energy-intensive systems. As cities across India grapple with rising temperatures and energy demands, this innovative residence offers a compelling model for future urban development.
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