
Sustainable Architecture: The Collage house of India

Introduction
Collage House is a private residence for four generations of a family, designed by S+ PS Architects. This ‘trailblazing project’ combines design and sustainability to create something unique and special.
S+ PS Architects drew inspiration from traditional Indian architecture when designing the Collage House. They wanted the house to be both contemporary and rooted in tradition. To achieve this, they used natural materials throughout the house, including bamboo, jute fiberboard, clay tiles and terracotta pottery. The result is an eco-friendly home that is both stylish and functional.
The architects also took into account the needs of their clients’ families. Each room has a specific purpose – a bedroom for each family member, an office for the father, rooms for the mother-in-law and grandparents. Even the roof provides plenty of storage space.

All in all, Collage House is truly revolutionary – not only because it’s one of the first houses in India designed according to sustainable principles (and looks fantastic doing it!), but also because it shows us how versatile sustainable design can be. We can not wait to see what else S+ PS Architects will come up with in the future!
The facade of a building can set the tone for the interior, whether it’s a calm and relaxing environment or an exciting one. With this in mind, architect Dror Benshetrit found an ingenious way to reuse old windows and doors from demolished houses in the city – he arranged them horizontally and vertically on the facade of his building, creating “window corners” that reuse old windows and doors. This is how the proverb is implemented.
In addition to its sustainability features, the Collage House is also designed to promote a comfortable and healthy living environment for its inhabitants. Large windows and doors allow for plenty of natural light and ventilation, while the use of locally sourced materials such as mud and bamboo helps to regulate the temperature of the building.

Sustainable Architecture has become an increasingly important aspect of building design in recent years as the world strives to reduce its impact on the environment. The Collage House of India is a prime example of this movement, showcasing how innovative design can combine with sustainable principles to create a beautiful and functional living space.
The Collage House is located in the rural village of Kondapur, near Hyderabad in India, and was designed by architect Deepak Guggari. The design of the house is inspired by the traditional Indian concept of “collage,” where different elements are brought together to form a unified whole. The house is made up of three separate structures that are connected by a series of outdoor spaces and walkways, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
One of the key features of the Collage House is its focus on sustainability. The house is constructed using locally sourced materials, including mud bricks and bamboo, which not only reduce the environmental impact of the building but also help to maintain the traditional aesthetic of the area. The design also incorporates several energy-efficient features, such as solar panels for power generation and rainwater harvesting for water supply, helping to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

The Collage House of India is a remarkable example of how sustainable architecture can be beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible. It serves as a model for other architects and builders looking to create sustainable living spaces, and it is a testament to the power of design to bring people and the environment together.
Starting from the outside, the designers have aimed to create a contemporary and rustic look. They used untreated wood for the facade, paired it with unpainted metal railings, and then added aged galvanized iron gates. The result is an exterior that has a rugged but modern feel.
Inside, traditional colonial furniture was used as a focal point. Old textile blocks were discovered at an auction house in London and fashioned into chic seating pieces by the internal team. Textile waste – including old rugs, curtains, and tablecloths – was also strategically integrated into some of the room’s design elements to add texture and color while preserving natural resources.
Overall, this unique approach provides residents with a sleek contemporary appearance while respecting historical architecture and traditions.
FAQ
What is the Collage House in India?
The Collage House is a sustainable architecture project located in India, designed and built with the purpose of promoting sustainable living practices. It is a model for a sustainable home that incorporates various environmental and energy-saving features.
What makes the Collage House sustainable?
The Collage House is designed to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly, incorporating features such as renewable energy sources, rainwater harvesting, composting toilets, and organic waste management. It also promotes sustainable living practices, such as growing food and reducing water usage, to minimize its carbon footprint.
How does the Collage House generate energy?
The Collage House is equipped with a solar panel system that provides clean and renewable energy. It also has energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
What other creative ways do you think designers could use recycled materials to create unique visuals?
There are several creative ways that designers could use recycled materials to create unique visuals. Some ideas include using recycled plastic bottles as liquid paint containers, using recycled paper as patterns for fabric designs, or using recycled wood to create furniture or other objects. By exploring different ways to use recycled materials, designers can help reduce the amount of waste that is created and help reduce the environmental impact of their work.
What are some of the challenges involved in designing sustainable buildings?
By using sustainable building practices, businesses can help reduce their environmental impact and create a more sustainable future for themselves and the planet. By paying attention to these and other challenges in designing sustainable buildings, businesses can help make a positive impact on both their operations and the environment as a whole.
What techniques do architects use to disguise unsustainable features in their designs?
Architects use a variety of techniques to disguise unsustainable features in their designs. Some common techniques include:
- Using sustainable materials and design elements: Architects can use them to make their designs more environmentally friendly and sustainable. For example, they may use recycled or sustainable materials or designs with features that can be easily replaced or updated over time, such as solar panels or rain gardens.
- Disguising unsightly features: Architects can also disguise them by redesigning them or hiding them behind more aesthetically pleasing elements. For example, they may replace an unsightly drainage system with a landscaped area or disguise a building's outdated infrastructure by designing it into the landscape.
- Implementing green infrastructure: Architects can also implement green infrastructure, such as rain gardens or stormwater management systems, to help reduce the environmental impact of their designs. Green infrastructure systems help absorb and filter rainwater, reducing the amount of water that needs to be treated and released into waterways.


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