An eco-friendly home that keeps temperatures in check

Though slightly more expensive to construct, the family made up the difference by saving on electricity bills

As Bengaluru gets hotter during the summers, Bengalureans are turning to eco-friendly construction and practices to combat the heat.

Pradeep Krishnamurthy, a resident of HSR Layout, built himself an eco-friendly home in 2015. At a time when a considerable number of Bengalureans are facing water shortage, the 2,000-square-foot house, spread across two floors, is designed to be self sufficient. “We tried to make it eco-friendly in every way, right from the bricks used. It is made with 15,000 sun-dried bricks called compressed stabilised earth blocks (CSEBs),” says Krishnamurthy, whose house has been christened Bhoomi. “These mud bricks were handmade and dried naturally for 30 to 40 days, unlike the fired bricks commonly used today. They age beautifully and reduce environmental impact,” he explains.

Krishnamurthy also employed the ‘filler slab method’ for roofing. He used Mangalore tiles and terracotta cups to reduce concrete usage and heat induction. High ceilings (11.5 feet) and larger windows promote natural ventilation, keeping indoor temperatures lower during peak summers. “Traditional engineering,” he says, “plays a central role in modern comfort.”

“Our family of five uses only around 300 litres of water a day, but we recycle nearly 500 litres,” he shares, adding, “The greywater recycling system ensures our water reuse is nearly double our consumption.”

Bhoomi also boasts a rainwater harvesting system, rain water recharge system, LED lighting, an organic terrace garden and local materials that lower long-term maintenance. “The overall cost was around the same as standard infrastructure, with plumbing costing about 10% more,” Krishnamurthy notes. “However, we recovered that additional expense within six months thanks to lower electricity bills. Natural ventilation keeps the house bright, warm in winter and cool in summer,” he adds.

The home has inspired many. “I have hosted about 60-70 couples who were keen on seeing how the house is built. They even implemented similar designs in their own homes,” he states.

Meanwhile, in Sarjapur, Sumesh Nayak, a corporate professional, has created a ‘biodiverse sphere’ at home.

What began with a simple desire for green space grew into a complete eco-conscious lifestyle. “We first learned how to compost, then installed solar panels, and later added a rainwater harvesting system,” he explains. “We have documented 49 varieties of birds and 39 butterfly species in our garden. They are attracted by the fruit and flower trees. Everything is connected — from the soil to the worms, to the birds,” he shares.

Both Krishnamurthy and Nayak believe their stories show what is possible for anyone.

“Whether you live in an apartment or a villa, space is never the problem. Start with observing your conditions — sunlight, airflow, humidity — and build your garden accordingly. It is about consistency, not expertise,” says Nayak.