Ar. Bipratip Dhar Epsilon

Architecture and interiors of bungalows and residential apartments will experience and undergo massive changes in the coming decades. We have already witnessed the use of energy saving devices taking the place of conventional materials. Metal and uPVC doors and window systems have replaced conventional doors and windows with larger and stronger glazed openings with insulation, thus, giving enhanced views of the surroundings and letting in natural light. Exterior glazing systems now have greater structural strength and enable energy efficiency.

Residential designs must premeditate, accommodate and integrate energy efficient systems, and service consultants should also keep future augmentation in mind owing to the exponential change in technology every day

In the interiors, sensor-controlled lights are maintaining the required lux levels with minimum energy consumption. In most new high-rise residential designs, solar, wind and rain energy are being harvested for better efficiency. Home automation systems have become an inherent part of modern-day residential design. These systems integrate electrical, HVAC, firefighting, security and AV systems to provide smooth, non-complicated usage with enhanced energy efficiency. Ranging from home automation, interior environment control, improved electrical efficiency to smart kitchens - everything is technology-driven now, and this is just the beginning. In the near future, smart homes and smart cities will become an inherent part of urban life.

Sprawling bungalows can take advantage of environmental conditions to boost solar and wind energy, wherever applicable. Modern day residential designs must premeditate, accommodate and finally integrate all such energy efficient systems. Service consultants should also keep future augmentation and growth in mind, owing to the exponential change in technology every day. Architecture should not only make the most of environmental settings, site conditions, better space planning to increase efficiency, but also incorporate all modern-day technology to enhance energy efficiency, ultimately leading to better human comfort.