When you look at house designs in the old Gujarat cities, one of the most distinctive feature is the traditional Gujarati style houses. These houses usually have distinctive courtyards and ornate woodenwork that is highly recognizable. Traditional Gujarati house designs also often use Kolay Pat browse roofs which are highly decorative and are used to represent status. They also often have hack stepwells in front of them which are perfect for catching rainwater or cooling off during the hot summer days.Traditional Gujarati House Designs
Traditional Gujarati House Designs
Another typical feature of Gujarati house designs are courtyard houses. This style of house is quite typical in Gujarat and the smaller design often includes an open-air courtyard. This design helps keep the inside of the house cool by providing a space which allows the air to flow freely. It also provides a great space for the family to congregate and interact with each other.Courtyard Houses
Courtyard Houses
Ornate woodenwork is also a common feature of traditional Gujarati house designs. This type of woodenwork is usually very elaborate and intricate and can consist of anything from carvings to doors and windows. Ornate woodenwork helps add a sense of luxury and grace to the homes, and it also helps to tell the tale of a family's legacy in their home. It also helps to add an element of style which is often absent in modern houses.Ornate Woodenwork
Ornate Woodenwork
Kolay Pat browse roofs are one of the most distinctive features of traditional Gujarati house designs. This type of roof is created from interlocking stones which create highly decorative patterns. These patterns are often used to represent a family's status in the city and they are often highly prized for their decorative elements. The roof also helps to keep the house cool throughout the day.Kolay Pat browse Roofs
Kolay Pat browse Roofs
Stepwells, or baolis, are also a common feature of traditional Gujarati house designs. These type of structures are usually found in front of the houses and they are used as a source of fresh water which can be used for washing, cleaning and bathing. The well also helps to keep the house cool in the hot summer months and it also helps to add an element of rustic charm to the house.Stepwells
Stepwells
In some parts of Gujarat, there are a number of multistorey Gurjarati house designs. These houses usually have multiple stories and they are often used to represent the family's status in the city. They also help to create a unique sense of elegance and grandeur which is often absent in more modern houses.Multistorey Houses
Multistorey Houses
Patios are also a common feature of Gujarati house designs. This type of design helps to create a sense of openness and tranquility in the home. Patios are usually used for relaxation and entertainment, and they are also perfect for catching the evening breeze to cool off in the summers. Patios can also be used to catch some of the stunning natural light during the day.Patios
Patios
When it comes to Gujarati house designs, one of the most important aspects are how natural light is used. Many traditional Gujarati houses have large openings which allow natural light to enter the home during the day. This helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere and is also great for saving energy. Large windows and doors can also be used to take advantage of the breeze which helps to keep the house cool during the hot summer months.Natural Light Utilization
Natural Light Utilization
Elements of Traditional Gujarati House Design
Traditional
Gujarati house design
is a unique blend of both traditional and modern elements. This type of architecture has many characteristics that are unique to the region. From the spacious courtyards to the intricately tile-work roofs, the design of Gujarati homes is steeped in tradition.
One of the most prominent features in traditional Gujarati house design is the
courtyard
. These will often feature intricate brickwork and may even include gardens and fountains. This creates a peaceful and inviting environment, perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing in privacy. The courtyard also plays a major role in keeping the house cool, as the roof of the courtyard is usually made of clay tiles or terracotta.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are also integral to traditional Gujarati house design. Windows often have intricately carved wooden detailing and are decorated with glass ornaments. On the many smaller houses, the windows are often smaller and are often open to help keep the house cool. Doors are typically large, and usually have intricate carving or painting on them.
Small Towers
Another common feature in traditional Gujarati homes is the use of small towers in the form of a dome or cupola. These are typically found at the entrance of the house and are often decorated with intricate carvings or designs. The tower not only enhances the aesthetic beauty of the house, but also provides extra ventilation, allowing heat to escape during the hot summer months.
Rich Color Palettes
Finally, traditional Gujarati house design often includes bright and striking colors. These colors often include shades of blue, yellow, pink, and green. These vibrant colors liven up the home, creating an inviting atmosphere.
These are just a few of the elements that make up traditional Gujarati house design. From the courtyard, to the windows and doors, to the small towers and rich colors, these features all work together to create a beautiful and unique style of architecture.
