In the bustling city of Bengaluru, amidst the rapid urbanization and technological advancements, a couple has chosen a path less traveled. Reva and Ranjan Malik have crafted a life that harmoniously blends modernity with sustainability, showcasing how minimalistic living can be both fulfilling and environmentally friendly.
A Journey Rooted in Sustainability
Before relocating to Bengaluru, Reva and Ranjan resided in New Delhi, leading lives typical of urban dwellers. However, a yearning to reconnect with nature and live more sustainably prompted them to rethink their lifestyle choices. In 2018, amidst growing concerns about water scarcity and environmental degradation, they decided to embark on a journey toward eco-friendly living. They purchased a 3,000 sq ft plot on the outskirts of Bengaluru, initially dedicating it to organic farming. This land would soon become the foundation for their dream home.
Constructing the Eco-Friendly Abode
Collaborating with Mahijaa, a design consultancy firm specializing in sustainable architecture, the Maliks envisioned a home that was both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The result was a 770 sq ft single-roof structure built using stabilized mud, a technique that combines mud, sand, lime, chalk, and a small percentage of cement to enhance durability. This method not only reduced the overall construction cost by 15% compared to conventional structures but also ensured a minimal carbon footprint.
The house features a mud-concrete trench foundation, terracotta-tiled flooring, and a roof made of rammed earth with Mangalorean tiles placed at a 30-degree slope. This design facilitates natural cooling and efficient rainwater harvesting. Large windows and open spaces allow ample natural light and cross-ventilation, eliminating the need for artificial lighting and cooling systems.
Innovative Sustainable Practices
Embracing a lifestyle free from conventional utilities, the Maliks have implemented several innovative practices:
- Water Management: The home operates without traditional water taps. Instead, an underground rainwater harvesting system with a capacity of 10,000 liters collects and stores rainwater. A hand pump draws this water for daily use, encouraging mindful consumption. Additionally, greywater is recycled to nourish their organic garden, which boasts over 40 varieties of fruits and vegetables.
- Energy Efficiency: Solar panels installed on the roof generate electricity, keeping their monthly energy expenses remarkably low. Cooking is done using a solar cooker, with meal choices often dictated by the day’s weather conditions.
- Minimalist Living: The couple has consciously chosen to live without gas connections, electric lights, or fans. They follow the natural circadian rhythm, rising with the sun and winding down at sunset, using oil lamps for illumination at night.
Inspiring a Movement
Reva and Ranjan’s home stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable living in urban settings. Their commitment to minimalism and environmental consciousness offers a blueprint for those seeking to reduce their ecological footprint. Through workshops and open house sessions, they actively share their experiences, inspiring others to consider eco-friendly alternatives in their own lives.
For a visual tour of their innovative home and to gain deeper insights into their sustainable practices, watch the following video:
Architects Rosie Paul and Sridevi Changali co-founded Masons Ink, an architecture and design firm specializing in sustainable architecture and heritage conservation.
Their practice emphasizes the use of natural materials, particularly mud, to create environmentally responsive buildings. They are committed to achieving a zero-carbon footprint in their projects and focus on research and development to innovate in natural construction materials. Beyond design and construction, Masons Ink actively engages in knowledge transfer through awareness and training programs on sustainability and heritage conservation.
For a closer look at their work, you can watch the following video: