Influence of affluence on sustainable housing in Mysore, India

Abstract

2 3Mysore, the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, India, can be identified as an early adopter of

Significance of Boundary Conditions Towards Sustainable Housing Strategies: A Case Study of Mysore, India

“…The work was undertaken in Mysore, India (Figure 1). The first published stage of the research clearly reflects a shift away from climate responsive, socially inclusive, community oriented housing to a more individual, exclusive and independent housing typology (Satish et al 2011). This paper is concerned with the second stage of the fieldwork that market tests with key stakeholders, potential sustainable design strategies that explicitly aim to meet the expectations of the middle income consumer.…”

“…Traditional middle income housing as studied by the authors was communally configured with a looser relationship between external and internal realms. Contemporary dwelling templates now reflect a culture of individuality that feature highly defined boundaries forcing dwelling activities into air conditioned interiors with resource and carbon implications (Satish et al 2011).…”

“…Such climatically responsive layouts and construction using locally available material are a good example of efficient sustainable development (Vandana 2008). These houses were thermally comfortable due to planning techniques which reduced solar gain and due to the use of local materials and construction details which were climate responsive and had low ecological footprints (Satish et al 2011).…”

“…This is supported by local planning legislation (MUDA 1996). It is an embedded expectation that buildings no longer enclose and define the open spaces and encourage outdoor activities (CITB 1987, Satish et al 2011. Altered social and cultural values have played a crucial critical role in the adoption of new housing typologies.…”

Editorial

“…This type of partnership working is therefore likely to reduce cost as well as achieve more sustainable outcomes. Satish et al (2011) present an interesting paper which points to a shift towards western practices and desires causing less sustainable practices in Mysore, India. The authors explain how growing affluence has caused a desire to emulate western housing, causing a shift away from community-based spaces to more private and insular housing.…”