Every year, the summer months bring with them a deep yearning for blue skies, sand, fresh grass, beaches and everything to do with the outdoors. However, the hot tropical climate in India, along with pollution and global warming, can make it difficult to enjoy summer, forcing many of us to stay closeted in the confines of air-conditioned rooms. Using climate-responsive design techniques and materials for our homes, we can create airy, open spaces with large shaded windows to soak in those warm summer breezes. From cool courtyards to sun-kissed penthouses, let’s take a look at some ways to design cool, breezy spaces.

1. Place courtyards centrally to enhance cooling and ventilation

Indoor courtyards are quite useful in cooling and ventilating surrounding areas. They provide a pocket of space for hot air to rise, while trapping cool air at the bottom. A centrally placed courtyard ensures that more internal spaces can benefit from its cooling effects.

In this living space created by Manasaram Architects, a drawing room and other areas are placed around a two-level courtyard for ventilation. Pull-down screens, like those seen on either side, can be used to offer protection from excessive heat or glare whenever needed.

1. Choose the right materials

Selecting building materials that inhibit heat transmission can go a long way in keeping buildings cooler.

Thatched roofs are one such option. Air pockets in thatched roofs provide good insulation, meaning they keep the interiors cooler for a longer time. Thatched roofs also radiate more heat, instead of absorbing it like concrete.

Other examples of materials that work well for hot Indian climates include terracotta tiles and stabilised mud blocks.

1. Use waterbodies and landscaping effectively

Greenery and waterbodies can significantly contribute to cooler temperatures around your home.

A well-sheltered water lily pond provides respite from heat in this outdoor transition area, which is part of a home designed by Khosla Associates. Evaporation from water ponds is increased in the summertime, which results in cooling of the surrounding areas. Plants, trees and shrubs placed near doors and windows can cool the air entering the home, since they release moisture as part of their natural processes.

1. Shade terraces and outdoor spaces

Terraces and balconies bear the brunt of the heat in warmer months. They can become virtually unusable during the daytime. A roof is sometimes impractical, as one may need more sun during winters. In such cases, pergolas and trellises are a good option since they provide a modicum of shade from the heat, while letting in enough light and breeze. For outdoor areas like gardens and patios, vertical elements like screens provide partial shade for pathways and seating during the day. Planting vines, creepers and large-canopied trees in appropriate spaces can help create a pleasant outdoor environment to relax in, even on hot days.

1. Create sheltered, barrier-free spaces for air circulation

Free-flowing spaces that promote natural ventilation and air circulation can provide much relief in summer months. One can create seating areas in shaded semi-open porches and verandahs for use in the summer months. Such spaces can be positioned facing the direction that receives the maximum breeze. Large shaded windows and openings on this side will allow cool air currents to enter the home as well.

1. Extend roofs to protect the walls and windows from direct heat

Direct exposure of exterior walls and windows to sunlight can result in more heat penetration, leading to a rise in indoor temperatures. Large roof overhangs, like those seen in traditional Indian houses, can be used to shade walls and windows from harsh sunlight.

This farmhouse in Delhi by Kumar Moorthy & Associates has its windows and walls shaded by the large overhanging eaves from the pitched roof. This is a great way to incorporate large openings for cross-ventilation without exposing the interiors to heat.

1. Use other shading devices for windows

People usually prefer leaving windows open during summer to promote air circulation. However, open windows that are not adequately shaded can result in your home heating up very fast. Louvres are a simple and practical solution that allow you to control the amount of sunlight entering your home.

One can also use external sunshades and screens to protect windows from direct sunlight. Positioning trees near windows is also a good way to provide shade while allowing the penetration of filtered light.