10 Housing Styles Found Across India

Havelis (Rajasthan)Havelis are grand mansions found in Rajasthan, featuring intricate woodwork, courtyards, and ornate carvings. Built for extended families, they symbolise opulence. You can see examples like Patwon Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer.Kottayam Style (Kerala)Kottayam-style houses are traditional Kerala homes made of wood with sloping roofs and open courtyards. These homes withstand heavy rains, with examples found in Kottayam district, showcasing the region’s rich architectural heritage.Wadas (Maharashtra)Wadas are large, multi-storied homes in Maharashtra, typically with central courtyards and verandas. Built with stone and wood, they were historically used by noble families. Shaniwar Wada in Pune is an iconic example.Nawabian Style (Lucknow)Influenced by Mughal architecture, Nawabian-style homes in Lucknow feature elegant arches, domes, and intricate designs. These homes reflect royal refinement, with iconic examples like Bara Imambara, showcasing the grandeur of the era.Bungalows (Goa)Goan bungalows, inspired by Portuguese colonial architecture, feature tiled roofs, wide verandas, and large windows. These homes blend European and Indian design. Fontainhas in Panjim is known for its colourful, colonial-style bungalows.Thar Desert Style (Rajasthan)Thar Desert homes are built with mud and sandstone to withstand extreme temperatures. These homes have thick walls, small windows, and are designed to keep interiors cool, with examples in Jaisalmer and Kuldhara village.Bamboo Houses (Northeast India)Bamboo houses in Northeast India are eco-friendly, designed to blend with nature. Raised on platforms to avoid flooding, they are common in states like Nagaland and Mizoram, showcasing a sustainable way of living.Rajputana Architecture (Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh)Rajputana homes are bold, with large windows, arches, and courtyards. These majestic structures are adorned with frescoes and carvings, reflecting Rajput royal heritage. The City Palace in Udaipur is a prime example of this style.Traditional Pukka Sahebi (Bengal)Pukka Sahebi homes in Bengal combine Indo-Saracenic and colonial styles, with high ceilings, large verandas, and intricate woodwork. These traditional mansions can be seen in North Kolkata, known for their distinctive architectural features.Kathkuni Houses (Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand)Kathkuni houses in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are crafted using timber and slate roofs, designed to withstand cold climates. These homes, often found in mountain villages, feature intricate woodwork and are energy-efficient.Top 10 Hill Stations Near MumbaiRead More