When Mahesh and Sajitha set out to rebuild their 40-year-old Bangalore home, their goal was clear: create a comfortable, sustainable house using as much of the original structure as possible. Their new eco-friendly four-storey home now meets most of its water and electricity needs independently, saving the couple around Rs 6,000-7,000 each month.
- Rs 72,000 saved annually on power and water bills
- Salvaged teak materials reused for doors and furniture
- Solar and rainwater harvesting systems for self-sufficiency
What happened
Mahesh and Sajitha decided to reconstruct their longtime family home in Bengaluru with sustainability as a guiding principle. Instead of building anew from scratch, they dismantled their 40-year-old house and preserved all salvageable teakwood doors, windows, and certain furniture pieces. This reclaimed material became integral to their new four-storey residence, helping maintain a connection to the past while embracing eco-friendly upgrades.
The couple partnered with architect Jyothika Baleri, specializing in blending traditional styles like Chettinad architecture with modern efficiency. Among the innovative features are a rainwater harvesting pit holding 8,000 liters, dual water tanks for Cauvery and rainwater, and rooftop solar panels covering about 700 square feet that power essential household functions including the lift and lighting.
Why it feels good
Sajitha wanted a home that was warm, practical, and easy to maintain, especially because both she and Mahesh work full-time and often entertain guests, including children. The environment-conscious choices resulted in a residence that feels welcoming rather than precious or overly formal, where everyone can comfortably enjoy the space without worry.
The sustainable systems also provide peace of mind and financial relief. By generating solar energy connected to the local grid and relying heavily on stored rainwater, the household reduces dependence on external utilities. This self-reliance translates into savings of around Rs 6,000 to Rs 7,000 per month, totaling approximately Rs 72,000 every year.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by this project, exploring designs that merge traditional architectural elements with modern sustainability can be rewarding. Jyothika Baleri’s expertise with Chettinad style introduces colorful and ornate touches that avoid sacrificing environmental responsibility. Repurposing building materials creatively, as seen with reused doors and furniture legs, offers both charm and reduced waste.
If you are considering similar endeavors, take note of how careful planning around water and power usage can transform a home’s impact and costs. Installations like rainwater harvesting pits and solar panel systems tailored to your rooftop can make your home more resilient and eco-friendly. Watching local projects and green-building initiatives may provide inspiration and practical examples.