As Indian cities grow vertically, the skyline of our metros is being redefined by modern towers, glass façades, and smart homes. Yet, in the midst of this rapid transformation, there’s a silent revival taking place—of India’s architectural heritage. From jaalis to courtyards, Vastu to vernacular materials, traditional Indian architecture is finding new relevance in the high-rises of today.
India has a rich architectural lineage shaped by climate, culture, and community. Be it the airy courtyards of a Chettinad mansion or the carved sandstone screens of Mughal havelis, these design elements weren’t just aesthetic—they were functional.
For instance, jaalis (perforated stone or lattice screens) naturally reduced heat and provided ventilation, making them a sustainable alternative to modern energy-guzzling cooling systems. Designed by an award- winning architecture firm, Pearl Academy’s Jaipur campus is a textbook case of how traditional elements like jaalis can serve modern needs. Located in a region where summer temperatures soar above 45°C, the building uses a double-skin façade made of locally sourced jaali screens.
Consider the humble jharokha, those ornate overhanging balconies prominent in Rajasthani architecture. More than decorative elements, they create natural air circulation while providing shade. The Indian Institute of Science's recent study reveals that incorporating such passive cooling features can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% in modern buildings.
Similarly, courtyards, once the heart of Indian homes, are being recreated as vertical atriums or common terraces in urban projects. These shared spaces not only bring in natural light and air but also foster community living—a value at the core of Indian tradition.
Materials, too, tell a story. In a shift from glass-and-steel uniformity, architects are embracing lime plaster, terracotta tiles, local stone, and bamboo—materials that are not only environmentally responsible but deeply Indian in aesthetic and spirit.
In the race toward the future, embracing heritage isn’t regression—it’s resilience. By integrating traditional design into modern architecture, we aren’t just preserving the past; we’re future proofing our cities.
In India's architectural future, our heritage isn't a relic to preserve in museums—it's a blueprint for sustainable, climate-responsive cities that honour our past while securing our future. After all, a high-rise that breathes like a haveli or feels like a family courtyard doesn’t just house people—it nurtures them.
Mr. Cyrus Mody, Founder & C.E.O, Viceroy Properties | File Photo
Founded in 2017, Viceroy Properties is a luxury real estate development company transforming Mumbai’s skyline with sophisticated design, functional elegance, and seamless living experiences. Under the leadership of Founder and CEO Cyrus Mody, Viceroy has established itself as a benchmark for excellence, blending thoughtful design with long-term value.
With over two decades of experience in real estate, Cyrus brings a strategic, research-backed lens to every aspect of product design, business planning, and project delivery. He has been at the forefront of Kandivali East’s transformation, leading iconic developments like Viceroy Savana and Viceroy Prive. His approach—rooted in design excellence, executional precision, and an unwavering focus on the customer—continues to set new standards for urban living in Mumbai.
At Viceroy, every project reflects a balance of aesthetics and functionality, with a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-sensitive planning. Viceroy Properties isn’t just building homes—it’s shaping lifestyles, setting new benchmarks, and inspiring homeowners to demand more.
