Table of Content:
- What Is A Stilt House?
- Why Is A Stilt House Required?
- Where Will You Find Stilt Houses In India?
- Which Is The Best Material For Constructing A Stilt House?
- Salient Features of Stilt Houses In India
- Types of Stilt Houses In Different Parts of The World
Geographical and climatic conditions govern the design and structure of houses. Houses aren't merely shelters; they are harmonious responses to the natural forces at play. In fact, factors like temperature fluctuations and rainfall levels, to name a few, dictate everything from home design to material used. For example, you will find bungalows and apartments in urban areas and huts in rural areas. In the same way, you will discover a stilt house in flood-prone areas.
If architectural marvels fascinate you, then this article is for you. It introduces you to the lesser-known concept of a stilt house
What Is A Stilt House?
A stilt house is an elevated dwelling that is constructed on stilts (piles). In simple terms, they are built above the ground. Stilt houses in India have emerged as a sustainable and fascinating option for people living in flood-prone areas.
Why Is A Stilt House Required?
The environmental and geographical factors lay down the need for a stilt house. For example, the Arctic region is known for adverse weather conditions, and a stilt house is built to protect people from permafrost.
Moreover, you will find stilt houses in India and around the World in flood-prone areas. They protect against flooding and harsh weather conditions, thus safeguarding homes and inhabitants from potential damage.
Where Will You Find Stilt Houses In India?
By now, you must have understood the purpose of the stilt houses. In India, you will find stilt houses in Assam because most of the state is prone to flooding. So, the stilt houses in Assam offer a practical solution to the flooding challenges, thus protecting the people of Assam and safeguarding their belongings.
Which Is The Best Material For Constructing A Stilt House?
When constructing a stilt house in Assam, the choice of building material plays an important role. Among a wide range of options available, like wood, mud, stone, and cement, bamboo stands out as the best material for constructing a stilt house in Assam.
Compared to other options, bamboo is lightweight, versatile, and eco-friendly; thus, it is a perfect material for constructing stilt houses in India. Moreover, its natural resilience contributes to the durability of the structure.
Furthermore, high-quality bamboo is easily accessible in Assam, so the people of Assam use bamboo to construct a stilt house. Moreover, the people of Assam have started incorporating technological developments into building bamboo stilt houses to make their homes more robust.
Also Read: Bamboo House Design
Salient Features of Stilt Houses In India
Above the ground, stilt house offers a wide range of advantages, such as:
Ventilation: Stilt houses in Assam provide natural ventilation that enhances indoor air quality, contributing to a healthier living environment.
Panoramic Views: The elevated stilt houses in India provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Flood Resilience: One of the top advantages of stilt houses is their ability to withstand floods. They reduce the risk of damage caused by flooding.
Types of Stilt Houses In Different Parts of The World
In addition to India, stilt houses are found in other parts of the World.
1. Southeast Asia: In Southeast Asia, a stilt house is known as "palafitos." In Southeast Asia, stilt houses are found in Thailand and Indonesia, to name a few. Stilt houses in Southeast Asia are made of bamboo or wood.
2. South America: Pile dwellings are the name given to stilt houses in South America. In South America, they are found in Chile and Peru, to name a few.
3. West Africa: Stilt houses are called Ganvie, or lake dwellings, in West Africa. The stilt houses in West Africa are made of reeds, wood, and other materials. They are built in the water of shallow lakes.
4. North America: Stilt houses are known as "pier houses" in North America. Stilt houses in North America, which are made of wood, are found in coastal regions to protect houses against flooding.
5. Europe: Venice and Italy have stilt houses, known as "palazzos." The stilt houses in Europe are made of stone and brick and are typically built over water.
Conclusion
A stilt house is a testament to the intricate relationship between architecture and the environment. The elevated stilt homes embody resilience against floods, provide ventilation, and offer panoramic vistas.