No AC, only clay blocks: How Bengaluru man’s creative home design keeps temperatures 3 degrees cooler even in scorching summer heat

Over the last few days, several parts of India were gripped by intense heatwave conditions. As the mercury crossed the 40-degree mark, the only relief from the scorching heat and humidity was switching on the air conditioner and allowing the cool air to fill the room. But prolonged usage of cooling appliances not only leads to bill surges but it can also put pressure on the ACs, causing breakdowns or costly repairs. Not to forget, the health impact of spending long hours in artificially cooled environments. But a Bengaluru man has found a perfect, natural solution to beat the summer temperatures without ACs.

Bengaluru home’s unique design to beat the heat

According to a report by The Better India, Sathya Prakash Varanashi has developed a thoughtful home design to keep his house 2-3 degrees cooler even on an unbearable summer afternoon when you just can’t stop sweating.


Sathya Prakash Varanash skipped using traditional heat-trapping cement walls and instead chose hollow clay clocks to regulate the temperature inside the rooms naturally. Sliding doors and strategically placed openings ensure that hot air escapes, allowing cool air to flow in, coupled with ample ventilation. A lush garden featuring flowers and plants adds to the eco-friendly charm.


Another special feature of Sathya Prakash Varanash’s Bengaluru home, named Varanashi House, is the extensive use of French windows. This particular layout helps in maximizing natural light and promoting continuous airflow. As per the Varanash, the 3 designing factors about his naturally cool home are: cross ventilation, displacement ventilation, and body-level breeze.

Natural elements and a sustainable living environment

Sathya Prakash Varanash paid special attention to how to use water for a climate-controlled atmosphere. There’s a fish pond, as well as an open well that recharges groundwater and keeps the temperatures refreshingly cool. Would you believe that beneath the flowering garden there lies 15,000 litres of rainwater stored for practical use?


Stepping inside the house, you will be greeted with an earthy vibe comprising recycled pine wood creations and granite stone stairs, offering a rustic and woodsy ambience. The living space is marked by red oxide flooring, wooden furniture and a natural chimney in place of artificial cooling. What makes Sathya Prakash Varanash’s eco-friendly home even more heartwarming is that the design was constructed to offer comfort to his wife, Ishala, and daughters, Gauri and Siri.