Living Elevated: The Allure and Practicality of Stilt Houses

India is a country with diverse landscapes, weather conditions, and ecological factors. Construction techniques in different parts of the country have been adapted to suit the local conditions. Stilt houses are commonly found in parts of the country that receive very heavy rainfall and are prone to floods. They are also seen in several coastal regions of India. Let us understand what these are and how they influence modern construction.

What are stilt houses?

Stilts are long shafts or posts that are used to raise the level of a structure above the ground. Construction of stilt houses is a traditional form of architecture typically practised in coastal regions and other parts of the country that experience high rainfall and flooding.

The houses in these regions are built above ground level using these stilt posts and poles. This allows the water to stream through without damaging the structure itself. Stilt houses are common in states like Assam and in the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Goa.

Why opt for stilt house designs?

Many parts of coastal India and some Himalayan regions experience heavy rainfall and flooding. The houses built in these regions are damaged by the floods and water erosion, causing them to collapse and putting the safety of the residents in jeopardy. In these places, stilt houses are built to keep the houses safe by offering the least resistance to the flood waters. Building the house on a raised platform also prevents flood waters from entering. The bamboo stilt houses of Assam are among the best-known examples of stilt design in the country.

Advantages of stilt houses

Stilt house designs offer several benefits. One of the most important benefits is that it protects the house from water damage and flooding. By elevating the house above the ground, the stilts prevent floodwater from entering the living space, thus providing a safe shelter for the residents during floods.

The stilts are embedded deep into the ground, which provides additional stability to the structure. This ensures that the house remains in place even if the flood or the tide erodes the soil. Moreover, the air pocket created beneath the house provides insulation from extreme weather, making stilt houses suitable for extremely cold regions.

Stilt houses are also commonly built in flat and dry regions, especially in tropical areas. The elevated design promotes good ventilation, and the raised structure facilitates smooth airflow underneath the house while also reducing the heat emanating from the ground.

Another benefit of stilt houses is that they are ideal for areas with high insect, reptile, and vermin populations. This is because the elevated platform protects the house from these creatures. As a result, stilt houses are commonly found in marshy lands and mangrove forests.

Are stilt houses safe?

The safety and protection offered by stilt houses depend on various factors, such as materials, location, soil, and weather conditions. In the past, stilt houses in Assam were constructed using bamboo poles, thatched roofs, and wooden walls and flooring. However, with advancements in stilt house construction techniques, the use of wooden logs, boards, brick, and cement has significantly improved their safety and durability. In many places, a concrete foundation is now placed under the stilt house to enhance the quality of construction.

Stilt house-inspired modern homes

Stilt houses have been a source of inspiration for modern construction techniques that are now changing the skyline of major cities. In order to provide the benefits of stilt-style construction on a larger scale, modern techniques involve concrete pillars that elevate high-rises and buildings. These newly constructed homes are designed to withstand various natural calamities such as earthquakes and cyclones, as well as to resist different weather conditions and pollution. If you plan to invest in a property in a major city like Mumbai, it's crucial to learn about the safety systems in the project before making a purchase decision.

Conclusion

In India, stilt houses are very common in northeastern India, particularly in Assam, which experiences high rainfall and floods. However, stilt houses are also common in many other parts of the world, such as China, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Australia. The techniques used have been adapted by the locals to suit their specific conditions.