Integrating Traditional Indian Architectural Practices into Modern Hospital Designs for Energy Efficiency: A Literature Review

Abstract

Buildings are among the largest consumers of energy in the world and hospitals consume approximately 2.5 times more energy per square meter than standard commercial buildings. This high energy demand underscores the need for innovative and sustainable energy-saving solutions in healthcare design. Traditional Indian architecture wisdom, which is deeply rooted in strategies for climate and indigenous residents, provides practical and effective solutions to solve these problems. In this literature review, the traditional Indian architecture principle is integrated into modern hospital designs to enhance energy efficiency. The study highlights successful case studies, including Fortis Mohali, Aakash Hospital, AIIMS Bhopal, Fortis Gurgaon, and Fortis Hospital New Delhi, which have effectively incorporated features such as natural ventilation, courtyards, and locally sourced materials. These elements are combined with the latest technologies of renewable energy sources to demonstrate significant reduction in energy consumption and operating costs, and at the same time creates healing and sustainable environments. Summarizing these examples and emphasizing the importance of amalgamating traditional wisdom with modern technologies, this article emphasizes the essential role of use traditional architecture techniques in developing energy-efficient, environmentally resilient hospital designs. The findings advocate for adopting traditional architectural practices to achieve sustainable healthcare infrastructure that aligns with global and national sustainability goals.