Setbacks feature in building codes in India as well. However, most areas are developed haphazardly in rather unauthorized way so you see narrow lanes with 4-5 floors on both sides. Courtyards are uncommon.
Even with setbacks, buildings with 4-5 stories on narrow roads give a defined traditional looking form.
There are great many examples of imperfect courtyards. Housing complexes are built with many say 5-8 story buildings around a courtyard provide an irregular form.
Just to clarify, setbacks exist only in planned areas. In any case , planned construction largely is now of housing complexes which have internal streets and semi-courtyards.
To what extent can modern technologies like light tunnels and whole house fans help further to address the natural light and ventilation concerns that originally drove setback rules?
Like light wells? They can, but it’s very easy to create natural light and ventilation through design. A wide and shallow building with a wing extending back along one side of a lot (imagine an L shape). Strong FAR but amazing lighting and ventilation through passive design
Apartment buildings are also built in India with irregular looking profile such that there are no common walls and thus windows are provided for all rooms. However, it doesn't look very elegant.
Setbacks feature in building codes in India as well. However, most areas are developed haphazardly in rather unauthorized way so you see narrow lanes with 4-5 floors on both sides. Courtyards are uncommon.
Even with setbacks, buildings with 4-5 stories on narrow roads give a defined traditional looking form.
There are great many examples of imperfect courtyards. Housing complexes are built with many say 5-8 story buildings around a courtyard provide an irregular form.
Just to clarify, setbacks exist only in planned areas. In any case , planned construction largely is now of housing complexes which have internal streets and semi-courtyards.
To what extent can modern technologies like light tunnels and whole house fans help further to address the natural light and ventilation concerns that originally drove setback rules?
Like light wells? They can, but it’s very easy to create natural light and ventilation through design. A wide and shallow building with a wing extending back along one side of a lot (imagine an L shape). Strong FAR but amazing lighting and ventilation through passive design
https://x.com/urbancourtyard/status/2001424337325133856?s=46
Apartment buildings are also built in India with irregular looking profile such that there are no common walls and thus windows are provided for all rooms. However, it doesn't look very elegant.
Excellent, as always.
thank you!!