A Holistic Model for Sustainable Housing Design: Bridging Vastushastra and Environmental Science

Author: Piyush D. Patel, Piyushkumar J. Patel
Published Online: January 5, 2026
Abstract
References

Modern sustainable housing development necessitates the integration of conventional architectural wisdom and quantitative building science to address global resource scarcity and climate change. This paper presents a scientific framework for the comparative validation of a Hybrid Design Intervention that synthesizes the ancient Indian architectural principles of Vastushastra (VS) with contemporary Environmental Science (ES). The methodology employs a quasi experimental comparative design comparing the Hybrid Model against a Traditional Design control group over a 12-month monitoring period. Rigorous statistical control is maintained using the Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) to isolate the design‘s effect from confounding variables (e.g., occupancy and equipment load). Key performance indicators—including Energy Use Intensity (EUI), Water Use Intensity (WUI), and Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)—are objectively measured. Furthermore, Building Energy Modeling (BEM) is calibrated using strict ASHRAE Guideline 14 standards to confirm predictive accuracy. The research hypothesizes that the Hybrid Design will yield statistically significant improvements, targeting a 40% reduction in EUI and a 50% reduction in PM2.5concentration. The findings provide empirical justification for multidisciplinary design, supporting sustainable development goals (SDGs) by creating housing solutions that are both ecologically sound and culturally relevant.

Keywords: Vastushastra, Environmental Science, Hybrid Design, Sustainable Housing, Quasi-Experimental Design, ANCOVA, Building Energy Modelling (BEM),
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