Innovation

Guided by the insightful leadership of Mr. Rahul Bhushan, North in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, embarks on a journey that harmoniously blends traditional wisdom with modern comforts. Mr. Bhushan's visionary approach involves leveraging the accumulated knowledge of ancestors, infusing it into contemporary architecture, and integrating modern amenities, aligning seamlessly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In the pursuit of sustainable living, North celebrates the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh by incorporating ancestral knowledge into its architectural endeavors. The utilization of traditional construction techniques, such as Dhajji Deewari and Kath Kunni, becomes a cornerstone of North's commitment to eco-friendly practices and innovative solutions. This deliberate integration not only honors the wisdom passed down through generations but also aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering sustainable building practices.

As North's community, under Mr. Bhushan's leadership, delves into the amalgamation of tradition and modernity, the result is a unique living experience. The houses at North not only stand as a testament to the time-tested practices of ancestors but also embrace modern facilities and amenities, embodying a holistic approach to sustainable living. This approach resonates with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), as North becomes a model for creating harmonious and inclusive communities that balance tradition with contemporary needs.

In the story of North, led by Mr. Rahul Bhushan, the infusion of ancestral knowledge into modern living spaces creates a narrative that champions sustainability and cultural preservation. It becomes a living example of how heritage and innovation can coexist, contributing to a better world in line with the UN SDGs.

Inspiration

Mr. Rahul Bhushan, the driving force behind North in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, finds inspiration in his roots and a commitment to positive change. Raised in Shimla, his early experiences navigating the challenges of his community and appreciating the natural beauty of the surroundings sparked a desire for meaningful transformation. Observing his father's journey within the hierarchical system of the PWD fueled his early aspirations to reshape the region.

During his master's research on the ancient architecture of the western Himalayas, Mr Bhushan discovered the wealth of indigenous knowledge in practices like Kath Kunni. This discovery became a catalyst for his commitment to merge ancestral wisdom with modern innovation. He draws inspiration from a pragmatic approach rooted in the challenges faced by his community. He states, "We cannot use the old stones or the materials because it would be unaffordable and inefficient. We need to integrate knowledge gained over years and use it to our benefit." This statement reflects Bhushan's deep connection to his surroundings, acknowledging the practical constraints of relying solely on traditional materials while emphasizing the imperative to adapt accumulated wisdom for practical, contemporary solutions.

Bhushan's inspiration lies in the realization that a sustainable vision for the future must reconcile the past with the present. The statement underscores his commitment to finding viable alternatives and leveraging the wealth of knowledge inherited from previous generations to address the current challenges of affordability and efficiency. This practical mindset drives North's innovative architectural solutions, reflecting Bhushan's aspiration to create a space that harmoniously blends tradition with contemporary needs.

In essence, Mr. Rahul Bhushan's inspiration for North is rooted in a deep connection to Himachal Pradesh, a commitment to positive change, and a vision to weave together the threads of tradition and modernity in the pursuit of sustainable and harmonious living. His leadership embodies a commitment to creating a space that honors the past, embraces the present, and shapes a better future for the community and the environment.

Overall impact

Led by Mr. Rahul Bhushan, North in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, initiated a transformative approach to sustainable living by blending traditional Himachali knowledge with innovative architectural techniques. The community at North actively engages in research, workshops, and the preservation of indigenous crafts, embodying a commitment to holistic, community-driven development.

The innovative architectural techniques at North, including Dhajji Deewari and Kath Kunni, revolutionized the construction landscape in the region. Short-term effects included the creation of carbon-negative cabins like Dhajji House, showcasing a departure from conventional methods. Long-term impacts were evident in the sustained commitment to eco-friendly practices, influencing the construction industry's ethos in the region. The integration of indigenous crafts and permaculture practices also enriched the community's cultural fabric and sustainable agricultural methods.

The journey began with the restoration of an abandoned colonial forest building, marking the inception of North's commitment to sustainable architecture and community development. Short-term effects materialized as architectural projects flourished, while long-term impacts unfolded gradually, contributing to a broader shift in regional construction practices.

Situated in Naggar, Himachal Pradesh, North became a focal point for innovative sustainable practices in the heart of the western Himalayas. The regional impact is tangible in the built environment and cultural resurgence facilitated by North's initiatives.

Evidence of short-term impact is visible in the construction of Dhajji House, showcasing the immediate influence of innovative techniques. Long-term effects are substantiated by the sustained commitment to sustainable architecture, as demonstrated by ongoing projects and the flourishing community engaged in eco-friendly practices. The integration of indigenous crafts and permaculture practices reflects a lasting impact on the cultural and agricultural aspects of the region, validating North's approach to holistic, sustainable development.

Business benefit

North, under the guidance of Mr. Rahul Bhushan, derives significant benefits from its innovative approach. The emphasis on unique architectural techniques, such as Dhajji Deewari and Kath Kunni, positions the business as a distinctive player in the market, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers seeking sustainable living solutions. This market differentiation enhances North's competitive edge and market appeal.

Operational efficiency is a key advantage for North. Completing projects within a short timeframe of 7-9 months and managing multiple projects concurrently showcases the business's streamlined operations. This efficiency not only allows for a quicker turnaround but also contributes to a diverse and robust project portfolio. The ability to handle several projects simultaneously broadens North's client base and attracts stakeholders with varied needs.

Mr. Bhushan's holistic approach to team development pays dividends for North. Training team members not only in technical skills but also in the organizational vision fosters a cohesive and aligned team. This unity is crucial for efficient project execution and positively influences employee retention and well-being. The business benefits not just from skilled individuals but from a collective commitment to the shared vision.

Financial sustainability is inherent in North's innovative model. While exact revenue figures are not disclosed, the commitment to continuous learning, societal impact, and a focus beyond immediate profits ensures a sustainable financial trajectory. This forward-looking perspective aligns with a long-term vision, positioning North for enduring success and growth in the dynamic landscape of sustainable architecture.

Social and environmental benefit

North's commitment to sustainable housing solutions blends the traditional techniques of Dhajji Dewari and Kath-Kuni, offering environmentally conscious alternatives. Dhajji Dewari's "patchwork quilt wall" construction, utilizing local materials like Deodar/Kali wood and slate, reflects North's dedication to reducing ecological footprints and promoting resilience to earthquakes.

Simultaneously, Kath-Kuni, an indigenous method using wood and stone masonry, aligns with North's ethos of preserving cultural heritage and sustainable living. The technique, draped along the landscape contours, mirrors North's commitment to holistic community living.

North's dedication goes beyond aesthetics; it extends to state-of-the-art engineering analysis to assess Dhajji Dewari's earthquake resistance. This commitment aims to provide resilient alternatives to conventional construction, particularly in disaster-prone areas.

The integration of Dhajji Dewari and Kath-Kuni represents North's vision for sustainable housing in vulnerable regions. By reviving these traditional building sciences, North aspires to create disaster-resistant communities, marrying heritage preservation with innovative solutions for environmentally conscious living in the Himalayan region.

Interview

Rahul Bhushan, Founder/Director