Vernacular architecture of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan is indeed the most colourful state in India. It has a unique architecture and is renowned for it
all over the world. The architecture of Rajasthan is mainly based on the Rajput school of architecture
which was a blend of the Hindu and Mughal structural design. The stupendous forts, the intricately
carved temples and the grandhavelis of the state are integral parts of the architectural heritage of the
state. The Rajputs were prolific builders. Some of the most imposing and magnificent forts and palaces
in the world dot the arid Aravali landscape and tell the tales of their glorious legacy.

Components of Rajasthan Architecture.

Haveli: Between 1830 and 1930, the affluent Marwaris constructed huge mansions in the Shekhawati
and Marwar region. These buildings were called Havelis. They were heavily influenced by the Mughal
architecture in their construction. There were two courtyards in a typical Shekhawati haveli. The outer
courtyard was mainly inhabited by men and the inner one was the domain of women. The also sported
beautiful and appealing frescoes and were closed from all sides with one large main gate. This provided
security and comfort in seclusion from the outside world.

COURTYARDS

The traditional Indian courtyard is built on the principles of Vastu Shastra, which state that all spaces
emerge from single point, that is, the centre of the house. All other activities revolve around this centre,
which has some divine power and energy associated with it – radiating through the entire house.
The origin of courtyards can be traced to the Indus Valley Civilisation, and they continued with the
Aryans (before10thcentury). With the shaping up of various cultures, there was a transition from the
cluster court to the private court. The entry of the Islamic rulers (14thcentury) into northern India
brought in the key issue of treating open space in building design, to respond tithe harsh climate. The
advent of the British led to amerced change in the architectural style and the concept of the courtyard .

Jharokha

This particular fenestration detail is known as "Jharokhas" which is found widely in the western part of
India. It is a type of overhanging - enclosed or semi enclosed which was widely used in not only in
traditional Indian architecture but also in Islamic Architecture. In Islamic Architecture it is known as
'Mashrabia'. It has monumental scale and make it as a outstanding architectural character. It mainly
represents two architectural style Rajasthani Architecture (Western Indian Architecture). It is most
distinctive type of facade decorated with intricate lattice work. It is a projecting window from the wall, in
an upper storey, overlooking a street, market, court or any other open space.
PAVILIONS

They came into being by multiplying very simple spatial units in modules. Consisting of four columns and
a roof. Irrespective of the style and construction method, their essence is the same. Mandapas and
baradaris are some outstanding examples of spaces created to provide well-articulated shelters for
gatherings or for pleasure. Pleasure pavilions known as baradaris have an extremely sophisticated form
in Rajput and Mughal complexes. The most important aspect of this kind of space is that it offers a
simultaneous experience of the inside and the outside. 

Entrances in Rajasthan

In many cultures, entrances are intentionally indirect in order to achieve greater privacy. On the other
hand, there are numerous examples all over the world, where a single door can be the total and only
link between the inside and the outside. In yet another form, an entrance may be the prelude through
which one is introduced to the interior right from the first step. Vet is not shown the inside completely.

CONTROL OF HEATING BY TEXTURE OF SURFACES:

The heat inside of the building is controlled by the use of textures in Jaisalmer. This is organized at two
levels. 
At the town scale the buildings are of unequal height with parapets and high walls, creating uneven sky
lines and desired shading of each other. 
Secondly, the building facades have large number of projections like jharokhas and chajjas which
provide shade to the facades.