‘Make My Hut’: NITH Graduates Pioneering Sustainable Construction in India
In an era where sustainable development is the need of the hour, ‘Make My Hut’, a start-up founded by National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur (NITH) graduates, is setting new benchmarks in eco-friendly construction. Just a year old, the venture is making waves in India’s green architecture movement, particularly in Himachal Pradesh’s booming eco-tourism sector.
A Vision for Eco-Friendly Living
The brains behind Make My Hut—Vanshaj Mehta, Shubham Saini, Mayank, and Muskan—left their corporate careers to promote environmentally responsible construction. Their mission? To reduce carbon footprints while preserving India’s traditional craftsmanship and promoting sustainable living.
By integrating traditional Vedic and vernacular building techniques with modern comforts, the start-up is redefining architectural norms. Their approach involves using eco-friendly materials like timber frameworks, rammed earth walls, dry stone masonry, Dhajji Dewari, slate roofing, and bamboo slabs—all of which enhance energy efficiency while staying true to India’s rich architectural heritage.
Reviving Traditional Craftsmanship
Supporting the government’s ‘Local for Vocal’ initiative, Make My Hut actively collaborates with regional artisans, including masons trained under the legendary mud-house expert Didi Contractor. To keep these age-old construction practices alive, the company ensures fair wages and generous compensation for skilled workers, thereby preserving India’s heritage while creating employment opportunities.
Currently, the start-up is constructing log huts and tourism complexes in and around Palampur, using locally sourced materials that contribute to the region’s sustainable development.
Innovation Meets Sustainability
What sets Make My Hut apart is its focus on carbon capture techniques. By incorporating lime plaster and sustainable timber, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the durability and aesthetics of their structures. The company’s philosophy seamlessly blends ancient wisdom with contemporary design, making each project an example of responsible architecture.
Expanding the Green Footprint with COWO
Furthering their vision, the founders have launched COWO, an initiative under the CM Startup Himachal programme. This project aims to streamline the availability of locally sourced materials, standardize their use, and connect skilled labor with sustainable construction projects. With mentors like Bimal Patel (HCP) and Rahul Bhushan (NORTH) guiding them, the team is poised to revolutionize India’s construction industry.
A Greener Future with ‘Make My Hut’
By prioritizing sustainability, craftsmanship, and community empowerment, Make My Hut is more than just a construction company—it’s a movement towards a greener future. Their innovative approach is setting a new standard in eco-friendly architecture, paving the way for sustainable living in India.
With initiatives like these, the future of Indian construction looks not only greener but also deeply rooted in tradition.
