Discovering 15 Different Types of Houses in India

In this modern era, the real estate industry showcases a diverse range of housing options, reflecting architectural innovation and lifestyle preferences. Whether it’s apartments, bungalows, villas, or even palaces, havelis, and farmhouses, the choices are vast. Your decision to buy a house depends on factors like budget, lifestyle, and architectural taste.

This guide provides insight into 15 types of houses in India, highlighting their contemporary styling, architecture, and finishing. Let’s explore the variety of Indian residencies!

What is a House?

A house basically means a residential structure made with bricks, wood, or other elements like bamboo and mud. The word ‘house’ originated from the old English word ‘hus’ that means ‘dwelling’.

In India, different types of houses cater to different needs based on factors like location, lifestyle, and financial status. Urban areas typically feature apartments, bungalows, and cottages, while metropolitan zones are increasingly characterized by condominiums and penthouses.

15 Different Types of Houses in India

Flats or Apartments

Flats or apartments are the most prevalent housing options in India, typically found within multi-storey buildings. Flats are individual units within a building, distinguished by doors and various configurations ranging from 1 to 4 BHK Luxurious apartments often offer additional amenities such as gyms, indoor gaming areas, and swimming pools.

Bungalows

Bungalows are typically single-storey or occasionally one-and-a-half-storey homes featuring ample outdoor space, including porches and backyards. The emphasis on greenery and floral landscaping enhances the exterior ambience, providing a tranquil and recreational atmosphere.

Villas

Originating from the Italian term for “country houses,” villas are spacious residences with airy rooms. They often feature lofty ceilings, lawns, and pools for a luxurious lifestyle. These homes are typically found on one or two floors and are sought after for their opulent design and amenities.

Palace

Palaces embody royalty and luxury and are often found in India as heritage sites. They are expansive dwellings with multiple floors and rooms characterised by traditional architectural elements inside and out. Every detail, from the positioning of the main door to the placement of plants and fountains, exudes grandeur and sophistication.

RK / Studio Rooms

Studio rooms offer compact yet comfortable living spaces ideal for professionals, bachelors, or couples. These organised dwellings typically include a small bedroom, living area, and open kitchenette, providing all the necessary amenities with minimal maintenance.

Condominium (Condo)

Distinct from apartments, condos consist of individual residential units within a building, each owned by an individual but managed collectively by an association. Residents share access to amenities such as terraces, pools, gyms, and clubhouses, fostering a sense of community and convenience.

Cottage

Cottages are quaint single-storey residences often found in rural areas, constructed with natural materials like mud, clay, and bricks. Cottages feature front porches and thatched roofs and a cozy and rustic living environment suited for small families.

Penthouse

Penthouses are the top floors of high-rise buildings, offering luxurious amenities such as private elevators, landscaped terraces, and vaulted ceilings. These prestigious residences boast unparalleled views and extravagant living spaces.

Farmhouse

Farmhouses provide a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful lifestyle amidst greenery and spacious gardens. Typically located in rural areas, these homes are constructed with natural elements like clay, wood, and brick, offering a tranquil environment away from city life.

Treehouse

Nestled within the branches of trees, treehouses offer a unique residential experience in forested areas. Constructed primarily from bamboo, leaves, and wood, these homes provide a peaceful escape from urban life, surrounded by fresh air and natural beauty.

Row Houses

Row houses are situated in rows within gated communities, offering individual residences with shared neighbourhood amenities. Combining the functionality of flats and bungalows, these homes provide both privacy and community living.

Townhouses

Distinct from row houses, townhouses share common walls but offer individual entrances, multiple floors, and spacious living areas. They have separate dining rooms, living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms and provide ample living space within a multi-storey layout.

Haveli

Havelis are ancient residential spaces in India, rich in architectural and cultural significance. Preserved as historical monuments, these grand homes showcase intricate designs and traditional craftsmanship, often attracting tourists with their historical and cultural value.

Kutcha House

Kutcha houses, made from natural materials like mud, grass, bamboo, and thatch, are popular in rural villages for their peaceful living environments. However, these temporary dwellings lack durability and may not offer strong protection from external threats.

Duplex House

Duplex houses consist of two separate residential units, either stacked on two floors or positioned side by side. Connected by staircases, these homes share common living areas and kitchens, offering families spacious and functional living spaces.

Types of Traditional Houses in India

• Rajasthan’s Haveli: Havelis are the pride of India and one of the most famous types of houses in Rajasthan. Havelis consist of beautiful courtyards, jharokhas, intricate pillars, and carved doors. Made with sandstone, wood, plaster, marble, and granite, Havellis carry the historical significance of Mughal, Persian, and Indian architectures.
• Karnataka’s Guttu Houses: These traditional dwellings are popular among the Bunt community. They are built with steeply pitched roofs and double-storeyed blocks around a courtyard.
• Kerala’s Nalukettu: The Nalukettu, a traditional house in Kerala, is typically constructed on expansive grounds and comprises four blocks surrounding an open courtyard. Constructed using materials such as clay, timber, palm leaves, and stone, it embodies Kerala’s architectural heritage.
• West Bengal’s Bungalows: Bungalows are built on a single floor and spread with a veranda. Sloped roofs, large windows, open floor plans, and wide front porches are some of the key features of a Bungalow.
• Assam’s Chang Ghar: The Chang house is a traditional dwelling found among the indigenous tribes of the upper region of Assam. It seamlessly blends modern living with cultural heritage, featuring bamboo stilts or wooden poles as its primary structural elements.
• Kutch’s Bhungas: Bhungas, traditional houses found in Kutch, are known for their distinctive round shape and thatched roofs. Mud is the primary building material used to construct these structures.

How to Choose from the Different Types of Houses?

Figure out the locality

Before choosing a residential area, consider factors like your love for nature and the need for tranquillity. If you prefer a quiet space away from city life, rural areas offering farmhouses or cottages might be ideal for you.

Consider your lifestyle

Your lifestyle significantly influences your choice of residence. For instance, a studio room could suit your needs if you’re a working professional living with a partner and prefer a compact, well-organized space.

Stick to a budget

Budget considerations are crucial when buying or renting a house. Options like apartments, studio rooms, and condominiums are suitable for those with lower budgets, while villas and penthouses cater to those with higher budgets.

Make a list of non-negotiable conveniences

Identify essential amenities that you cannot compromise on, such as open spaces or gym facilities. Ensure that your chosen residence meets these requirements before finalizing your decision.

Indian House Names

• Ambar: It is a great name for your dream residency that means ‘Sky.’ This name can be used for a high-rise property.
• Ashraya: ‘Ashraya’ means ‘Shelter’ and can be used in any type of house that gives you protection from external threats.
• Bhavan: ‘Bhavan’ is the most common name of Indian houses that means ‘House’.
• Prem: The Sanskrit word ‘Prem’ means ‘Love’ that can be used to recognise your loveable dwelling.
• Dwaraka: ‘Dwarka,’ a spiritual connotation, meaning the ‘Holy city of Krishna.’ This name can be used for a pure place which is none other than your home!
• Rachan: A house built with superior creativity can be named Rachana, which means ‘Creative.’

Conclusion

What is a House?

A house is intended for human residence, offering living space and essential amenities. It typically includes rooms for various purposes such as living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation.

15 different types of houses in India

• Flats or Apartments
• Bungalows
• Villas
• Palace
• RK / Studio Rooms
• Condominium (Condo)
• Cottage
• Penthouses
• Farmhouse
• Treehouse
• Row Houses
• Townhouses
• Haveli
• Kutcha House
• Duplex House

Types of traditional houses in India

• Rajasthan’s Haveli
• Karnataka’s Guttu Houses
• Kerala’s Nalukettu
• West Bengal’s Bungalows
• Assam’s Chang Ghar
• Kutch’s Bhungas

How to choose from the different types of houses?

• Figure out the locality
• Consider your lifestyle
• Stick to a budget
• Make a list of non-negotiable conveniences

Indian house names

• Ambar
• Ashraya
• Bhavan
• Prem
• Dwaraka
• Rachan