The Use of Stone in Housing Construction in Pokhara, Nepal
While stone houses are not limited to a specific geographic location, in Pokhara, Nepal, these structures are a common sight. The construction of houses using stone in Pokhara is not merely a preference based on aesthetics but a practical choice influenced by environmental, cultural, and economic factors.
Environmental Factors
The region around Pokhara is one of the few places where natural stone resources are abundant. This availability of materials makes stone an accessible and viable building option. Additionally, stone is a resilient material that can withstand the regional weather, including heavy rains and occasional earthquakes due to its presence in the Himalayan region.
Cultural Factors
The use of stone in construction reflects the cultural heritage and architectural styles of the area. Traditional building practices in this region typically favor stone construction. These practices not only contribute to the cultural identity of the community but also maintain the aesthetic appeal of the landscape, blending well with the natural surroundings.
Economic Factors
Stone houses, while slightly more expensive initially, provide long-term benefits for homeowners. Stone structures do not require annual painting, which significantly reduces maintenance costs. Moreover, stone walls are weather-resistant, making them durable and strong, which further reduces the need for repairs and maintenance.
Aesthetic and Functional Benefits
Stone homes in Pokhara offer several functional benefits. During the hot summers, the thermal properties of stone help to keep homes cool, providing a comfortable living environment. In the cooler nights, stone structures remain warm, reducing the need for additional heating. Additionally, the aesthetic design of stone houses, often featuring cut-piece plain stones pasted on the outer walls, creates a beautiful and timeless appearance. Even the occasional discoloration of stone walls due to exposure to the sun or rain does not detract from the overall charm of the house.
Modern Approaches
Nowadays, some residents of Pokhara are beginning to incorporate tiles into their stone structures, which can be more economical than pasting stones. However, tiles are prone to discoloration over time with exposure to the sun or rain, unlike stone, which retains its color. The focus of residents in Pokhara is more on creating a beautiful, well-facilitated living space rather than constructing bigger houses. This is a stark contrast to the situation in Kathmandu, where residents can add rooms or floors to their houses by pasting stones on the walls, offering an immediate return on investment through room rentals.
People in Pokhara prefer to have a smaller, separate house for their families, often including a little garden and stone walls around the house. This approach aligns with their cultural values and lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of family and natural beauty over expansive and commercial living spaces.
Conclusion
The use of stone in housing construction in Pokhara is a multifaceted decision driven by environmental, cultural, and economic factors. It offers practical, aesthetic, and economic benefits, making it a popular choice among residents. Understanding these factors can help both locals and tourists appreciate the unique characteristics of stone-houses in Pokhara.