Architectural designs: The bungalow style
Bungalows are preferred in Uganda because they are cost-effective.
The word bungalow is actually derived from the word “Bangla”, which refers to then native Indian language Bengali (West Bengal, India). This term was used to refer to the style of a house that was typical in the region, and received great attention during the British rule in India. With some of its characteristic features that appealed to the British, this form of style was soon introduced in Great Britain and later found its place all over.
Such a style is usually small and detached from other homes, so it is relatively inexpensive to build. The bungalow style has become popular with the lower middle class moving from apartments to private homes.
Bungalows were the perfect option because they were modest, inexpensive and low profile. They have ended up taking Kampala suburbs by storm because they provided an affordable housing option many Ugandans only dreamed of. This style referred to any single family unit in India.
The features
Indentifying features of the bungalow vary as each style appears. The bungalow, for instance has broad low proportions and lack ornamentation and many times blends with the landscape. The interiors are simple rooms with minimal hall.
Also, some bungalows have one or one and a half storey (the upper storey only covered half the surface area of the lower storey). Some may have two storeys with cottage like appearance and low sloping roofs with eaves, primarily horizontal shape. They have large porches held together with square columns.
House plan
Open floor plans (kitchen and dining are connected to living room). The living space comprised one floor that being the ground floor and rooms are connect with each other from within. It is because of these features that the bungalow style home has become a great choice for many. Most of our homes are actually based on this style. They are constructed in a way that allows for a lot of ventilation, and because they were simple to construct in terms of cost, time, and effort, They have been found to be viable.
Similar styles
While maintaining the basic features of the bungalow style, other styles have emerged in the region, which were variations of the traditional structure. These included the Spanish Colonial revival bungalow and the Craftsman bungalow (inspired from the arts and crafts architectural style), among others.
All these styles have introduced variations particularly in terms of the materials used in construction. However, you may find it a bit difficult to identify a traditional bungalow from its varied counterparts because the changes are not obvious.
With its easy maintenance and simple construction methods, bungalow style homes have become a preferred choice for many home owners in Uganda. Further, with the time and cost effectiveness, there is no reason why you too shouldn’t consider this style as a choice for your home. It is bound to give you a unique living experience, and one that will definitely be enjoyable.
