The Northeast grows a large share of India's bamboo, yet most of it is used only for temporary structures. With the right treatment and detailing, bamboo can be a durable, beautiful building material.
Why bamboo works
Bamboo grows to full size in three to five years, has excellent tensile strength and is light enough to perform well in earthquakes. It also stores carbon, making it one of the greenest materials available.
Making it last
Untreated bamboo is attacked by insects and fungus. Borax-boric acid treatment, a raised base that keeps it away from ground moisture, and a roof overhang that protects it from rain can give bamboo structures a life of several decades.
We regularly use treated bamboo for screens, pergolas, ceilings and even full structures in resorts and community buildings.