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India’s underserved communities deserve spaces that inspire, protect, and endure. At BuiltX Sustainable Design & Construction, India’s only construction company dedicated to non-profits, turns those needs into reality through sustainable construction using NBC 2016. By aligning every school, hospital, and cultural hub with the National Building Code 2016, we cut operating costs, shrink carbon footprints, and elevate social impact. This blog explores how BuiltX leverages NBC 2016 to deliver safe, inclusive, and eco-friendly spaces, empowering communities through sustainable construction.

Non-profits and CSR initiatives face unique challenges: tight budgets, ambitious goals, and a need for lasting impact. BuiltX is their trusted partner, designing high-value, low-cost spaces tailored to community needs. Whether it’s a rural healthcare clinic or a school for underprivileged children, we prioritize:

• Affordability: Energy-efficient designs cut utility costs by up to 30%.
• Inclusivity: Accessible layouts ensure everyone, including those with disabilities, can use the space.‍
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials reduce environmental impact by 25% compared to traditional construction.

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The NBC 2016, India’s comprehensive construction standard, is our blueprint for safe, sustainable, and inclusive projects. Its guidelines ensure our buildings meet regulatory benchmarks while advancing NGO and CSR missions. Key NBC principles we follow include:

Sustainability is at the heart of every BuiltX project. Guided by NBC 2016’s sustainability principles, we create eco-conscious spaces that save resources and costs:

• Energy Efficiency: We use sun-path analysis to optimize building orientation, incorporate vertical fins to enhance shading, and install energy-efficient lighting—significantly reducing electricity costs for NGOs.
• Water Conservation: Rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling systems ensure water security, vital for healthcare and education facilities.‍
• Sustainable Materials: We focus on the embodied carbon impact before selecting materials, prioritizing grounded, locally sourced options to minimize environmental footprint and support local economies

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NGOs and CSRs prioritize inclusivity, serving diverse populations, including those with disabilities. NBC 2016’s Part 3- Development Control and Building Requirements, mandates accessibility features, which BuiltX embeds in every project:

• Universal Design: Ramps, wide doorways, and tactile ground indicators ensure accessibility for all.
• Accessible Facilities: Unisex accessible toilets and handrails enhance usability for people with mobility challenges.
• Community Spaces: Open layouts and signage cater to varied user groups, from children to the elderly.

Case Study: For the Akhand Jyoti Foundation in Bihar, we built a dedicated community-based patient housing facility. This center provides comfortable and accessible accommodation for patients traveling from remote and rural areas.

• Cultural Integration: Traditional elements, like verandas or open-air stages, foster community engagement.
• Stakeholder Input: We involve non-profits and end-users in planning to ensure functionality and cultural relevance.

Example: The temple located within the AJEH campus reflects the cultural values and emotional connection of patients and the surrounding community.

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Safety is paramount for non-profit facilities serving vulnerable groups. NBC 2016’s Part 4- Fire and Life Safety, guides BuiltX to implement - 

• Fire Prevention: Fire-resistant materials and compartmentalized designs limit fire spread.
• Life Safety: Clear exit routes, refuge areas, and evacuation lifts ensure safe egress during emergencies.
• Fire Protection: Fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinklers are standard in our builds.

Case Study: A hospital built for an Akhand Jyoti Foundation in Bihar includes a Fire Command Centre along with wet risers, ensuring rapid response to emergencies and protecting patients and staff.

NBC 2016’s Part 5- Building Materials, encourages the use of sustainable materials which BuiltX prioritizes using:

• Local Sourcing: Materials sourced within 50 km lower transport emissions and support local vendors.
• Third-Party Certification: We ensure materials meet Indian Standards for quality and sustainability.

Impact: The amphitheatre, built alongside the temple using 80% locally sourced materials, helped reduce construction-related emissions while creating meaningful employment for local artisans.

NBC 2016’s Part 6- Structural Design, ensures our buildings withstand environmental challenges:

• Seismic Safety: Reinforced foundations and load-bearing walls comply with seismic zoning guidelines.
• Flood Resistance: Elevated plinths (0.6 m) protect against water damage.
• Durability: High-quality concrete and steel along with good workmanship ensures long-term structural integrity.

Example: Katihar Medical College & Hospital in Bihar was built with features such as elevated plinths and seismic reinforcements, ensuring safety for students, staff, and patients.

NBC 2016’s Part 9- Plumbing Services and Part 11- Approach to Sustainability, guide BuiltX’s water and waste strategies:

• Planning phase: In the planning phase, the focus is on evaluating raw water sources, site topography, population density, and intended water usage, while also considering wastewater treatment needs.
• Construction phase: During Construction, the protection of existing surface and groundwater resources and suitability integrated in the building and layout plan. 
• Operational phase: In operation, low-flow fixtures are implemented, and systems are designed with appropriate water pressure to optimize efficiency. Dual piping systems and wastewater reuse are integrated to ensure sustainable water use, while contamination controls protect potable water

NBC 2016’s Part 10- Landscape Development, inspires BuiltX to create functional outdoor spaces:

• Tree Preservation: Existing trees and native vegetation were preserved in situ, maintaining ecological balance and minimizing site disturbance.
• Permeable Paving: Reduces runoff and supports groundwater recharge.

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Impact: At the KMCH anatomy block, existing trees were preserved in situ and native species were introduced, aligning with NBC 2016 guidelines. Combined with permeable paving, these features create a resilient, low-maintenance landscape that reduces runoff, recharges groundwater, and enhances ecological balance.

BuiltX is proud to be India’s only construction company dedicated to non-profits, leveraging NBC 2016 to deliver sustainable, inclusive, and resilient spaces. Our alignment with NBC’s standards ensures that every project meets the highest benchmarks of safety, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, perfectly suited to the missions of NGOs and CSRs.

Why Choose BuiltX?

• Expertise: Three decades of construction experience tailored to non-profit needs.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly designs that lower costs and environmental impact.
• Empathy: Community-focused solutions that amplify social impact.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us at contact@builtxsdc.com or visit our website to explore how we can partner to create transformative spaces for India’s communities.

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