‘Make My Hut’: NITH alumni’s start-up redefining eco-friendly construction

‘Make My Hut’, a year-old start-up founded by National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur (NITH) graduates, is revolutionising sustainable construction in India. The founders left their corporate jobs to drive eco-friendly development, particularly in Himachal’s growing eco-tourism sector. Their mission is to minimise carbon footprints while preserving traditional craftsmanship and promoting sustainable living.

The company integrates traditional Vedic and vernacular building techniques with modern comforts. Using timber frameworks, rammed earth walls, dry stone masonry, Dhajji Dewari, slate roofing and bamboo slabs, Make My Hut creates energy-efficient structures that honour India’s architectural heritage.

Supporting the ‘Local for Vocal’ initiative, the start-up collaborates with regional craftsmen, including masons trained under renowned mud-house expert Didi Contractor. To revive traditional construction practices, ‘Make My Hut’ offers generous compensation to skilled artisans, ensuring the continuation of India’s rich heritage. The startup is actively constructing log huts and tourism complexes in and around Palampur using locally sourced materials.

‘Make My Hut’ also integrates carbon capture techniques, such as lime plaster and sustainable timber, to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By blending ancient wisdom with modern design, they ensure that each project is both environmentally responsible and aesthetically appealing.

The team—Vanshaj Mehta, Shubham Saini, Mayank and Muskan—brings expertise gained from mentors like Bimal Patel (HCP) and Rahul Bhushan (NORTH). Expanding their impact, the founders have also launched COWO under the CM Startup Himachal programme. This new initiative focuses on streamlining the availability of locally sourced materials, standardising them, and connecting skilled labour with sustainable construction projects. With their innovative approach, Make My Hut is setting a benchmark in eco-friendly architecture, paving the way for a greener future in India.