This issue of Beyond Walls takes readers inside the invisible infrastructure of modern architecture. It covers water supply, distribution, drainage, sanitation, plumbing, fire fighting, and rainwater harvesting—each explained with diagrams, sketches, and expert insights. The editors show how these systems influence architectural planning and how smart, sustainable technologies are transforming…
beyond walls TheT H E U N S E E N T E C H N O L O G Y S H A P I N G T O M O R R O W ’ S B U I L D I N G S .August 2026BUILDING SERVICES Smart. Efficient. Connected.
Letter from the editor Architecture is more than what we see. Behind every wall, ceiling and floor lies a network of systems that keeps a building functioning, comfortable and safe. This issue explores the often- unseen world of Building Services — from water supply, plumbing and drainage to sanitation and firefighting systems. We look at how these services work, how they influence architectural planning, and how emerging technologies are making them smarter and more sustainable. Through diagrams, sketches, photographs and architectural insights, this magazine aims to bring these hidden systems to the foreground and show how closely architecture and building services are connected. Because sometimes, the most important parts of a building are the ones we never see. — The Editors Dear Reader, GHANISHTHA VARSHNEY SANABIL RAZA03
From collection to storage — exploring how water enters, is treated and becomes ready for the building.Water Supply- The SourceSmart networks, pressure control and leak detection that keep water moving efficiently through the building.Water Distribution- The FlowHow wastewater moves, breathes and leaves the building through efficient and contemporary drainage systems.Drainage- The Hidden RouteTouchless fixtures, water-efficient WCs and intelligent technologies transforming everyday sanitation.Sanitation- The Smart BathroomNew-age pipes, innovative joints and prefabricated systems working behind the finished wall.Plumbing- Inside the NetworkIntelligent detection, smart sprinklers and connected systems designed to protect people and buildings.Fire Fighting- When Buildings RespondCollecting, filtering, storing and reusing rainwater for more resilient and sustainable buildings.Rainwater Harvesting- Capture the RainTABLEcontentsof05
Beyond the Beyond theWALLA building is more than its walls, floors and façades. Hidden within its architecture is an intricate network of systems that supplies water, carries waste, protects against fire and makes everyday spaces function. Today, these systems are becoming smarter, more efficient and increasingly integrated with the architecture itself.06
From basic infrastructure to intelligent systems, building services have evolved to become smarter, move efficient and deeply integrated with architecture.The EVOLUTION OFBUILDING SERVICESB U I L D I N G S E R V I C E S A R E N O L O N G E R J U S T I N F R A S T R U C T U R E . B U I L D I N G S E R V I C E S A R E N O L O N G E R J U S T I N F R A S T R U C T U R E . THEY ARE BECOMING MAGIC LAYERS OF ARCHITECTURETHEY ARE BECOMING MAGIC LAYERS OF ARCHITECTURE07
systemWATERSupplyA building water supply system collects, treats, stores and distributes water to meet the needs of its occupants. Through a coordinated network of tanks, pumps, pipes, valves and control devices, it delivers water at the right quantity, pressure and quality where it is needed.T H E N E T W O R K B E H I N D E V E R Y D R O P .NBC 2016 Part 9 – Plumbing Services, Section 1. IS 2065- Water Supply in Buildings IS 1172- Water Supply, Drainage & Sanitation08
Where services meet spacesWATER SUPPLY IS MORE THAN A TECHNICAL SYSTEM — IT INFLUENCES HOW SPACES ARE PLANNED, CONNECTED AND SERVICED.01 CLUSTER WET AREAS Keep kitchens, toilets and utility spaces close to reduce pipe runs. 02 PLAN SERVICE SHAFTS Provide dedicated shafts for efficient routing, access and maintenance. 03 ALLOCATE SERVICE SPACES Reserve space for water tanks, pumps and control equipment. 04 COORDINATE WITH STRUCTURE Integrate pipes with slabs, beams, walls and other building services. 05 DESIGN FOR MAINTENANCE Keep service routes accessible while concealing pipes within the architecture.10
WATERSOURCESofaMUNICIPAL SUPPLY GROUNDWATER (BOREWELL) RAINWATER TREATED/ RECLAIMED WATERTreated water supplied by the local authority through an underground pipeline network.Water extracted from underground sources through borewells or open wells.Rainwater collected from rooftops and surfaces and stored for later use or recharge.Wastewater treated and reused for non- potable applications.11
tomorrowinnovationsShapingSMART MONITORING SYSTEMSADVANCED WATER TREATMENTLEAK DETECTIONENERGY EFFICIENT SYSTEMSReal time tracking of water flow, quality & usageInnovative filtration and purification technologies ensure safer water.Smart algorithms & acoustic sensors detect leaks earlySmart pumps & renewable sources lower energy use & operating costs13
water Distribution networksGood distribution is not simply about moving water; it is about delivering the right amount, at the right pressure, to the right place — with minimum loss.A water distribution system is the network of pipes, pumps, valves, storage tanks and fittings that carries water from the building’s storage or supply point to individual fixtures at the required flow and pressure.NBC 2016 – Part 9, Section 1: Water Supply IS 10500: Drinking Water Quality IS 17482:2020: Piped Drinking Water Supply Management14
Anatomy ofThe Flow15
WaterFlowinGrey Water TankBoauber PurgUltrafrication MembersSodium Hydrolyze DoingOverflowGrey WaterNon-Priable WaterBlack WaterGrey WaterRecirculationOxidant DosingDisc FilterFeed PumpTreated Grey Water TankMains Water Top-upNon-Priable WaterWater enters the building and is stored before being treated where required. Pumps move the water through the distribution network, while pressure-control devices maintain adequate flow. Risers and branch pipes finally deliver water to individual fixtures.16
ROOF WATER OVERHEAD TANK SUPPLIES WATER TO ALL LEVELSTYPICAL FLOOR BATHROOM & UTILITY CONNECTIONS3TYPICAL FLOOR BATHROOM & UTILITY CONNECTIONSTYPICAL FLOOR BATHROOM & UTILITY CONNECTIONS5LOWER FLOOR SUPPLY TO FIXTURES AND OUTDOOR POINTSBASEMENT PLANT PUMPING SYSTEM & WATER STORAGE TANKS124FIRE HOSE REEL CONNECTED TO THE WATER SUPPLY671124576followingFlowthe17
DrainageSYSTEMSEfficient drainage protects, preserves and prepares- quitely shaping the shapes we live in .From surface runoff to underground networks, drainage system ensure hygiene, safety and sustainability in every built environment. A well- designed drainage system works unseen, yet its presence is felt in every dry street, clean river and protected community.18
THE HIDDEN ROUTE A drainage system collects wastewater and surface runoff, carries it safely away from occupied spaces, and prevents foul gases, flooding and contamination from entering the building. 01 — WASTE FROM WITHIN Wastewater from sinks, showers, kitchens and WCs enters a network of pipes. Gravity carries the flow through branch pipes and vertical stacks towards the building drain and sewer. 02 — WATER FROM ABOVE Rainwater is collected through roof outlets, gutters and surface drains, then directed towards stormwater drains, recharge systems or safe discharge points.19
wall without drainagewall with drainage20
internaldrainageOutlet positioning should respond to floor slope, structural constraints and efficient pipe routing. Offset outlet — flexible pipe routing Central outlet — direct drainage path Side outlet — avoids service conflicts21
FLOOR DRAIN FLOOR DRAIN WITH TRAP PRIMER SQUARE FLOOR DRAIN ROUND DRAINTYPES OFdrainsTypical size: 100–150 mm Price: ₹250–₹1,500Typical size: 100–150 mm Price: ₹1,500–₹4,500+Typical size: 100–150 mm Price: ₹300–₹1,800Typical size: Ø100–150 mm Price: ₹300–₹1,50022
Membrane continues up and over the threshold.Cement backerboard is held up 1”in. from the membrane; nails are located higher than the threshold.2½-in. to 3-in. mud base for tileDrain assemblyMud layer pitched at ¼ in. per ft.Thinset bonds the mud to the subfloor.Subfloor must be solid.Felt paper MembraneLayers of ashower panDRAIN COVERHAIR FILTERDRAIN BODYTHREATED ADAPTERBASE FLANGEDraindetail23
SanitationSYSTEMSSanitation is the safe collection, conveyance, treatment and disposal of human waste and wastewater to protect public health, hygiene and the environment.Good sanitation keeps waste away from people, water and the environment.24
What are its parts?Sanitary fixtures – WC, basin, urinal Traps – Prevent sewer gases Soil pipe – Carries WC waste Waste pipe – Carries wastewater Vent pipe – Releases gases Manhole – Inspection & cleaning Building drain – Carries sewage to disposalWhat types are available? One pipe Soil+waste in one pipe Two pipe Soil & waste seperated Single stack Common vertical stack Partially ventilated Extra ventilation for traps25
SANITATIONfixtures26
TANKLESS WALL MOUNTED WATER CLOSETCOLOURED WATER CLOSET ₹20,000/- TO ₹30,000/-INTELLIGENT WATER CLOSET₹1,00,000/- TO ₹2,00,000/- ₹80,000/- TO ₹90,000/- COLOURED WASH BASIN ₹5,000/- TO ₹10,000/- OVER THE COUNTER BASINS ₹5,000/- TO ₹10,000/- UNDER THE COUNTER BASINS ₹5,000/- TO ₹6,000/- ₹15,000/- TO ₹20,000/- ₹40,000/- TO ₹50,000/- ₹40,000/- TO ₹50,000/- SHOWER CONSOLECEILING SHOWERBATHTUBFIXTURES27
Plumbing is the building service system that supplies clean water to fixtures and safely carries wastewater away through a network of pipes, fittings, valves and control devices. “Plumbing is the hidden network that makes a building usable, hygienic and comfortable.”LUMBINGPNBC 2016 – Part 9: Plumbing Services IS 2065 – Water Supply in Buildings28
Plumbing plays an important role in spatial planning and building design. Wet areas are usually grouped together, with plumbing shafts positioned close to toilets and kitchens. Water tanks need dedicated spaces, while vertically aligning toilets and service areas helps shorten pipe runs, reduce construction costs, and simplify maintenance.HOW DOES ITaffect architecture?29
PLUMBING FG FIXTURESBALL VALVEGATE VALVEGLOBE VALVECHECK VALVE15–50 MM ₹150–₹1,50015–100 MM ₹300–₹2,50015–50 MM ₹400–₹2,50015–100 MM ₹200–₹2,000VALVESValves are plumbing components used to control, regulate, or stop the flow of water through a pipe network.31
ASTRALPVC SWR PIPE110 MM (4")IS: 13592PVCOnly Used for drainagecPVCSupply hot & cold water (costlier)Only cold water supply (much cheaper)uPVCASTRALCPVC PIPE25 MM (1")SDR 11IS: 15778ASTRALUPVC PRESSURE PIPE25 MM (1")SCH 80IS: 4985PLUMBING PIPES& their usesA pipe is a hollow, tubular component used to convey water, wastewater, air, or other fluids from one point to another within a building-services system.32
CLEANOUT TEEProvides access for cleaning drains.VENT PIPEAllows sewer gases to escape safely.VENT TEEConnects vent pipe to the drain line.Joins the trap to the drain pipe.Holds water to block sewer gases.CLOSET FLANGESecures the toilet to the floor.CLOSET BENDDirects waste from the toilet to the drain.SANITARY TEEJoins the toilet line to the main drain.LONG SWEEPReduces clogs with gentle turns.DWW WYECombines flow from different directions.TRAP ADAPTERP-TRAPCOMBINATION WYECombines and changes direction of flow.MUST KNOWplumbing basics33
fighting FireNBC 2016 – Part 4: Fire & Life Safety provides provisions for: Fire prevention Life safety & evacuation Means of egress Fire detection and alarm Fire-fighting installations Fire resistance Smoke control Compartmentation Key BIS standards include: IS 3844 – Internal fire hydrants & hose reels IS 13039 – External hydrant systems IS 2190 – Portable fire extinguishers“A firefighting system integrates water storage, pumping, vertical risers and floor-level outlets to deliver water quickly and reliably during a fire.”34
How is it installed?Fire-fighting services are planned as a vertical and horizontal network. Fire Tank → Pump Room → Vertical Riser → Landing Valve / Sprinkler → Fire Pipes are routed through service shafts and coordinated with structural elements, ceilings and other building services. Fire stairs, exits and fire-rated doors are integrated into the building layout.Firefighting systems directly influence the planning and design of a building by requiring dedicated fire stairs, escape routes, fire shafts, hydrants, sprinklers, fire tanks and pump rooms. These services must be coordinated with the structure, ceilings and other building systems while maintaining clear emergency access. Proper integration ensures that fire protection is efficient, accessible and unobtrusive, without compromising the overall architectural design.Impact on architecture?35
OPERATING NUTConnects to a wrench to open or close the main valve.VALVE STEMRises and lowers the main valve to control water flow.MAIN VALVERubber-faced valve seals tightly to stop or allow water through.WATER CHAMBERHolds water under pressure before it exits the outlets.OUTLETSide connection for hose attachment to deliver water.OUTLETConnection to the underground water main.safety measures FireFIRE HYDRANT SYSTEM HOSE REELS SPRINKLERS Hydrants fight → Hose reels control → Sprinklers suppress.37
rainwaterharvestingWhat does NBC/BIS say? → NBC 2016 – Rainwater harvesting provisions → IS 15797:2008 – Rooftop rainwater harvesting guidelines “Rainwater harvesting turns rainfall into a usable building resource while reducing dependence on the municipal water supply.”38
Modern rainwater harvesting uses smart sensors, automated storage tanks, advanced filtration and IoT monitoring to improve water collection and quality. Modular recharge systems help store and gradually recharge groundwater, while AI-based systems can predict rainfall and optimize water storage and reuse.Innovations & technologiesRoof → Gutter → Downpipe → First Flush → Filter → Tank / Recharge Pit Provide a sloped roof towards collection points. Connect downpipes to a filter and storage/recharge system. Keep recharge structures away from contamination sources. Provide an overflow for excess rainwater. Recharge design should consider local soil and groundwater conditions.How is it installed?40
treated blackwater and clean runoff is used to flush toiletsblackwater from toiletsliving machine filters blackwater to 99.9% level of purificationcleansing biotopes in wetland complete the blackwater filtration process‘clean’ runoff from roofs irrigates interior living walltreated blackwater and clean runoff is used for irrigation‘clean’ runoff is channelled directly into pond and cisternwater is stored in biological pool and cisterns for reuse in toilet flushing and irrigationWATER LOOPClosing the41