Distinctive Features of Residential Buildings of Indus Civilization
Indus civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, was one of the most advanced ancient civilizations in the world. The residential buildings of the Indus civilization were characterized by several distinctive features that set them apart from other contemporary civilizations.

1. Urban Planning
- The cities of the Indus civilization, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, were well-planned with streets laid out in a grid pattern.
- Residential areas were organized into blocks with houses built in a uniform manner.

2. Layout and Design
- The houses in the Indus civilization were typically two-story structures made of baked bricks.
- They featured a central courtyard surrounded by rooms, with some houses having private wells for water supply.
- The houses were well-ventilated with windows and doors strategically placed for air circulation.

3. Sanitation System
- One of the most remarkable features of the residential buildings was the advanced sanitation system.
- Each house had its own bathroom and a sophisticated drainage system that connected to the city's main sewer system.

4. Use of Technology
- The use of advanced technology such as baked bricks, standardized weights and measures, and sophisticated tools for construction set the residential buildings of the Indus civilization apart from other contemporary civilizations.

5. Symbolism and Decoration
- Some houses featured intricate carvings and decorative motifs on walls and pillars, suggesting a sense of aesthetics and symbolism in their architecture.
- The use of symbols and motifs in the design of residential buildings reflected the cultural and religious beliefs of the Indus civilization.
In conclusion, the residential buildings of the Indus civilization were characterized by their advanced urban planning, layout, sanitation system, use of technology, and symbolic decoration, making them a unique and significant aspect of this ancient civilization.