This 10,680 Sq. Ft residence proposed with the concept of villa embraces Indian ethos with an interesting mix in a modern setting. The concept follows the principles of Vastu, the ancient Indian science of energy flow and the region’s climatic conditions, where the requirement was to create five bedrooms, living room, a private family room, a kitchen, a dining space, hometheatre and gym.
In the western part of India, climate is a crucial feature, where natural light and ventilation is essential but not it’s roasting heat. Hence the design is an introvert type with courtyard in center as its focal point. Massing of the building is kept simple with subtle play of white and textured concrete.
The entrance foyer at north-east intends to lead into the central courtyard directly, where all other spaces open to. Environmental transparencies at the ground level, created through courtyards and large openings helps in passively cooling of the internal spaces. The living room, kitchen and master bedroom are strategically located near the entry of the house for visual control and security reasons.
Overall a neutral color palette of flooring from mirror finished green kota and river finished multi-colored kota is seen throughout the house. The playfulness of some bright colors of walls or furnishings adds a language to the interiors. The combination of these elements involves an ideal balance of modernity and tradition.
Implication of traditional design elements and following basic principles of Vastu like courtyard adds a spark to the design. It can be considered a luxurious amenity that gives the house a scenic beauty, privacy and an arena for outdoor entertainment. Plenty of light and cross interaction between family members on different floors is encouraged by this design element. The skylight with pergola stimulates the inner space with varying moods of light and shadow which is created by the continuous movement of the sun. The enchanting vernacular jali and bench along with the traditional custom-made swing offers an Indian flavor to the house. The staircase complements to the volume of the courtyard. A part of this courtyard and jali brings life to the basement area of the house too. Henceforth, the real spirit of the entire house lies in its courtyard.
The combination of staircase with the assorted vibrant colored and custom-made metal lamps leads to the first floor passage, a space that connects well with ground floor activities through courtyard. The lavish master suite faces the entrance of the house. It includes an impressive sitting space with bedroom, separate study area, huge dresser and bathroom. On other two sides of the floor, bedroom for their two sons are located. The interiors and furniture pieces were planned to be simple and looking effortless in its place. Every space is quite different and is a reflection of the person it belongs to. There is a giant terrace garden on its east corner of the house, which has become the maximum utilized space in evening to its pleasant climatic condition and lush green outdoors.
The house has been executed with basic principles of architecture. But the right punch of art and traditional designs make the spaces evolve in ‘timeless’ quality.
Project Fact file
- Location – Bharuch, Vadodara-Gujarat
- Client’s Name – Kalpesh Shah
- Built up Area – 10,680 Sq. Ft
- Design Team – Dipen Gada, Priyanka Shah, Surabhi Kankaria & Arpit Shrimali
- Site Coordinator – Rahi construction
- Photography – Tejas Shah
- Text – Hiral Shah