The idea while designing the retreat house is to explore how spaces can be designed to bring people to a state of dignified calmness and composure. The fast-paced and competitive nature of today’s working culture acts as a catalyst for anxiety due to work pressures.
Editor’s Note: “This retreat house in Udaipur is designed to bring people to a state of dignified calmness and composure. The rugged stone walls made with locally available Kaya slate stone whisper a sense of belonging and comfort. The lush green lawns, paired with the pristine blue swimming pool, weave a poetic tapestry, conjuring an idyllic narrative for a tranquil escape.” ~Simran Khare
The Idea while Designing the Retreat House is to Explore | Studio ecube
Curation further starts with a journey one takes from the main gate to reach the house. We designed the movement in such a way that users do not encounter the large green carpet and pool until they reach the main verandah space of the house.
To reach there one has to pass through an entrance plaza covered with the foliage of the Champa trees, then pass by the inviting lily pond with a sculpture that directs towards the small entrance verandah, and from there one enters the house.
The house then opens towards the pool and grand green carpet. This walk of excitement and pauses will not only engage the users but also introduce them to the landscape and spaces created for the experience.
Various programmatic parts assemble around The Stone House: 1. A large garden 2. A swimming Pool 3. Poolside verandah 4. A large volume of Internal spaces 5. Flowering courts.
Furthermore, the design integrates all these five parts in a way that creates the experience of being part of something very special. Being in any one part of the program connects you to all the parts simultaneously.
The construction of the house involves load-bearing stone walls and an exposed RCC roof. Additionally, we construct load-bearing walls with locally available kaya slate stone.
We use both of these materials in their natural textures, hence creating a warm ambiance for the house.
The decision to use local stone is rooted in leveraging available local stone masonry techniques with the assistance of skilled resources.
External development for plaza and pool deck is also done with locally available nibheda stone in its natural finish.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio ecube
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: The Stone House, Udaipur
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Year Built: 2021
Project Size: 2690 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Vijay Patel, Pintu Santoki, Avani Santoki & Hiren Patel
Photograph Courtesy: Mr. Prakash Chundawat
Firm’s Website Link: Studio ecube
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio ecube
Firm’s Facebook Link: Studio ecube
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