The farmhouse architecture of Ragunath integrates a rocky outgrowth as its central element, excavated to form two levels, emphasising its design around natural contours and the rock as the focal point that creates a unique entrance to the first floor. It nestles in the middle of a tea estate in Kotagiri with harmonious views of the surrounding landscape, which seamlessly combines modern luxury with the tranquillity of nature. There are two main access points to the farmhouse: one parallel to the road while the other is as per the contour, which allows entry to the living space through the deck.
Editor’s Note: “Commanding the tea estate hills of Kotagiri, this farmhouse combines luxury with the serenity of natural living. Designed around the natural contours, the design emphasizes on building around the landscape rather than over it. The various design elements like staircases, openings, fireplaces and balconies come together with the interiors to evoke a sense of freedom and being amidst nature. ” ~Simran Khare
The Farmhouse Architecture in the Kotagiri Tea Estate has Rocks as the Focal Point | Kham Design
The farmhouse architecture spans two parts at two levels. The one part comprises a living room, a bedroom, and a deck space. The opening in the bedroom provides a scenic view of the surrounding landscape.
The other part of the building is further divided into two halves, which accommodate the home theatre, dining room, kitchen, and bedrooms.
The balcony and deck that correspond with bedrooms provide a sense of comfort and a perspective of the surrounding landscape.
A bridge acts as a central gathering space that connects the two parts of the farmhouse, creating a sense of homogeneity, unity, and cohesion.
Various spaces like stairs, openings, fireplaces, balconies, and decks act as both functional and aesthetic elements in the farmhouse.
The staircase transcends its role as a mere connector between levels and is more of a seating space and an amphitheatre—a space where form meets function and everyday circulation blends seamlessly with social interaction.
Natural light is established into the interiors through the clerestory windows and the truss, which adds drama and creates a well-lit environment that makes the space inviting for relaxation and to reach its full potential.
In the world of architecture, the choice of materials is paramount. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that are sustainable, durable, and in harmony with their surroundings.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the key materials used for the farmhouse: glass block masonry, chappadi stone masonry, porotherm blocks, finger-jointed rubber wood, shingles, and coloured glass blocks.
These materials are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and offer both aesthetic and functional advantages. These materials play a vital role in making the farmhouse seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape.
They offer certain properties like sound insulation, durability, structural strength, fire resistance, and regulating the indoor temperatures. The coloured glass blocks diffuse vibrant light into the interiors, making the space cosy and aesthetically pleasing.
Fact File
Designed by: Kham Design
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Raghunath Farmhouse
Location: Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu, India
Year Built: 2018
Duration of the project: 18 Months
Plot Area: 18910 Sq.ft
Built-up Area: 4935 Sq.ft
Project Cost: 80 Lakh
Principal Architect: Ar. Chetan Shivprasad
Design Credits: Ar. Manavi Puligal
Photograph Courtesy: storiesofkunju & Vrushabh KC
Firm’s Instagram Link: Kham Design
Firm’s Facebook Link: Kham Design
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