search

This Net Zero Home Stands Out Uniquely In The Ambient Wilderness | INI Design Studio

Located near Gandhinagar city in Gujarat, Aalloa Hills embraces rest and repose in close consonance with nature. This net-zero home residence, a bright white bridge spanning the Sabarmati Riverside terrains, stands out uniquely in the ambient wilderness. Positioned on a natural plateau with commanding views of the river and forest, it hovers above the ground, respecting the undisturbed flow of natural systems. Blurring the lines between inside and outside, it integrates with the native landscape, infusing volumes with light and shadow, transforming the space like dynamic art.

Editor’s Note: “Aalloa Hills, a net-zero house above Sabarmati’s riverside terrain echoes modern design and nature. The residence welcomes ample natural light, breeze, and landscape into the home through passive strategies such as sun-breakers and shaded verandahs. Minimalist monochrome interiors and outdoor spaces allow the vibrancy of their surroundings while showcasing a serene work of architecture.” ~ Anusha Sridhar

This Net Zero Home Stands Out Uniquely In The Ambient Wilderness | INI Design Studio

net zero home

Site Context

A simple yet elegantly composed form meanders linearly across the valley, strung together by a thread-like access ramp. Starting from the staff quarters below and leading from the entrance parking bay, the ramp connects the guest house to the main house atop the plateau.

This curated spatial journey unveils a controlled panorama of the valley, with the house hoisted off the ground on pilots like a modern Machan, offering resplendent views through deep, shady verandahs.

net zero home

Geometric precision and axis planning create an interesting dialogue between the built and open, while allowing a seamless flow of spaces, light, water, breeze, vegetation and sounds of birds and trees.

net zero home

Moreover, the deliberate placement of solid walls and voids achieves a delicate equilibrium between the built forms and the lush surroundings.

net zero home

Furthermore, the orientation optimizes use of natural terrains and the hot semi-arid climate, with energy-efficient sun breakers on the west side contributing to the residence’s sustainable ethos.

Additionally, the east-facing veranda, a dual-function space, acts as a sunscreen during the day and transforms into an outdoor haven during mornings and evenings.

net zero home

Passive Design Strategies

A china-mosaic-lined rooftop thwarts the harsh sunlight, and design interventions like wide, painted cavity masonry forms sun-breakers along the verandas, sunk slabs with cinder filling, and double-glazed windows team up to reduce heat absorption and allow comfortable indoor spaces without air conditioning for 9 months of the year. Additionally, breezes blowing over the pool and waterfall flanking the main block on either side cool the house significantly.

net zero home

net zero home

All existing vegetation on the site was retained and 400+ new trees and shrubs planted, which play host to the many birds and other creatures who visit and inhabit the environs. This conscious effort resonates with the spirit of giving back, a thankfulness for Nature’s bounty bestowed.

The bold monochrome palette features a bright white exterior on the horizontally disposed structure. Moreover, this is punctuated by black stone flooring along the balconies. Thus, setting off the natural hues of the plateau and valley in stark contrast.

Public and Private Areas

The minimalist yet plush, black-and-white interiors fashion a comfortable, unobtrusive space where colors of landscape and artwork are celebrated year-round. Additionally, public and private spaces are seamlessly integrated, with a double-height living area as the focal point.

The occupants of all rooms spill onto the shaded outdoor living spaces. Moreover, the lush, undulating neighborhood greets them—like a canvas to fête the green—squarely framed by the ample fenestration. In doing so, team INI proudly doffs its hat to the modernist masters.

Fact File

Designed by: INI Design Studio

Project Type: Residential Architecture Design

Project Name: Aalloa Hills Residence

Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India

Year Built: 2023

Project Size: 14500 Sq.ft

Principal Architects: Jayesh Hariyani & Bindu Hariyani

Photograph Courtesy: The Space Tracing Company

Structural Engineer: B. K. Shah

Civil Contractor: Ketan Thakkar

Facade Contractor: Hi-Fab, The Window Factory

Firm’s Website Link: INI Design Studio

The Firm’s Instagram Link: INI Design Studio

Firm’s Facebook Link: INI Design Studio

For Similar Projects >> This Village Farm House Design Connects the Inhabitants With Their Roots 




Modular Houses: The Modern Way Of Construction

Modular houses are prefabricated structures built in modules manufactured and assembled on-site. They are built under controlled plant conditions, using the same materials, and designed to the same codes and standards as conventionally built facilities but in about half the time. As a result, this reduces the construction cost to 30% to 50% less than […]

Read More

The Timeless Appeal of Brick: 20 Exemplary Brick Houses

Brick houses have been a cornerstone of architecture for centuries, celebrated for their durability, aesthetic versatility, and timeless appeal. In modern design, architects continue to explore innovative ways to incorporate brick into residential spaces, blending traditional materials with contemporary needs. While the design of each brick house is unique, there are several ways to incorporate […]

Read More

The Design Story Of Monkey Forest Villa By Architect Hiren Patel | Elev8 2025

Architecture is not just a profession, it is an evolving journey of discovery, adaptation, and growth. At Elev8 2025, Architect Hiren Patel takes us on a journey into the design philosophy of Monkey Forest Villa. He explores the architectural elements that contribute to the home’s artistry. He also offers insight into the story of his design […]

Read More

This Modern Architecture Home Redefines Comfort And Cultural Inspiration | POD Studio

Nestled in the serene embrace of a quiet residential colony, Charcoal Charm stands as a testament to modern architecture home innovation, seamlessly blending with its surroundings. Designed for a prominent businessman’s family, this 4BHK residence not only caters to the family’s need for privacy and comfort but also provides a rejuvenating retreat from the bustling […]

Read More

20 Types of Plants for Home Garden to Transform Your Space

Plants for home garden, apart from making houses look more beautiful and inviting, add health and calmness to them. Having any kind of indoor plant, a herb plant or a flowering plant adds some value to your decor and the quality of the space. Always choose plants that will flourish in your space and climate. […]

Read More

This Contemporary Residence Design Stands Out With Its Striking Visual Impact | Aslam Sham Architects

The initial impression of this contemporary residence design is one of striking visual interplay, where bold architectural gestures redefine conventional aesthetics. A diagonally laid brick veil, its textured surface meticulously arranged to capture the shifting light throughout the day, becomes a dynamic façade element, casting ever-changing shadows that animate the exterior. Editor’s Note: “The yellow […]

Read More

This East-Facing Home Embraces Natural Light And Spatial Fluidity | Wright Inspires

Namana is an east-facing home situated on a compact 60’x50’ plot beside a serene vineyard. Designed for a family of three, the single-story residence emphasizes spatial fluidity, natural illumination, and a tactile material palette that evokes warmth and simplicity. Editor’s Note: “Namana, a quiet dialogue between light, material, and space, is a home that listens […]

Read More

Prairie Style Homes Inspire This Modern Oasis For A Family In The City | The Architecture Company (TAC)

“We want a modern oasis to retire to with our little boys on the weekends” was a brief given to us by our clients who are busy medical professionals with a very hectic life in the city. Inspired by the essence of prairie-style homes, the couple wished to cherish and recreate their favourite moments from […]

Read More

Ihita Redefines Traditional Indian House Design with a Modern Architectural Statement | Bare Wall Studio

Nestled between the bustling residential and industrial edges of Bengaluru, Ihita stands as a bold architectural statement, embodying a harmonious blend of traditional Indian house design and modernity. The home challenges conventional urban residential design by prioritizing openness, natural light, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Through the strategic use of large […]

Read More

25 Stunning False Ceiling Designs for Your Living Room

When you walk into a room, what’s the first thing you notice in the interiors? The furniture, the walls, or the ceiling? Often overlooked, the ceiling plays a significant role in defining the ambiance of a room. If you’re looking to add some flair, sophistication, or a modern touch to your living room, false ceiling […]

Read More
  • This Luxury Modern Office Design Encourages Seamless Collaboration | Gaurang Patel Architects

    Pavilions In This Modern Tropical Home Creates Cohesive Whole | TAB/Tropical Architecture Bureau