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