The Masterclass ‘Beyond the Surface: Stories around Natural Finishes’ is led by Agnimitra Poornima Bachi and Shruthi Ramakrishna. It explores the relationship between craft, material, and human emotion through natural finishes like unburnt lime and hardened clay. This immersive storytelling performance examines how ancient, tactile materials carry memories of land, water, and skilled artisan hands. The narrative links artisans’ calluses to emotional states such as longing, revealing the depth behind traditional techniques. It demonstrates how these methods lend dignity and richness to contemporary design, connecting heritage with modern aesthetics.It invites viewers to explore how fostering relationships with our materials brings lasting value to the spaces we inhabit.
Shruthi and Agnimitra exchange letters exploring natural materials in contemporary construction. Shruthi discusses a Bengaluru residence where lime-plastered walls developed delicate hairline cracks. These cracks, though beautiful, sparked concern about imperfection and material behavior. Agnimitra replies from Morba, reflecting on similar haveli restoration experiences. He notes that process variations like uneven carbonation or hand-polishing are not defects. Such nuances celebrate the artisan’s hand, adding depth, texture, and narrative to the surfaces.
Building a large curved wall for the Kavali Literature Festival. Agnimitra revealed the secret to a perfect finish: traditional Kodi plaster from a three-generation-old hidden vat. The plaster was mixed by taste using ingredients like Google resin and jaggery for authentic texture. Despite modern deadlines, Shruthi struggled to justify natural materials against trending glass and concrete designs. They found common ground in the slow, graceful process of these traditional methods and their value. The story emphasizes that true craftsmanship lies in the relationships built, with plaster mixes sometimes gifted meaningfully.
Ultimately, Beyond the Surface challenges modern architecture’s preference for flawless, rapid finishes. It advocates resilience and beauty in traditional materials. The narrative shows that cracks and variations in handmade lime and clay plasters are not failures, but evidence of a living process and skilled hands. Honoring artisan knowledge and allowing materials time to settle creates spaces with stories and enduring dignity. The journey from doubt to realization reveals that sustainability connects deeply with our emotional bond with the earth.
Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]
Architecture font choices go beyond style—they shape how your work is perceived. From portfolios to presentations, the right architecture font instantly communicates clarity, precision, and personality. As architects, we design not just with space but with every detail, including typography. Selecting a strong architecture font shows your commitment to visual storytelling and design consistency. In […]
Looking to make a lasting first impression? Your main door design is more than a point of entry, it’s the gateway that reflects and enhances your home. In this blog, we dive into 50 stylish door design concepts that blend style with functionality, from innovative materials, classic styles, and intelligent lock systems that provide convenience, security, and refinement straight to your front door. 1. Fluted Wooden Doors A combination of smooth fluted surfaces and deep wood grain, this modern door brings subtle drama to the entrance. Upgraded with a clever lock, it combines modern security with classic style. 2. Geometric Patterns The geometric element of the safety grill and […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]
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. […]
Educational buildings across India are continuously evolving, showcasing innovative designs that blend functionality with sustainability. From the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) to modern schools and colleges, architectural firms have embraced traditional and contemporary elements to create spaces that nurture learning and community engagement. These educational buildings have been designed to enhance the student […]
When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]
Indian homes place equal importance on pooja room door designs as they do on main door designs. With diverse and unique ethnic backgrounds, every family strives to reflect their personalities and identities in their designs. These identities can encompass religious or spiritual interests, local contexts, or other personal elements. This series of blogs, featuring 50 […]
Types of roof materials in India depend on the diverse climate and varied architectural styles. Each of them caters to specific needs, preferences, and environmental conditions. From traditional thatched roofs in rural areas to contemporary green roofs in urban landscapes, the evolution of the types of roofing materials reflects both cultural heritage and modern technological […]
The door design for main door is a defining feature of any Indian home, embodying both style and cultural significance. In a country rich with diverse architectural traditions, the entrance to your home reflects not only personal taste but also cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate carvings of traditional Indian door designs or […]