Located at the crossroads of tradition and modernity in Bhuj’s bustling Khatri Chowk, stands a testament to architectural ingenuity and thoughtful design – the Khatri Chowk House. This residence, crafted by Flamingo Architects, celebrates the essence of family life while seamlessly integrating the demands of urban living and commerce.
Crossroads Of Tradition And Modernity In Bhuj’s Bustling Khatri Chowk | Flamingo Architects
Situated at a pivotal junction where narrow street intersects with broader roadway, the Khatri Chowk House occupies a plot divided into two, with the southern portion dedicated to our clients – a family of six deeply rooted in the traditional Bandhej business. With limited access to natural light and ventilation from the south and east, the design team faced the challenge of maximizing space and luminosity within the constraints of the plot’s orientation.
Upon entering the residence through a welcoming veranda, one is immediately struck by the harmonious blend of minimalist aesthetics and functional efficiency. The open living and dining area, adorned in subdued tones of greys and browns, exudes warmth and tranquillity.
A focal point of the living room is the sleek TV unit panel, seamlessly integrated into a double-height cutout that serves as a visual anchor connecting the ground floor to the upper level.
In a nod to tradition, the dining area eschews conventional tables in favor of the Dastar practice, with a discreetly foldable table catering to elderly guests.
A strategically positioned staircase not only offers privacy from the adjacent narrow street but also floods the living space with natural light, thanks to strategically placed vertical windows.
The inclusion of a central courtyard further enhances the residence’s spatial dynamics. Overlooking the courtyard, the kitchen boasts ample natural light and ventilation, while a strategically angled bedroom and thoughtfully designed toilet optimize space utilization without compromising comfort.
Ascending to the first floor via a graceful staircase, one is greeted by an expansive open space illuminated by a northside courtyard introduced at this level, which serves as a source of light for the adjoining bedrooms also.
The master bedroom, features a curvilinear balcony offering fascinating views of the street junction. On this floor, a multipurpose space doubles as a prayer room and guest room, underscoring the residence’s adaptability to diverse needs.
The second floor boasts a seamless connection to the first floor via a large cutout, fostering a sense of continuity and fluidity throughout the residence.
Here, a meticulously designed bedroom, complete with an ensuite toilet and breathtaking balcony, offers a panoramic vista of Bhujia Hill. The other two open terraces, one serving as a utility area and the other functions as connection to the upper most terrace.
Externally, the Khatri Chowk House stands out for its creative architecture. The design incorporates various shapes and forms that interact with the surrounding cityscape in an interesting way.
Features like the curved balcony, partially covered terrace, and the overhanging slab all contribute to the building’s unique appearance. These elements not only make the house look more interesting but also give it a sense of depth and character.
In conclusion, the Khatri Chowk House exemplifies the transformative power of thoughtful design in maximizing space, light, and functionality within the confines of a smaller, irregularly shaped plot. By seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, the residence not only fulfils the practical needs of its inhabitants but also embodies the timeless allure of architectural elegance.
Overall, these design choices turn the Khatri Chowk House into more than just a building – they make it a true architectural marvel in the surroundings.
Fact File
Designed by: Flamingo Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture & Interior Design
Project Name: Khatri Chowk House
Location: Bhuj-Kutch
Year Built: 2023
Duration of the project: 2 years
Project Size: 2760 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Ar. Faisal Khatri
Team Design Credits: Deepika Chhabhadiya, Ashwin Bhudiya, Feroz Kumbhar & Mohit Gajjar
Photograph Courtesy: Sohail Wazir
Products / Materials / Vendors: Wallcovering / Cladding – Cement render with paint / Construction Materials – R.C.C. structure with local stone masonary / Doors and Partitions – Made on site / Sanitaryware – Jaquar / Windows – HK Aluminium / Furniture – Made on site / Flooring – Simero Tiles Kitchen – Made on site / Paint – Asian Paint
Firm’s Instagram Link: Flamingo Architects
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