The trend of weekend or second homes has grown in the post-pandemic era, reflecting a shift in lifestyle and aspirations. People have become more conscious of their surroundings, seeking opportunities to pause, reconnect with themselves, and immerse in nature. Pushpam Farm embodies this perspective, offering a serene retreat in an organic modern style while contrasting with urban life.
Editor’s Note: “Pushpam Farm stands like a meditation on nature, where architecture flows with the surroundings rather than occupying it. While basalt stone walls hold the house together, large openings invite the sky in, initiating the interplay of the outdoor world. This retreat converses through natural materials echoed through earthy wood, textured kota stones, and soft plasters.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
Organic Modern Style Defines This Serene Retreat for a Post-Pandemic Lifestyle | AR13
Pushpam Farm is located in Khadol, Anand near the Mahi River. The project spans 16,000 sq. ft., integrating built spaces with landscapes. Surrounded by farmland, the site has a single access point from the east. Moreover, two existing neem trees in the southwest corner serve as the foundation for the architectural layout.
The architecture draws inspiration from nature, fostering harmony between built forms and the landscape. Two intersecting angular axes of black basalt stone walls create a dynamic spatial division. The primary massing originates from the southwest axis, thus establishing an intuitive flow of spaces. Furthermore, the central void between these axes functions as the main entrance, sheltered beneath an angular roof.
A separate, isolated mass accommodates private areas, pivoting around the neem tree. Additionally, it serves as a interactive transition between public and private zones.
The swimming pool unifies both spaces into a vibrant plaza, enhancing the overall spatial experience. Moreover, positioning the built form toward the southern and western zones preserves an open landscape.
The architectural vocabulary favors a single-story layout to maintain humility while letting nature flourish over time. The rectilinear configuration of rooms, with strategically placed corner openings, creates an experience. Additionally, a horizontal slit at seating eye level in the living area creates a reflective interplay between the pool and the sky.
The material palette is not only minimal but also locally sourced, featuring black basalt stone for primary walls. However, it lends a rugged character.
Expansive openings enhance transparency as well as frame panoramic views. Open-to-sky showers, borrowed light strategies, and ventilation details enrich the experience. Furthermore, it brings surprise and connection to daily life.
Moreover, this texture interacts dynamically with natural light. Thus, creating an evolving exterior aesthetic. Internally, a monochromatic plaster finish enhances spatial perception while the matte quality softens reflections.
For flooring, rough-polished green Kota stone was chosen for its natural texture, low reflectivity, and ease of maintenance. Additionally, wooden furniture and doors complement the material selection. Thus, adding warmth and an earthy quality.
To infuse a sense of belonging and artistic expression, a custom-designed hanging light installation was incorporated. Inspired by the Mahisagar River, the fixture transforms into a sculptural element. Thus, adding a unique visual identity. Mood lighting enhances this feature while elevating it beyond illumination into an art piece that enriches both the ceiling and user experience.
For night lighting, low-Kelvin indirect illumination ensures a serene atmosphere without disturbing the surroundings. This approach fosters a calming ambiance. Moreover, it allows the architecture and landscape to harmonize seamlessly even after sunset.
Pushpam Farm is a testament to the philosophy that architecture should extend nature, evolving organically over time. By integrating elements, sustainable materials, and an experiential approach, the project creates a tranquil sanctuary that celebrates simplicity, mindfulness, and harmony with the environment.
Fact File
Designed by: AR13
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Pushpam Farm
Location: Khadol, Anand
Year Built: 2024
Duration of the project: 1 Year
Plot Area: 16,000 Sq.ft
Built-up Area: 3200 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ar. Himalay Goraniya & Ar. Hiren Patel
Team Design Credits: Ar. Chaitali Patel & Foram Prajapati
Photograph Courtesy: Notebook Production (Sarthak Mehta)
Products / Materials / Vendors: Finishes – Coloured Cement Plaster / Construction Materials – Brick masonary, & Black basalt stone / Lighting – Custom made Cane Light / Light Box Vadodara / Sanitaryware – Grohe/ American Standard
Consultants for the Project: Civil – Heer construcation / MEP & HVAC Consultants – Om engineering Structure Engineers – Ashok shah & associates
Firm’s Instagram Link: AR13
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