Editor’s Note: The cubical grey structure rises among the sharply landscaped surroundings. The grey layer of paint acts as an ideal front drop that complements the much artful work of Jaali using terracotta blocks that create an exciting set of spaces. The cast of shadows and sun is a binding commonality yet a differing factor. ~ Nishal Sevak
Located in Electronic City, Bangalore, the homes belonging to two brothers are set in a context that is fast changing from a rural to urban character. The choreography and architecture of this building set amidst a lush landscape that reflect the ethos of their lives. Choreography Of Spaces – Upon entering the plot, a picturesque pergola frames the residence capturing the essence and summary of the design. All materials used in the building are portrayed at this point.
The Choreography and Architecture of this Building is Set Amidst a Lush Landscape that Reflect the Ethos | Ecumene Habitat Solutions
Visit: Ecumene Habitat Solutions
Lined by green on either side, the pergola uses clay jali walls and metal beams, with a provision for creepers. The entrance path leads to a large lawn in the center of the plot ringed by the two homes and a clubhouse building that houses the common parking area and the fitness center. The path is uniquely detailed using a combination of the locally available Sadarahalli granite and grass pavers. The grass pavers enhance the water permeability of the ground.
With the homes framed in one view, the jali work becomes prominent and one can see the two different patterns of terracotta blocks used here. The camp jali is combined with a four-petal design, creating an interesting interplay of light and shade. The two houses are similar yet distinct in terms of their experience.
The home in the South East is horizontal and flatter compared with the home in the South West which has tall volumes. The second building has a double-height car porch with a roof garden overlooking the view. This roof garden is lined with plants and a lawn at the center, having a skylight feature right above it. Black lapaturo granite finish is used as flooring thereby highlighting the car porch.
The main entrance exudes warmth with the introduction of wood, paired with white interiors. The color palette used throughout has strictly been minimal and yet stands out in its own way. Vastu (the traditional Indian planning tradition) has been followed to a large extent for the planning of various spaces.
The interiors of these houses are large in scale and a careful selection of materials has been made in order to maintain and amplify the scale of the space. A unique feature of the building is the extendable living room that can connect the two buildings, thereby converting the space into a multipurpose hall.
Materials – The choice of construction, materials, and form has a direct influence on the emotional character of a space. The dramatic yet warm character is achieved through a minimal palette. The careful mix of white interiors with raw natural wood and terracotta tiles.
White is typically associated with minimalism, but contrary to its nature, here this timeless and achromatic color, has been used to create enormous spaces. Wood has been used extensively, mostly on ceilings. An intricately carved wooden wall becomes the focus of the living room.
The steel staircase is a highlight feature, made with metal plates and woodcut in an L shape. This is done to avoid the fixing of two wooden planks and thereby avoid the formation of a visibly seen joint. The stair is supported by 2 CNC cut steel beams. Altogether the stair looks light and minimal.
Fact File
Designed by: Ecumene Habitat Solutions
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Manjodaya House
Location: Bangalore
Year Built: 2022
Built-Up Area: 20268 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Vasudevan R Kadalayil, Shrividya Shettigar, Ezhilarasi P & Venkatesh Habib
Photograph Courtesy: Atik Bheda
Landscape Architect: Studio Confluence
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Ecumene Habitat Solutions
Firm’s Instagram Link: Ecumene Habitat Solutions
For Similar Project >>> A Striking Brick House with Hints of Traditional Design and Essence of Reformed Living
This edition, TAD Architecture Magazine celebrates the powerful women of India. “Breaking the Boundaries”—a phrase often used to celebrate women’s achievements in their respective fields. But were there ever boundaries to break? The answer is Yes. The most commonly spoken one remains gender inequality—an issue addressed year after year, yet still far from being fully […]
In the heart of every home, the Angan stands as a sacred court. It is a personal yet public space that witnesses the playful childhoods, festive celebrations, gatherings, and even tranquility for one. This project makes an honest attempt to reintroduce the idea of a court in the design, amalgamating it with modern needs, embodying […]
This five-floor residential building in KUKATPALLY showcases thoughtful planning and modern functionality. This vertical house is tailored to meet the evolving needs of a multigenerational family. Designed for a client with two sons, the home seamlessly blends shared spaces, private retreats, and clever spatial planning. This Vertical House Offers the Perfect Balance of Privacy and […]
Mr. Rajesh Vadgama reached out to Ar. Jay Thakkar through a mutual acquaintance after purchasing a residential plot. Following an initial meeting and several site visits, a concept for a compact yet luxurious Luxury House was developed. The final design featured an expansive, well-planned layout with a spacious living room, a double-height dining area that […]
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 […]
In the burgeoning area of Vadodara, this house, Namasya, is nestled amongst the upcoming high-rise residential buildings enclosed with the beautifully crafted landscape around it. As the sun rises on the horizon, the day of Nehulji (client) begins with the Munias and parakeets chirping, awaiting their breakfast. During his daily morning routine, he shares the […]
How often are irregularly shaped plots dismissed when buying land? In many towns, the land is subdivided into perfect rectangles for construction, leaving plots with unconventional shapes—sharp angles and awkward dimensions—undesirable and in low demand. However, the architecture studio Tropical Tones, has set an example by tackling this challenge. This Tropical Modern residence house design […]
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 […]
SASWATHA, the residential architecture project by GVQ Design Studio, is located in Thrissur, Kerala. This thoughtfully designed home caters to a joint family consisting of two brothers, their families, and their parents. Spanning approximately 2,700 sq. ft on a 15-cent plot, the residential architecture is meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of a multi-generational […]
This simple farmhouse design is a humble residence that responds to the climate and site. It is a fun fact that the house is both an inward and outward looking house at the same time. One of the USPs of the simple farmhouse design project would be that it connects well with the most playful […]