The earth-hugging inclined porotherm block jali wall act as an entrance portal, unveiling their welcoming stance as one approaches this one-acre farmland. These Porotherm Block walls seamlessly transition into the primary roof structure, exuding its subtle form.
Editor’s Note: “This idyllic weekend retreat on the outskirts of Erode reflects the lush aura of the neighbouring bird sanctuary. The two walls at the entrance remind one of open arms, welcoming one into the mesmerising dwelling. The sliver line between in and out seamlessly blends into one another. The sunset reveals a beautiful dance between natural light and the rustic materials.” – Gopika Pramod
The Inclined Porotherm Block Jali Wall is an Entrance Portal | Mindworks Architecture
Nestled amidst sprawling the outskirts of Erode, Tamil Nadu, lies The Croft, an idyllic weekend retreat. The property enjoys a serene location in close proximity to a bird sanctuary, surrounded by lush farmlands and meandering streams. The clients, a young couple, sought a two-bedroom recreational house with spaces to host parties and intimate gatherings. They desired the house to have a significant connection to the surrounding greenery while maintaining privacy and security from the neighbouring farms. In response, our design approach was to create an inward-looking house with large semi-open areas to enjoy the outdoors and engage in gardening and bird-watching, which fosters connection with one another.
The fenestrations on the porotherm blocks offer a glimpse into the beautifully landscaped surroundings of the property. The common areas of the house are under a high-pitched roof, which provides a sense of grandeur.
The open planning of the house dissolves the formal boundaries and allows the spaces to flow seamlessly from one to the next, with pocket gardens uniting the indoor and outdoor areas.
At the heart of the house is a central skylight court, covered using Mangalore roof tiles with glass inlay through which the gleams of sunlight fill the internal spaces, casting a warm glow on the walls and floors. The natural light dances across the room, creating a dynamic ambiance throughout the day.
The outdoor pool area, with its gazebo and bar, acts as a congregation area where family and friends can gather, unwind, and chill. It serves as a central hub for socializing while enjoying the outdoors.
The bar counter is finished in a monolithic yellow stone with its striking cantilever form, which creates visual interest in the space. The separate pool entry for guests adds convenience and privacy.
The design embraced an earthy material palette: wood, rubble stone, kota, Mangalore tile, and rich oxide finishes. The extensive use of oxide finishes and stone cladding adds a sense of rawness and character to the space. The wooden cladding in the interiors adds a touch of warmth and elegance.
All the existing trees on the site were carefully preserved, with a few trees being transplanted to a new location within the site. The landscaping was meticulously done, incorporating a variety of tropical trees, plants, and shrubs to add depth and diversity to the greenery.
The design showcases a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, which is orchestrated by the chimes in the wind, the birds chirping, the natural light playing, and the earthy finishes blending seamlessly with the landscape, leaving the user with an everlasting experience.
Fact File
Designed by: Mindworks Architecture
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: The Croft Residence
Location: Erode, Tamil Nadu
Year Built: 2024
Project Size: 5750 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Harris Alaudeen
Photograph Courtesy: Shamanth Patil Photography
Junior Architect: Imran Thayaf
Site Engineer: Gowtham Manickam
Civil Engineer: Arun Keerthi
Structural Consultant: Kaarvens Structural Consultancy
Firm’s Website Link: Mindworks Architecture
Firm’s Instagram Link: Mindworks Architecture
For Similar Project >>> A Contemporary Sustainable House that Connects to a Well-Landscaped Outdoors
The Liquescent house, located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, is a testament to organic architecture, a dialogue between the built and unbuilt, and the careful integration of natural elements. The architect’s inclination towards the design language is imbued with a natural fluidity, shaped by a childhood immersed in clay. This formative experience—working with a material […]
The rural residence is thoughtfully situated on a 9,000 square foot plot in Pappanadu, a village renowned for its rich communal life and cultural heritage in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Designed to accommodate a couple and their mother, the objective was to create a distinctive home that not only stands out aesthetically but also remains accessible […]
The design philosophy of Bhide’s Farmhouse in Pune, deeply rooted in organic living, embraces modern minimalism while incorporating elements of rustic charm. The emphasis is on creating a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the lush landscapes of Maharashtra. The design prioritizes simplicity, authenticity, and sustainability. Editor’s Note: By beautifully incorporating rustic […]
This modern house by the lake is inspired by traditional Wada architecture while incorporating contemporary aesthetics and functionality. Embracing nature, the architectural design reflects cultural heritage, technological advancements, and natural surroundings. With its exposed brick exterior, central courtyard, landscaping, a swimming pool by the lake, and a narrow alley entrance reminiscent of old Wadas, this residence […]
If you were to step into this Hyderabad house, you would sense harmony in paradox as it harmonizes two distinct units. With both units seamlessly woven together with open-to-sky transitional spaces. Moving around, you get the impression of belongingness, thriving in complete balance with a respect for individuality. This Hyderabad House Harmonizes Two Distinct Units […]
Reflecting grandeur, this Delhi house, also called as Nievus Villa reinterprets classical architecture through a contemporary lens, resulting in a sophisticated, and inviting home. FAB Studio undertook the challenge of creating a residence that seamlessly integrates into Delhi’s architectural landscape, while blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Editor’s Note: “By merging classical elements with contemporary […]
The sentiment of togetherness is conceptualised the best way by Shreesh Design Studio LLP in this luxe house and has executed it with brimming affection. ‘The Luxe Wave,’ as so appropriately named, is a residential haven located in the warm arms of a homely neighborhood in Rajkot, Gujarat. The coming together of familial bonding and […]
A building that is constructed and designed to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient design is called a green building. Green buildings are designed to maintain or improve the quality of the environment around them. Deep under its stylish mien, with Nature running through the veins of this house of 3732 square feet, is a green […]
Coloured glass is incorporated into the east facing elevation of the house with a plan designed to interact beautifully with morning sunlight. As the sun rises, light filters through the coloured glass, casting vibrant, colourful rays throughout the interior and creating a dynamic, uplifting atmosphere. Each piece transforms into a radiant, gem-like feature when struck […]
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 […]