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

Design Concept

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.

Open Planning

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.

Outdoor Pool Area

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.

Earthy Material Palette

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