Building renovation or space remodeling is an artwork of innovating and bringing new architectural ideas to life. This old apartment building which was constructed in 1980s is located in Ooty along the beautiful Lake with the breathtaking views of the tranquil waters and lush greenery. Surprisingly the building was beautifully made in the old 80s with lots of effort. Demolishing that building which held so many emotions and hard work of the people was not ethical.
Editor’s Note: Restoration of old structures is like revisiting the past. Samara Homes by Higher Dimensions, a renovated apartment building in the dense and tranquil hills of Ooty from the 1980s, evokes emotions from the past. This apartment emphasizes originality and memories by conceptualizing a blend of spatial comfort, sustainability, and the essence of nature. ~ Anusha Sridhar
The Renovation of this Apartment Building In Ooty Retains Old Memories | Higher Dimensions
Located on the picturesque banks of Ooty Lake, this apartment building renovation promises an unparalleled living experience in one of India’s most sought-after hill stations. Ooty is a place where we enjoy natural views of the dense mountains and experience cold weather. The design incorporates large windows to preserve the views and maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
The Shahs apartment, originally constructed in 1980’s, has long been a symbol of Landmark located opposite to Honeymoon Boathouse, Ooty. However, years of neglect and severe structural damage led to its condemnation.
Determined to preserve this building, a coalition of architects, engineers, and also community members embarked on an ambitious restoration project. Considering the client needs, and studying the building made a realization of retaining most of the spaces and structures as it was and renovating the most damaged spaces and additionally, giving the spaces a new emotion.
Samara Homes (Previously addressed as Shah’s Apartments) nestles amidst the serene beauty of the Nilgiri Hills. This exclusive apartment’s building renovation offers a harmonious blend of luxury, comfort, and nature.
The spatial planning of the building is more important as it gives experience to the person who lives there. The design enlarges the living area to allow for relaxation and enjoyment of the calm, peaceful views of the misty lake.
The design integrates the dining and living areas to connect seamlessly with nature, minimizing the use of walls. Pastel-colored furniture lightens the space, while minimal lighting adds warmth to each area. Contemporary interiors enhance the space with elegance and luxury.
This helps in connecting with the nature from inside the space. Using pale walls to allow the natural green mountain views to dominate the interior space.
To attract attention and refresh the structure, we introduced a new element and look, as people have been familiar with the building since the 80s. In Ooty, where stone is a common local material, we incorporated stonework on the facade to align with the area’s local context. Ooty is more prone to heavy rainfall.
Considering that fact, surrounded sunshades are done to avoid rainwater from entering the spaces. Local tropical plantations are done around the building to connect with the nature.
Stone paving are done at the entrance as it was the locally available material there and to seamlessly blend with the beautiful, context, Climate and local building typologies. Colour pallet in the exterior is monotony to blend with the natural context. Blending with the local context and nature was the key to design the beautiful spaces inside this building.
The renovation of the Shah’s Apartment employed Advanced engineering techniques and practices to address the extensive damage. We have meticulously restored the building’s original façade. This blend of old and new ensures that the Samara homes will continue to serve our community for generations to come.
Fact File
Designed By: Higher Dimensions
Project Type: Hospitality- Home Stay Architecture, Interior & Landscape Design
Project Name: Samara Homes
Location: Honeymoon Boathouse, Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Year Built: 2024
Project Duration: 12 Months
Project Size: 6400 Sq.ft
Principal Designer: N. Mohammed Aashik
Team Design Credits: Akhshay George Ninan, Ayesha Afrin, P.R. Siddharthan & M. Manibharathi
Photograph Courtesy: hansoga_photography
Firm’s Instagram Link: Higher Dimensions
For Similar Project>> This Aesthetic Courtyard House With Lush Landscape Design Offers A Calm Aura To The Users
Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL) blurs the boundaries between structure and nature with the conceptualization and design of the elemental villas at Ananta Spa and Resort, Ajabgarh. Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli ranges, the design of the resort draws inspiration from the vastness of its surroundings and natural elements. Each villa type, including Earth, Lagoon, […]
The design of Habitat 0 begins with the central concept of a vacation home community organized around a circular form. This layout places individual spaces radially around a central circular courtyard, creating a communal space where every area has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a […]
Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance. This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance […]
Pranjali – The Doctor’s Bungalow is a peaceful and practical modern bungalow design located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The name Pranjali, meaning “a graceful offering” or “a gesture of respect,” reflects the spirit of this residence—a calm, humble, and thoughtful space created for a doctor couple seeking balance in their busy lives. The design goal […]
The contemporary style architecture house is located in the lively urban context of Thaltej, Ahmedabad nestled within a private cluster of four bungalows. Though the home enjoys the benefits of community, it also maintains a high degree of privacy and seclusion. This is achieved through a carefully considered spatial arrangement, despite the proximity of a […]
Screenwriter and director Megha Ramaswamy approached Fractal Chaos to design an organic home as a weekend retreat in Pasli Gaon, Velhe—a village about 150 km from Pune. The site is located between the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, which gives it a unique ecology with 4 seasons. Drawn to the land by a bordering […]
Situated in the bustling residential neighbourhood of Koorkenchery, Thrissur, Dr. Lakshmi’s residence stands as a refined architectural response to a narrow 15.53 cent plot. The 4214.07 sq ft home is a seamless blend of modern traditional kerala house, with an Indonesian inspired grey white exterior that exudes sophistication. The design strategically employs linear planning, integrating […]
Imagine a home that breathes with the breeze, where sunlight filters through lush foliage, and the vibrant hues of nature are an extension of your living space. Tropical houses are architectural marvels; a profound dialogue between human habitation and the natural world, born from centuries of adapting to warm, humid climates. Far from rigid structures, […]
Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]
Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]