We aimed to create a 5 story building that not only provides comfort and functionality to its residents but also stands as a landmark in the area. Nestled in the heart of Pune, this residence is a stunning example of how ethnic luxury can seamlessly blend with modern design. In this project, we are focusing exclusively on the building’s planning, the design of the external façade, the landscaping, and a detailed look at one of the featured residences within the 5 story building. With this project, we aim to showcase the unique design features that set this residence apart and contribute to its exceptional character.

This 5 Story Building has an Ethnic Theme with an Emphasis on Simplicity | CREATRIX Architects

One of the most striking architectural features of this 5 story building is the use of arched niches, both in the exterior and interior spaces. These arches not only add an ethnic elegance to the design but also create a sense of continuity throughout the home. By softening the sharp edges of the building, the arches facilitate a natural flow between different areas. This, in turn, amplifies the overall coherence of the area. Complementing this elegant design, another distinctive feature is the intricate brick pattern that forms a mural across the entire facade. Thus, adding depth and character to the building’s exterior.

Simplicity and Warmth

Inside, the ethnic theme of the 5 story building exterior continues with an emphasis on simplicity and warmth. The consistent use of arches and natural textures helps unify the aesthetic, connecting various rooms. Traditional materials such as patterned brickwork and stone flooring provide a rustic touch, while modern fixtures ensure comfort and functionality. The flooring is particularly noteworthy, featuring a selection of natural stones like Kota, Jaisalmer, and Mandana, which add an earthy feel to the interiors. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the home, from the materials used to the patterns created on the floors. Various patterns, including diamond, tikli, and rangoli designs, are crafted using natural stones. Thus, highlighting the craftsmanship and adding a unique visual appeal to each room. This personalization makes every space feel special, allowing the homeowners to connect with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

The colour palette of the 5 story building is carefully selected to complement the ethnic theme. Thus, incorporating earthy tones that evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. The décor is a blend of traditional and modern elements, with furnishings that reflect the cultural heritage while ensuring modern living comfort. Thoughtfully placed lighting enhances the beauty of the interiors, highlighting architectural features and creating a cosy atmosphere in the evenings.

Entrance

This vibrant home entrance creates a warm and welcoming feel with its mix of colours and textures. The design combines deep blue and earthy terracotta tones, with an eye-catching arched niche display softly lit to stand out. A wooden bench with patterned cushions adds comfort and style, along with an abstract Buddha painting that adds a tranquil ambience to the lobby. The door, with its detailed swirling metalwork, adds an artistic touch. The blend of modern and traditional elements brings both warmth and elegance to the space.

Living Space

The ethnic living room showcases a refined design, featuring a wooden ceiling adorned with handcrafted copper handis embedded in the false ceiling. Thus, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the space. Kota flooring with intricate tikli patterns adds opulence. Meanwhile, the thoughtfully crafted sofa and subtle colour palette tie the space together, resulting in a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Refurbished wooden furniture is used throughout the house, adding character and sustainability.

One of the standout pieces is a side table with intricate detailing, enhancing the ethnic charm of the space. The arches are further incorporated with fluted panels incorporated into the furniture, while arched-shaped borders are used for wall panelling. Thus, adding depth and elegance to the overall design. A collection of decorative ceramic wall plates provides a splash of colour and personality. The expansive windows and open balcony bring in natural light and offer a seamless connection with the outdoors. Meanwhile, the intricate woodwork details add a touch of traditional charm to this cosy, elegant space.

This kitchen boasts elegant wooden cabinets with bold red accents, creating a warm and inviting space. To complement the rich tones, blue-grey tiles were selected for the backsplash, adding a subtle contrast. Meanwhile, the yellow Kota stone flooring ties the look together with its traditional appeal. The Kota stone is laid in a diamond pattern using spacers. Thus, adding an extra layer of visual interest to the flooring.

Best of Ethnic and Contemporary

Moving further, the adjacent dining area features a striking wooden ceiling, enhanced by a beautifully patterned veneer design, framed by four antique hanging lights that illuminate the space with a soft, ambient glow. The dining table, made of quartz, introduces a modern touch, balancing the room’s traditional charm. A tastefully designed crockery unit further enhances the ethnic feel. Thus, creating a cohesive and elegant ambience that blends the best of ethnic and contemporary styles. To elevate its charm, a hand-painted artwork has been added to the unit along with a border of handcrafted ceramic tiles, giving it an artsy look that complements the overall design.

Devghar

Devghar is distinguished by its Rangoli-patterned floor tiles and intricate jali backdrop. Old carvings have also been repurposed into beautiful wall frames for the devghar and door. Moreover, adding a spiritual and traditional touch to the sacred space.

Moving further, the elegant Mahirap enhances the space. Thus, infusing it with a blend of luxury and ethnic charm that creates a serene atmosphere. The use of natural materials like wood and stone, combined with the soft golden lighting from the hanging bell, creates a sense of tranquillity.

Master Bedroom

The ethereal bedroom boasts a striking arched false ceiling that enhances the room’s ethnic charm. Moreover, the floor is crafted from a combination of Kota stone, Jaisalmer, and Mandana, carefully arranged to create a timeless carpet-like design featuring intricate tikli patterns. This detailed flooring adds both texture and elegance, grounding the room in tradition.

A cozy window seat enhances the room’s warmth, offering a comfortable space for relaxation. Designers incorporate arches as niches on both sides of the window, echoing arch details in the bed back and wardrobe design. They sandwich a gingko leaf fabric pattern between glass for the wardrobe shutters, creating an ethnic look. However, the remaining fabric is used for pillow covers, seamlessly tying the design together and blending traditional elements with modern sophistication.

Son’s Bedroom

In this kids’ room, we’ve introduced modern elements while retaining an ethnic touch. The zigzag pattern on the wardrobe, along with the door featuring a matching zigzag wooden veneer, subtly enhances the ethnic character of the room.

The striking blue theme, combined with an eye-catching bed backdrop, creates an inviting and soothing space. The calming colours and bold design elements blend seamlessly, offering both comfort and style.

Daughter’s room

The daughter’s room showcases the ethnic charm of the house in a distinct yet harmonious manner. Like other areas, it features traditional arches and Kota stone flooring, maintaining a sense of continuity in design.

The platform bed, placed next to the expansive window, allows for ample light and offers breathtaking views, enhancing the room’s ambience. Additionally, a refurbished real wood table serves as a charming dressing table. Fluted panels adorn the dressing table, which opens to reveal a hidden mirror inside, adding both functionality and elegance to the space.

Study room

For the study room, we have chosen a vibrant and cheerful colour palette that infuses the space with energy and positivity. The large window not only enhances the brightness of the room but also allows for ample ventilation, creating a refreshing atmosphere ideal for productivity.

On one of the walls, an abstract painting adds an artistic and motivating touch to the workspace, enhancing the overall ambience and inspiring creativity. Complementing the lively colours, the Kota stone flooring features an elegant diamond-shaped tikli pattern, adding a touch of ethnic charm to the overall design.

Balcony

The balcony features a charming brick wall, accented by a lively pattern of blue and yellow handcrafted ceramic tiles, which adds a splash of colour, creating an elegant wall pattern and giving a natural look. On the other side, an outdoor bar with royal blue accents provides a striking contrast to the brick wall’s intricate design.

The stone flooring adds to the ethnic charm of the space, bringing a rustic, earthy character to the space. Combined with the stunning view, this creates a relaxing and inviting area, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.

A Cosy Comfortable Space

Our clients had a strong inclination towards ethnic aesthetics and a desire for cosy, comfortable spaces. This inspired us to envision an ethnic concept throughout the design process. During this journey, we got a chance to work with various craftsmen and artists, whose work is evident in nearly every aspect of the building. We incorporated a range of handcrafted elements, starting with a crafted brick wall pattern for both the exterior façade and the interior walls. Artisans handcrafted ceramic tiles for murals and furniture and custom-created copper handicrafts on-site for the false ceiling. 

Ethnic Identity of Space

Additionally, we repurposed old wood carvings, transforming them into beautiful wall frames and door details. The interiors also feature real paintings by local artists, adding to the artistic atmosphere of the space. Skilled artisans meticulously handcraft the unique tikli pattern design in each room’s kota flooring, creating a distinct identity for every space. These artists and craftsmen played a significant role in incorporating that ethnic character into the space throughout the design process. Traditional Indian architecture and its essence inspired us to give this building its unique character, infusing its soul with charm and a rich ethnic identity while maintaining its modern relevance.

Fact File

Designed by: CREATRIX Architects

Project Type: Residential Architecture & Interior Design

Project Name: Creative brick house

Location: Pune, Maharashtra

Year Built: 2022-2023

Duration of the project: 1.5 Years

Plot Area: 5300 Sq.ft

Built-up Area: 10,000 Sq.ft

Project Cost: 4.5 Crore

Principal Architect: Ar. Avanii Dhotre

Design Credits: Ar. Shweta Kamble

Photograph Courtesy: Saee Bhurke

Products / Materials / Vendors:  Wallcovering / Cladding – Brick cladding – neel kamal grani marimo Ltd. Lighting – Lighting unlimited / Sanitary ware – Jaguar / Facade Systems – Terracotta Jaali blocks Windows – Yash poly UPVC windows / Flooring – Kota stone, jaisalmer, vitrified tiles – oceanic stones / Paint – Asian Paints

Consultants for the Project: Civil – J.V. erectors Pvt. Ltd. / MEP & HVAC Consultants – Power control and systems / Structure Engineers – Bhilare and consultants / Solar consultants – Suryatech solar systems, Camera/ automation and security system – Orien systems / Fire system – S.P. Fire and systems / Lift – Opel / Plumbing and Rainwater harvesting – Jijai Enterprises

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Firm’s Instagram Link: This Vastu Compliant House Makes Traditions Relevant to Modern Living