search

This House by the Lake is Inspired by Wada Architecture | Studio Prakriya

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 harmonises historical architecture with modern living.

Editor’s Note: “Emerging from the bank of the lake, this house by Studio Prakriya is inspired by traditional Wada Architecture. Serenity flows throughout the house with its harmonious blend of cultural, technological, and nature-inspired design. By incorporating earthy hues in and out, the design slowly merges back into the surrounding nature, creating a placid personal sanctuary.” ~ Rajvi Dedakiya

This house by the lake is Inspired by Wada Architecture | Studio Prakriya

house by the lake

Construction Techniques

Wada houses, traditional in Maharashtra, India, are also known for their robust construction and inward-facing design centered around a courtyard, fostering social interaction and climate protection. Moreover, adapting this classic design for a modern residence involved retaining the Wada’s essence while addressing contemporary needs.

house by the lake

The client’s deep connection to his ancestral Wada, now demolished, brings emotional depth to the design process. Additionally, it was crucial to evoke nostalgia and honor his heritage.

house by the lake

Exterior Features

The house features a substantial façade of exposed brick, providing visual continuity with traditional Wadas and utilizing locally sourced materials. This choice offers thermal mass for regulating internal temperatures.

The exterior’s fortress-like appearance contrasts with the openness of the interior, characteristic of modern design. Entering through a narrow alley, visitors experience an intimate transition from the outside. Inside, open spaces with large glass walls and folding doors connect the indoors to the lake.

house by the lake

The central courtyard serves as a focal point while allowing natural light to flood the home and enhancing the connection to nature. The design carefully considers human scale, ensuring functional and comfortable spaces.

house by the lake

Elements like doorways and ceiling heights create intimacy, reflecting the human-centric approach of traditional Wada architecture. 

house by the lake

Spatial Planning

Two landscaped courts separate bedrooms from living areas, acting as natural buffers. These spaces integrate seamlessly with the architecture, enhancing tranquillity. Mature trees provide privacy and shade, enriching the home’s environmental quality.

house by the lake

The design thoughtfully integrates the house with its lakeside setting. Large windows and terraces offer unobstructed views, creating a dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces. The combination of robust exposed brick with light, reflective interiors maximizes natural light while providing lake views.

house by the lake

A small swimming pool at the lake’s edge not only adds modern luxury but also maintains harmony with the environment, offering a relaxing space for family enjoyment.

house by the lake

Sustainable Features

Incorporating modern sustainability practices while honoring traditional roots, the house features a rainwater collection system for efficient water management. Moreover, advanced insulation and smart climate control systems enhance natural ventilation and passive cooling.

This modern lakeside house transcends mere residential structure; it reinterprets traditional Wada architecture, blending historical reverence with contemporary innovation. The exposed brick, central courtyard, and landscaped courts reflect a balance between past and present.

Thus by integrating natural elements with sustainable practices, the house pays homage to its roots while addressing modern living demands, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the client’s cherished ancestral Wada memories.

Fact File

Designed by: Studio Prakriya

Project Type: Residential Architecture Design

Project Name: Habitat by The Lake

Location: Satara, Maharashtra

Year Built: 2024

Project Size: 5000 Sq.ft

Principal Architect: Pratik Devi

Design Team: Pratik Devi, Swanand Kulkarni, Karan Ahire, Vedant Kadam, Tejas Joshi & Isha Pattewar

Photograph Courtesy: Pranit Bora & Manthan Yadav

Manufacturers: Tata Steel

Landscape Architecture: Studio 23N|72E

Structural Engineer: Vijay Devi

Technical Team: Narendra Pansare, Tejas Joshi

Landscape Architects: Dhara and Nishant Mittal

Source: ArchDaily

Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Prakriya

For Similar Project>> This Six Bedroom House Design Offers an Experience That is Refined

This Office with Garden Blurs Boundaries between Work and Retreat | Arcline Architects

The thought was to create a space which would act as a formal real estate workspace in the daytime and a family retreat in the evening. By its name, as it is, ‘Leveled. This office with a garden is defined using levels, in terms of volumes, surfaces as well as edges. These levels are rationalized […]

Read More

These Courtyard Villas Connect Deeply with Nature and Everyday Rhythms | The Grid Architects

Nirmay (निर्मय) reflects purity and holistic well-being. Envisioned as a quiet sanctuary amidst the noise of urban life, these courtyard villas offer a way of living that is calm, conscious, and deeply connected to the land. Rooted in sustainability and ecological harmony, the design responds to both nature and the everyday rhythms of its inhabitants. […]

Read More

This Organic House Rolls into the Vibrant Green Landscape Naturally | Prithvi Architects

Winterfell is a work of camouflaged design, an organic house that melds seamlessly with the terrain, rolling into the vibrant green landscape and naturally positioned boulders. Set in the scenic village of Shoolagiri within the Sanctity Ferme community in Tamil Nadu, Winterfell offers an idyllic retreat from urban life—a place to live close to nature. […]

Read More

Tipu Villa is a Heritage Home Blending Boldness and Sophistication | DabStudio

The design concept of Tipu Villa embodies a harmonious balance of boldness and sophistication, crafting spaces that exude refinement and elegance, resulting in a true heritage home. Key design elements include exclusive use of Indian-sourced materials, including Indian teak wood, veneer, natural Kota lime stone, and yellow lime stone, promoting cultural charm and heritage. Tipu […]

Read More

The Outdoor Office is a Response to Uninspired Office Design | Kiasma Studio

Office spaces are often defined by uninspired, industrial aesthetics—endless rows of cubicles, glaring fluorescent lights and austere décor. It’s easy to become desensitized to the potential for beauty in these environments where we spend so much of our time. And with the demands for extended work hours becoming an accepted norm, the line between work […]

Read More

This Modern Farm House Reflects Harmony with Nature and Heritage | Studio HC

Nestled amidst the serene outskirts of Bangalore, this 1.25-acre modern farm house embodies a seamless fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities. Every detail of the property reflects an unwavering commitment to creating a space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while honoring heritage. This Modern Farm House Reflects Harmony with Nature and Heritage […]

Read More

The Interior Contemporary Design Celebrates Openness and Dramatic Volumes | DesigNiche Architecture

The client envisioned a home that embodies openness and fluidity through interior contemporary design. He is drawn to expansive volumes and dramatic spatial experiences, including double-height ceilings and multiple floors. Each family member should have a distinct, personal space, yet all areas must remain visually and spatially connected to foster a strong sense of togetherness. […]

Read More

This Brahmaputra Riverfront Is a Rhythm of Nature and Stillness | atArchitecture

The Brahmaputra riverfront rejuvenates a natural water lily pond, creates a new river edge, and seamlessly connects the site to the adjacent heritage museum, fostering public interaction. Editor’s Note: “A combination of contours and current, the design of the Brahmaputra riverfront unfolds like a living memory. Quietly celebrating time and terrain, every curve echoes the […]

Read More

A Modern Bali House With Timeless Tropical Charm | Biombo Architects

Located in the coastal village of Pererenan, Bali, House Terra is a contemporary response to tropical living, designed by Biombo Architects as a family retreat. The project balances built space and landscape, creating a strong connection between architecture and nature while offering shelter from the island’s monsoon climate. Editor’s Note: “House Terra, more than a […]

Read More

Minimal Home Interior Design That Honors Heritage in a 15′ Wide Plot | Dinterplay Architects

Located on a 15′ x 95′ ancestral plot in a pal village, Surat, India, this residence is designed for a multi-generational family of seven. This minimal home interior design solves light and space challenges within a narrow plot. The family wanted to stay connected with their community and preserve their cultural roots. The site has […]

Read More
  • This Hyderabad House Harmonizes Two Distinct Units | Lalith and Jyothi Architects

    75 Living Room Lighting Ideas For Indian Homes