The evolution of the first phase of this Indian farmhouse is retrieved from an old wada (mansion), set around a series of arches and preserved by the architect for over two decades.
Editor’s Note: “The ruggedness of the stone, harmonized with the warmth of terracotta and wood, evokes a sense of comfort and serenity. Inspired by Nashik’s local architecture, this dwelling offers a truly refined escape. Embracing the 3Rs concept, the design masterfully balances traditional elements with modern necessities.” ~Simran Khare
This Indian Farmhouse is Retrieved from an Old Wada (Mansion) | Environ Planners
Off the main city roads of Nashik, an inconspicuous little path branches off unexpectedly towards a dam and a dense clump of trees beyond. There is nothing to indicate to an average passerby what lies beyond this otherwise modest countryside.
However, to those who know their way, this path only serves as a build up to the little hideout that lies beyond; a personal space for the architects’ family. For the first time visitor who trudges over the dam and makes way through the wooded surrounds, it is ambiguity at its best.
Finally, the sloping stone walls of the Indian farmhouse emerge from the earth, beckoning the visitor inside.
The sounds of chirping birds and humming bees, the slope of the sheltering roof and a touch of the cool terracotta floor under one’s feet create the perfect entrance transition and draw you into the courtyard at the heart of the space.
The lotus court draws you in further with its tranquil aura. The court on either side craft a tapestry of light and shade. The utter simplicity of the plan doubles the impact.
The distinction generated by the roughness of the stones with the warmth of terracotta and wood, the sharp edges of gravel softened by the tenderness of natural leaves and the calmness of water; all add up to a innate sense of positivity and harmony.
The spaces framed by these arches are notable for the absence of formal walls, doors and windows, allowing for a seamless visual and physical connect between the covered and uncovered spaces.
Built on the principles of sustainable architecture and minimalist living, the design is a reflection of local architecture and conducive to the composite climate of the region.
A water harvesting pond connected to percolation pits and trenches in the bare ground helps recycle water on site. Solar panels finds its purpose in water heating and part of other electrical consumption.
The stone used in the masonry work has been quarried from a well dug on the site itself. The otherwise arid and barren piece of land was transformed by planting a mixed culture of around 5000 medicinal, flowering and fruit bearing trees; giving life to a forest, creating a microcosm conducive to providing a home to birds and other organisms.
A building is like a growing organism. There is a constant growth; with time ideas and requirements evolve, which ultimately reflects in the architecture.
After nearly two decades, the farmhouse has transformed from a weekend getaway to a home for the architects’ family, with a new identity, a way of living closer to the nature – with trees, insects, snakes, dogs, cats and everything that comes along with it.
Luckily, around this period, the architect was able to procure the remains of another dilapidated Wada.
The retrieved brackets, beams, columns, every piece of the wood were salvaged, assembled and reused while maintaining the design language of the original farmhouse.
To suffice the changing needs, there is an addition of modern touches with dressed basalt stone masonry and puff insulated sheet roofing laid over with PV cells.
Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, formed the gist of this project while conserving and preserving materials from the two Wadas. A placid swimming pool rests outside, merging beautifully with the surroundings.
This farmhouse is symbolic of all the things the architects’ family loves and respects. The elements of nature – a piece of sky, touch of the earth, access to wind and the presence of water are all nurtured here.
Functionally it is a multi-utility space, serving as a home to unwind and entertain. The space is designed to welcome all seasons and the bounties they bring.
Above all, it is a melting pot for different ideologies on art, architecture and life itself.
Fact File
Designed by: Environ Planners
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: A Farmhouse At Mahiravani
Location: Nashik, Maharashtra, India
Year Built: 2004 – 2021
Project Size: 5920 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ar. Sanjay Patil & Ar. Anagha Patil
Team Design Credits: Ar. Jahnvi Sanap & Suyash Deshmukh
Photograph Courtesy: Ar. Deepshika Jain, Ar. Atul Kanetkar, PHX India & Pritesh Patil
Consultants for the Project: Structural consultants: Er. Jayant Bhinge, Er. Sanjay Ratnaparkhi and Er. Satish Patanka / Carpentry: Bhalerao, Rahul Kularia / Plumbing consultant: Er. Milind Shete / HVAC consultant: Er. Sachin Save / Site engineer: Er. Rajesh Patil, Er. Rajesh Kadam
Firm’s Website Link: Environ Planners
Firm’s Instagram Link: Environ Planners
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