Derived from the Sanskrit word Neeti, meaning intention or guiding principle, the project is shaped by a series of conscious design decisions. Each decision responds to climate, context, and the everyday rituals of family life. Located in the hot and arid landscape of northern Gujarat, Neeti – Lime House at Palanpur reinterprets traditional building wisdom for contemporary living. The design combines passive environmental strategies, natural materials, and thoughtful spatial planning. Rather than treating lime as a surface finish, the architects use it as a breathable building system. It enhances thermal comfort, celebrates craftsmanship, and becomes a defining element of the home’s architectural expression.
This Lime House in Gujarat Redefines Climate-Conscious Architecture | Dinterplay Architects
Situated on a corner plot bordered by roads on the south, east, and west, with agricultural land to the north, the residence responds equally to site conditions and lifestyle. Instead of placing the primary garden at the front of the house, the landscape is positioned along the eastern edge of the plot.
Two mature neem trees provide generous shade during the morning, while the staggered architectural massing gradually casts its own shadow across the garden as the sun moves west. The result is an outdoor space that remains comfortable throughout the day and becomes most inviting during the evening—the time when the family gathers together. Here, the architecture itself becomes part of the climatic strategy.
The residence is organized into three staggered wings that channel prevailing winds while balancing privacy, daylight, and patterns of use. Bedrooms occupy the quieter northern edge, while the living, dining, and kitchen spaces maintain a continuous relationship with the garden. A double-height entrance court creates a gradual transition from the public realm, while carefully positioned openings frame existing trees, encourage cross ventilation, and regulate daylight. Deep overhangs and terracotta jaali screens protect the south and west façades from intense solar exposure without compromising airflow.
Materiality defines both the character and environmental performance of the house. Textured lime plaster, sandstone dry cladding, terracotta screens, Kota stone, reclaimed wood, and handcrafted detailing create a restrained palette of locally sourced materials that age gracefully over time.
Externally, staggered framed volumes enclose the sandstone-clad surfaces, giving the elevation depth and a layered architectural expression. Inside, handcrafted lime plaster forms breathable walls, while combinations of leather-finished and polished Kota stone create subtle floor patterns. Brass inlay strips within the Pooja area passage establish a quiet dialogue with the prayer space, celebrating material continuity through thoughtful detailing.
At the heart of the residence, a sculptural staircase connects the two levels. Inspired by the rhythm of the human vertebral column, it combines a slender steel spine, timber treads, and a transparent glass balustrade to express both structural clarity and visual lightness.
Fact File
Designed by: Dinterplay Architects
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Neeti-Lime House
Location: Gujarat
Year Built: 2025
Project Size: 1837.27 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Ar.Krunal Patel & Ar. Shreya Bhavsar
Photograph Courtesy: pratikruti09
Design Team: Jeshika Patel
Technical Team: Soib Tai
Engineering & Consulting > Structural: Shree consulting engineers-Harshal Dalala
Project Management: Jitendra Karnavat
Engineering & Consulting > Mep: Janak Patel
Engineering & Consulting > Other: Facade Cladding – Bhargav
Manufacturers: Briston furniture, Fanzart, Futura, Kohler, Mãos do Oriente, Nexion tiles, Norysis, Panasonic, Telesia Windows, Venzo wood
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Dinterplay Architects
The Firm’s Instagram Link: Dinterplay Architects
Firm’s Facebook Link: Dinterplay Architects
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