Located near Gandhinagar city in Gujarat, Aalloa Hills embraces rest and repose in close consonance with nature. This net-zero home residence, a bright white bridge spanning the Sabarmati Riverside terrains, stands out uniquely in the ambient wilderness. Positioned on a natural plateau with commanding views of the river and forest, it hovers above the ground, respecting the undisturbed flow of natural systems. Blurring the lines between inside and outside, it integrates with the native landscape, infusing volumes with light and shadow, transforming the space like dynamic art.
Editor’s Note: “Aalloa Hills, a net-zero house above Sabarmati’s riverside terrain echoes modern design and nature. The residence welcomes ample natural light, breeze, and landscape into the home through passive strategies such as sun-breakers and shaded verandahs. Minimalist monochrome interiors and outdoor spaces allow the vibrancy of their surroundings while showcasing a serene work of architecture.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
This Net Zero Home Stands Out Uniquely In The Ambient Wilderness | INI Design Studio
A simple yet elegantly composed form meanders linearly across the valley, strung together by a thread-like access ramp. Starting from the staff quarters below and leading from the entrance parking bay, the ramp connects the guest house to the main house atop the plateau.
This curated spatial journey unveils a controlled panorama of the valley, with the house hoisted off the ground on pilots like a modern Machan, offering resplendent views through deep, shady verandahs.
Geometric precision and axis planning create an interesting dialogue between the built and open, while allowing a seamless flow of spaces, light, water, breeze, vegetation and sounds of birds and trees.
Moreover, the deliberate placement of solid walls and voids achieves a delicate equilibrium between the built forms and the lush surroundings.
Furthermore, the orientation optimizes use of natural terrains and the hot semi-arid climate, with energy-efficient sun breakers on the west side contributing to the residence’s sustainable ethos.
Additionally, the east-facing veranda, a dual-function space, acts as a sunscreen during the day and transforms into an outdoor haven during mornings and evenings.
A china-mosaic-lined rooftop thwarts the harsh sunlight, and design interventions like wide, painted cavity masonry forms sun-breakers along the verandas, sunk slabs with cinder filling, and double-glazed windows team up to reduce heat absorption and allow comfortable indoor spaces without air conditioning for 9 months of the year. Additionally, breezes blowing over the pool and waterfall flanking the main block on either side cool the house significantly.
All existing vegetation on the site was retained and 400+ new trees and shrubs planted, which play host to the many birds and other creatures who visit and inhabit the environs. This conscious effort resonates with the spirit of giving back, a thankfulness for Nature’s bounty bestowed.
The bold monochrome palette features a bright white exterior on the horizontally disposed structure. Moreover, this is punctuated by black stone flooring along the balconies. Thus, setting off the natural hues of the plateau and valley in stark contrast.
The minimalist yet plush, black-and-white interiors fashion a comfortable, unobtrusive space where colors of landscape and artwork are celebrated year-round. Additionally, public and private spaces are seamlessly integrated, with a double-height living area as the focal point.
The occupants of all rooms spill onto the shaded outdoor living spaces. Moreover, the lush, undulating neighborhood greets them—like a canvas to fête the green—squarely framed by the ample fenestration. In doing so, team INI proudly doffs its hat to the modernist masters.
Fact File
Designed by: INI Design Studio
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Aalloa Hills Residence
Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
Year Built: 2023
Project Size: 14500 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Jayesh Hariyani & Bindu Hariyani
Photograph Courtesy: The Space Tracing Company
Structural Engineer: B. K. Shah
Civil Contractor: Ketan Thakkar
Facade Contractor: Hi-Fab, The Window Factory
Firm’s Website Link: INI Design Studio
The Firm’s Instagram Link: INI Design Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: INI Design Studio
For Similar Projects >> This Village Farm House Design Connects the Inhabitants With Their Roots
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 an environment where every space has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a deep […]
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 […]