Flo Villa started in 2021 with the owner, Mangesh Desale. The site had limitations, and the client was also a very good friend of mine, so he had faith that this villa farmhouse could be designed considering the terrain and climate conditions. The plus point was the flowing river, so we had to make sure every room and corner had this view. A farmhouse with exposed brick, a rustic, raw look, and ample natural light was the clear goal. A second home should feel like one. We searched for different combinations of brick jalis, stone and brick combinations, concrete finishes, and brickwork. Bingo, and work started.

Editor’s Note: “Set by a flowing river, Flo Villa is rooted in nature and refined by design. The home celebrates slow living and elemental architecture with framed views and green interventions, offering a poetic yet purposeful space. Moreover, this farmhouse is an experience rooted in terrain, climate, and craft.” ~ Anusha Sridhar

This Villa Farmhouse Captures Rustic Charm With Natural Light And Views | Racca Associates

One of the challenges was the plinth and 4 columns constructed in 2017 for the ground structure and roof above it. We wanted g+2 as per the new requirement, so considering the present load, and with the help of a structural consultant, we mixed concrete and fabricated the roof. Also, reducing the load at the top, only 1 bedroom was designed on the 2nd floor.

Major materical used were brick, concrete, lime plaster, wood, ceramic, metal, glass. we also made provision for solar and sewage treatment plant . also no waste is being drained in river that was primary.

Integrated green spaces in living , bedroom and toilets makes entire experience quite natural and merges with surrounding Informal seating space in living, lounge and bar at top, group event deck at 1^st floor are key spaces as you can see in images.

Construction Techniques

Concrete Foundation: Given the riverside location, a robust concrete foundation would be essential for stability and to protect against potential flooding. Builders commonly use concrete slabs because they provide strength and durability.

Exposed Brick Walls: Exposed brick can be used for interior walls, creating an industrial yet rustic feel. The brick can be left in its natural state or treated to prevent moisture damage, especially near water. It may also be used for accent walls or chimneys.

Concrete Walls and Floors: Use concrete for exterior and interior walls to create an industrial aesthetic. Treat concrete floors with a polished finish or leave them as is, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and living spaces. Concrete is also a good material for areas requiring moisture resistance, such as basements or foundations.

Steel or Reinforced Concrete Beams: Steel beams support the structure, especially when the farmhouse design features large open spaces with high ceilings or a modern loft-like aesthetic.

Wooden Framing for Roof: A wooden truss system for the roof is common, combining structural integrity with the desired rustic aesthetic. Wooden beams and rafters would contrast beautifully with the concrete and brick materials.

Exposed Ceiling Beams: For a rustic, farmhouse look, exposed wooden beams on the ceiling could add warmth and character. The design often leaves these beams untreated or finishes them with a light stain to emphasize the natural grain.

Open Concept Floor Plan: Large, open spaces with few interior walls to create a seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas. Furthermore, this open concept suits a riverside setting, offering unobstructed views of the river.

Large Windows and Sliding Glass Doors:

To maximize the views of the river and bring in natural light, large windows as well as sliding glass doors are essential. Wood or metal typically frames these, creating a connection between the farmhouse and the surrounding landscape.

Sustainable Construction Techniques:

Given the proximity to nature, the design incorporates sustainable building practices such as passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, and natural insulation materials like wool or hemp.

How It Was Accomplished:

• Open Plan Design: The use of large, open rooms with minimal internal divisions makes the farmhouse feel expansive and accessible. Moreover, structural elements like beams or posts replace load-bearing walls.
• Strategic Zoning: Careful placement of functional zones ensures each area serves its purpose while maintaining a comfortable and logical flow between spaces.
• Natural Light and Ventilation: The use of large windows, sliding glass doors, as well as strategic placement of spaces ensures ample natural light and good ventilation, enhancing the living experience.
• Connection to the Outdoors: Design integrates expansive outdoor spaces with the interior, allowing easy transition between indoor living areas and the outside environment.
• Use of Local Materials: The design often incorporates materials like wood, stone, and brick that are locally available. Thus, adding authenticity and helping to integrate the farmhouse with its surroundings.

This spatial configuration supports a farmhouse design that feels both functional and warm. Moreover, it maintains a strong visual connection to the landscape while offering modern comforts and an inviting openness.

Conclusion

This exposed brick, concrete, and wood farmhouse combines rustic charm with modern functionality, with the natural beauty of the riverside setting integrated into the design. The use of raw, natural materials like brick, concrete, and wood creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Meanwhile, large windows and an open floor plan bring in plenty of light and seamlessly connect the interior with the outdoors. The overall feel would be cozy, with an industrial edge, perfect for a modern farmhouse by the river.

Fact File

Designed by: Racca Associates

Project Type: Residential Architecture Design

Project Name: Flo villa

Location: Nashik, Maharashtra

Year Built: 2024

Duration of the project: 2.5 Years

Plot Area: 50000 Sq.ft

Built-up Area: 6000 Sq.ft

Project Cost: 3 Crore

Principal Architect: Ar. Param Racca

Team Design Credits: Consultant Bhupendra Racca, Draftsman Sandeep Malode

Photograph Courtesy: Rishikesh S. Kshirsagar

Civil: Deltacom Corporation, Bhavsar Sir

Landscape Architects: Kalatmak Studio – Jay and Aditi Gokhale

Firm’s Instagram Link: Racca Associates

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