UNEVEN: Our clients wanted a house that followed minimalism – in architecture as well as interior design. Through multiple meetings, we were able to understand their requirements and taste better, which helped us in designing a perfect home for them. A joint family of two brothers, they wanted a house where each of them could enjoy as per their likes. From the form of this residence to the interiors, everything was requested to be in neutral and soothing colours, subtle textures and basic materials. The overall design speaks volumes of minimalism and elegance through a thoughtful design process.
DESIGN EVOLUTION & FINAL DESIGN CONCEPT
KIRTI Residence, located in Vadodara, follows a modern design approach and is all about the interesting composition of volumes. The external dynamics of the project follow a sold-void concept, with the façade constructed using teakwood stone, concrete, and glass. The aim was to bring in plenty of sunlight and also create a well-ventilated space with a double-height ceiling inside. A perfect blend of careful planning and landscape symbolises a warm home. The 31,300 sq.ft plot is located in one of the busy areas of the city.
The challenging part was to offer a design that cuts the noise off from the street, yet deliver a practical layout. The house is surrounded by northern and western lawns, such that it cuts off the outside noise. Straight lines and intersecting masses form the fundamentals for the architectural design through a modernist design approach. Huge windows and glass facades in combination with teak wood stone make a solid-void composition. The cantilevered slab at double height serves in providing shade to the outdoor seating below.
The entry to the building is formed by creating a deep-set void, with a bold and inviting wooden door kept rather simple. The warm interiors reflect the clients’ simple lifestyle. Walls washed in white and contrasting ceilings in wood, add a vivid character to the interior space. Catering to all the age groups of the family, each one’s room is done as per their taste whereas the common areas follow the same language with minimally articulated elements. The furniture is designed in a way to match the overall concept.
As you enter inside the house, the foyer is a rich mix of materials … exposed brickwork with an innovative pattern, a beautiful Sabyasachi wallpaper, and the ceiling done in teakwood with intricate details. The common areas are kept as soothing as it could be. The exposed brick wall forms the only bold against all the other subtle elements around it. The living, dining, and kitchen observe an open plan for an unhindered view. The double-height dining area reflects the vastness of the internal volumes. The ground floor also houses a guest bedroom and a master bedroom with an attached toilet.
Escalading on the first floor, the family area divides the two master bedrooms with attached toilets and walk-in wardrobes. It also houses a kid’s bedroom. The material palette is kept basic – teak wood, a faux concrete wall, and wooden flooring gives warmth to the bedrooms. The huge openings are also observed here for ample natural light. A walk through this house spells the prototype of a contemporary structure built with an architectural sensitivity.
