INI Design Studio: The Lakhani Villa, in Ahmedabad, embodies the concept of ‘Tranquil Modernism’, blending timeless contemporary design principles with serene, nature-integrated living spaces. With an aesthetic featuring a clean geometry and uncluttered spaces, it provides a sanctuary from the urban chaos. The beige and white sandstone and exposed architectural concrete, complements the minimalist design. Expansive shaded glazing, spacious balconies, and landscaped courtyards and lawns integrate the indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a profound sense of harmony with nature.
An expansive entrance plaza, covered by a sweeping canopy welcomes visitors with grandeur. A linear wall, punctuated with strategic openings, shields the garden from view, creating an intriguing visual element. The linear double-height vestibule that leads into the home serves to divide the public and private areas, its starkness artfully interrupted by interesting murals, adding artistic flair. Inside, the living and dining areas open into a large garden through floor-to-ceiling glazing system, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection.
The interiors echo the villa's modern ethos. Clean lines, neutral tones, and an open floor plan define the living spaces, creating an atmosphere of serenity and spaciousness. Natural materials like wood and stone add warmth and character to the décor, with an absence of clutter emphasizing functionality. The interior features Italian marble flooring and minimalist furniture, with aesthetic pieces of art imparting splashes of colour to the simple white walls. Signature light fixtures add character and elegance. The living room furniture, with bold black upholstery brightened by colourful throws and cushions, creates a striking yet inviting space. Expansive windows frame the garden, allowing natural light to flood the interior. The expansive patio, equipped with comfortable outdoor furniture, invites al fresco dining and leisurely gatherings, while a pool at the back of the house, provides a space for relaxation and recreation.
Environmental sustainability is a guiding principle throughout the villa's design and construction. Use of cavity walls, eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems such as solar panels and LED lighting, minimize the environmental impact. Native plants, simple hardscaping, and towering trees harmonize with the villa's architecture, creating a verdant oasis that requires minimal maintenance. Existing trees on the site have been accommodated through a cut-out in the slab of the first-floor terrace, integrating Nature within the architectural framework.
The aesthetic of the Lakhani Villa masterfully combines the robust, stark geometry of brutalist architecture with an unexpected airiness and lightness. The design incorporates bold, unadorned materials like concrete and sandstone, creating a raw and powerful presence, counterbalanced by expansive windows, open spaces, and design elements that allow natural light to flood the interior. This juxtaposition of heavy, solid forms with light-filled, open spaces results in a unique and harmonious living environment that feels both substantial and uplifting.
