Within the dense urban fabric of Chennai, this apartment was designed to give a
sense of identity to its residents. No unit is design identical to the other. In a
neighbourhood of cookie cutter apartments, we were determined to give our residents
their ‘home’.
The transformation of a post-modern bungalow in Chennai into a traditional
Mangalorean house, was a dream come true for an elderly couple. This challenge was
met through connecting and creating horrizontal and vertical lines. A traditional
car porch and trellis add authenticity to this style of design.
A historic institution in Chennai required an additional academic block. Beyond the
functional aspects, classes that look into open courtyards, pop out library
cubicles, shaded walkways maintaining line of sight between old and new buildings
were designed. The majestic edifice stands as a beacon of education and community
for those in pursuit of knowledge.
Our task was to convert a dingy two- storey building into a single residence. We
responded by piercing an atrium through the two floors, uniting them. A few walls
were knocked down to create an open kitchen, a terrace garden and an airy
environment overall. The highlight is the mural in the atrium made of repurposed
materials from the site.
An NRI wished to honour the sacrifice of his mother who raised him and his
siblings
by presenting her with a comfortable home spread over 3 storeys within their
compact
piece of land - around 880 sq.ft. The home was designed around a courtyard that
would be multi-purpose - serve as a garden, connect the home across several
floors
and ensure ample lighting and ventilation through the house. The carefully
planned
efficient layout was enhanced with considerate interior design to ensure bright
and
airy interiors endowed with the characteristics of two conflicting styles -
‘earthy’
and ‘luxury’. This conflict was addressed by subtly balancing both styles so
that
the lines between the styles are blurred.
In a heartfelt tribute to his mother's unwavering dedication, an NRI sought to
create a haven of comfort and elegance within a modest footprint of 880 sq. ft.
The vision was to craft a three-storey home centred around a versatile
courtyard, not only as a garden oasis but also as a unifying element that
connect the residents across several floors while enhancing natural light and
ventilation throughout the space.
Design Concept: Integrating Earthy Warmth with Subtle Luxury
The core of this design endeavour was to seamlessly blend two contrasting styles
- the earthy warmth that evokes a sense of grounded comfort, and the understated
luxury that adds a touch of sophistication and refinement. Careful consideration
was given to every detail, ensuring that both styles harmonise rather than
clash, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.
Efficient Layout and Multi-Purpose Courtyard
The layout was meticulously planned to optimise every square foot, emphasising
functionality without compromising on aesthetics. Each floor flows seamlessly
into the next, creating a sense of continuity and spaciousness within the
compact footprint. The courtyard serves as the heart of the home, not only
connecting various levels but also flooding the interiors with natural light and
fresh air.
Bright and Airy Interiors
Natural light is maximised throughout the home, with strategically placed
windows and skylights that invite sunlight to dance across carefully curated
spaces. Neutral color palettes dominate, enhancing the sense of openness and
tranquility while providing a canvas for subtle pops of color and texture.
Earthy Elements
Earthy elements such as natural wood finishes, textured brick accents, and
tactile fabrics imbue the interiors with a sense of warmth and grounding. These
elements pay homage to nature and evoke a feeling of coziness and serenity,
reflecting the nurturing spirit of the mother who inspired the home's creation.
Subtle Luxury Accents
In contrast, subtle luxury accents manifest in sleek lines, refined materials,
and thoughtful detailing. Elegant furnishings, luxurious textiles, and
understated decor pieces elevate the ambiance, adding a layer of sophistication
without overwhelming the earthy essence. The result is a space where comfort
meets elegance, offering a retreat that is both inviting and indulgent.
A Home of Comfort, Elegance, and Tribute
This three-storey home stands as a testament to love and gratitude, honouring
the sacrifices of a devoted mother with a residence that embodies comfort,
elegance, and thoughtful design. By delicately balancing earthy warmth with
subtle luxury, the design blurs the lines between styles, creating a cohesive
and harmonious living environment that nurtures the soul and celebrates the
enduring bond of family. It is a sanctuary where memories are cherished, and
where the spirit of love and dedication continues to flourish.