Nascent interactions amidst people, nature, and objects have been chiselled to make spaces of dwelling. Envisioned as a weekend getaway for a family of three, House by the Grove emerges from sprawling farmlands. On closer inspection of the existing landscape and wind directions, the L-shaped dwelling sits in the middle of the property, wrapping lush foliage of fruit-bearing trees.
Tucked comfortably within the bounds of nature, House by the Groves immediately seizes the viewer by the large expansive tiled roof – a contemporary rendition of vernacular Mangalore roofs. Commencing from the driveway, the promenade of circular columns renders open views of the landscape beyond, culminating with a small water body at the far end. The architecture of the dwelling engulfs the vegetation around, harnessing openness and free-flowing spaces. Flanked by the guest bedroom on the east side and the living spaces on the west, the water body becomes a visual landmark. Generous plinth areas marked by 2.5m circular columns in the common areas draw subtle lines of privacy and protection from the changing environment.
The double-height living and dining cater to the client’s brief of hosting people, while the kitchen is flexible to be opened out or closed. On the opposite side of the kitchen, the master bedroom adorns a minimalist design with locally sourced stones – kota stone – and cast in-situ pieces of furniture. The first floor encompasses the private bedrooms and a library connected by a bridge. Indigenous materiality, earthy hues, and cast-in-situ finishes tether the interiors of the dwelling. In parallel, the washrooms become spaces of relaxation, embracing large skylights, green pockets, monolithic floors, and counters revealing glimpses of nature.
As a nod to vernacular design narratives, the expansive sloping roof – in Mangalore tiles – takes centre stage against the simplest form and muted colours of the interiors. Manoeuvring from distinctly open vistas of the living spaces to enclosed private bedrooms; House by the Grove entails enriching experiences with nature.
