Designed by SSDA, this residence redefines practicality through a contemporary lens. Anchored by landscaped gardens and a Plumeria tree, it is a layered composition of light, stone, and sustainable choices. There are countless options when designing a home; each story is distinct to the person who creates it. “When we were asked to craft a home that revolved around the idea of practicality, we decided to create a space that felt contemporary and brought in the idea of nature,” says Ar. Saumya Khanna, Co-founder and Principal Architect at SSDA. Designed for a family of three with 5 rooms and family lounges, the home emanates a functional approach to design. Sculpted around an idyllic Plumeria tree, it gives rise to a courtyard and drives the layout of the house. Built on a half-acre plot and guided by a conscious decision to limit ground coverage, the design ensures that the built-up area remains minimal. This allows for the creation of green zones, incorporating generous backyards, landscaped gardens, and open-air decks that enhance the connection with the outdoors.
The residence evokes a contemporary design language with clean lines, modern materials and a play of volumes. It incorporates a thoughtful blend of materials like metal accents, glass, wood, textured paint, and stone to create a visually rich palette. Special attention is given to the stone finishes, introducing unique treatments that lend depth and character to the overall design. The facade gravitates towards a muted grey scheme, complemented by the warmth of natural wood.
Zoned across two levels with clear functional zoning: the ground floor is designed for the parents, while the first floor is tailored to the son’s lifestyle. The spatial planning ensures that the entertainment spaces are thoughtfully distributed across both levels to maintain connectivity yet allow independence. Vastu plays a vital role in shaping the spatial layout, guiding the planning with intention and harmony. Natural light is a key consideration, with ample North and East light flooding into the interiors. Moving indoors is the double-height living area with large floor-toceiling windows, draped in neutral hues and has wooden ceilings, which associate a connection with nature. The staircase towards the south brings a sense of verticality with its minimal design. Beneath a sculpture in grey and bold royal blue tones, add a pop of colour adds to the neutral space.
A captivating design feature in the residence is the courtyard housing the Plumeria tree. The entire spatial composition gradually reveals itself, being layered, connected, and intentional. A double-height wall sits just behind the Plumeria tree. Clad in a textured stone known as Raymond, it creates a sculptural backdrop that elevates the natural elegance of the tree. The overall visual frames a sequence: the calming water body in the foreground, the graceful Plumeria at the center, and the stone wall as a grounding element.
What’s truly remarkable is the play of sunlight into this scene. “The light strikes the wall at a sharp angle, casting dynamic shadows that change throughout the day, animating the textures of the stone and breathing life into the composition. Adjacent to this is the dining area, crafted with seating for 10 people. To heighten this experience, a mirror is thoughtfully placed in the dining area opposite the tree. While enjoying a meal, the mirror reflects the same composition, the tree, the Raymond stone wall, and the shimmering water, offering an immersive view that brings the outdoors in and turns everyday moments into serene experiences,” explains Saumya Khanna.
Further, the interior palette features extensive use of marble and richly detailed wall panelling. In selected zones, HD-HMR panels finished in high-gloss PU add a refined sheen. Grey forms the base palette, beautifully complemented by blue accents that flow consistently throughout the home. Furniture is locally crafted, offering a sustainable choice while adding a sense of authenticity to the design.
The private bedrooms are a story within themselves. In the mother’s room on the ground floor, a corner-edge glass is incorporated that extends uninterrupted across the view. A structural round column has been carefully integrated into the design without obstructing the openness. The intent ensures that she enjoys an expansive, unobstructed view of the lush garden. Additionally, a little boat installation outside brings nature, light, and tranquility into the everyday experience. The family lounges are adorned with curated artworks, while the pantry in blue weaves a cohesive visual thread. The other rooms are crafted with botanical wallpapers, bespoke furniture and subtle tones.
Landscaping plays a vital role in the design of this home, showcasing the client’s deep connection to their garden. Highlighting the same, Saumya asserts, “Two majestic mango trees dominate the front of the house, and the architecture is thoughtfully shaped around them, honouring their presence rather than disrupting it. At the rear, the design opens up with expansive glazing at the lower level, offering uninterrupted views of the lush lawn and garden. Above, custom-crafted FRP panels feature tailored slit windows that gently filter in light while shielding the interiors from the harsh southern sun.”
Overall, the home brings one closer to nature while celebrating the idea of functional and practical design. With contemporary sensibilities and luxurious touches, this residence offers a sense of peace in the bustling outdoors.
Photocourtesy: Tarang Goyal
