This architect residence in Pune integrates the ethos of traditional Indian architecture in a spacious, modern duplex flat.
This modern duplex flat features a judicious blend of traditional Indian architectural ethos, elements and artefacts. The resultant effect is that of simple charm, creating a perfect abode for the architect.
The demands of the site led to a 2-floor residence, but with the space connectivity of a single-level home. Drawing major inspiration from the Indian courtyard design tradition – an open central space that brings in natural ventilation, offers a space for interactions, and connects all spaces in multi-level residences – the inner stairwell and the puja room have been planned at the heart of the residence. This high, open, central stairwell has been demarcated around it for ease of movement across and between all floors.
The design team from Pune-base AA Architects also adopted the demarcation of public, semi-public and private spaces from the traditional courtyard homes. The 2 levels of the flat are so designed that the public area, that is the living room, and semi-public areas, that is the dining room with the adjoining kitchen and guest bedroom, are located on the lower floor. The private areas comprising the family room and bedrooms are housed on the floor above, ensuring complete privacy.
Within this layout, the rooms are designed with clean lines, minimalist furniture and fittings, and accommodate a selection of wood and brass antiques from the architect’s personal collection. A hint of his love for collecting traditional art is revealed at the main entrance, which sports a wooden lintel with carved hamsas on either side of an image of Lord Ganesha. Right inside, the facing wall is graced with an elaborately carved alcove within which is set another Ganesha image. Linking the two levels is a 15 ft.-by-3 ft. calligraphy work featuring the ‘Pasaydan’ (‘Grace of God’); this is a prayer in the Dynaneshwari that is a venerated commentary on the Bhagavad Gita written by the deeply-revered 13th century Maharashtrian poet, Saint Dyaneshwar Maharaj.
A ‘Nandi’ bull, and a rooster created out of recycled materials are also part of the art repertoire of the house. A jaali panel screens the dining area. A few patterns repeat across the spaces, such as a play of warp and weft in the living room carpet, upholstery and wallpaper, infusing a deep sense of restraint. “And it is this understated style that creates a home that reflects the ethos of the family and gives them a space they enjoy and appreciate,” states the team.
The residence is largely dotted with white-and-grey tones, with brown adding a touch of contrast in select areas. A simple kota stone flooring dominates the home, with the terracotta flooring in the puja room, mosaic in the veranda, and black kadappa in the family room providing some lovely visual breaks. The design palette is decidedly simple, rooted in traditional architecture, and inviting of a tactile experience. The stone flooring also makes the home easy to maintain.
