THE HOUSE WITH THREE TREES

courtesy of banduksmithstudio; photographs taken by Samantha Bandukwala, Melissa Smith, and Sam Stalker; by Marina Correa Banduksmithstudio is responsible for the design of a newly created 3,100 square foot lounge room that is attached to the existing farmhouse. This space is located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, tucked away in the middle of a little thicket. The pavilion-like lounge is designed to have a wholesome recreational atmosphere, complete with a pool, lotus pond, and other amenities. It is positioned as a glass box, and it is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. It is connected to the farmhouse through a bridge that ensures a green and open exchange between the two structures, as well as privacy when it is required. The steel-and-glass structure is a tall structure that is wrapped in a basic palette of teakwood, mahogany, and slate. It also has a mezzanine that is created from recycled industrial teakwood slats. In honor of the three trees that were cut down for the purpose of this space, the ceiling is punctuated by three skylights. This is done in recognition of the fact that the living area below is intended to accommodate both tranquil nights and intense dance parties. The contrast between rustic and smooth features, as well as traditional and modern components, contributes to the open and welcome atmosphere that is created by the straight-lined and clear layout of the space. Slate flooring, for example, provides a striking contrast to tel paani-polished teakwood, which is an Indian method that involves polishing wood by alternately applying oil and water. Additionally, classic mahogany and teak wood provide warmth to the modern glass-and-steel framework. This homeliness in the atmosphere is nicely complemented by the steel framework, which floats in certain parts. In other areas, a wall that is erected either outside or inside it employs a thick infill of fly ash brick at the perimeter. The “magic box” that was created demonstrates the meticulous attention to detail that was put into its design. This box not only conceals pipes, cables, and air conditioning outside units, but it also functions as a seat, a bookcase, and a railing. It may also be seen in the unrestricted access to the pool, which is provided both at ground level and on the cantilevered mezzanine, where giant sliding glass doors are meant to open and then entirely vanish from view. A skilled and intricate level of detail is also applied to the curtains-system that is now in place, in addition to the climatic orientation of the lounge. The company carves out with aplomb a contemporary architectural language (composite structure of steel, rcc slab, and brick walls) that appropriately answers to the pitched-roof home as well as the lush surroundings! The firm’s goal is to effectively engage the new with the old. To see the photographs of the stunning lounge that can be found on indiaartndesign.com, please click here.