In a faraway land amidst the boundless sea and a lush carpet of dense, verdant vegetation stands a tranquil residence. Its walls are weathered by salty winds and the sounds of crashing waves, teleporting one to an enchanting and mystical land. This abode aptly christened, is a fragment of the glistening golden shoreline that gracefully bears the passage of time. A mere three-hour drive from Chennai, along the picturesque coastline, transports one to this tranquil realm away from the bustles of the city.

FACT FILE

A vast expanse of barren land surrounds the home, casting a mirage of a familiar land for a lost traveler. A collaborative endeavor among four friends, this dwelling transforms into a hangout den for them and their families. They wanted a structure marinated by the context, and seamlessly melding in with its surroundings.

STEPPING INTO VERDANCE

The entrance of this haven is a minute’s walk from the main entrance. This calculated hand was played, to decelerate the residents from their bustling schedules. The rocky pathway through the embrace of greens, leading to the home unveils tantalizing glimpses of the residence and a concealed swimming pool cloaked behind a thatched roof structure. The meditative journey devises the inhabitants for an experience of sheer tranquility and ecstasy.

The entrance porch is similar to a welcome hug from the home itself. With alfresco spaces gracing both flanks, the intention of the home becomes evident. To one side, a lily pond stretches luxuriously along the expanse of a bedroom. The opposite side offers a sit-out in the presence of flourishing flora and fauna, seamlessly blending the indoors and outdoors. A carved wooden door, embellished with brass accents beckons entry into this earthy home with splashes of color. Tiles inspired by Ikkat print pave the way to a majestic courtyard that takes the center stage of the home.

MUSE OF THE DESIGN

The courtyard bathes the entire abode in hues of gold due to the skylight above. This colossal courtyard assumes the role as a community space for the events hosted by the four owners. It gets a special preference even during the day, thanks to the cool winds wafting from the sea. A modern reinterpretation of traditional columns lends support to the four-directional sloping roofs. A verdant pocket captivates one’s wandering gaze amidst the rustic walls. At the far end of this courtyard sits another portal with a swing that teleports you to the carefree days of childhood. Beneath the shade of a Champa tree lies a swing that permeates an air of nostalgia. The Mangalore tile walls that line the space are a result of the nifty approach to an earthy aesthetic.

These Mangalore tile walls enshroud the bedrooms, with an eccentric color palette that boldly contrasts with the home’s palette. Hues of cobalt, yellow, verdant, and crimson distinguish each bedroom to suit the distinctive taste of each family. The southern corner accommodates a kitchen and dining area, with a staircase leading towards visual treats of the surroundings. A cobalt door stands proudly as a rebel in the earthy space.

CHASING VIEWS

The first floor exists only to bestow the residents with panoramic views of the magnificent sea, the balcony on the side makes sure of that. The reclaimed wooden windows lining the facades on the north and the south create an ethereal space filled with natural light. This space also plays the role of a sun blocker from the unrelenting southern heat.

Karai’s serene grandeur compels its residents to pause and enjoy nature in its unfettered glory. This abode showcases ingenuity using native materials that blend architecture and environment. However, the courtyard is the pièce de résistance, drawing the entire troop together.

This home brings together four families to savor moments of quality time, indulging in savored meals, and heartfelt conversations. It stands as a testament to a cherished bond between four friends.

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