FACT FILE

THE DESIGN BRIEF

Aarti Vilas is an urban home where modern design meets environmental responsiveness. This contemporary residence redefines privacy by embracing an outward-looking approach. Its unique feature is a dynamic perforated screen that harmonises with the sun, creating playful shadows that enliven the outdoor spaces all day long. Situated in Vadodara's vibrant commercial hub, this house gracefully navigates its surroundings, despite the bustling road and heavy traffic nearby.

The clients — accomplished businessmen with multiple land holdings in Vadodara, and hailing from royal heritage — deliberated on choosing a site for their inaugural residence. Despite contemplating alternative options, the emotional significance of the existing plot convinced them to retain it for their new home. Spanning approximately 7,200 sq ft, the property boasts a longitudinal shape, with a 60 ft length along the south edge adjacent to the main road, a 75 ft length aligned with the 12 m society road on the north side, and an extended length of 118 ft.

During the project, the design team faced various challenges, notably the constraints of a compact site and the client's extensive list of requirements, which encompassed six bedrooms, a ground-floor retail space, and additional facilities. To address these needs while upholding standards of air quality, natural light, privacy, and noise elimination, the team made the decision to construct a vertically-oriented house, maximising the available space to achieve a harmonious balance between functionality and opulent aesthetics.

PLANNING PROCESS

In order to maximise the potential of the plot's location in a commercial zone, the client designated a significant portion on the south side facing the road for a spacious showroom, with servant rooms planned behind it. The main entrance to the house is accessed from the internal society road on the north side. The central focal point of the house is the entrance foyer, positioned at the centre and featuring a double-height atrium that instantly evokes a sense of tranquillity upon arrival. An exquisite beige sandstone interpretation of a jharokha adorns the foyer, establishing a visual connection to the first floor.

Ascending through the staircase or glass lift provides a unique experience, with the serene ambience enhanced by subtle pastel greens on the RCC walls of the lift.

The central linear space, 16 ft wide, encompasses a family area and a double-height dining space, strategically positioned along an axis that opens directly into the terrace garden on the southern side, creating a seamless connection to nature. Towards the northeast, a small formal living area with expansive glass windows welcomes natural light, while also establishing a visual link with the entry foyer below, offering a cosy corner to unwind and enjoy the surrounding views.

Located in the southeast corner of the house, the kitchen, Maharaj's kitchen, and other essential utilities are thoughtfully situated to ensure convenience and efficient workflow within the home.

In the southwest corner on the first floor, a dedicated room has been thoughtfully designed for the grandparents, offering privacy while maintaining a visual connection with the serene terrace garden. The second floor features two bedrooms, with the master bedroom occupying the southwest corner as a tranquil retreat and the daughter's bedroom designed with comfort and personal space in mind.

A spacious puja space awaits on the third floor, adorned with large glass openings that frame the lush greens surrounding the Aarti Vilas, providing a peaceful ambience for spiritual practices.

The third floor also houses the son's bedroom, a vibrant kid's bedroom, and a guest bedroom, ensuring comfortable accommodations for various needs. A central seating area on the second floor connects different spaces and seamlessly integrates with the dining area below.

The fourth floor offers a range of leisure and wellness amenities, including a multipurpose area, home theatre, terrace gardens, gym, spa, and a luxurious 'fantasy toilet' featuring contemporary amenities like a jacuzzi and sauna.

FACADE OF THE HOUSE

The design of the house aimed to create a striking and minimalist aesthetic, setting it apart from a typical apartment-like appearance. This was accomplished by integrating a latticed red granite screen with artistic perforations on the south elevation at levels two and three, as well as on the north facade at level three. Additionally, the use of exposed concrete work, intricately cast in a rhythmic manner resembling a corrugated sheet, further enhanced the distinctive exterior of the house. The combination of these elements resulted in a visually captivating and unique architectural statement.

IN CONCLUSION

The design of the Aarti Vilas emphasises a seamless connection between floors, incorporating double-height spaces, cutouts in slabs, and a strong visual connection between levels. This architectural approach enhances aesthetics, airflow, and ventilation, creating a sense of continuity and openness throughout the house.