Sagarika Farmhouse by Roadhouse Architects

This residence is designed for a young family of 5 and is located in the setting of rural Bangalore surrounded by agricultural lands and views of the Nandi Hills. The design conceptualization revolves around the idea of seamless interpolation of landscape and built spaces with axial planning and structure rooted to the ground. Emphasis is placed on connecting all parts of the residence to nature. Locally sourced brick laid in English bond is chosen as the primary material, combined with exposed concrete and plastered white walls as a contemporary expression of tropical architecture. The silhouette of the two sloping roofs not only characterizes the front elevation but also brings in natural light from north and east. The entirety of the structure was designed with load bearing walls, thereby eliminating the need for expensive RCC footings and columns.

In the 1.5 acre contoured site, the higher ground was chosen to place the built mass as it offers excellent views of the surrounding landscape and helps with easy water drain off during the monsoons. The built mass is placed in such a way that the open garden area is in the foreground where kids and dogs can run around and play. A large platform and steps are designed for the family to come together in the garden. The landscape weaves through and around the built spaces in the form of a pebble court, Open to sky courtyard, kitchen garden, koi pond and water bodies. A second garden is created adjoining the elevated pool area flanked by curved pathways and tall plants to bring in a sense of privacy.

The approach to the main door is juxtaposed with a dry pebble court on one side and a koi pond on the other. The roof height of the foyer & the connected corridor is kept low to create a stronger sense of enclosure. As one moves to the living or dining areas the volumes increase drastically bringing in a sense of openness and connectivity to nature. The pooja room is designed as an abstraction of the idea that God is nature. It is built as an extension of the corridor and cantilevered over the koi pond making the space feel like it's gently floating on the water amplifying the feeling of serenity.

The Main axis flows through the heart of the house interconnecting visually and physically the living, outdoor sunken seating, pool, Sit-out, open to sky central court and the dining. The living area is characterized by the sloping roof which captures diffused north light throughout the day. It spills out towards the central courtyard on one side and the pool on the other. By interspersing the landscape into the central area, we were able to build on a smaller footprint but still achieve the feeling of vastness of the spaces. The kitchen and dining are designed into an integrated grid with a sloping roof towards east which lets in soft morning light. The kitchen garden is connected to the kitchen and dining through a small court making it easily accessible. 

The interior details consist of exposed brick walls, exposed concrete, white plastered walls, Beige marble and timber accents for sloping roofs. All wooden furniture is custom designed and made by expert craftsmen on the site. The combination of these elements come together in a harmonious amalgamation of tropical and contemporary design ideologies.