FARMHOUSE @ RAMANAGARA
KARNATAKA
Nestled in a mango grove amidst lush greenery, this minimalistic farmhouse overlooks a stunning rocky hillock that serves as a reminder of the rough contours of the land. The idea was to construct a space that would retain the ethos of its surroundings – raw, rustic and natural.
The base palette was consciously restricted to give a minimal look, using locally sourced, indigenous materials, such as sandstone, cement and brick. Raw finishes and natural elements form the design core, and are used in abundance in the entire house. Wall-sized windows, while separating the indoors from the outdoors, simultaneously allow the seamless flowing together of the indoors and the outdoors.
The flooring is rough cut sandstone, the raw finish in keeping with the surroundings. The ceiling in the living-cum-dining is in exposed concrete that has an interesting reed design imprinted in it. It was achieved by covering the surface with mats that were removed once the concrete had set. French windows in UPVC bring the outdoors inside, affording fantastic views to the inhabitants from all parts of the house. In the dining area, walls in exposed brick frame tall windows creating an impactful picture with the greenery outside. Exposed concrete ceilings, sandstone floors and unplastered brick walls form the basis of a sparse yet chic look in the bedrooms. The signature ceiling-high windows make an appearance here too, framing the picturesque landscapes outside and literally inviting nature in.
The farmhouse was built in a way that incorporates sustainability into its design and construction; this not only helps reduce environmental impact but is also economically effective. It is self-sufficient with solar energy and facilities for rain harvesting in the form of recharging pits, while the swimming pool water is recycled to irrigate the heliconia that is grown in abundance on the farm.
Location
Ramanagara, Karnataka
Year of completion
2018
Design
Built-up area
2,500 sqft.
Plot area
10 acres
Photographer