“Home design is to enhance the lifestyle of users by creating spaces that are extensions of their personality.” – Ankita Jain

FACT FILE

Located in an old part of Ahmedabad, the Komorebi House has been designed for two generations. The designers Ankita Jain and Dhwanil Patel have created spaces addressing the requirements of both.

The clients approached the designers to rebuild their family homes. The house, thus, explores modern Indian living by successfully creating a home that caters to the traditional Indian lifestyle yet offers room to evolve.

Built with a raw display of materials and frolicking shadows, Jain and Patel break down the process of their creation.

SITE AND PLANNING

Located in an unplanned neighbourhood and a tightly knit community, the house strategically aligns itself to receive natural light. Both the east and west facades of the house have fenestrations allowing entry of light and facilitating cross ventilation.

The house is divided into three levels. The ground floor houses the living room, parent’s bedroom, and kitchen, whereas the second floor is dedicated to the second generation, who desired more privacy. The last level of the house is a terrace area with a lounge space designed to unwind after a long day.

CONNECTED WITH THE OUTSIDE

The first generation of the house has lived a life deeply connected with the outside. Although it was challenging to carve out outdoor spaces in a restricted plot, the designers have successfully created a garden area and a lily pond.

The entire ground floor seamlessly flows into the outside porch that effortlessly connects the inhabitants with the garden area. The parents' bedroom also has direct access to the exterior.

The upper floor rooms have been provided with large balconies that allow the second generation to connect with the outside but more privately.

ART, ART EVERYWHERE

The house is a heaven for art lovers—from carefully selected sculptures to custom-designed screens and curated wall art—this house has it all. As soon as one enters the home they are greeted by a beautiful circular art piece that expresses the Jain philosophy practised by the clients.

As you move into the living area, one is greeted by custom-designed screens that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The screens are used to divide the living room but are also carefully designed using wooden blocks, fabric, and metal pieces. They effortlessly blend in with the rest of the contemporary interiors.

The focus of the house, however, is a striking Madhubani art featured on the staircase wall. The climbing cows and the flowing tree invite the house’s visitors to explore the second floor.

WELLNESS THROUGHOUT

The material selection, play of light, and colour palette make this house a synonym for tranquillity.

The overall aesthetic is rooted in the Indian contemporary style by using materials such as wood, metal, and concrete. The splash of colour is then added through the art pieces. All of this is tied together with the strategically orchestrated play of light that is calming to the senses.

Even the toilets, which are usually the last thing on the mind for design, have been created using volumes and fenestrations that allow natural light in. Featuring dual windows—one for light and another for ventilation—the toilets are designed using a red travertine leather finish and vitrified patterned tiles.

THE FACADE

A modern cubic form, exposed RCC plates, and concrete finish demonstrate the facade's contemporary approach. The facade's perforated metal screens add a delicate touch to the overall design.

The pattern of the perforated metal screen is designed to change the amount of light entering the house. By varying the density of perforations, harsh noontime light is blocked out, while evening light is allowed to enter in all its splendour.

BEHIND THE LENS

Saba Serkhel from Team Buildofy had the privilege to visit Komorebi and interview Jain and Patel as part of the documentation process. She says,

“After travelling all morning, through the hustle and bustle of the city, as I entered the Komorebi House I was immediately relaxed. It is indeed a tranquil abode. Exploring each and every corner of the house felt like moving through an art gallery – the Madhubani artwork was especially stunning. The house transforms in the evening and it is a treat to watch the frolicking shadows.”

Catch the complete conversation along with the comprehensive video documentation that is available on our website. Additionally, while you are there, don’t miss out on browsing other residential projects in Ahmedabad.