FACT FILE

Nestled in the bustling city of Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, lies this stunning home — a modern marvel boasting four luxurious bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, providing the perfect retreat for a family or group of friends. With a blend of contemporary requirements and traditional temple elements, this home is an experiential wonder of architecture and interior design. Buildofy takes a closer look at this stunning property and uncovers its hidden treasures with the architect Sowmya Kumar.

THE GROUNDING PHILOSOPHY

Once a dilapidated structure, the gated community plot in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, now stands as a stunning four-bedroom villa with five bathrooms, an AV room, and a spa room, all in a compact built-up area of 4,600 sq. ft. With adjoining residential villas a mere five feet away, a challenge was to devise the placement of windows that had to be strategic to avoid invading privacy while providing tree canopy views. The challenge was further compounded by the need for ample light and ventilation, as well as the inclusion of a garden and courtyard to maintain privacy for the abutting rooms. But with a design featuring high ceilings and a profusion of natural light, every inch of the plot was optimised for a seamless blend of form and function.

THROUGH THE DOOR

As you step through the larger-than-life entrance of this stunning home, you can't help but feel transported to a Chettinad mansion. The entrance is adorned with an auspicious Kolam inlaid in brass, and padikal stepping stones, reminiscent of those found in temples. Everything has its designated space, from shoe racks and umbrella hangers to stackable stools and car wash liquids. As you enter, you're greeted with the sight of a massive 6 ft. wide and 11 ft. tall teak wood door, hung on vintage brass hinges called a keel, leading you into the living room.

The living room is a sight to behold, with bifold windows and high ceiling vents, just like those found in Chettinad. The original English grandfather clock, vintage colonial chairs, and sculptured limestone side tables are just a few of the stunning design features that catch your eye. The centre table has a stone column base sourced from Palani, with a tabletop resembling a Maraval lacquerware tray from Chettinad. Wainscoting runs throughout the living and library, adding to the traditional aesthetic.

A level higher than the living room, you'll find the dining area, demarcated in the open floor plan. This double-height space is betted on either side by large windows looking out into the courtyard and garden. The dining chairs are made of rattan, and a cantilevered slab acts as a bench with rattan-woven storage drawers below. The vertical glass louvres on a pivot act as a partition screen between the dining and living areas, with a vintage wooden capital and pivot embedded into the stone base.

The pooja is placed in the northeast as per Vastu, surrounded by a garden, with a hand-painted replica of a mural from the Nandi ceiling of Brihadeeswara Temple in Tanjore on the ceiling. The library doubles up as a chatting space, reminiscent of Muttram and Thinnai, with a collapsible door leading to the rustic courtyard.

The study corridor leads to the master bedroom, where bifold windows offer a view of the tree canopies outside, and a seating ledge provides a cosy spot to relax. The master bathroom is adorned with a stunning image of indigenous plants, commissioned by landscape architect Winal Loku Liyana and used against the concrete finish wall.

This home is a rediscovery of the lost spaces of yesteryears and blending traditional aesthetics with modern luxury.

SUSTAINABLY MATERIALISTIC

As soon as you step inside the building, you can feel the ample natural light and cross ventilation throughout the space. With most areas forgoing air conditioning, the high ceilings and ventilators keep the interior comfortable, and the sandstone flooring helps to maintain the optimal temperature.

But it's not just about functionality. The design incorporates stunning reclaimed teak from two old mansions in Chettinad, adding a touch of history and elegance to the bespoke furniture and joineries. Local artisans were also brought in to work on everything from carpentry and carving to rattan weaving and wall murals.

And while the space may lack traditional air conditioning, it more than makes up for it with its innovative approach to cooling. Thick western walls, double height in the dining, and ample passive solar lighting help keep the interior cool, while the sandstone floors and terracotta roof and floor tiles retain their coolness throughout the day. Plus, with LED light fittings and DC fans, the space is both energy-efficient and environmentally conscious.