Nashik, renowned for its towering mountains and tranquil waterways, has swiftly emerged as a sought-after destination for wanderlust travelers seeking solace amidst lush greenery and refreshing climates. As the city bustles with an influx of visitors from nearby urban hubs, the clients envisioned crafting a serene retreat for themselves amidst this bustling backdrop. Thus, they embarked on the journey to create their haven—a sanctuary where they could unwind and recharge during weekends. Thus, the idea of "Farmhouse in Mahiravani" was born—an oasis of tranquility amidst the verdant landscapes of Nashik.

Having initially constructed a modest living quarter within the farmhouse premises back in 2002, the clients harbored a vision of expansion nearly two decades later. Inspired by their desire to augment their retreat with additional sleeping quarters, they turned once again to their trusted architects, Sanjay Patil and his daughter Anagha Patil. With a shared passion for architectural excellence and a deep understanding of the client's aspirations, the duo embarked on the task of reimagining and revitalizing the farmhouse, infusing it once more with the enchanting allure of traditional Wada architecture.

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A Sustainable Way of Life

The architects hold a steadfast belief that a building evolves much like a living organism, adapting and growing over time to accommodate changing ideas and needs. Over nearly two decades, the farmhouse has transitioned from a simple weekend escape to a cherished home for the architects' family, embodying a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature—complete with trees, wildlife, and the inherent beauty of the outdoors.

At the heart of this transformation lies a commitment to sustainable living, guided by the principles of Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse. Integral to the project was the conservation and repurposing of materials sourced from two historic Wadas, ensuring a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity while minimizing environmental impact.

Rooted in the ethos of sustainable architecture and minimalist living, the design of this abode pays homage to local architectural traditions while harmonizing with the diverse climate of the region. A water harvesting pond, intricately connected to percolation pits and trenches in the surrounding terrain, facilitates on-site water recycling, promoting water conservation and mitigating runoff. Meanwhile, solar panels harness renewable energy sources to power water heating systems and supplement other electrical needs, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

In a testament to environmental stewardship, the stone used in the masonry work is sourced directly from a well excavated on the site itself, minimizing ecological impact while enhancing the home's connection to its surroundings. Additionally, the once-barren landscape has been transformed through the cultivation of a diverse ecosystem comprising approximately 5000 medicinal, flowering, and fruit-bearing trees. This concerted effort has breathed new life into the land, fostering a microcosm teeming with biodiversity and providing a sanctuary for avian and terrestrial inhabitants alike.

Resurrection of the Maratha Wadas

The genesis of the farmhouse's first phase is steeped in the tale of a bygone era—a narrative woven around a collection of arches rescued from an ancient Wada, meticulously preserved by the architect for over two decades. These architectural relics form the framework of evolving spaces, characterized by their seamless integration of indoor and outdoor realms, with formal walls, doors, and windows eschewed in favor of open vistas and uninterrupted flow.

As the farmhouse evolved over nearly two decades, it underwent a metamorphosis from a simple weekend retreat to a cherished home for the architect's family—a haven deeply entrenched in nature's embrace, where the presence of trees, wildlife, and the myriad wonders of the outdoors became an integral part of daily life.

Fortuitously, during this transformative period, the architect chanced upon the remains of another dilapidated Wada. Waste not, want not—the retrieved brackets, beams, columns, and every piece of wood were salvaged, meticulously assembled, and repurposed, preserving the design language of the original farmhouse while infusing it with newfound vitality.

To meet the evolving needs of modern living, contemporary touches were introduced, marrying the timeless charm of salvaged materials with the functionality of modern construction techniques. Dressed basalt stone masonry and puff-insulated sheet roofing, topped with photovoltaic cells, provided the perfect synthesis of tradition and innovation—a testament to the farmhouse's enduring legacy and commitment to sustainable living.

Maintaining an Old-World Charm

Preserving the essence of the farmhouse's original charm was paramount as the architects embarked on the expansion project. They were determined to uphold not only the aesthetic continuity but also the sustainable ethos that had been meticulously cultivated thus far. With this in mind, the decision was made to add four new sleeping quarters, each embodying its own distinctive character while ensuring privacy and accessibility for all occupants.

Among these sleeping quarters, two are designated as master bedrooms, while the remaining two serve as guest accommodations. However, what unites them all is the presence of a private courtyard. Lush with dense vegetation, these tranquil sanctuaries offer occupants the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing their privacy. Featuring four-poster beds crafted from salvaged wood, Jaisalmer stone flooring, sloping roofs, and expansive skylights, these sleeping quarters epitomize a design ethos rooted in natural simplicity and timeless elegance.

Elevating privacy to a new level, each sleeping quarter opens onto a central courtyard—the heart of the home. Here, amidst multiple water bodies and verdant greenery, traditional stone and wooden elements abound, creating a serene sanctuary where family members can gather, share laughter, and forge lasting memories together. This central courtyard, adorned with elements that echo the farmhouse's rich heritage, truly embodies the spirit of familial warmth and togetherness.

In essence, this farmhouse encapsulates everything that holds significance to the family—a harmonious blend of nature's elements, from the boundless sky to the grounding earth, the gentle breeze to the soothing presence of water. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the farmhouse serves as a versatile sanctuary, offering a space to unwind, entertain, and connect with loved ones.

Thoughtfully designed to embrace the changing seasons and their myriad gifts, it stands as a beacon of warmth and hospitality throughout the year. Yet, perhaps its greatest achievement lies in its ability to foster diverse perspectives on art, architecture, and life itself—a testament to the transformative power of shared experiences and collective creativity.

To watch the complete home tour, peruse the drawings in detail, and browse additional photographs, visit Buildofy. While there, don’t miss out on the other impressive contemporary homes in Maharashtra and across India.