Nestled next to Shamshabad Airport in Telangana, Tamarind Retreat draws its name from the sprawling tamarind trees that adorn its expansive grounds. Encompassing approximately 5 acres, the property boasts scattered built-up areas totaling 15,000 sq. ft., strategically occupying just 10% of its vast expanse. From the outset, the design ethos centered on seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape, safeguarding open spaces and verdant greenery.

The client's aspiration for a tranquil second home, distanced from urban clamor, led them to enlist Sravanthi from Essenn Architects, esteemed for their commitment to sustainable design practices. The mandate was clear: conceive a residence with a minimal carbon footprint, harmonizing effortlessly with the surroundings and promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle.

Embracing this challenge wholeheartedly, Sravanthi reminisces "The entire place is growing... the nature grows right?"

She has employed eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems throughout the retreat. The outcome of which, is a meticulously crafted sanctuary, blending comfort and elegance while honoring and preserving the inherent beauty of its environment.

She describes this sanctuary: "Every time we captivate the space in a very different manner... it's like a kind of travel that started flowing with us..."

FACT FILE

Amidst a maze of greenery

Upon entering through the main gate, visitors are greeted by an entrance plaza adorned with a traditional 'dwaram'-inspired gate, setting the tone for what lies ahead. Beyond this gateway unfolds a sprawling, inviting lawn, traversed by stepping stones that guide towards key focal points within the expansive plot: a charming wooden cottage, a country house, and a secluded private lounge. These structures are the primary living spaces, each contributing to the retreat's serene ambiance.

Complementing these main areas are strategically positioned supporting spaces, such as a well-equipped kitchen, an outdoor bar, and an elevated deck. These additions not only enhance the functionality of the retreat but also enrich the overall experience of tranquility and leisure.

Central to the client's vision was a deep appreciation for nature, reflected in the sanctuary-like features integrated into the landscape. A dedicated bird sanctuary, a tranquil water garden, and a nurturing bird farm embody this ethos, fostering a harmonious coexistence between natural beauty and refined living. Together, these elements form a sanctuary where every aspect is carefully designed to nurture both the spirit and the environment, offering a retreat that harmonizes with its surroundings in perfect balance.

A country-side Country House

The country house at Tamarind Retreat is meticulously designed to embrace both the beginning and end of each day, offering its residents an ideal setting to greet the morning sun and unwind with a sunset chai. This two-story residence is strategically laid out, with the ground floor featuring a spacious living area, dining room, and kitchen. Surrounding these core spaces are open-to-sky verandahs that flood the interiors with natural light, provide ample ventilation, and offer panoramic views of the lush green surroundings.

Inside, the living room exudes a chic and minimalist aesthetic, adorned with essential furnishings and bathed in soothing shades of grey. This creates an inviting atmosphere where families can come together to relax and bond. Vibrant geometric patterns in the cushions and flooring add a dynamic contrast, injecting energy into the serene environment. Large glass windows enhance the living room, ensuring it remains bright throughout the day while framing picturesque views of the verdant landscape outside. This seamless integration of simplicity, comfort, and natural beauty transforms the living room into a serene sanctuary within the country house.

Adjacent to the living area, the dining space serves as the heart of the home, where meals are shared and cherished moments unfold. Positioned to overlook verandahs on both sides, it expands the sense of space, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The dining area continues the soothing grey palette and features geometric patterns that enhance its visual appeal while fostering a harmonious connection with the surrounding environment.

At the rear of the country house, an outdoor seating verandah offers a peaceful retreat amidst the lush greenery. Here, stone benches and stools provide comfortable seating, complementing the natural surroundings and adding to the rustic charm of the space. This tranquil setting becomes an idyllic spot for family gatherings or quiet contemplation, where one can reconnect with nature and unwind after enjoying a satisfying meal together.

The heart of the Retreat

A winding pathway guides visitors to the central focal point of Tamarind Retreat: the private lounge. Positioned strategically at the heart of the plot, this lounge stands as the most cherished space within the entire retreat.

The private lounge serves as a tranquil sanctuary, seamlessly blending indoor comfort with the natural beauty of its surroundings. With expansive glass windows on three sides, it offers sweeping views of the lush greenery, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Constructed entirely from wood, the lounge emanates a cozy charm that fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere.

To maintain a comfortable ambiance, the southern side of the lounge is shielded from direct sunlight, ensuring optimal temperature control. Inside, a captivating Pichwai painting adorns one of the walls, infusing the space with cultural richness and artistic flair. The wooden flooring and walls further enhance the lounge's warmth and coziness, making it an ideal haven for relaxation and introspection.

The architect's vision to seamlessly integrate open, semi-open, and built spaces is brilliantly exemplified in this project. She articulates, "The beauty here is, that every built space offers a unique experience, and each experience is very dynamic." Her objective was to craft spaces that deliver diverse experiences throughout every corner of the plot, all within a unified environment.

This ambitious vision is meticulously realized through precise design and detailing, ensuring each area harmonizes effortlessly with others and with the lush surrounding vegetation. By carefully blending different spaces, a dynamic and immersive environment emerges where each part of the property contributes its own distinctive charm and practicality, enriching the overall experience for the residents.

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 second homes in Telangana and across India.