In dense urban landscapes, tight spaces often lead to the creation of compact houses, presenting a challenge that architects inevitably encounter in their careers. For Parvathy and Bhijith at Ensemblee Green Projects, the Vault House in Bengaluru epitomized this challenge. Despite its small size—a mere 1.3 cents in a mundane layout in Kengeri—the tall, red brick building embodies the facilities and aesthetics of a premium modern home.

The modest 600 sq. ft. plot posed significant hurdles in terms of space, structural feasibility, design harmony, natural illumination, and ventilation. Sandwiched between uninspiring concrete structures lacking in architectural finesse and light, the plot demanded meticulous planning and innovative design solutions. Determined to create a residence that transcended its surroundings, Ensemblee embarked on a counter-intuitive approach, starting with the limited available space and gradually shaping the elements and physical spaces as they progressed.

Opting for a contemporary, eco-friendly architectural style, the architects aimed to elevate the house above its dreary backdrop, infusing it with a sense of sophistication and elegance. However, this endeavor was met with formidable challenges, particularly in overcoming the poorly designed facades of neighboring houses that detracted from the envisioned aesthetic.

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The Alluring Façade

The primary goals of the project were to transform the mundane surroundings and provide a sense of privacy for the family within the compact plot. To tackle these challenges, the architects devised a creative solution involving a brick façade adorned with intricate jali designs. By strategically projecting bricks at various angles and dimensions, they created an elaborate jali pattern that not only added visual interest but also brought vibrancy and color to the otherwise dreary setting. This innovative use of red bricks served a dual purpose: enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the house while cleverly concealing it from the surrounding environment.

In addition to the aesthetic aspect, the architects addressed the need for privacy by incorporating features such as a brick vaulted roof and protrusions around windows and balconies. These design elements not only added architectural interest but also served practical functions. The vaulted roof drew the eye upward, creating a sense of spaciousness despite the limited plot size, while the protrusions provided shade and protection from unwanted views, ensuring a comfortable and private living space for the family.

Overall, the careful consideration of materials, design elements, and functional needs resulted in a harmonious blend of aesthetics and practicality, transforming the Vault House into a standout residence in its urban setting.

Interiors That Stand Out

Due to the restricted site, the architects opted for a vertical approach, constructing the house across four levels. The ground floor accommodates a garage and a compact studio unit, while the entry is elevated to the first floor. This level boasts a single functional space housing the living, dining, and kitchen areas, seamlessly integrating a prayer altar into the design. Moving up to the second floor, a spacious office space occupies the front, while a cozy master bedroom is tucked away at the rear. On the third floor, a large bedroom with an adjoining charming balcony offers a serene retreat. Adding to the allure, an open terrace on the frontage provides an outdoor escape.

Throughout these spaces, a consistent minimalist design approach prevails, prioritizing functionality above all else. In the living room, natural light floods the space through strategically placed windows, creating an airy and well-ventilated ambiance. The design aesthetic is elegantly simplistic, with wooden and wicker furniture pieces serving as focal points. Vibrant furnishings in a bold bright blue hue add a lively contrast, while the exposed brick backdrop contributes to a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ideal for both entertaining guests and unwinding in leisure.

In a similar vein, the dining area on this floor extends a warm invitation to gatherings and mealtime hosting. Anchored by a modest yet delightful ensemble, a wooden table is encircled by matching chairs, fostering a cozy ambiance for shared meals and conversations. Splashes of fresh green and bright blue enliven the space, infusing it with vibrancy and cheerfulness. Adjacent to the dining area, a generous window floods the space with natural light, casting a welcoming glow that enhances the dining experience and encourages lingering.

Transitioning to the neighboring kitchen, a serene palette of blue and white sets a calming tone. The cabinets, adorned with fluted wood panels, reflect the vault's shape, lending a touch of sophistication and continuity to the space. Glazed blue tiles adorn the backdrop, introducing a subtle Mediterranean flair that complements the house's overall monochromatic design theme.

A Simple Material Palette

The essence of brick and vault design permeates the interiors, gracing the walls across each floor. Partially exposed bricks, coupled with intricate jali patterns, maintain a sense of harmony throughout. The vault motif takes center stage, as deep 'U' shapes and graceful curves seamlessly traverse the interior walls, enveloping the entire house in a unified cocoon.

Expanding on the diverse elements within the house, the Kota flooring and recycled wood play pivotal roles in enhancing its ambiance. Kota flooring, known for its natural beauty and durability, infuses the space with a sense of authenticity and earthiness. Paired with recycled wood, these materials not only contribute to sustainability but also imbue the interiors with warmth and character, creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with a connection to nature.

In contrast to the earthy tones of the brick and wood, vintage blue accents introduce a bold and unexpected element to the design. The use of vintage blue in the metal stairs and furnishings adds a pop of color and personality, creating visual interest and depth within the space. This juxtaposition of colors and textures creates a dynamic interplay that captures attention and enriches the overall aesthetic of the home.

Additionally, simple wooden ensembles further enhance the rustic and vintage charm of the interiors. By incorporating natural wood elements into the design, the space exudes a timeless appeal and evokes a sense of nostalgia. These wooden features not only complement the brick and vault motifs but also contribute to the inviting and cozy atmosphere of the home, ensuring a harmonious balance between modernity and tradition.

The Vault House stands as a testament to innovative design solutions and meticulous attention to detail. From its humble beginnings on a restricted plot to its transformation into a harmonious and inviting abode, every aspect of the house reflects the architects' dedication to creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

It epitomizes the transformative power of architecture to elevate and enrich lives. It serves as an inspiring example of how creativity, ingenuity, and a deep understanding of space can turn challenges into opportunities, resulting in a home that not only meets the needs of its occupants but also brings joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging for years to come.

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 Karnataka and across India.