FACT FILE

AROUND THE TEMPLE

The Sanctum villa is a temple-centric design that seamlessly fulfils the client's desire for a sacred haven within their dwelling. The name comes from the significance that the temple holds within the household. It occupies the largest room and has been adorned to honour its significance.

The site came with the restriction of the context. Falling in an earthquake-prone region with a zonal rating of 5, the villa could not be more than G+2 or G+3. The design process began by understanding the dynamics of the previous family residence, which comprised the elderly father along with his two sons and a daughter and their families — making it a joint family of 9-10 people. The brief included a need for every unit to have its own space and yet stay connected to each other.

ON ENTRY

The home's entrance is a well-designed and inviting space that sets the tone for the rest of the home. It is a place where you can come to relax and unwind, and it is a place where you can connect with your spirituality. The home's entrance is a sight to behold, with the ingress marked by a stunning courtyard garden. The façade is adorned with a combination of stone and corten steel cladding, which provides a unique and stylish look. The double-height louvred opening on the façade allows the western breeze to enter while preventing direct sunlight, creating a comfortable and inviting space.

Upon entering through the main door, you are greeted by a lush green garden. The overhead canopy accentuates the play of light, creating a sense of peace and tranquillity. The first captivating view unfolds as you step into the home, guiding your gaze towards a temple nestled within a linear perspective, framed by windows. The temple is a beautiful and peaceful space, and it is the perfect place to reflect and connect with your spirituality.

INTO THE PLAN

The north quarter of the house is where the double-height living area is located. Designed with a visually cantilevered roof resting on a sleek column and seamless corner window, the room invites the exterior inwards merging the interiors with it. The living area is a spacious and airy space. The large windows allow plenty of natural light to enter, and the high ceilings create a sense of grandeur. The living area is furnished with comfortable sofas and chairs, and there is a large fireplace in the centre of the room. The living area is the perfect place to relax and unwind, or to entertain guests.

Extended verandahs lead the way deeper into the north wing towards the guest accommodation and a wellness washroom enjoyed by all family. The guest accommodation is located on the ground floor, and it consists of two bedrooms and a bathroom. The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, and the bathroom is well-appointed. The wellness washroom is a shared space that is used by all family members. The washroom is equipped with a steam room, a sauna, and a Jacuzzi.

Nestled in the other wing of the residence, an exquisite haven awaits, encompassing the master bedroom, a meticulously designed kitchen, and an elegant dining area that seamlessly opens up to a captivating backyard space. The master bedroom is located on the first floor, and it is the largest bedroom in the house. The bedroom is furnished with a king-size bed, a dresser, and a nightstand. The bedroom also has a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a soaking tub. The kitchen is located next to the master bedroom, and it is a well-equipped space. The dining area is located next to the kitchen, and it is a spacious and elegant space. The dining area is furnished with a large table that can seat up to 12 people. The dining area also has a fireplace, which is perfect for cosying up on cold winter nights.

The backyard is a captivating space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining guests. The backyard is filled with lush greenery, and there is a swimming pool in the centre of the yard. There is also a patio where family and guests can enjoy their meals. At the rear of the villa, the service areas discreetly occupy the space, carefully designed with separate entries to keep them hidden from view. The service areas include a laundry room, a storage room, and staff quarters.

An expansive deck, thoughtfully designed to provide ample space for recreational activities, seamlessly connects with the private garden on the east side of the property, offering optimal exposure to comfortable weather conditions throughout the day. The deck is furnished with comfortable seating and a barbecue, and it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Overlooking the deck, interactive leisure spaces such as a gym and snooker room are strategically placed, allowing for captivating views and creating a harmonious ambience that weaves together aesthetics and leisure. The gym is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, and the snooker room is perfect for a game of pool or snooker.

As one ascends, both wings gracefully transition into celestial sky-lit passages, leading to the bedrooms of the brothers. The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, and each bedroom has its own private bathroom. The bedrooms are also furnished with comfortable beds, dressers, and nightstands.

Each bedroom opens up to balconies that offer enchanting views of the backyard, fostering a harmonious blend of serenity and openness within a private setting. The balconies are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the backyard.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

The Sanctum House was meticulously designed with careful consideration of various design elements. Skylights were strategically incorporated above passages, allowing ample natural light to flood the space and creating an ethereal atmosphere. Passive ventilation techniques were implemented through overhead vents, ensuring efficient airflow and natural cooling within the house. The villa's central placement enabled well-planned entrance spaces and landscape buffers, while the 'Shunya' temple became a captivating focal point. A striking aluminium screen on the southern façade provided shade from direct sunlight and added artistic charm with its shadow patterns.

Structural considerations were made to withstand earthquakes, and the villa showcased aesthetic minimalism through concrete frames and subtle texture paints. GS screens provided visual connections, privacy, and heat mitigation. The landscape design embraced minimalism, welcoming guests with a serene and zen-inspired entry surrounded by lush greenery.