Located in the prestigious neighborhood of Gokulam in Mysore, Prashant’s house surely draws parallels to a tranquil abode. The entire structure has been crafted to be Vastu compliant, in line with the client’s request. Maintaining the square plan and carefully constructing an elevation without uneven projections, while retaining absolute visual appeal- was one of the challenges that we rose to, during this project. Our approach consisted of juxtaposing modernism with a bit of contemporality. The elevation is a perfect tease of lines, putting the extent of the site in the spotlight. It seamlessly blends into the culture-rich streetscape. The aesthetic facade, coupled with strategically placed screens creates a delightful visual balance.
The interiors posed the task of positioning key elements to harmonize energy flow while staying true to Vaastu compliance, which we accomplished with ease. The yellow Jaisalmer natural stone flooring in combination with white-dominated walls, perfectly balanced with greys and blues, creates a design ecosystem that doubles up as a repository of art.
The courtyard provides an experience of being nestled with nature, owing to the placement of numerous green plants. The star feature of the courtyard would definitely be the patterned skylight, which invites ample natural light. It puts on a show of patterned shadows on the wall, dictated by the movement of the sun, making it a zestful addition to the house. The play of volumes at prime positions of the house is another heroic talking point. The double-height courtyard space between the two levels establishes a sense of coherence.
The pooja room takes a page out of a literal temple, with the illusion of a pradakshina path, a roof resembling a shikhara, and a 20-inch window wall- blessing the room with the first rays of the sun. A wood cladding ceiling complete with a transition of varying heights is the highlight of the dining room, which is given a break from the rest of the house, with a screen and plenty of plants.
A walk up the stairs lead to the bedrooms, tailor-made to suit their occupants’ personalities.
The grandmother’s room plays host to timeless art pieces whereas the young boy’s room brings to life a beige and brown color palette. The master is one-of-a-kind, maintaining a perfect equilibrium of green and grey, exuding a rooted, earthy, and almost meditative calm.
The daughter’s room is given an unusual balcony space, that utilizes the slab of the ground floor roof extension as flooring and is synonymous with a floating balcony.
The terrace extends gracefully from the first floor. The Kota stone flooring and perforated pivot screens create a secluded spot for a bar brimming with party potential.
An idyllic sanctuary that merges with the streetscape yet stands out, is what makes Vastu house nothing close to ordinary.
