In the language of design, while an Architect’s studio reflects the creative psyche of the principal, his residence mirrors the innate homely perspective he possesses. This recently completed project by Prateek Gupta Architects, showcases the calm demeanor of the principal himself, through the usage of muted tones and an amplified influx of natural light. Located near the Chadraka Forest in Odisha, on a 5200 sq ft plot, this residence aims to create an organic connection with the microclimate and deliver a series of spaces that extrude an ambiance of warm familial intimacy.
Reuniting with the basics of architectural design theories, Ar. Prateek Gupta sought to circumscribe the core concept of this abode around the popular format of ‘Form follows function’. The systematic procedure thus involved, primarily allocating the requisite of each area, before focussing on intricacies including the color palette and furnishings. In the words of Ar. Prateek himself, “Owing to the climatic conditions of Bhubaneshwar, a courtyard design was a practical yet aesthetic planning decision, established in the initial days itself. Post deciding on the ‘functional’ crux around which all spaces would be arrayed, the design team formulated the other inventive lanes connecting to this concept.”
The inception of the design can solely be observed from the artful conception of the facade. Being connoisseurs of the Art Deco style, prevalent in colonial Kolkata, the eldest inmates desired to be proud owners of a home that portrayed glimpses of ornate columns and detailed chic patterns. The facade thus showcases simplistic iron grill patterns replicated both in the boundary wall and elevation, immediately inculcating nostalgic vibes of colonial architecture. Implemented as a combination of subtle yellow and pristine white; the lush aura created with enveloping lawns and a landscaped garden, merge seamlessly with the facade, suggesting interiors that present a melange of the Contemporary and Traditional, methodically underlined in green.
An entrance lobby, topped with a glass roof, marks the outset of the interior layout. Connecting the primary spaces of the residence, this lobby portrays a distinct character via minimal furnishing and clouded flooring. The continuing infiltration of natural light in daytime and the bling of stars at night, render it with an unmatched poetic semblance. Augmenting this setup, the main door flaunting a classic wooden texture against an exposed brick wall in white, further assists to instill a charm reminiscent of the olden days. Adjacent to the entrance lobby, on one side, an immaculate Drawing Room arrangement gently greets the user. Portraying analogous tones as utilized in the lobby, this space also houses an accentuating wall niche, that is sure to grab the attention with this sleek simplicity. Sprinkles of green further lead the way to the other end of the lobby; housing a dining composition for the residents. Imagine staring at a tranquil pool and its adjoining greenery while enjoying a mouthful of zesty dinner dishes….sounds like a frame only available in hospitality outlets...right? This is the exact milieu that Ar. Prateek Gupta has created for his family to relish while savoring each meal. With full height glazed doors that lead to the pool and garden, nature truly has found its way to subtly peek in each space of this abode. “For us, it was mandatory that each nook and corner is visually or physically connected to the natural environment,” states the Architect. “Whether it is the dining or the common lobby, an organic appeal is what I desired my home to possess!” The planning then guides the user to a commuting stairway, placed just in front of the entrance lobby. Leading to the more private sectors of the residence, the upper level of this double-height stairwell provides an even more magnified view of the natural terrain through the sloping glass roof. The culminating bedrooms, on the first floor, showcase the beauty of ultimate simplicity through classic furnishing and light-toned verticals.
This residence design by Prateek Gupta Architects surely inspires the belief in profound design ideas or as the Architect elucidates, “Home, for me, is the center of my existence. It is where we spend a considerable amount of time…it is where we take respite. Thus, a residence design in my opinion, should always narrate the tale of its users and what comforts them. It should be able to imbibe the persona of all members of the family and be executed with the aid of functional design aspects. Only then can it acquire a timeless touch and an everlasting exquisite charm!”
