Located in rural farmlands on the outskirts of Kolkata, the brief for this two-bedroom weekend retreat was to create a space that matched the tranquil surroundings of its setting. A place that blends in with the land, rather that breaks away from it. Set within a guava orchard in the farm, the idea was to build a ‘Macha’, or an elevated observation platform, that becomes a place of reprieve from the rigours of urban life.
The primary challenge in the execution of the design presented itself in the logistics, namely, accumulation of resources due to the distance of the site. This, in turn, encouraged us to employ local labour, materials as well as craftsmanship.
Raising the structure nine feet above the ground provided a functional as well as aesthetic purpose; the functional, being, the safeguarding of structural integrity in a flood-prone area.
The aesthetic element is fulfilled by achieving uninterrupted views all around by rising above the canopy level of the surrounding plantation. Moreover, it lifts the habitable spaces up to safety – away from the undesired wildlife common in this zone.
The home is built on an MS structural framework but with the metal elements kept to a minimum, the design language is dominated by the delicate weave of bamboo which is locally available, but more importantly, a material that is familiar to the inhabitants of the land. A thatched roof above renders the pavilion as a harmonious addition to the landscape.
This simplicity of the structure is accentuated by the boldness of the form and contemporary implementation of traditional materials. This architectural expression of form carries through to the interior detailing as well. A combination of traditional wooden furniture and modern glazed elements brings this holiday home together. Soft furnishing and artwork weave colour into the spaces. The composition of form, materials and treatment make for an idyllic weekend retreat within its verdant locale.
Team:
Architect: ADS DESIGNS PVT. LTD.
Bamboo and Thatch work : Debatosh Kar
Steel work: Haji Artica
Photographer: Suryan/Dang
Materials Used:
Facade cladding: Locally available Muli bamboo with chemical treatment
Flooring: Epoxy floor
Doors: Custom fabricated metal door
Windows: Custom fabricated metal frame with glass panel
Roofing: Thatched roof with bamboo framing
Interior lighting: Surface mounted spot light
Interior furniture: Wicker style wooden furniture
