Not very often, you come across clients who are extremely free-spirited and uninhibited; people who are not defined by the norms of society. When Nikhil and Anjali first came to us to design their house, we instantly knew that this journey was going to be nothing short of creating a poetic manifestation of their lives into their home which we call the ‘Stream House’
Perched on the edge of convention, the Stream House stands as a beacon of individuality—a sanctuary for those who dare to defy norms and embrace the extraordinary. For us, this project is not just a house but a canvas upon which the uninhibited spirits of Nikhil & Anjali dance; a portrait of authenticity and boundless imagination.
When we conceptualized their house, we knew it was a stream, not a river. When we imagined their home, we saw it as a lively stream, not a placid river. While rivers wind slowly, gathering water and shaping civilizations along their banks, our design mirrored the youthful energy of a rushing stream akin to that of Nikhil and Anjali. It surged ahead with vigor, embracing its twists and turns as it flowed freely forward.
The design journey of the project commenced with a nod to Japanese minimalism, drawing inspiration from its clean lines and uncluttered aesthetics. Additionally, we found ourselves, inspired by the ethos of Indian architecture, particularly its knack for crafting nested spaces within larger ones. This influence is palpable in our strategic use of wooden columns and screens, which divide the space and infuse it with a sense of intimacy and intrigue, inviting exploration and revelation at every turn.
The interior of this house authentically reflects the personalities of Nikhil & Anjali, showcasing their genuine essence and the underlying ethos of our design approach. What you see is truly what you get with them. From the exposed joinery of the table, kitchen cabinets, and bookstand, to the deliberate construction of wooden elements, every detail is laid bare to reveal its true nature, mirroring the transparency and sincerity of our clients.
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Shoji paper screens, the wardrobe shutters incorporate frosted glass to echo this aesthetic, creating a subtle homage to the timeless craftsmanship of Japanese design. These meticulously crafted details serve as a visual narrative, seamlessly weaving together to illuminate a significant aspect of Nikhil & Anjali's honest and authentic personalities, much like the intricate threads of their lives.
The Stream House strikes a delicate balance between geometric precision and the raw beauty of nature's imperfections. Rather than allowing rigid geometries to dominate, the design embraces organic elements, allowing them to take center stage. The undulating flow of the stream and the gentle curve of the skirting against the wall are accentuated by this juxtaposition, ensuring that geometry never overwhelms the aesthetic.
There's a palpable sense of weightlessness that permeates the space, courtesy of the carefully selected materials and design ethos. Whether it's the columns delicately perched on the rugged edges of exposed stone or the vaulted ceilings resting effortlessly on beams, each element exudes a sense of ease and grace.
The vaulted ceilings, in particular, introduce a touch of drama, as light dances along their curved surfaces, creating an enchanting interplay of shadows and illumination. Throughout the house, elemental colors—rich woods, crisp whites, and muted grays—imbue the space with a quiet elegance, fostering a sense of serenity and harmony within.
Art in the Stream House is not just decoration—it's a carefully curated collection that tells a story. Positioned strategically behind the dining table, a series of five artworks draws inspiration from century-old illustrations of waves and ripples, serving as a timeless homage to the ebb and flow of life.
An ancient bonsai tree, brimming with wisdom and grace, commands attention as a living masterpiece, inviting contemplation and reverence. Nearby, a circular artwork crafted from tree barks, weathered planks, and rugged stonework embodies the juxtaposition of life's contrasts, reminding us that beauty can emerge from the most unexpected places.
An old earthen pot, adorned with a dried branch, serves as a humble yet poignant reminder of the thoughtfulness woven into every aspect of the space. Together, these diverse elements converge to showcase the radiant beauty of imperfection—a testament to the inherent richness and complexity of life within the walls of this home.
