Encompassed within a curving concrete barrier, this residential property is situated in Ahmedabad.
A New Family Home in Ahmedabad Embraces Nature Through Concrete Curves
An unique residential project, the Carapace House in Ahmedabad, India, skillfully juxtaposes concrete structures with lush greenery, exemplifying harmonious coexistence with nature. Built by Achyutam Designs, the house captivates with its framework composed of curved concrete forms that extend beyond traditional architectural features to encompass furniture pieces like beds, benches, and side tables.
The design of the Carapace House notably diverts from conventional housing models. Two oval, concrete tubes, each fulfilling a distinct purpose, are positioned next to a sprawling garden and a large swimming pool. One concrete tube serves predominantly as the living, dining, and relaxation space, while the smaller one accommodates two bedrooms. Transparent glass panels complete the ends of these tubes, with reflecting pools and polished Kota stone floors scattering sunlight across dappled, curved walls throughout the day.
A myriad of terraces, lawns, walkways, and garden niches encircle the Carapace House, immersing it within its surroundings. Vegetation serves as a tranquil backdrop to most rooms, emphasizing the concept of a house embedded in nature. The entrance passage diligently separates vehicular parking from the structures, allowing visitors to approach via a winding walkway engulfed by mature, indigenous plants.
The larger oval concrete tube undergoes thoughtful segmentation, resulting in notches that double as courtyards and windows. An arcing piece of concrete completes the oval form, framing the garden. At the opposite end of this structure, the kitchen and dining area with its secluded courtyard and separate family area are located. The unfettered use of concrete continues beyond the house's structural elements, stretching into fixtures and furniture.
Nestled within the garden, protected niches and courtyards provide intimate spaces for social interaction and personal introspection. A circular gazebo, a kitchen garden, and a barbecue area are connected via ramps and walkways. A winding path adorned with fruit trees meanders through the site, featuring geometric concrete elements, newer vegetation, and a reflective hideaway within nature's embrace.
The Carapace House draws inspiration from natural, organic forms, organic materials, and the celebration of authenticity in building design. The fluid concrete structures echo the work of Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, melded seamlessly with large leaf plantings and sinuous patterns and tiles. The skillful amalgamation of architectural elements, thoughtful integration of natural light, greenery, water features, and outdoor spaces brings nature to the forefront in this Ahmedabad residence.
In the Carapace House, the entryway windingly guides visitors past lush, indigenous plants, transitioning from vehicular parking to a home embedded in nature (lifestyle). It stands as an unusual residence with home-and-garden elements entwining the living spaces, a fusion of architecture and nature that epitomizes the house's luxury (lifestyle).