Kitchens
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Designed by Abhishek Ajmera Architects, this contemporary residence follows sustainable design practices without compromising on its aesthetic charm
When one is the client as well as the designer, the stakes are higher to get everything right. For Abhishek Ajmera, the principal architect and founder of his eponymous firm, this came in the form of his primary residential home in Indore. With a built-up area of 8,000 square-feet on a 6,500-square-foot plot, the home was designed for both comfort and functionality.
Four bedrooms, common spaces, lounge, gym, pool, garden, and the works, his home is a reflection of his design principles, and his personal and professional journey. “It's a space where our philosophy of blending rustic charm with modern sophistication comes to life. More than just a residence, it is a project that is a true testament to the design principles my firm, Abhishek Ajmera Architects, stands for. It’s a living, breathing space that is in constant conversation with its surroundings,” shares the architect as he takes us behind-the-scenes of bringing his dream home to life.
Abhishek Ajmera: The decision to use brick was both a practical and artistic choice. The climate of Indore, with its hot and dry summers, made brick an ideal choice due to its thermal mass which helps regulate indoor temperatures, naturally.
Beyond the dominant brick, we've used a curated palette of materials to create a harmonious and textural experience. Metal used for structural elements and fenestrations provides a clean, industrial contrast to the rustic brick. Wood, seen in the ceilings, door frames, and internal flooring, adds warmth and a natural feel. Black basalt stone creates a striking entry, guiding visitors into the house and exemplifying a seamless transition from the exterior to the interior. The design is a symphony of these materials, where each element plays a crucial role.
AA: The façade is perhaps the most stunning part of the home as we wanted to create a dynamic interplay of forms and textures. The angled brick walls and strategic openings are a departure from conventional, flat facades. They are designed to sculpt light and shadow throughout the day, giving the house a different look at different hours. It’s what I call an "inhabited sculpture"—a testament to our belief that a building's form should be as much a piece of art as it is a functional space.
AA: The yellow spiral staircase is more than just a functional element; it is a sculptural gesture that adds a pop of colour and a sense of movement to the space. It’s a focal point that visually breaks the linearity of the brick and wooden elements. While beautiful, its function is very specific: it provides access from the first floor to the service terrace, linking our private space to the functional areas above.
AA: The stone wall is an homage to natural imperfection. We chose it to introduce a raw, earthy texture that is a stark contrast to the clean lines of the design. The intent was to connect the interior of the home to the natural landscape, making the arrival feel like an immersive journey rather than just a transition. The light fixtures embedded in the wall create beautiful sciography, making the wall a living art piece.
AA: The collaboration with Asian Paints was instrumental in bringing our vision to life. We primarily used their products to achieve a flawless finish and to enhance the natural textures of the home. We used the Royale Play Special Effects paint on certain walls to add subtle textural depth without overpowering the primary material palette. Their Smartcare Damp Sheath Exterior and Smartcare Waterproofing solutions were crucial for protecting the brick and concrete surfaces from the elements, ensuring the longevity of the structure. The final coat of paint on some interior walls and metal surfaces was done with their Apcolite Premium Emulsion, providing a smooth, durable finish that complemented our aesthetic.
AA: The décor is intentionally such because we wanted the architecture to be the hero. We believe that the built form and materials should speak the loudest. The furniture and decorative items were carefully chosen to support the spatial flow and functionality of the home, rather than distract from it. The goal was to create a sense of calm and clarity, where every element has a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of the space.
AA: The design of the home is fundamentally climate-responsive. The use of locally-sourced materials like brick and stone reduces the carbon footprint. The angled brick louvers on the west façade act as a passive cooling system, tempering the harsh afternoon sun while maintaining privacy. Skylights and strategically-placed windows ensure ample natural light, minimising the need for artificial lighting during the day. The home is designed for optimal cross-ventilation, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air.
AA: My favourite corner is the double-height living room. It is the spatial core of the house, a place where a sense of openness is maximised. The vaulted brick ceiling, the expansive windows, and the textured marble table create a dialogue between different materials and scales. It's a space that is both grand and intimate, and it perfectly encapsulates the essence of our design philosophy.
Photos by Inclined Studio
Will you be living in your space during the renovation ?
DEC 2023
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17 Oct 23, 03.00PM - 04.00PM