Wednesday 14 February 2007

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Shaam-e-Sarhad- A Rural Resort.

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Shaam-e-Sarhad translated means 'sunset at the border'. This resort is a joint venture between Ministry of Tourism India and the United Nations.

Using the material available in plenty in this region- MUD, the artisans from the village of Hodka (Bhuj, Gujarat) have created this beautiful ecological & aesthetic architectural splendor.

The public sitting area in different levels is highlighted with various earthy colours.
This region is famous for it's 'Leeppan Kaam'-Mud-Mirror murals and 'Chittar Kaam'-Mud paintings. These have been used extensively in all the circular huts called the 'Bhungas'

Bright coloured fabric on the deck chairs.
Inside view of the 'Bhungas'. (Check out the floor to ceiling headboard in mud.)

A combination of traditional mirror work and modern bathroom fittings.

A canopy of brightly coloured fabrics form the ceiling and monochromatic earth colours form the dining area below.

(Images from Better Interiors- Feb2007)

Monday 5 February 2007

Ecological Architecture.

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Terracotta Walls, No paint, No conventional coverups, only muted earth tones.

This home designed by Chitra Vishwanath is an example of a 'building creating a positive impact on the land.'

Pic.No.1 The entrance to the house that blends with its lush green surroundings.

Pic No. 2 A circle of space in the terracotta wall of the back verandah. It frames the greenary beyond. ( how lovely!)

Pic No.3 The circular holes are used as shoe racks. (In India its customary to leave ones footwear outside the house)

Pic No. 4 Lot of open space and rough finishes with smooth ochre floor.

Pic No.5 An open Bedroom.

Very interesting. Earthy. Eco-friendly.

(Images from Better Interiors Magazine. February 2007 issue.)

Wednesday 31 January 2007

Art Connoisseur Rajshree Pathy's Residence.

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When I first saw Rajshree Pathy's home featured in 2004 issue of Design Today, I was completely spellbound. Various art forms coming together to form this great space.

The first & second pics. are Madhubani wall painting by award-winning artist Shivan Paswan. I love the balance provided by the white cushion against the colourful backdrop.

The third pic. is that of dining room with a huge head by Ravinder Reddy, which gives it a dramatic look.

The fourth pic. is the entrance to her house with floating stones and wall painting by artists from Kerala.

The fifth pic. shows her various art collection of 18 years.

Rajshree conceived the design of the house herself and worked with a local engineer. She likes to call her house a museum, a resort & an artist's retreat all in one.

Beautiful. Hope you agree?

(images from Design Today, Oct-Nov 2004 issue.)

Elsewhere- The Beach House.

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Elsewhere is a beach house in Mandrem, Goa. A 108- years old Goan villa inherited and restored by Denzil Sequiera, a fashion photographer.

The house has traditional red-oxide floors with contrasting cool white exteriors. The overall effect is vibrant. Care has been taken to maintain the original character of the home. Denzil calls it 'Contemporary Rustic'.

The best part is that you can soak up the sun and listen to the waves from this 108-years old villa.

Elsewhere is available for rent for your dream holidays.

(Images from Design Today, April-May2005 issue.)

Tuesday 30 January 2007