The Spanish Connection

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy the architect

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A Spanish-styled villa set against the picturesque Aamby Valley in Lonavala has been carved out as a weekend home by Puran Kumar Architects…

Situated on a one-acre plot, the project had plenty of scope for landscaping. Taking advantage of the site gradient, the architect has created a multi-level landscape so that the 8,000 sq ft house appears to be nestled between the greens. Special land plates have been used to channelise the flow of the abundant natural water on site to accentuate its landscaping beauty.

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Making modifications to the already existing house proved to be the most challenging aspect. “The first phase of the project turned out to be a restoration exercise on the architectural front,” says principal architect Puran Kumar of Puran Kumar Architects.

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After that, the focus was entirely on the interiors, which were designed to resemble a Spanish villa to complement the natural scenic beauty. Various elements coalesce to lend a Catalonian flair – Mangalore tiles for roofing; eye-catching bright blue painted windows juxtaposed against all-white rough-finish walls and arches; rustic stone flooring interspersed with mosaic inserts; voluminous double-height ceiling accentuated by wood, exudes warmth and homeliness.

 

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The Spanish influence is further heightened in the pristine white dining area that overlooks a well-manicured garden. Keeping in mind that it is a weekend home, the four bedrooms spread across the one-storied villa are minimal in décor, while the bathrooms are luxurious, contemporaneous personal lairs.

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With an open spatial feel that is characterized by uncluttered, minimalist, undefined spaces; clean simple lines; an organic material palette and a timeless appeal, the home not only manages to exude an inviting ambience but also asserts an identity of its own.