Participatory Design

By Anuradha K R

Photography:Radhika Pandit; courtesy PVDRS

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Megha Patel-Vadodaria and KeyurVadodaria of PVDRS (Patel Vadodaria Design Research Studio), Ahmedabad tastefully design the interiors and landscape of a farmhouse and its poolside, harmonizing a single environment to multiple uses...

The farmhouse, designed by the architects of KBG Development stands amidst one of the greenest 18-hole Nicklaus Design golf courses in India. Creating a multitude of spatial experiences is the challenge the designers have lived up to, considering the fact that the farmhouse is home to a large and diverse group, comprising three generations.

 

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Exploiting the overwhelmingness of its surroundings, PVDRS has created axial relationships through the inside of the farmhouse to the outside and the landscape beyond, putting spatial elements to their best use. While the pool, swim-up bar, Al fresco seating and the gazebo share an axial relationship with the dining and the 9^th hole, the Baja shelf’s alignment with the ‘floating’ Champa planter in the pool forms the secondary axis, diametrically perpendicular to the primary. The door, leading from the dining, straight into Al fresco seating and the swim-up bar further strengthens this spatial connectivity.

 

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The living room doubles up as entertainment zone and offers configurational flexibility for multiple seating layouts. While the client’s collection of artworks is used to mindfully define the spaces they find themselves in, the neutral colour palette indoors, helps them command the place they deserve. The wall mural, designed in collaboration with the client lends character to the upper floor family lounge. The living veranda is extended with one of its edges cantilevered over the pool and provides a well-shaded, spacious outdoor living space.

 

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Material palette of Brazilian IPE wood with oil finish forms the wooden deck, while river-washed granite circumvents the pool. Hand-polished teak wood, granite, backlit onyx stone and hand-woven fabric dominate the vision field indoors.

 

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A highlight of the project is the perimeter overflow channel of the pool that is designed such that the water appears to float at deck level. This technically challenging detail, known as ‘Lautner Knife Edge’ creates an experience, unmatched in pool design. 

The project reflects strong spatial relationships in a simple but thoughtful design that optimally and harmoniously caters to a variety of functional and aesthetic preferences.