Nestled amidst the serene rolling farmlands, far from the hustle of Bangalore, this distinctive residence showcases an impressive 18-foot cantilevered structure that beautifully integrates innovative architectural design with its natural environment. Designed for a family of five, the home adheres to Vaastu principles and fosters a strong connection with nature. Despite having a plot area of 6,650 square feet, the client prioritized maintaining the ‘Aaya’ footprint, limiting the ground floor to just 2,500 square feet.
Project Name: The Quarry House
Studio Name: Crest Architects
City: Bengaluru
Principal architects: Vikas Mv and Vishwas Venkat
Area: 4580 ft²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Shamanth Patil J
To optimize the available space, we crafted an open-plan residence that creates a sense of expansive interior volume while ensuring an unbroken connection to the outdoors from every room. The client’s specific needs and the limited footprint inspired us to incorporate multiple overhangs on the upper floor to serve various spaces. The resulting structure is a striking composition of forms, thoughtfully designed to fulfil distinct functions while framing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The outdoor space surrounding the home features stone pathways and steps that seamlessly blend into the tropical setting. A serene waterbody in the northeastern corner enhances the peaceful atmosphere, contributing to the overall tranquility of the site.
Strategically placed skylights throughout the interior invite natural light and allow residents to experience the changing seasons, fostering a deep sense of calm within the home. The design showcases a unique aesthetic through the raw use of diverse stone types and exposed concrete, aptly earning the name “Quarry House.”
On the ground floor, formal and semi-formal living areas, along with a TV room, are designed to resonate with the natural surroundings. A standout feature of Quarry House is its puja room, elegantly suspended above the tranquil water feature. This space, backed by a concrete wall and illuminated from above, serves as a peaceful retreat for spiritual reflection. A sliding partition wall connects the puja room to the formal living area, enabling flexible use while maintaining a harmonious flow between different spaces in the home.
At the core of Quarry House is a striking architectural element: the centrally located metal staircase. This staircase not only links the different levels but also acts as a sculptural focal point, enhancing the spatial dynamics and visual interest of the residence. Ingeniously cantilevered from a suspended concrete wall, the staircase creates a dramatic effect that captures attention upon entry. This structural choice maximizes floor space and facilitates an open-plan layout, effectively separating the living and dining areas while preserving a sense of openness.
Moving to the first floor, Quarry House features three private bedrooms, each crafted with careful attention to detail and individuality. Every bedroom includes its own private balcony, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This design not only enhances privacy but also promotes a strong connection to nature, creating intimate spaces for relaxation and contemplation. The master bedroom is designed for simplicity and elegance, prioritizing high-quality materials and functionality. A glazed partition allows visual connectivity with the dining area while bringing in ample light when the curtains are open. The 18-foot cantilevered guest room, showcasing exposed concrete, embodies a minimalist and rugged aesthetic, serving as a canopy for the car parking below. The son’s bedroom, perched above the TV room, extends over the deck, capturing picturesque views of the waterbody and landscape.
While conceived as a minimalist residence, the design entails significant structural complexity and thoughtful planning. This minimalist approach requires a sophisticated understanding of materials, spatial relationships, and engineering principles to achieve aesthetic simplicity without compromising stability and functionality. The designer’s keen attention to detail is reflected in the intricate planning and innovative solutions that harmonize the minimalist vision with structural needs.
The design fosters curiosity and engagement among its inhabitants, ensuring that every moment spent in the home is dynamic and enriching. With its deep connection to nature, the house offers diverse experiences throughout the year, making each day unique and comfortable.
