Avkaash is more than a house; it’s a sanctuary, a weekend retreat designed to offer respite from the frenetic pace of city life. Nestled amidst nature, yet conveniently located within reach of urban conveniences, this home is a harmonious blend of modern comfort and natural serenity.
Project Name: Avkaash
Studio Name: Crest Architects & Interior Designers
Project Location: Surat, Gujarat
Completion Year: 2021
Total Built Area (sq.m/ sq.ft): 6200sqft
Lead Architects/ Designers name: Ar. Vijay Chauhan & Ar. Vaishali Chauhan
Photographer: Depictions by Prachi Khasgiwala
The clients, a nuclear family, sought a secondary residence that could potentially become their primary abode in the future. Their desire for a space that connected them with nature while providing the amenities of modern living was the cornerstone of the design. The house is oriented towards the southeast, ensuring privacy from the main road and creating a secluded enclave within the plot. A lush garden acts as a buffer, while a party lawn, swimming pool, and outdoor seating areas occupy the northeast corner, fulfilling the family’s recreational needs. A private garden extends from the living and bedroom areas, offering a secluded outdoor space.
The design philosophy centered on creating a seamless interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large openings and careful spatial planning foster a visual connection with nature while preserving privacy. The central courtyard, a heart of the home, bathes the interiors in natural light, creating a sense of spaciousness and openness. The interplay of solid masonry walls and lighter, more permeable elements defines the building’s character. This contrast is accentuated in transitional areas like patios, verandas, and balconies, where thin pergolas, screens, and glass railings create a delicate framework.
The staircase, a sculptural element, gracefully ascends through the courtyard, its open design and thin metal railings contributing to the overall sense of lightness. The use of natural materials like stone and wood grounds the design, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The minimalist aesthetic, while cost-effective, is far from austere. Clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on quality over quantity result in an elegant and refined interior.
The house is more than just a collection of rooms; it’s a carefully orchestrated sequence of spaces that flow into one another. The living area, with its expansive windows, invites the outdoors in, blurring the boundaries between inside and out. The bedrooms are private sanctuaries, yet they too benefit from the visual connection to nature. The kitchen, a hub of family activity, is designed to be both functional and inviting.
Avkaash is not merely a dwelling; it’s an experience. It’s about waking up to birdsong, enjoying a morning cup of tea on the patio, and spending lazy afternoons by the pool. It’s about gathering with loved ones in the spacious living area, or retreating to a quiet corner with a good book. It’s about the simple pleasure of living in harmony with nature.
This home is a testament to the belief that even in a world dominated by concrete and steel, a connection to the natural world is essential for human well-being. Avkaash is a place where the soul can find solace and the spirit can recharge.
