Nestled in Aldona village, lies the Indo-Portuguese ‘Coirato Villa’ that goesback six decades The original house consisted of a Balcao, a hall (Sala), two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bath and WC. The approximately 6700 sq. ft. plot was purchased with an intent and desire to retain the old Portuguese charm into a luxury 3 bedroom courtyard villa with a kitchen and servant quarter.
Project Name: Coirato Villa
Studio Name: Banaji & Associates
The villa cocooned by luscious green surroundings reflects a seamless connection between the landscape and the interiors that became a key design driver.
The weak existing walls of the structure were strengthened to withstand seismic, wind and other natural forces. The exterior of the old house has been meticulously restored to its original character. Traditional ‘balcaos’ with wrought iron railings for each of the bedrooms, arched windows with restored mother of pearl window panes create the picture perfect heritage house.
The worn out existing walls of the structure were strengthened to withstand seismic, wind and other natural forces. The outdoors of the old house have been meticulously restored to its original character. The use of traditional ‘balcaos’ with wrought iron railings for each of the bedrooms, arched windows with restored mother of pearl window panes create the picture perfect heritage house.
The focal point of the bungalow is the private courtyard with laterite stone walled well that is easily accessible from the kitchen and living room.
The private courtyard with its inherited laterite stone walled well is the focal point of the bungalow and is easily accessed from the kitchen and living. Comfortable indoor spaces seamlessly flow into a lush green outdoor landscaped space. This serenity extends further towards a private swimming pool.
The villa was renewed with a raised plinth, a larger verandah and the authentic sloping eave roof was reserved and reworked. Subtle change in plan offered cross ventilation for living room. One Bedroom with attached toilet was added. Mezzanine floor (study room) was added above toilets.
A combination of passive cooling strategies such as thick laterite walls, high beamed wooden ceiling with Mangalore tiles, river washed natural stone flooring keeps the villa cool throughout the year.
The interiors boast a classical style with few modern and eclectic pieces. The neutral color palette is balanced with the use of natural stone flooring. Old Burma wooden doors, windows with ventilators, were sourced and furbished with antique brass finish fittings.
