The Inner Journey is a tranquil weekend retreat situated in Meherabad, Ahmednagar, intended to provide a peaceful escape for those looking to disconnect from the pressures of everyday life. Meherabad is recognized as the holy land of Avatar Meher Baba, and the house has been designed to embrace this spiritual connection.
Project Name: The Inner Journey: A Weekend House in Meherabad, Ahmednagar
Office Name: Tres Atelier
Office Website: www.tresatelier.com
Firm Location: Ahmednagar, India
Completion Year: 2022
Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 1800 Sq.ft
Project Location: Meherabad, Ahmednagar, India
Program / Use / Building Function: Weekend House
Design Team : Ar. Suchit Mutha, Ar. Mandar Khele, Ar. Kaushal Tatiya
Photo Credits: Indrajit Patil
The focus of The Inner Journey’s design is to provide a space for individuals to concentrate on their spiritual journey and personal growth. The open floor plan and extensive windows allow for plenty of natural light and breathtaking views of Ahmednagar’s surrounding countryside, which is ideal for stargazing. The home has been designed to promote a sense of calm and relaxation, with few distractions and a serene atmosphere.
The interior of The Inner Journey is minimalist, with simple furnishings and clean lines. The utilization of natural materials such as wood, brick, and stone for flooring adds warmth and texture to the space. The house has been created as a haven, with every detail meticulously considered to establish an environment that encourages introspection and inner peace.
The Inner Journey is more than just a weekend retreat – it is a sanctuary for individuals to connect with themselves and their spiritual journey. The exposed brick corbelling wall is one of the standout features of The Inner Journey, and it has been set without any top load, making it the highest corbel wall ever built. The use of the exposed brick corbelling wall pays tribute to the local architecture and Meherabad’s spiritual importance. The wall is not only a remarkable architectural achievement but also a symbol of strength and resilience. The house has been designed as a place of refuge, where its occupants can find comfort in the face of life’s challenges.
The house’s design includes a floating plinth that prevents reptiles from climbing onto it and accessing the house. Additionally, a small gutter around the periphery has been included to prevent insects from entering. The design was inspired by an Indian tradition where food offered to the gods (Naivaidya) is surrounded by water.
The plinth also serves as a multi-purpose water body or pond, which can be utilized for swimming in the summer and as an area for a bonfire in the winter. The butterfly roof gives the impression of a floating or flying house in nature. The roof has a wooden ceiling that extends from the interior to the exterior, connecting with the sky. The open-to-sky toilet allows for a connection with nature, and the partition wall between the kitchen and toilets is made of granite.
All electrical conduits have been designed in an old-fashioned manner to create a bold and striking appearance. The house provides a unique blend of modern design and spiritual connection, creating a space that is truly exceptional. The Inner Journey has been designed to offer a peaceful retreat to its occupants, featuring a spacious living area, a kitchen, and bathrooms. The home promotes an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, with large windows and sliding doors that open up to the outside, allowing the natural landscape to become a part of the interior.
The use of natural materials such as metal sections, glass, and stone provides a contemporary feel while blending seamlessly with the surroundings. The materials utilized in the construction of The Inner Journey are carefully selected to create a sense of harmony with the environment. The use of natural stone and wood brings the outdoors inside, while the steel sections and glass provide a modern touch.
“In the midst of natural elements such as exposed brick, wood, stone, and glass, ‘The Inner Journey’ weekend house serves as a reminder to focus on the one element that truly matters – oneself.”
