The idea of symmetry

Twin bungalows in Vadodara by a+t associates are built in brick and symmetry

21 Aug 2025

From Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches to the ancient Roman architect Vitruvius’s study of proportions to the Egyptian golden ratio, Athens’ Parthenon and of course Taj Mahal; our sense of visual appeal is often derived from a disciplined appreciation for symmetry. In Vadodara, the twin bungalows are a modern manifestation of that very appreciation crafted by a+t associates. Spanning 11,868 sq ft, it stands radiating the same beauty of architecture.

“A celebration of symmetry and contrast, this pair of bungalows balances raw textures with refined geometry,” say principal architects and founder duo, Archis Patel and Tanvi Rajpurohit. Echoing facades, a connecting bridge and contrasting textures, it speaks of a design language that derives balance from creating symmetry and also breaking it.

“Here, twin homes don’t just mirror each other — they reflect a deeper philosophy: of balance, duality and coexisting identities under one elegant skin”

Archis Patel and Tanvi Rajpurohit of a+t associates

The daughter’s bedroom opens into a stunning indoor outdoor space; Styling by a+t associates; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

CONGRUENT FACADE, CONTRASTING INTERIORS

Exposed brick and perforated metal screens beckon one in, through the shared common garden, into the living space. With a heavy interplay of textures and design, the living room with its eccentric patterned chairs, striped rug, metal screen divider and stunning planters is the most fun, but cosy set-up. A sleek staircase behind this metal screen leads up to the upper floor.

Entrenched in sunlight, the dining in the centre of the ground floor looks up into the upper floor with metal art fixtures hanging from the ceiling. It is grey. And it is minimalist. The triple-height pooja room depicts a purpose, divine and simple. The bedrooms all come with a personality of their own, befitting for the occupant. The parents’ bedroom is swathed in neutral tones that induce comfort. Simple artwork, cosy bedding and touches of brass make up the space. The son’s bedroom presents plenty of ochre on a canvas of grey. Every choice from the bench to the clean shelf is intentional, and one can tell. Inside the first-floor master bedroom, the entirety of the bed’s back wall features wooden panelling and woven cane, making the space feel like an heirloom but also as homely as it gets. An ode to the daughter – her bedroom encapsulates her personality. With sage green and lush floral wallpapers panels creating depth and character, the room is soft, serene and soaked in character.

The home features furnishings by V9 Home Decor, flooring by Nexion and paints from Asian Paints; Styling by a+t associates; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

One bungalow looks into another through stunning circular cutouts; Styling by a+t associates; Photography by Tejas Shah Photography

METAL THAT FLOWS…

Sage green. Ochre. Blue. Neutrals. The palette in this home is as diverse as the design language and elements inside and as balanced as the gorgeous symmetrical set-up of the twin bungalows. The material choices blend unabashedly, with hard textures like exposed brickwork, corten-inspired plaster and perforated metal screens influenced by the Bauhaus movement. And softer textures of woven rugs and plush bedding. The designers describe it best, “Here, twin homes don’t just mirror each other — they reflect a deeper philosophy: of balance, duality and coexisting identities under one elegant skin.”