Throwback to the 90s

Nostalgia lounges poolside in this revived family retreat in Alibaug designed by ADND

11 Apr 2025

90s pop culture still makes its mark today (looking at you, F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) But sometimes vintage wares need a touch of upcycling to bring them back to life. When the homeowners approached ADND to revive their existing second home in Alibaug, the architects noticed the potential in its predecessor, and a few flaws to be worked around. “The existing family farmhouse had a traditional design that was done in the early 90’s. This meant that the windows were much smaller in scale to the walls and parapet heights and the indoor spaces had minimal connectivity with the landscape outside,” note principal architects Shobhan Kothari and Anand Menon.

Retaining the original beam-column-slab, ADND’s modern annexure responds to the context, opening up the plan within its structural limits to bring in natural light. “Being in the tropics is about enjoying the outdoors in the shade, and the design should be reflective of the same.” Led inside by a monumental stone holding up the gateway is a holiday home for the ages.

"Architecture, much like the life it surrounds, is made meaningful through memory"

Entrance to the home is demarcated by a monumental rock; Photography by PHX India; Styling by Bonnie & Saks

PLAYING LEGO

When it comes to working with an existing envelope, it is often a challenge to balance the distinct formal expressions. How did you ensure the old and the new are not at loggerheads? Restraint. “Once the planning was resolved, it was essential for the design to follow a consistent language,” explain Shobhan and Anand, “We achieved this by using only two materials to divide the structure.”

The massing is split into two: a grounded, substantial base topped with a light, minimal superstructure. GRC panels that mimic natural stone for the bottom, paired with a lighter, fabricated fenestration box on top. Two materials define the entire project, chosen for their ability to express solidity and lightness in equal measure.

Surrounded by greenery, the Alibaug home proves to be the perfect family retreat; Photography by PHX India; Styling by Bonnie & Saks; Photography by PHX India

A play of light and shadow cast by the intriguing massing breathes new life into the 90s era holiday home; Photography by PHX India

COURTYARDS AND A COASTAL CALM

Inside, a central courtyard acts as the core. Around it orbit rooms tailored to the family, while common spaces like the living and dining open up to a deck that stretches toward the lawn. Beyond, a double-height pavilion houses a pool, jacuzzi and bar inviting you to while away long, sunlit afternoons.

The home’s visual language is distinctly modern, defined by clean lines, a restrained palette, and a thoughtful play of volumes. The architects use the contrast between single and double-height spaces to create moments of pause and movement. As one steps from the intimate lobby into the expansive living room, the gaze is drawn upward, revealing a sense of drama.

The rooms overlook a courtyard-like central core; Photography by PHX India

The residence responds to its tropical surroundings, providing outdoor spaces for resting in the shade; Photography by PHX India

SAVING THE STRUCTURE

Reviving a 20-year-old structure brought its own challenges. “The existing structure, nearly 20 years old, presented a unique challenge, both structurally and aesthetically,” observe, “With defined boundaries, we were restricted to adding elements rather than subtracting, particularly when it came to cladding.”

One significant intervention was the removal of the original RCC sloped roof to make space for a terrace and family lounge. This reshaped the upper level into a crisp, box-like volume. To preserve the structure’s integrity, all new elements were fabricated independently, with only minor modifications to the existing frame.

To not erase but to reimagine is an act of resistance. Too often, we view working with the old as a nostalgic and sentimental. But reviving an old structure, is a carrying forward of legacy. Much like the 90s sitcoms we half-watch in the backdrop that create an air of comfort, there is merit to continuity. Architecture, much like the life it surrounds, is made meaningful through memory.