Crafted from earth in Pune

Komal Mittal and Ninada Kashyap explore the beauty of rammed earth

26 Feb 2026

Every living space has a starting point and for this apartment in Pune, its beginning was one of the oldest construction techniques — rammed earth. Designed by Komal Mittal and Ninada Kashyap, principal architects and founders of Alkove-Design, the four-bedroom apartment spread across 3,612 sq ft. draws inspiration from the layers of rammed earth that uses natural soil mixed with sand, clay, and gravel, pressed together to sculpt strong walls, often reinforced with lime or cement.

“The idea evolved into a material palette grounded in earthy finishes: lime plaster, reclaimed wood and natural veneer, all of which were repositories of rich gradients”

- Ninada Kashyap and Komal Mittal

Living room with yellow lime-washed walls, built-in wooden shelving, indoor plants and wooden furniture — Living room with lemon-ochre walls, green plants and warm wood tones; Styling by Spaces and Stories; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Grounding Effect

The living area opens up spaciously, with large west-facing openings letting in natural light. The space feels warm, thanks to the lemon-ochre lime-washed walls and ceiling. “We were particularly taken by the gradients it offered with its striated layers. Through conversations with the clients, the idea evolved into a material palette grounded in earthy finishes: lime plaster, reclaimed wood and natural veneer, all of which were repositories of rich gradients,” says Ninada and Komal. The living, family, and dining areas flow easily into one another, creating an open, connected space. A reclaimed wood frame leads into the family room, shaping it into a cosy corner for gatherings and moments to be spent in solitude. Beyond the living space, the dining area extends naturally, with black accents adding depth and contrast. The focus here is Kshitichitra, a centrepiece by Morii Design. Created in collaboration with artisan communities, it brings together elements of land, water and sky through Bela block prints from Kutch and Sujni embroidery from Bihar.

Treading further, the lemon-ochre tones give way to sienna rose, bringing a nostalgic feel to the master bedroom. “The clients wanted this space to feel distinct, a shift in palette that evoked a sense of repose,” says Komal and Ninada “We chose terracotta-pink lime-washed walls for softness, black river-wash Betamcherla flooring for its tactile quality, and reimagined the classic Victorian four-poster bed in a contemporary way, with slim wooden strips extending across the wall and ceiling to suggest an old-world charm.” they add. Pink tones continue from the master bedroom into the attached powder room, where they are paired with fluted wood finishes and a taupe stone floor.

Dining space with wooden table, lime-washed yellow walls, pendant lights and indoor plants — The dining space displays “Kshitichitra” artwork by Morii Design; Styling by Spaces and Stories; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Bedroom with lime-washed pink wall, wooden panel headboard and neutral bedding — Bedroom with terracotta pink lime washed walls and Victorian four-poster bed; Styling by Spaces and Stories; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Toning Down

Venturing further, the tones begin to lighten. Down the corridor, is the eastern wing, where morning light fills the children’s and guest bedrooms. While both rooms share a similar base palette, each has its own character. The guest bedroom feels calm and refined, with honey-maple wooden tones adding elegance. In contrast, the children’s room feels warm and lively, with soft cedar shades and colourful arched accents creating a cheerful, comforting space. The kitchen uses terracotta and aqua green tones, giving the space a refreshing feel. Natural tones work well together, light oak cabinetry set against an off-white floor keeps the kitchen airy while balancing the richer rustic accents above.

Moving toward the centre of the home, a prayer alcove sits between the bedrooms. Set within an arched niche and finished in wood, it feels peaceful and grounding. The study is tucked away in a quieter part of the home, creating a calm setting for work and reflection. The lemon-ochre palette reappears here, paired with the richness of black Betamcherla flooring. Embossed terracotta plates by artist Dhanashree Kelkar line the walls, each piece reflecting moments from the family’s journeys. outside, a private garden adds an uplifting atmosphere, blurring the boundaries between indoors and the landscape.

Contemporary bathroom with glass shower enclosure, wooden vanity, pink ceiling, bathtub, and large windows — Bathroom with pink-washed walls along with taupe stone floor overlooking lush greenery; Styling by Spaces and Stories; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Spacious living room featuring wooden TV unit, lime washed walls, neutral sofa and earthy decor accents. — Spacious living room featuring wood storage units. Oblong coffee tables from Dtale Modern; Styling by Spaces and Stories; Photography by Pulkit Sehgal

Material Experimentation

Across the home, the story takes shape through materials. The design follows a simple earthy-toned palette. Lime-washed walls, stone floors, warm wooden furniture makes the entire space feel homely. Terracotta, veneer, and handcrafted details layer the space with texture and depth. Nothing feels excessive; each finish is chosen to stand out. A glass mosaic detail runs along the living wall, catching light and adding movement, while in the family room, timber creates a warm backdrop. The wooden television console, finished with a black stone top, extends from the living area, forming a seamless connection between the two spaces.

As the architects reflect, these materials became the base of the design, shaping a home that feels personal, and true to its natural character.