This Amritsar home by 23DC Architects is a modern escape rooted in tradition

A clean, modernist fusion with a sprinkle of “I desire to escape the city life and immerse in nature.” This wish was fulfilled by two design wizards, Shiv Dada and Mohit Chawla of 23DC Architects for a homeowner in Amritsar who envisioned a home that whispers tranquillity with a minimal touch of Indian heritage. 

The expansive 20,000 sq ft home in Amritsar named Ananda, has been designed with a smooth indoor-outdoor transition and is equipped with sheer curiosity. Let’s take a tour.

An allegorical entrance

The essence of Ananda’s ethereal mystique begins right from its entrance with four Buddha statues that stand as sentinels to ward off negative energies. Upon entering the house, you’re greeted with a double-height space that overlooks the central courtyard and a grand reclining Buddha — an iconographic representation of Buddha’s final meditation posture. It is strategically placed to oversee the entire house, imbuing every room with its presence. 

The sunken seating area surrounded with soothing water and lush plantation is reminiscent of a Vietnamese rainforest. The Architects eagerly said “Designing the central courtyard was a delight, as it serves as the heart of the home, embodying tranquillity and offering an unparalleled meditation experience in the house”.

Unified with beige

Designed with dexterity, the home has equal parts excitement and relaxation. The restrained colour palette in the living area finds companionship in nuanced stone shades, ivory walls, wooden louvres and plush upholstery, ensuring that it doesn’t overshadow the surrounding green landscape. 

The parlour with its sophisticated furniture choices: a beige sectional sofa, dark wood coffee table, black leather armchairs along with an eclectic artwork, lulls you into relaxation.

An impressive kitchenette, adjoining the backyard, turns the daily ritual of making a morning brew or a midnight snack into a scenic delight. Additionally, a discreetly located service kitchen ensures that the cooking aromas are skillfully contained.

A staircase to elegance

Locally sourced pristine marble adorns the lobby of this luxurious abode and a crystal origami chandelier hangs from the ceiling, amplifying its grandeur. A majestic spiral staircase, complemented with vertical carved wooden slats on one side of the wall, takes you to the upper level where rooms provide complete privacy. 

Individualistic bedrooms awaken a canvas of muted hues, yet boast of striking elements such as a custom artwork or a contrasting lounge chair. One can simply head out to the backyard for sun, swim and solace! 

Inspiring outdoor vista

Did somebody say pool party? A two-level backyard with a wooden deck, featuring a flat roof rain shower is ideal for spending as much time as possible in the pool. Breezy meals and easy conversations can be had just steps off the wooden deck in the sitting area, complete with a fireplace and projector provision. Mohit, the Principal Architect says “The most challenging part was ensuring the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces without compromising on comfort or functionality. Incorporating significant structural changes and experimentation with design elements made it achievable.” 

Ananda’s free flowing floor plan and C-shape design ensures that the inhabitants can bask in nature’s beauty from every corner. Sunlight bathes the entire home with its gentle glow courtesy the expansive windows and sliding doors, reducing the need for artificial climate control and lighting. The result? A lavish paradigm that conforms to sustainability.

Read More: English architecture informs but Indian art defines a palatial home in Jalandhar by 23DC Architects