Homes

The Local Studio brings the mystical charm of Swiss chalets to a Bengaluru getaway

APR 12, 2024 | By Subikshaa Stalin
Outdoor spaces enjoy the shade of lush vegetation; Photography by Jubin Johnson
A picturesque view of the home featuring a dreamy composition of natural textures, wood, brick and verdure. The IPE wood on the gate is from Living Elements, the gate light is from Prism Light, the nameplate is from Local Objects and the wall light is from Beruru; Photography by Jubin Johnson
Throughout the holiday home, the clever choice of flooring and the sloping roofs evoke a sense of wonder. The skylights and metal staircase are from Local Objects; Photography by Jubin Johnson

The Cabin Project is a charming A-frame structure amidst a lush plot in the Swiss Town community near Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Madhurima Kordale, Principal Architect and Founder of The Local Studio, brilliantly stages a mystical scene in this 2,000 sq ft enchanting hideaway. 

“As discussions unfolded with the client, it became evident that the space needed to reflect their love for gardening while providing a low-maintenance yet eclectic escape for family getaways,” Madhurima recalls.  

The Local Studio
An eclectic collection of loom lounge chairs from Home Canvas and the sofa from IKEA, along with a vernacular coffee table from Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium, create an inviting living space; Photography by Jubin Johnson

At the entrance, a metal sliding gate adorned with recycled wood sets the tone for what lies ahead. A contemporary twist on the traditional katte (a semi-outdoor space akin to a verandah) welcomes guests to linger and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Brick pavers lead the way to the main lawn, where the cabin’s tapered roofs and brick walls exude timeless charm.

The Local Studio
The artwork from Calcuttan, the cobalt blue flooring from Living Elements and the earthen tones of the console table from Inmarwar create a cohesive contrast. The chandelier and the pendant light are from IKEA. The patio chairs, bench and planters are from Beruru; Photography by Jubin Johnson

 

The Local Studio
The space draped in blue and white hues features a sculptural light fixture at the teakwood oval extendable dining table from Beruru, a kitchenette cabinet and a sofa from IKEA. Skylights are from Local Objects; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Alluring Swiss A-frames

Drawing inspiration from European concepts of a cosy holiday retreat, the overall theme imbues the cabin with a charming, quirky character that is both inviting and endearing, avoiding any sense of ostentation or rigidity. While the exterior brick façade and shingled roofs evoke the charm and comfort of the Swiss chalet style, stepping inside the cabin reveals an entirely unexpected and delightfully surprising look and feel.

The dining and kitchenette areas feature blue micro-concrete floors from Living Elements and skylights from Local Objects. The kitchenette cabinets, farmhouse sink and sofa are from IKEA. The dado and countertop are from the Vitronite series and Kajaria Tiles. The console table is from Inmarwar; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Inside, the space unfolds with an effortless flow, blending the living room, kitchenette, and dining courtyard into a harmonious space. Cobalt blue micro-concrete floors and brick walls painted in white create a canvas for relaxation and creativity, while the skylight bathes the space in natural light.

Skylights from Local Objects flood the living space with daylight. The planters are from Beruru, the metal cabinet is from IKEA, the coffee table is from Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium, the floor lamp is from IKEA and the artwork is from Calcuttan; Photography by Jubin Johnson

The kitchenette, though compact, is fully equipped for culinary adventures with a farmhouse sink. Bi-fold doors seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting guests to savour the fresh air and scenic views.

A beautiful symphony of geometric patterns takes over with the lofty skylight and the winding staircase from Local Objects. The artwork is from Calcuttan and the chandelier is from IKEA; Photography by Jubin Johnson

 

Brightly hued artwork from Calcuttan complements the conspicuous cobalt blue flooring from Living Elements and the earthen tones of the teakwood oval extendable dining table from Beruru.The Chandelier is from IKEA, the console table is from Inmarwar and the planters are from Beruru; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Upstairs, the A-frame structure takes centre stage, offering a cosy retreat with custom skylights that double as covered balconies. The earthy tones and pops of colour in the bedrooms evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, while industrial-style windows provide a unique twist on traditional design.

The Local Studio
A scenic view of the brick pavers and well-groomed gardens that envelop the house. The pendant light is from Beruru and the outdoor garden lights are from Adithya Lamps; Photography by Jubin Johnson

 

A refreshing outdoor seating space featuring dining chairs from Home Canvas and the teakwood oval extendable dining table from Beruru; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Serene Sanctuary 

Reflecting on the design journey, Madhurima reminisces, “The obstacles faced in this project turned out to be the best moments of the project when we overcame them. I vividly recall the ‘aha‘ moment upon witnessing the emergence of the structural steel members. It dawned on us the myriad opportunities to unleash our creativity.”

The Local Studio
The windows from Local Objects provide a mesmerising view of the verdant greenscape; Photography by Jubin Johnson

 

Natural textures of Tandoor Stone flooring from Nakoda Marble, large windows from Local Objects and cane furniture mimic a bedroom that’s right under nature’s canopy. The Dhurri is from FabIndia, the quilt is from H&M Home. The sheets and cushion covers are from Thoppia. The bench, rattan side table, curtains and wall lights are from IKEA. The artwork is from Calcuttan; Photography by Jubin Johnson

The project dawned on Madhurima the myriad opportunities to unleash their creativity, sparking the inception of their very own design and build brand, Local Objects.  These opportunities manifested into a cantilevered steel staircase that appeared to be floating and an inventive inclined roof design.

Featuring a sloping roof, the bedroom is a dynamic space opening to a private balcony. The extendable daybed is fromIKEA, the Garcia Chair is from Home Canvas and the floor lamp is from IKEA. The carpet is from Wishing Chair, the quilt is from H&M Home and the curtains and cushions are from IKEA. The study lamp is from Purple Turtle; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Throughout the cabin, a thoughtful blend of materials and colours creates a cohesive aesthetic that celebrates both the natural surroundings and the client’s eclectic taste. From the natural brick façade to the metal accents, every element tells a story of craftsmanship and creativity.

 

With white bathroom fixtures, wall textures and wall tiles by the bath that are a deep shade of blue, the bathroom creates an enchanting contrast. The wall and floor tiles are from Chaabria Tiles, the plumbing fittings and fixtures are from Jaquar. The mirror, mirror light and ceiling lights are from IKEA; Photography by Jubin Johnson

Madhurima cleverly integrates sustainability into the design by incorporating breathable brick walls and double-glazed windows, ensuring the house remains environmentally conscious and climate-friendly. In essence, The Cabin Project is a sanctuary where nature meets innovation, where relaxation meets style. 

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