This Aurangabad abode by Alkesh Gangwal redefines traditional minimalism

The Gulmohar Street house is a traditional abode at the cusp of modernity while both the interior and exterior bask in natural light. Located in Aurangabad the home is a reflection of the homeowner’s spiritual selves and exudes traditional minimalism. Featuring a trove of sleek lines and simple but loving elements. 

Spread across 5,000 sq ft the home by Alkesh Gangwal & Associates is draped in a series of authentic and alluring details. “The role of the craftsman and their craft is evident right from the street, where the strikingly unique facade—a jaali made of wooden spindles—showcases the intricate artistry and skill involved in its creation,” says principal architect Alkesh Gangwal. Want to know what the other details are? Well, you’ll have to scroll through to find out. 

Tucked away 

The street is lined with lush Gulmohar trees leading to a facade alive with intricate craftsmanship. Walnut hued spindles envelop the exterior build, a modern ode to the classic stone jaali. Beyond their surreal beauty, these spindles create an alluring interplay on shadows draping the interiors and doubling up as natural ventilators. Here, the exteriors whisper the story of the interiors. 

Upon the first step, you’re greeted by the living room on one side while the pooja and courtyard sit on the other. A high ceiling finds its way to the dining area, while the large skylight inside leaves hints of soft glows throughout the abode. 

Plush plants and warm lights pave the way through the house, while motorised louvres beneath the skylight keep harsh sunlight out. The kitchen connects to the dining space while a powder bathroom completes the ground floor.

The first and second floors comprise of the bedrooms and both floors are accompanied by outdoor spaces. The daughter’s bedroom with a balcony overlooking the quaint street and a view draped with Gulmohar trees while half of the second floor is a terrace for that fresh breeze that everyone loves with an open pantry. 

Traditional Awakening 

Your eyes draw inwards and upwards, where the pooja space awaits you and lies as the heart of the home “The stotra-wall in particular is especially striking. It is a customised, one-of-a-kind art piece featuring the Bhaktamar Stotra, engraved in marble and hand-gilded with gold leaf.” says Alkesh. This sacred area brings together a confluence of antique earthy hued elements that spread throughout. 

The living room features sand hued wall panels which pay homage to religious motifs. These traditional designs carry their way forward into the bathroom with an array of dark and light brown hues and patterns. While the pooja space is dressed with a marble inlay floor in cool grey hue, contrasted by crisp white geometric patterns, a sight that simply draws your attention. These series of traditional elements overlay each other and create a beautiful harmonious composition. 

Glances and handcrafted glimmers

“The house embodies the spirit of traditional design motifs in a contemporary setting, reflecting a visual language defined by ‘traditional minimalism’,” says Alkesh alongside associate architects Ayush Gangwal & Salonee Gangwal.

Each glance showcases intricate and alluring details of handcrafted gems from wooden panels to windows. This plethora of details and Alkesh’s creative decisions truly create a home like no other.

Read More: Muted tones of grey and beige dance in rhythm at a Pune home by Alkesh Gangwal & Associates