Of preservation and open volumes

Fields, ponds and changing seasons: A 16,000 sq ft Goan Villa by Arquite

28 Jul 2025

How differently would the world of design look if we perceived architecture as a living organism, one that responds to the land, seasons and elements of nature? This sentiment inspired Villa Selene designed by architects Kapil Razdan and Seema Pandey, co-founders of Arquite, in Goa’s Giri Sangolda. Spanning 16,000 sq ft, the villa stands as an architectural ode to grandeur, where the boundaries between exteriors and interiors seem to dissolve.

“As opposed to imposing a monolithic structure, the villa fragments into modular pavilions, preserving the natural environment and allowing the built form to breathe. Two central courtyards preserve existing trees and form the home’s core. At any point in the villa you have a visual connection with the expanse of the land through open axial corridors,” share Kapil and Seema.

Flanked by water on one side and a seating area on the other, the common passageway opens to a relaxing ambience; Styling by Dolly J Fashion, Photography by Stay Vista, Sahil Fauzdar and Rishul Bangar

EVERYTHING IS CONNECTED

Rooted in a theme that celebrates interconnectedness, the villa comprises four distinct yet interlinked units: bedrooms, kitchen, living and dining areas. Each functions as an independent, breathable volume connected by open walkways and courtyards.

Flanked by century-old trees, a reflective pond to the north, and sweeping fields stretching to the south and east, the property’s natural assets shape its ambience.

With wood accents and soft furnishings, the rawness of these materials is balanced out, and fresh greenery is tucked throughout the home for a dash of freshness; Styling by Dolly J Fashion, Photography by Stay Vista, Sahil Fauzdar and Rishul Bangar

The fallen Bamboo dining area is an aesthetic nook, and a lesson in thoughtful repurposing. The landscaping is by Plants and Bricks and the furniture is designed and manufactured by Arquite Design Furniture; Styling by Dolly J Fashion, Photography by Stay Vista, Sahil Fauzdar and Rishul Bangar

INDEPENDENT VOLUMES, SINGULAR EXPERIENCE

A reflective swimming pool wraps around the northern drawing room, while the southern and eastern pavilions open up to panoramic views of the surrounding fields.

Disaggregation and connectivity are key design strategies, complemented by the use of local stone, reclaimed wood, and lightweight roofs—choices that significantly reduce the carbon footprint. “All habitable units are open on all sides, further dissolving the boundaries between indoors and out,” they add.

In addition to embracing biophilic design, the villa champions sustainability through adaptive reuse. “The repurposing of a fallen bamboo tree into an alfresco dining canopy exemplifies this approach, celebrating nature’s imperfections,” concludes Seema, visibly delighted with a project that allows nature to take the lead.