A space that is grand yet homely; spacious yet functional; private but connected; contemporary and easy-to-maintain- Doctor couple Sarika and Sachin Pagade’s brief for a five bedroom bungalow in Lohegaon, Pune called for a great deal of creativity and intelligent utilization of space. Something that Mehul Shah of The Design Team was able to achieve rather well.
Since the plot was located near Pune’s civil airport and the Air Force base, planning restrictions allowed most homes in the area a structure of only ground plus first level. This meant that the house had to hold a master bedroom for Dr. Pagade and his wife, a room for his parents, another for the ten-year-old son and a guest bedroom along with the living, dining, kitchen, common seating area, terrace, landscaped courtyard and a parking space for two cars, all within 3000 sq.ft. of the plot without adding too much height.
The Team thought it best to craft the house in rectangles in a perfect grid format. They created three different levels, each with its own defining space. The double height at the entrance provided the grand look the family desired complete with a folded plate staircase and landscaped front area. Of course, given the excess noise from the overhead flying aircrafts, sound proof glass and thick trees were a must. The basic construction materials were RCC and brick and the design also provided for solar panels and recycled water. The interiors used woodwork and glass in plenty while the lighting lends the home a calm mood.
There are several standout features in the house. For instance, the hand painted murals in the dining area and their son’s bedroom. However, the heart of the house is what Mehul calls ‘the elevated internal courtyard’ complete with an artificial lawn, pebbles, bamboo plants and a water feature.
The family also wanted the child’s room to be connected to everyone else’s in the house while still giving him his own space. So it was constructed in the mid-landing region of the house with a mini library corner that overlooked the courtyard and the living area. It is visible and easily accessible from every floor of the house.
With the entire ground level left largely open, there was ample play of natural light while also maintaining that crucial sense of space. Overall, a tasteful family home that’s welcoming and beautiful from any corner.
