Ecological living solution

Project: Farm House, Mumbai. Architects: The Vrindavan Project, Gurugram

Earthy, sustainable and climate-sensitive, this building is a private residence at an organic farm located in rural Maharashtra, near the city of Mumbai. With a tranquil swimming pool, landscaped gardens and a meditative pond, the design of the farmhouse is minimal and contextually appropriate, with zero carbon footprint. The site is 11 acres in size, undulating with steep contours and terraces. The lack of locally available skilled masons in the area posed quite a challenge. These circumstances were overcome by the architects taking on the contractor’s role themselves, and working directly with the villagers from the nearest settlement. It was delightful to see the extraordinary enthusiasm displayed by these locals.

In order to provide structural integrity, allowing for the building to be disaster-resistant, its rammed earth foundation is capped with a plinth beam that ties the whole base together. A water channel moat is integrated with the foundation, to provide cooling and to insulate the home from infestations, while also serving as a beautiful water body.