MASTERING FORM AND MATERIALITY

AKSHAY SELUKAR'S ARILYA, A MASTERFUL EXPLORATION OF MATERIALITY IN BHOPAL, CRAFTS INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING BRIMMING WITH ART, COLOUR AND CHARACTER.

- ALISHA LAD

Located in a low-density zone in Bhopal, reconnecting with nature became one of the driving forces for the design of this arresting villa. For Akshay Selukar, exploring diverse design strategies that cater to contemporary comfort are always paramount when it comes to defining good design. So, with a homeowner open to unique design and affording immense freedom, he does exactly that.

FOCUSING ON FORM

Right from the street, the landscaper villa commands attention with its imposing form, set against a backdrop of the open sky. Sloping roofs connect and awe with their scale, bringing a hint of traditional architectural flair to the starkly contemporary form. This pair of thoughtfully curated roof planes are set adjacent to each other and skewed in opposite directions for a varying character on each side.

Visually, light, decks, balconies and cantilevers pepper the front elevation, crafting a façade that dips into a distinct visual identity. Concrete greys complement warm wooden hues, while patterns and textures add to the language of lines incorporated here, lending allure to this composition of wood, glass and concrete.

SKETCHING SPACES

Splitting the entrance into two, vehicular and pedestrian accesses allow differing experiences as one heads into the house. The multi-level pedestrian route leads visitors down different paths, crafting changing views of the lush landscape. The patterned flooring adds to the play of lines outside, with alternating black and white strips lending complexity to the otherwise open space.