-
Architects: Abin Design Studio
- Area: 3670 ft²
- Year: 2015
-
Photographs:Ravi Kanade
Text description provided by the architects. Set amidst lush greens of rural Bengal, Pool House is an extension to the ancestral home of Mr Das. Having procured some land on two sides of his existing bungalow, the client, a fitness enthusiast, required a swimming pool, gymnasium, open lawns and guest entertainment areas as an addition to his residence.
Basic Vaastu guidelines dictated the pool to be located towards the East of the bungalow. The built mass of the extension was thus planned towards the North-East enabling unobstructed light and ventilation to both the existing residence and the newly planned gymnasium and guest block. This moreover facilitated open views of the swimming pool and the northern lawns from both structures.
Two accesses from the first floor of the bungalow to the pool complex were designed as architectural features. The entry from the South-East corner of the house makes its way across a small bridge turning into a cantilevered staircase. The bridge mass itself proves to act as a visual barrier from the South-lying road. The fenestration for this gangway has been crafted with sleek wooden louvers to provide privacy while still enabling ventilation. The entry towards the North-East corner of the bungalow is designed as a modern deck cantilevering out on two sides. This minimalistic structure complements the existing old archetypal residence. A crafted granite staircase leads one down to the extension.
The gym and guest block itself is designed in a simple, sleek language with overhanging frame balconies and a statement external staircase. Louvred fenestration allows filtered light in to the indoors creating a soft play of light and shade. This block enjoys a panoramic view of the swimming pool against a vast backdrop of rural greens.
The pool is bordered on two sides by a continuous lotus pond interspersed with sculptural trees. The whitewashed boundary wall behind is dotted with small niches that house lamps within them. By night, the under-lit pool and the warm lamps create a mesmerising effect in the complex. A hot tub has been designed under the bridge access to snugly sit amid landscape features.
Custom made sculptures add value to the landscaping and treatment of this residence. The client comes from an agricultural background and wished for the lawns to be more than a grassy field. They were thus designed with verdant shrubbery, gentle mounds and integrated lighting. A gazebo was added to the open area so one could enjoy the landscaped garden up close. Designed as a minimalist frame, this pavilion showcases the flourishing greens amongst which it sits rather than stand out from them.
