Tale of Twin Bungalows, Khadakwasla

A little backstory about us: We are friends-turned-business partners. We met in architectural college, and ever since, our journey in the field has been entwined. So when we were approached by a similar client, and they told us about their two-decade-long business relationship, we could instantly empathise with their family dynamic and understand their expectations. From that point, this became a deeply personal project for us. We were determined not to compromise on their vision or our architectural integrity.

The clients in question are two avid travellers with a fondness for the comfort and aesthetics of resorts. When they first approached us to design a Twin Bungalow, they were hesitant about how the contoured plot would be perfect for hosting social gatherings and homely weekend getaways. However, one quick visit and we could recognise the site’s potential.

What we did not anticipate were the numerous site challenges: the remote location posing difficulties in sourcing materials and managing labour, the groundwater scarcity and the need to manage surface run-offs in the moderate rainfall zone. But what fun is a site without some challenges? So, we re-initiated the design process with a Landscape Consultant on board to overcome these hurdles.

The Unexpected Site Turmoil

Venturing into Brutalism, the Twin Bungalows project presents a playful exploration of mass, scale, and privacy through rectilinear forms. By purposefully avoiding ornamentation and burdensome weekend home maintenance, the architectural planning thoughtfully responds to the site on a macro level, while the spacious interiors cater to the functional needs and lifestyle of the social families.

Factoring in the region’s scorching summers and unpredictable monsoons, the choice of Laterite stone as the star material is intentional, ensuring both durability and beauty. A complementary material palette of leather-finished Kota Stone and sliding glass openings, paired with metal handrails and exposed gutter details, further accentuate the bungalow’s distinctive Brutalist characteristics.

Planning Strategies: A Three-Level Approach with a Central Shared Area for Visual Connectivity

The planning process embraces a strategic approach, consciously maximising the utilisation of the natural contours. Dividing the site into three distinct levels, each dedicated to a specific zonal character: the lowermost contour houses the parking and a dog kennel, while the mid-level comprises communal spaces, two guest bedrooms, and a shared pool area. The topmost level incorporates the remaining four private bedrooms.

Zooming in, each bedroom extends to an L-shaped balcony offering the luxury of private views and a connection to the outdoors. Rendering adaptability in space utilisation, the bungalows are divided by a sliding-folding door, allowing for the flexibility of expanding or separating the living area as the situation demands. The two spacious dining rooms enjoy their own pool access and adjacent kitchens. A pre-planned demarcation is devoted to accommodating a lift in the future.

Propelled by instincts, the initial plan proposed an infinity pool embracing the breathtaking Khadakwasla lake. Contrarily, the clients desired a swimming pool that could be enjoyed intimately within an enclosure. As a result, the pool is now placed in a courtyard-style void, further becoming a binding element for all spaces within the Twin Bungalows. It also negates any sense of isolation for the occupants by establishing connectivity and visual continuity throughout the property.

Given the site characteristics, privacy and a sense of safety are primary concerns for the users and a challenge for the designers. By meticulously crafting the circulation layout, each room of the two bungalows trails a unique path of accessibility while maintaining visual connectivity. This thoughtful approach allows for flexibility in usage, as even if one area of the house is occupied, the other remains locked and undisturbed.

Rainwater Harvesting Cycle: A Step towards Sustainability and Self-sufficiency

With limited access to city services, the project anticipated a water supply crisis. To address this, ingenious rainwater harvesting strategies were set into motion well before full-paced construction commenced. Three substantial reservoirs and overhead tanks efficiently collect and store rainwater.

In contrast to the conventional approach of collecting rainwater from slabs and giving it a directional flow through pipes, exposed gutter details came into play. Leveraging the combination of heavy rains, steep contours, and the force of gravity, these gutters effectively guide the flow of rainwater. They also add a visual element—inspired by Brutalism—elevating the distinctive identity of the robust facades. Moreover, sleek horizontal slits integrated into the vertical planes of the terraces artfully break the monotony of the facade while protecting from heavy downpours.