The Grandeur of Bungalow in Penthouse: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Vishakha Shah's Award-Winning Residential Design Reflects Gujarati Culture with a Contemporary Twist

In the heart of the city, a penthouse bungalow stands out as a testament to the fusion of traditional Gujarati culture and modern design. The brainchild of designer Vishakha Shah, this residential house is a celebration of natural textures, vibrant colors, and local elements, all brought together in a grandeur that is both unique and captivating.

The design inspiration for this project was rooted in the client's Gujarati background. The aim was to create a home that reflected their lifestyle, and the result is a space that is both contemporary and steeped in cultural essence. The first thing that catches the eye is the Pichwai art that spans an entire wall, followed by a striking wooden swing. These local elements set the tone for the rest of the house.

One of the unique properties of this design is its ability to transport you away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The use of natural textures and a palette ranging from beaten copper to traditional fabrics, polished and unpolished kota, exposed brick, and concrete, creates a sense of liveliness and comfort. The house is vibrant and airy, with moody tones adding depth and intrigue.

The realization of this design was achieved through the use of natural and local materials. Exposed brick, beaten copper, steel with a raw look, and natural wood were used to complement pastel to vibrant shades. Traditional fabrics are used throughout the house, which is inward-looking. Light and shadows create different dramatic effects throughout the day and year, and proper cross ventilation ensures the house remains airy at all times.

The project, which spans a built-up area of 3436 sq.ft., was completed in Pune, India, between 2019 and October 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the design team, which included Gokhale Constructions for civil work, Ramprasad Sahani for carpentry and false ceiling, and Anupama Kabra as the textile designer, successfully brought Shah's vision to life.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was the fixed design of the other floors. Respecting the structural design of the entire building, no structural changes were made. Yet, the east side fins, triple height central area, skylights, and spatial planning of public areas like the living, dining, and kitchen area were all successfully incorporated into the design.

This unique design has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, it was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award. This prestigious accolade is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. It is a testament to the exceptional design skills of Vishakha Shah and her ability to create a space that is both a home and a work of art.