Concrete House: A Warm and Simple Residence

Design by Akshay Tathe

The inspiration for the Concrete House came from the owner's desire for a space that reflects their warm and simple personality. The design intention was to create a home that prioritizes simplicity and comfort as its key elements. The spatial organization, interplay of volumes and materials, and elements of transparency and geometry all contribute to the creation of a comfortable space for the family.

What sets this residence apart is its volumetric arrangement, openness, and transparency that bind all the spaces together. The incorporation of vegetation in the interiors, gardens, a water body, and large openings that allow filtered light to flood the rooms, all work together to establish a strong connection with nature.

The realization of the Concrete House involved the use of a varied material palette, including exposed concrete, wood, and local stone. These materials complement each other and create an aesthetically pleasing exterior. The straight lines and geometric forms give the house a crisp and clean look, while the use of exposed concrete and brick adds texture to the elevation.

To enhance energy efficiency, the design incorporates shading devices such as vertical louvers, pergolas, and overhangs. The volumetric arrangement of spaces and orientation also contribute to reducing the energy load of the residence, making it environmentally friendly.

Entering the Concrete House, one is greeted by a double-height living room space that is bathed in warm, filtered sunlight. The view of the lotus pond through the large glass windows blurs the line between the built and unbuilt, bringing nature indoors. The kitchen, located at the east, leads to an outdoor dining area with a vertical vegetation backdrop. The first floor houses all the bedrooms, each with its own spacious balcony. The interiors are kept simple and white, with splashes of color and textured elements adding a touch of drama.

The Concrete House project began in June 2018 and is expected to be completed in November 2019 in Pune, India. The design team, led by Akshay Tathe, conducted extensive research to ensure that the house provides both comfort and a strong connection to nature. The challenge was to build with minimal intervention to the natural ecosystem of the site, preserving the existing vegetation and using locally sourced building materials.

The Concrete House is a contemporary masterpiece that combines minimalism, straight lines, and clean geometry to create a comfortable and welcoming space. Its design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural elements, such as trees, water, and natural light, making it a truly unique and remarkable residence.

Image Credits: Alireza Mirza

Awards and Accolades: The Concrete House was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Concrete House stands out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world.