On the serene outskirts of Ahmedabad, a humble home has been quietly reborn as a village-inspired retreat. Designed by Hiren Patel Architect Design, the 8,000 sq. ft. residence celebrates the enduring design traditions of rural Gujarati homes while seamlessly integrating modern necessities. True to its rural roots, the home is enveloped by lush greenery, with nature flowing indoors to establish a harmonious connection between its design and the tranquil surroundings.
Positioned on one side of the plot, near the road, the house is organized around a central courtyard inspired by traditional layouts to maximize natural light, ventilation, and views. Serving as the soul of the home, the courtyard offers a peaceful setting for conversation and connection, whether in the quiet of the morning or the stillness of the night. The remaining grounds are thoughtfully landscaped, with a gazebo and swimming pool providing serene spaces for relaxation and retreat.
A gently winding path, flanked by dense planting, leads to the home. The structure emerges softly - lime-washed walls and a pitched Mangalore-tiled roof coming together in a silhouette that echoes the quiet charm of traditional home. Broad stone steps draw you in, and as you ascend, the tiled canopy gives way to a wooden ceiling lined with exposed rafters and subtle grooves - an inviting transition that sets the tone for the warm, rooted spaces within.
Stepping inside, you leave behind the outdoors, yet are still greeted by the same natural light and gentle breeze that flows through the heart of the home - the central courtyard. The passage surrounding it is adorned with patterned tiles, their designs a quiet homage to craftsmanship. Ornate wooden columns support the corridor, adding texture and depth to the space. Above, scalloped eaves trim the end of the pitched roof, a detail that continues throughout the home, evoking a sense of timelessness. The furniture, light fixtures, and even the doorways carry subtle traces of artistry - hand-carved details, delicate embellishments, and hand-wrought textures. The space is defined by understated plaster walls that provide a calm backdrop to intricate wood elements, textured brass accents, and the rich patterns of handwoven textiles.
Moving inward from the courtyard, the interiors take on a bolder, immersive expression - where every surface and element is layered with texture and intricate design. The family room, for instance, embraces a deep, bold red wall, layered further with vernacular artwork collected by the owner herself, that speaks of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. In front of this, sculptural furniture pieces - crafted from wood, upholstery, and glass - take center stage, each with its own distinct presence. As a collective, they harmonize into a room that exudes character and grandeur. It embraces a maximalist traditional vibe, with each object and decor element contributing to the richness of the environment. Intricate Indian textiles, featuring classic prints, further reinforce the theme, ensuring every detail serves a purpose in the overarching design.
The dining area invites a regal experience, where intricate woodwork and plush upholstery set a refined stage. Surrounded by rich textures, the space feels like a grand feast for the senses - an atmosphere fit for royalty, where every detail adds to its majestic allure.
As we move deeper into the home, the layered expression continues with rooms unfolding in earthy greens and deep indigo blues - tones that evoke a sense of depth and vibrancy to the spaces. The bedrooms carry the same ornate language: four-poster beds, vintage-style trunks, block-printed and hand woven linens, artisanal rugs, and carefully chosen objects. Treasured artwork adds a storied touch. In the master suite, a cozy seating nook overlooks the garden through a traditional tinted window - a quiet corner to pause, read, or simply watch the world go by.
In a time when minimalism dominates, this home proudly embraces cultural heritage. With intricate craftsmanship and artisanal details throughout, the design celebrates tradition, layering textures and materials that provide both depth and warmth, creating a home that feels rooted in history while remaining functional for today’s living.