Origami House: A Sanctuary of Serenity and Sustainability
Upon entering the Origami House, the hustle and bustle of city life fade away, and you are embraced by a peaceful oasis where nature’s tranquility takes center stage. The design, deeply rooted in the client’s brief, prioritizes creating a retreat from the external chaos, where the sound of water from the central courtyard serves as both a calming backdrop and a natural noise barrier. This sound of water, whether gentle or cascading, becomes the focal point of the home’s serene atmosphere, enhancing the peaceful disconnect from the outside world and encouraging moments of quiet reflection. Whether it’s morning coffee in solitude or an evening soiree with loved ones, the courtyard provides a timeless space that is soothing both visually and acoustically.
Inspired by the principles of Japanese architecture, the design embraces minimalism, clean lines, and the subtle power of natural materials to create a peaceful yet impactful aesthetic. The central courtyard, with its origami-fold inspired concrete planters and patterned flooring, seamlessly integrates the natural and built environments, elevating the home's connection to the outdoors. The thoughtful use of water in the courtyard is integral, creating a rhythmic soundscape that enhances the atmosphere and offers the perfect escape from the city’s noise.
Sustainability is at the heart of the design, guiding every choice from the landscape to the architecture. The project carefully incorporates eco-conscious materials and systems that minimize its environmental footprint. The concrete planters in the courtyard are designed not just as functional elements, but as a sustainable feature—locally sourced and crafted to complement the natural surroundings while also encouraging biodiversity. The use of Corten steel sculptures, made in-house, brings an organic touch to the landscape, utilizing materials that weather naturally and require little maintenance, while blending beautifully with the evolving landscape.
The landscape design itself is a deliberate artistic composition rather than just a decorative addition. The greenery is chosen not only for its aesthetic appeal but for its contribution to the home’s ecosystem. Sustainable planting practices are used to create an energy-efficient microclimate around the house, ensuring shade, improving air quality, and promoting biodiversity. The layout of the landscape encourages rainwater harvesting and minimizes water usage, with strategically placed native plants that thrive with minimal irrigation.
In harmony with the architecture, the landscape enhances the Origami House's overall design sensibilities. The inclusion of Corten steel sculptures adds a dynamic, sculptural quality to the space, while the landscape serves as an extension of the minimalist approach. The outdoor space is curated as both an art gallery and a natural sanctuary, where the beauty of the plants and sculptures is highlighted by the intentional flow of water. This synergy between architecture, art, and nature not only creates a visually stunning environment but also reinforces the sustainable values of the home.
At Origami House, the landscape is more than just a garden—it’s a thoughtfully designed ecosystem that complements the architecture, aligns with the client’s vision for a peaceful, sustainable home, and fosters a profound connection to nature. It’s a space where sustainability meets beauty, and where the sounds of water and the artful design of the landscape transport you into a world of serenity.
At Origami House, every element of the landscape is designed for minimal design with maximum impact—where water, art, and nature come together to create a living, breathing sanctuary." – Ar.Sowmya Lakhamraju, Founder, Kiasma Studio.
"Our design philosophy embraces minimal design with maximum impact, seamlessly integrating architecture and landscape to nurture tranquility, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature." – Ar. Sowmya Lakhamraju, Founder, Kiasma Studio
Information Sheet
Landscape Architect: Ar. Sowmya Lakhamraju Founder of Kiasma Studio
Associate Landscape Architect: Satya Prasad
Architect - CnT
Location: Hyderabad, financial district
Interiors: Hameeda Sharma
Sculptures: Custom made in collab with Kiasma and Formforge
Lighting: Love Of Light
Photography: Vivek Eadara
Plot Area: 1400 SQ. yards
Flooring: Natural Elements and Stone life