Chennai, the capital culture-rich city of Tamil Nadu, is known for its carnatic music, traditional temples, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. With a population of over 60 lakh people, Chennai has evolved into a metropolitan city playing an important role in the cultural, intellectual, and historical development of India. A significant residential, commercial, and transportation hub, Egmore is the most sought-after neighbourhood of Chennai. With a vision to build a serene and welcoming apartment building, the client approached an active Mumbai-based architectural firm, Atelier ARBO, to arrive at the most ideal design for the structure.

The design revolved around the idea of Biophilic Homes - creating spaces that incorporate natural elements and seamlessly connect the interiors with the outdoor landscape leading to a serene seclusion from the loud and hectic hustle of the city. Navigating around the task of maximizing space and effectively using every inch of the 2,100 square feet plot, the design team proposed a four-storey residential building encompassing two individual apartments and one duplex apartment, aligning with the requirements of the client. Reaching to a built-up area of 6,500 square feet, the apartment building is an iconic example of how spacious and lavish homes can be efficiently accommodated on small land parcels.

A calm lounge space for visitors and ample parking space for three families make up the ground floor of the building. Furthermore, a small yet enticing garden pocket creates a relaxing space for the residents as well as the visitors. The incorporation of such simple yet charming open spaces add a renewed aura and tranquil atmosphere to the building, naturally creating a sense of mental peace and comfort for the residents.

Two individual plush apartments unveiling a seamless flow of spaces occupy the first and the second floor of the building. A spacious living and dining space, with an open kitchen, welcomes the residents into the house. This lavish space becomes the ideal location for hosting family get-togethers and entertaining guests. Furthermore, the house encompasses a master suite, with an en-suite bathroom and a spacious dressing room, offering a private space to the homeowners. Additional bedrooms, having their own bathrooms and balconies, make up the rest of the house. Thoughtful zoning of the spaces leads to a comfortable and welcoming abode enriching the living experience of the residents.

The client’s personal living space occupies the third and the fourth floor of the building, in the form of a plush and eclectic duplex. With the prime focus being on comfort and luxury, the house features amenities, like a home-theatre, a built-in bar, and terrace gardens on both levels with ample outdoor seating. The duplex is a spacious home accommodating lavish bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, kitchen, dining, and an expansive living space - all tailored as per the client’s wishes. A private internal staircase connects the two floors of the duplex, enabling the comfortable use of all the spaces and amenities of the house by the client and his family.

Designing an apartment building involves an extensive process of analyzing the site and its surroundings, understanding the client’s requirements and wishes, and implementing the appropriate design strategies. This apartment building speaks the design language of ‘Biophilia’ - with the interior spaces smoothly blending with the natural beauty and lush greenery of the surroundings. With a subtle countenance exuded by a soothing combination of brick and plastered concrete, the building easily merges with the surroundings creating a feeling of being at home. This justifies the fact that the mindful design of apartment buildings can lead to an invigorating living experience for its residents.