Urban Retreat: A Tranquil Fusion of Modern Architecture and Nature
Urban Retreat, a modern farmhouse located in the Chhatarpur area of New Delhi, is a unique blend of contemporary design and nature. Created by FAB Studio, this 4-acre property was envisioned by a Delhi-based couple who desired a home that seamlessly merges with its natural surroundings. The husband, an industrialist, and the wife, an artist, sought a design that reflects both their passions—engineering and art—into a cohesive architectural space.
The name "Urban Retreat" perfectly captures the essence of the farmhouse. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the house unfolds gradually as one walks through the terrain, offering glimpses of the structure which blends harmoniously with the landscape. A water body, resembling a modern moat, wraps around the building, creating a serene, zen-like atmosphere. The exterior features a minimalist grey façade, exuding a timeless and understated elegance that does not overpower its surroundings.
Urban Retreat is designed as a single-storey residence, with spacious bedrooms, living rooms, a dining area, office, courtyard, and swimming pool all located on the ground floor for easy accessibility. Expansive windows and sliding doors ensure that every room is bathed in natural light, providing unobstructed views of the surrounding nature. The building's layout encourages openness, with a corridor encircling a central courtyard that allows light to filter throughout the spaces.
The interiors reflect the artistic personality of the wife and the industrial background of the husband. Customised textures and finishes, such as bespoke art-oriented patterns on walls and surfaces, add a unique, sophisticated touch. The living room, the largest space in the house, enjoys panoramic views of the garden and courtyard, with large-scale artwork and soft pastel tones enhancing the serene atmosphere. Smaller rooms are more intimate, featuring Spanish marble and furniture bathed in gentle hues that interact with natural light.
The surrounding garden, with its indigenous plants and water features, further integrates the built environment with nature. Water, especially the linear pool, acts as a connection between the house and its natural surroundings, epitomising the harmony between man and nature. Designed with sustainability in mind, **Urban Retreat** employs eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint while offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.