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Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice

Architecture

2022

Photographer : Ar. Divya Rajesh

Meraki, rising from a seemingly constrained yet advantageous 14 -cent plot in a CRZ zone at Payyambalam, is an architectural narrative of introverted nature’s embrace. Shaped by the angularity of the land, only 8 cents become the canvas for a home that transcends limitations, transforming them into unique strengths. Turning constraint into advantage, Meraki’s landscape seamlessly blends building and nature, weaving the remaining 6 cents of the angular plot into a verdant embrace. 

Surrounded by apartments and a major road, with the picturesque Payyambalam beach in close proximity, the site’s advantages are manifold. The decision to craft an introverted plan for Meraki stems from a thoughtful response to its surroundings. This approach not only ensures privacy but also creates a sanctuary where the family can embrace tranquility amidst the urban hustle. This architectural gem is strategically positioned at a road turning in a prime location, commanding the attention of passerby who inevitably pause to behold the structural poetry that unfolds before them. 

The patron of this dwelling, a Mumbai -based advocate and head of a family of four, envisioned a home that seamlessly blends with nature. The architecture responds to this aspiration through a vertical planning strategy. The first two floor become an intimate haven for the family, while the third floor ascends to serve as the professional realm for the advocate and a welcoming space for the visitors. 


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Architects : Marar’s Design Practice
Area : 4300 sq.ft.
Year : 2022
Website : https://www.instagram.com/marar_s.design.practice?igsh=NThqbXljc2xlaTJr

Exterior view of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Exterior view of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice

At the ground level, a harmonious fusion of living and greenery takes center stage. A guest bedroom, an open-living-dining- kitchen area and a double-height, semicovered indoor court form the soul of the dwelling. This court, adorned with lush green landscapes and water body, extends towards the east, connecting with the plot boundary lined with a vertical mesh green wall. Beneath this oasis lies a 10,000L rainwater harvesting tank, testament to sustainable living seamlessly integrated into the design. 

A 20-foot Terminalia tree stands as the centerpiece within the courtyard, its branches reaching for the sky. The courtyard, stairwell and a see-through lift are ingeniously placed adjacent to each other, creating a visual symphony that captivates those moving through the levels. An open-to-sky narrow rectangular cutout on the southwest side ushers in natural light and fresh air, infusing the formal living space with vibrancy and life. 


Living of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Living of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice

Moving up the first floor, an inviting open living space with a south-facing opening, overlooks the courtyard in the east. First floor houses three bedrooms for the family, accessible through stairs and the lift, ensuring seamless flow between the spaces. 

Upon entering Meraki, one is greeted by the warm, earthy tones of Jaisalmer Kota stone, the rustic charm of Laterite stone, the richness of teak and pine wood and the organic allure of natural stones. The earthen pots utilized for the filler slab not only add a touch of traditional craftsmanship but also serve as a nod to sustainable practices. A grid of exposed concrete beams and columns not only provides support but also contributes to the overall design, adding a raw touch to the space. Instead of opting for pristine and polished surface, the natural finish of these structural elements and materials are celebrated, allowing inherent beauty of the materials to shine through.


Dining to living of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Passage to court of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Passage to court of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Courtyard of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Staircase of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice

The furniture within the interiors is curated blend of handpicked antiques and custom pieces that have been carefully upholstered with patterned design textiles. The same pattern extends beyond the furniture, finding its way onto a wall panel covering the electrical distribution box, turning a functional element into a design feature.

In essence, Meraki is a manifestation of the client's passion for nature, travel, and authentic design. The deliberate choice of natural materials, the celebration of structural elements, and the curated blend of furnishings all come together to create a space that is not only a reflection of the client's personality but also a harmonious sanctuary that blurs the boundaries between indoors and the natural world outside.


Skylight of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Passage of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Lounge of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Lounge of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


First floor passage of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Bedroom of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Balcony of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Entrance of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Dusk light exterior view of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Ground floor plan of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


First floor plan of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Second floor plan of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Roof plan of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice


Section of Meraki by Marar’s Design Practice



Tags
house
architecture
interior design
residential architecture
residential interiors
2022
3000 to 5000 sq.ft
india
kerala
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