Text provided by Aishwarya Khurana

Madhuri Reddy Architect's debut project is a vacation home that comes straight out of a dream. Designed for the principal designer’s extended family, this stunning bungalow is nestled in Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh. Named Nandi-Alayam, the 1,850-square-foot home spans three floors and draws inspiration from its location, surrounded by the historical temples dedicated to God Nandi. The name also stems from Telugu words meaning "giving joy" and "a moral place of living." Three generations of the Reddy family reside in this home, living harmoniously based on the principles of Vaastu and biophilia. The design uniquely showcases Indian culture by integrating vernacular elements with modern and contemporary features. 

One enters Nandi-Alaym through a wooden door adorned with vintage handles, enhancing its simple charm. Natural wood is prominently featured throughout the space, embodying the authentic and earthy essence of India's soul, making it a key design element. Notably, much of the rosewood used for the wooden furniture has been inherited from the family's previous generations, and some wall panels were crafted from leftover waste wood on the site. The home is filled with abundant air and natural light thanks to the large windows and doors made of natural teak wood, which amplifies the 
organic feel. 

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Architects : Madhuri Reddy Architects
Area : 1,850 sq. ft.
Year : 2023
Website : https://www.instagram.com/madhurireddyarchitects_/

First floor living area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


First floor living area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects

Upon entering the home through the foyer, the seamless fusion of vintage and modern elements is immediately apparent. The space features lounge chairs from Dtale Modern and a centre table from This and That, blending the old and new effortlessly. Wall decor pieces, carved from natural stone and sourced from Studio Orion, add a touch of elegance. A sleek wooden partition in the foyer introduces an element of surprise, offering glimpses of the expansive living room beyond.  

The living room showcases a minimalist design, centered around an elegant vintage leather couch paired with a sleek black coffee table. These understated elements are enhanced by exquisite custom artwork, including the "Art of Ardhanareeswarar" from Studio Orion, depicting the androgynous form of Lord Shiva and Parvati with their vahanas. A sleek TV console in the living area is adorned with accent decor from West Elm. The adjacent pooja room is concealed behind a wooden door adorned with intricate brass beadings and divine figurines carved in brass.  


First floor living area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Kitchen of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects

On the lower level, a rejuvenating lounge for the grandparents is designed with their comfort in mind. The space includes an old inherited daybed and is visually separated by indoor plants to create a barrier-free area. The ceiling's wooden beams mimic the support structures of traditional native mud homes. One wall is panelled with leftover wood from doors, windows, and furniture, accented with onyx to add a modern touch.  

The kitchen embodies modernity with its sleek black and white design, emanating a pristine ambience. Featuring white cabinets complemented by a black granite countertop and backsplash, its contemporary aesthetic is balanced by a subtly traditional seating area.  


Kitchen of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Internal Staircase of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Second floor lounge area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects

The bedrooms spanning two floors present captivating thematic contrasts. The master bedroom exudes a timeless vintage charm, showcasing exquisite rosewood furniture passed down through generations. The room is further enriched by a meticulously handwoven dhurrie from Aadyam, its intricate patterns adding depth and warmth to the space. The floors are connected by a staircase, where the steps feature accents of black granite and white Rajasthan marble, adding a touch of dramatic flair. To create a sense of openness, the staircase wall incorporates glass panels and wooden niches, integrating natural elements. 

In the family lounge on the second floor, a vibrant palette immerses guests in Indian heritage. Rosewood sofas and a centre table, cherished heirlooms, harmonize with a custom-made teak wood swing adorned with brass details. Adding to the cultural ambience are art prints featuring Radha Krishna from the House of Things, complemented by a captivating rug from Obetee Carpets. The cushions in the lounge have been sourced from Kainaat and the throw is from Ithihaas. The second-floor family lounge features a seamless connection to an outdoor seating area and balcony, enhanced with sleek black leather-finished granite. Teak wood bifold shutter doors elegantly unite the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a fluid transition when fully opened. 


Second floor lounge area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Second floor lounge area of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Grandparent’s lounge of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Master bedroom of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Younger daughter's bedroom of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects

One of the bedrooms ( Younger daughter's bedroom) on the upper level features a minimalistic design, adorned with wall art sourced from the Calcuttan Gallery. The beddings are from Amala Earth, complemented by studio covers, and a handmade jute rug sourced from Le Home Decor adds a rustic charm. It features low-seated areas that also serve as storage compartments, strategically placed alongside the bed to optimize space utilization and functionality. The overall decor accents are curated from Altrove, enhancing the space with a blend of contemporary and artisanal elements. 


Elder Daughter’s Bedroom of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Elder Daughter’s Bedroom of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects

In contrast, the adjoining bedroom (the elder daughter's bedroom) embodies serene Scandinavian elegance. A centrepiece of this room is a circular bed adorned with crisp white linens, set against suspended wooden rafters that evoke a sense of airy sophistication. Custom wall art by Aaraa 
Design Studio complements the minimalist aesthetic, offering a harmonious blend of contemporary design and a tranquil ambience. 

The house seamlessly integrates elements of Indian art and architecture with contemporary design trends. It skillfully highlights wooden features and achieves a harmonious colour palette that embodies the essence of both styles. The spatial planning and decor showcase meticulous finesse and attention to detail.


Balcony of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Foyer of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Entrance of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects


Exterior view of Nandi-Aalayam by Madhuri Reddy Architects




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