Architecture

Photographer : Harsh Nigam

Nestled in the evolving landscape of a village on the cusp of becoming a suburban extension to a bustling industrial metropolis, Amandeep Singh Virk and Rajveer Kaur, a couple deeply rooted in their heritage, aspired to create a home that would stand as a testament to sustainable living. The location was a natural choice, steeped in personal history: the very spot where their former home, now in dilapidated condition, had stood—a home that had witnessed Amandeep's childhood and the embrace of kinship.

The original structure was a product of its time, embodying the evolution of modern Indian architecture with its use of burnt brick and concrete. In a conscious move, the couple decided to salvage and repurpose as much of the material from the old house as possible, a decision that profoundly influenced their approach to construction. The result was a harmonious blend of raw materials, stripped back to their essence, exuding an honest simplicity while upholding a dignified elegance. This fusion birthed a home that was not only intimate and warm but also stood as the most economically constructed residence in the vicinity.

With meticulous attention to detail and a minimalist ethos, the home's natural materials and bare structure engage in a silent yet profound conversation with the surrounding environment. The design reflects the clients' preference for a robust, industrial aesthetic that pays homage to their familial legacy. Amandeep, with his expertise as a mechanical engineer, played an instrumental role in shaping the finer aspects of the design, ensuring that the home met their vision.

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Architects : IDIEQ
Area : 4700 sq. ft.
Year : 2023
Website : https://www.instagram.com/idieqtecture/

Passage to living room of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Entrance to dining area of Nilaya by IDIEQ

The residence greets visitors with a seamless connection to the adjacent Gurudwara to the south, creating a spiritual continuum. The journey from the parking to the main entrance is marked by a pathway laid with mosaic tiles, repurposed from the previous dwelling. Upon entry, the ambiance is set by a striking brick accent wall in the living space, complemented by a ceiling adorned with filler slabs and subtle recessed lighting.

The layout of the home is thoughtfully designed to offer versatile spaces that can adapt to various uses, transcending rigid functional definitions. The Gurudwara's presence extends into the double-height dining area through a strategically placed window on the inclined roof, inviting the winter sun's warmth into the home. The northern garden is accessible through a glass door beneath the funicular shell, enhancing the connection with nature. The main level houses two bedrooms, with the kitchen serving as the heart of the home. This culinary haven, crafted from ferrocrete and equipped with removable baskets, caters to the rural lifestyle and the nuances of Indian cuisine. The floors throughout the home are finished with satin-polished concrete, providing a pet-friendly surface.


Dining area of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Ceiling of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Kitchen of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Kitchen of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Kitchen of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Staircase of Nilaya by IDIEQ


First floor view of Nilaya by IDIEQ


First floor view of Nilaya by IDIEQ

Ascending the staircase leads to the guest room, a sanctuary for visitors to bask in the expansive ceiling height, textured concrete, and the tranquility of a private terrace adorned with planters. The large windows to the north offer a celestial view, allowing guests to drift off under the starlit sky, cocooned by the gentle curves of mud-textured walls. This upper level also boasts an additional terrace with a planter bed, a gym, and a study. The south-facing sloped roof harnesses solar energy, fulfilling the home's power requirements.

The overarching design philosophy prioritizes energy-efficient building strategies, with careful consideration given to daylighting, overhanging railings, and the orientation of the home for optimal sun exposure throughout the seasons.


First floor view of Nilaya by IDIEQ


First floor view of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Bedroom of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Bedroom of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Bedroom 2 of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Bedroom 3 of Nilaya by IDIEQ

This dwelling is a celebration of architecture as a facilitator of life, rather than a mere statement piece. It stands quietly in the background, empowering the inhabitants with its understated presence and enabling a lifestyle in harmony with both heritage and the environment.

The design of Amandeep Singh Virk and Rajveer Kaur's home is a harmonious blend of sustainability, personal history, and client involvement, reflecting a deep respect for the site's legacy through material reuse. The home's spiritual connection with the nearby Gurudwara, flexible spaces, and energy-efficient features like the south-facing solar-powered roof, align with the clients' aspirations for a sustainable and adaptable living space. The industrial aesthetic, combined with meticulous craftsmanship, creates a home that is not only a personal sanctuary but also an embodiment of the clients' lifestyle and values. This architectural endeavor stands as a collaborative achievement, rooted in a profound understanding of the clients' needs and a shared vision for a home that is both meaningful and environmentally conscious.


Sitout of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Parking of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Lawn of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Exterior view of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Ground Floor Plan of Nilaya by IDIEQ


First Floor Plan of Nilaya by IDIEQ


Section of Nilaya by IDIEQ




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