Revolutionary Mangalorean Home Design in Karnataka with Sustainable Modern Architecture

Blending Modernity with Tradition: ongrid.design's Groundbreaking Residential Project in Karnataka

In the realm of architecture, where history intertwines with innovation, ongrid.design stands as a beacon of creativity and precision. Their latest venture, a residential project nestled in the lush landscape of Karnataka, India, is more than just a structure; it's a testament to their commitment to blending modern design principles with traditional aesthetics. This case study delves into the intricacies of a project that not only redefines the architectural landscape of Karnataka but also resonates with the cultural and environmental ethos of the region.

Key Takeaways from the Project

Key Element	Description
Client Satisfaction	The project exceeded the client’s expectations by blending modern and traditional elements, adhering to Vastu principles, and fulfilling specific living space requirements.
Local Architectural Influence	Set a new benchmark in Karnataka's residential architecture by integrating modern design with traditional Mangalorean elements.
Environmental Consideration	Utilized natural light, ventilation, and local materials, aligning with sustainable architectural practices.
Cultural Sensitivity	Respected local cultural norms and heritage in the design, reflecting the region's architectural ethos.
Innovative Design Approach	Demonstrated ongrid.design’s ability to craft unique living spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.

The Site and Context

A Symphony of Nature and Culture

The project is cradled in the vibrant state of Karnataka, close to the bustling city of Udupi. This region, a tapestry of natural and cultural wonders, is bordered by the Arabian Sea and the serene Western Ghats mountain range. The site is a reflection of the state's diverse character – a place where the rhythms of nature meet the pulse of academic and tourist life, thanks to its proximity to the prestigious Manipal Academy of Higher Education and a myriad of scenic and cultural attractions.

Embracing the Climate

Karnataka's tropical climate, characterised by its warm and humid summers and gentle winters, plays a pivotal role in the architectural narrative of this project. The design had to harmoniously blend with these climatic conditions, ensuring comfort and sustainability while celebrating the beauty of its surroundings.

Client's Vision and Requirements

Crafting a Dream into Reality

The client's vision was clear and distinct – a residence that serves as a home and a retreat that mirrors their lifestyle and values. The brief was specific: a Ground + 1 structure infused with the essence of traditional Mangalorean architecture, yet not shying away from modern sensibilities. A farmhouse style was envisaged, one that would stand as a sanctuary of peace and elegance.

Key features were non-negotiable:

• A central courtyard serves as the heart of the home, where nature and architecture dance in harmony.
• An expansive open living and dining area, a space that breathes in light and breathes out warmth, perfect for gatherings and moments of solitude alike.
• Four large bedrooms, each a private haven, reflect luxury and comfort.
• The entire structure is a symphony of spaces that speak of openness yet maintain the sanctity of private corners

Conceptual Design Presentation

The Story Unfolds

A video presentation, integral to this case study, unveils ongrid.design's approach to bringing this vision to life. The presentation begins with a warm greeting to the client, Mr. Pravin, setting the stage for a journey through architectural excellence.

Let's embark on this architectural exploration!" The invitation is not just to Mr. Pravin, but to all who view this case study – a call to explore the realms of innovative and empathetic design.

Comparison of the Two Design Concepts

Feature	Concept 1: Single Floor House	Concept 2: Ground + First Floor
Total Area	2460 square feet	Varied, with additional first-floor space
Layout	Open and enclosed spaces centred around a courtyard	Open layout with a blend of private and communal areas
Vastu Compliance	Majestic northern entrance, Vastu-aligned spaces	Vastu principles integrated throughout the design
Living Room	Lavish living room with outdoor sitting area	Open-layout living room with extended sit-out
Spiritual Space	Semi-enclosed 30 sqft prayer room in the North-Eastern corner	Pooja room in the North-Eastern corner
Dining and Kitchen	8-seater dining set, practical kitchen with outdoor sit-out	The dining area adjacent to an L-shaped kitchen and sit-out
Bedrooms	Four bedrooms with dedicated wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms	Ground floor bedrooms and two first-floor bedrooms with terraces
Architectural Features	Open sky courtyard, water body/landscape feature near dining area	Compact staircase, private terraces, bay window possibilities
Overall Theme	Harmonious blend of open and private spaces	Clear demarcation between public and private spaces

First Concept: A Single Floor House of Elegance and Functionality

The first architectural concept presented by ongrid.design for Mr. Pravin’s home is a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity, a single-floor residence spanning an impressive 2460 square feet. This concept is a testament to the firm's ability to weave functionality with aesthetic appeal, all while adhering to the client's specific requirements and the site's natural charm.

The Essence of the Design

The viewer is introduced to the house's layout as the video narration continues. "Spanning a generous 2460 square feet, this oasis combines modern amenities with a perfect blend of open and enclosed spaces, centred around a breathtaking courtyard." This statement sets the tone for the design's central theme: a harmonious balance between openness and privacy, an architectural reflection of the serene Karnataka landscape.

Adherence to Vastu and Architectural Planning

The design's respect for traditional Indian architecture and Vastu Shastra is evident. A majestic northern entrance graces the property, with a raised plinth of 450 mm, infusing a sense of grandeur right from the threshold. The importance of Vastu principles in the layout reassures that the design is aesthetically pleasing and spiritually harmonious.

Living Spaces: A Blend of Grandeur and Comfort

The living room, envisioned to the left of the entrance, is designed to be a canvas for luxurious living. It can comfortably accommodate a 6-8 seater plush sofa set and a tasteful TV unit, making it an ideal space for family gatherings and entertainment. The narrative then leads the viewer outdoors to an extension of the living space: an inviting sitting area that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

A Spiritual Corner and Dining Delight

In the Northeastern corner, a semi-enclosed 30 sqft prayer room sanctifies the home with spiritual energy. This thoughtful addition emphasises the firm's attention to the client's cultural and spiritual needs.

Adjacent to this sacred space lies the dining area, flanked by a practical yet elegant kitchen and an open sit-out. This area is not just about functionality; it is a sensory experience. An architectural feature near the dining area doubles as a water body or landscape, offering a unique dining experience amidst nature.

The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen

The kitchen, described as a beacon of functionality, is thoughtfully designed with a parallel layout. It promises ample space for appliances, storage, and food preparation, ensuring that it is not just a place for cooking but a space where memories are made.

Private Sanctuaries: The Bedrooms

The private domain of the house comprises four meticulously designed bedrooms, each a testament to ongrid.design's commitment to personal space and luxury. Each room boasts dedicated wardrobes, en-suite bathrooms, and windows inviting natural light, offering a serene retreat from the world outside.

The Final Touches

A conveniently located powder room adds a final touch of elegance and functionality to this well-rounded floor plan. This inclusion underlines the firm's understanding of the nuanced needs of a modern family.

Conclusion of the First Concept

"Overall, this single-floor house is a harmonious blend of open and private spaces, unified by cleverly designed passages and niches," concludes the narrator, leaving the viewer with a sense of awe and anticipation for the second concept.

Second Concept: A Ground + First Floor Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

The second concept elevates the architectural narrative by introducing a two-story structure, intricately designed to harmonise with the client's vision and the site's natural allure. This concept skillfully combines the essence of a traditional Indian home with modern design elements, creating a living space that is both timeless and contemporary.

Welcoming Entrances and Living Spaces

The journey through this architectural marvel begins with an open entrance foyer, setting a tone of welcoming elegance. The internal foyer and the courtyard immediately capture the viewer's attention, symbolising the heart of the home where indoor and outdoor spaces merge seamlessly.

The narration guides us to the left, where an open layout living room awaits, complete with an extended sit-out area. This design choice not only maximises the living space but also strengthens the connection with the outdoors, allowing residents to embrace the beauty of their surroundings fully.

Spiritual and Dining Spaces

In adherence to Vastu principles, a Pooja room finds its place in the Northeastern corner, providing a tranquil space for spiritual reflection. The dining area, situated southwards, adjacent to an L-shaped kitchen and a sit-out, promises a comfortable setting for family meals and gatherings. The L-shaped kitchen, designed for functionality and aesthetics, provides ample storage and preparation space, further enhancing the home's practicality.

The Essence of the Bedrooms

The ground floor also features meticulously planned bedrooms, each offering dedicated wardrobes, private bathrooms, and bay window possibilities adding a luxurious touch to the private spaces. The attention to detail in these areas ensures that each bedroom is a place to rest and a personal sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The First Floor: A Private Retreat

As we move up to the first floor, the concept reveals two more bedrooms, each boasting private terraces, walk-in wardrobes, and luxury bathroom setups. These features exemplify the blend of personal space and opulence that ongrid.design aims to deliver in their projects.

A narrow bridge connects the lobby to the open terrace, creating a unique interplay of shadows and lights. This architectural feature not only enhances the home's aesthetic appeal but also provides a novel experience of space and movement within the house.

Conclusion of the Second Concept

"Mr Pravin, these are our architectural offerings, designed with careful adherence to Vastu principles and a clear demarcation between public and private spaces." This statement encapsulates the essence of the second concept – a perfect balance between communal areas and private retreats, all crafted with meticulous attention to cultural and architectural norms.

Elevation Design: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Elements

The elevation design of this residential project stands as a testament to ongrid.design's ability to integrate modern architectural elements with traditional aesthetics. The building, envisioned as a modern single-story house, boasts a flat roof and a minimalist yet striking exterior, reflecting early 20th-century modern house design principles.

Embracing Modernity in Form and Function

The flat roof is not merely an architectural choice but a functional element that creates a simple and geometric form, allowing for more usable space inside the house. This design decision is particularly apt for the tropical climate of Karnataka, offering an aesthetic that is both contemporary and suitable for the region.

The Fusion of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

A key design characteristic is the inclusion of a glass wall, which brings in natural light and ventilation. This feature creates a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, blurring the lines between the home and its natural surroundings.

Textural Contrast and Durability

The brick facade, another hallmark of modern architecture, adds texture and contrast to the white exterior, creating a durable, low-maintenance, practical, and visually appealing surface. This choice of material pays homage to the traditional building practices of the region while maintaining a modern aesthetic.

The Covered Porch: A Nod to Traditional Comfort

The covered porch, extending the living space, is a thoughtful addition that provides shade and shelter from the sun and rain. It is a space where residents can comfortably enjoy the outdoors, reflecting the traditional Indian ethos of living in harmony with nature.

A Touch of Warmth with the Red Tile Roof

The red tile roof, while adding a touch of colour and warmth to the house, also complements the tropical climate and landscape. This element brings a traditional flavour to the design, bridging the gap between modern minimalism and the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka.

Conclusion of the Elevation Design

In conclusion, the elevation design of this residential project by ongrid.design is a harmonious blend of modern house design principles and traditional Indian architectural elements. It stands as a symbol of how contemporary design can be rooted in tradition, creating a space that is both innovative and respectful of its cultural and environmental context.