House of Bare Walls by Bare Wall Studio

• Project Name:-House of Bare Walls
  
• Location:-Bengaluru
• Year Built:-2024
• Photography:-Gopikrishnan Vijikumar 

“Ihita,” a residence that embodies a remarkable fusion of tradition and modernity, stands as a bold statement amidst the bustling urban context of Bengaluru. The design of the house is a thoughtful response to the need for a space that is open, airy, and filled with natural light, particularly when compared to the dense urban fabric that surrounds it. This residence has been strategically crafted with large fenestrations, skylights, and carefully designed cutouts, which enable a seamless flow of natural light throughout the day, making the internal spaces feel expansive and bright. In doing so, Ihita effectively contrasts with the typical residential spaces of Bengaluru, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and invigorating.

At the heart of Ihita’s design lies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, striking a balance that enhances its functional aspects while respecting the region’s cultural heritage. The house is situated at the intersection of the residential and industrial edges of Bengaluru, a location that demands an approach that addresses both the urban context and the traditional architectural elements native to the region. The inspiration behind the design draws from the concept of traditional “Thotti mane” or courtyard houses, which have long been a staple of South Indian architecture. These houses traditionally feature a central sunken courtyard, with all other spaces arranged around it, offering both privacy and communal interaction. The design of Ihita, however, is a modern interpretation of this vernacular concept. 

                                                   

The house features a centrally located sunken living room, which acts as the heart of the home. This space, which is designed as a double-height volume, serves as a visual and spatial anchor around which all the other areas of the house revolve. The openness of this central living area is enhanced by the fact that all other spaces, distributed across two levels, are oriented toward this sunken space, fostering a sense of connection and continuity throughout the house. This layout not only allows for natural light to penetrate deep into the interior but also creates a sense of openness, breaking away from the typically cramped feeling that urban homes often have.

In terms of spatial organization, Ihita smartly segregates the public and private areas vertically. The ground floor is designed to accommodate the more public-facing activities, with a spacious living room, a kitchen, and a guest bedroom. These spaces are meant to cater to both everyday family life and entertaining guests. In contrast, the first floor is reserved for the private domains of the family, with all the bedrooms located on this level. The terrace floor further extends the private realm, offering a dedicated entertainment and gathering space, ideal for relaxation and socializing. The design ensures that the most intimate areas of the home are separated from the more communal spaces, offering a sense of privacy and tranquillity.

A particularly striking feature of the design is the dramatic use of light. Massive skylights allow for a play of natural light that shifts with the time of day and changes across the seasons. The sunlight filters in through these openings, casting beautiful patterns and creating an ever-changing ambiance throughout the day. This interaction with light helps define the experience of each space within the home, underscoring the narrative of the house's functionality. The effect of natural light on the interior not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the spaces but also contributes to the overall atmosphere of peace and calm, which is central to the residents’ experience of the house. 

One of the most compelling aspects of Ihita is the sense of history and craftsmanship woven into the design. The house features several reclaimed Chettinad artifacts, sourced from Karaikudi, which add to the old-world charm of the residence. For example, the columns around the sunken living room are a nod to traditional architectural elements, while a repurposed swing at the foyer welcomes visitors with a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Another striking feature is the repurposed old door, which has been transformed into a dining table, seamlessly blending the past with the present. These carefully curated artefacts infuse the space with a sense of timelessness, connecting the new with the old in an effortless and meaningful way.

The overall material palette of Ihita further elevates the design. Dark wood veneers, brass accessories, and fluted glass details add a touch of understated luxury, creating a refined yet warm atmosphere. The use of jali walls—intricate screens made of perforated stone or wood—introduces a sense of texture and pattern, as well as offering privacy while still allowing for light and air to pass through. These materials and finishes work together to create a space that feels both luxurious and grounded in the rich traditions of the region. Externally, the facade of the house is intentionally subtle, allowing the building to blend into its surroundings while still making a strong architectural statement. A particularly unique feature is the treatment of the balcony, which creates the illusion of floating bricks, adding depth and interest to the overall form of the house. This playful element adds a sense of lightness and dynamism to the otherwise solid structure, reinforcing the idea that Ihita is a contemporary home that respects its traditional roots while looking forward to the future.