Concrete Design Meets Spiritual Reflection
Architecture studio Roomoor has unveiled Monastic Field, a unique concrete dwelling, showcasing a concrete residence located within a temple precinct in Baleshwar. Inspired by the rock-cut monastic dwellings of the Deccan Plateau, this home offers a serene retreat in the bustling environment of a Jain temple complex.
A Home to Honor Legacy
Monastic Field stands on the grounds near a Jain temple, donated by the homeowner’s family in 2005. With hundreds of visitors flocking to the temple daily, Roomoor envisioned the residence as a discreet yet sophisticated cluster of concrete forms. This retreat allows natural light to filter through skylights and precisely positioned windows, maintaining an air of privacy and tranquility.
Architectural Intentions
According to senior partner Mahendra Gusain and design partner Dhruv Gusain, the design concept was to cultivate a spiritual ambiance. Their approach favored compact, intimate spaces over a single expansive structure, integrating the house seamlessly with its sacred surroundings. This dwelling embodies the principles of thoughtful design.
Experiential Layout and Materiality
The home’s core is a hall crowned by a pyramidal roof with a skylight and clerestory windows, encouraging a flow between internal and external spaces. Surrounding this central axis are essential living areas, including a dining room, library, and outdoor verandah. The Deccan-inspired design further highlights a connection to historical architecture.
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Spatial Dynamics
Structures extend outwards in a pinwheel fashion, anchoring the home’s design to the cardinal points. The center remains connected to the sky, embodying the transition from stillness to movement.
Concrete and Stone: A Harmonious Blend
The choice of concrete mirrors the enduring presence of the temple’s white stone. Red sandstone accents garden walls and patios, while interiors are minimally adorned with dark wood and stone floors. This design philosophy echoes the monolithic language of the Deccan’s ancient rock-cut structures, aiming to let light dominate each space. This abode skillfully combines traditional and modern elements.
Inspiration and Approach
Drawing from the structure of rock-cut viharas, Mahendra and Dhruv aspired for the material to yield to light, defining the home’s atmosphere. “We wanted light to be the primary material,” they said.
Jainee Gusain captured the essence of this architectural marvel through her photography, highlighting its seamless integration with the surrounding cultural landmarks.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of Monastic Field?
The design of Monastic Field was inspired by the rock-cut monastic dwellings of the Deccan Plateau. Roomoor aimed to create a serene retreat within the bustling environment of a Jain temple complex.
How does Monastic Field maintain privacy and tranquility?
Monastic Field allows natural light to filter through skylights and precisely positioned windows, maintaining an air of privacy and tranquility. The design favors compact, intimate spaces over a single expansive structure.
What materials are used in the Monastic Field design?
The design of Monastic Field incorporates concrete and red sandstone, with interiors minimally adorned with dark wood and stone floors. This choice reflects the monolithic language of ancient Deccan rock-cut structures.