Bathed in natural light and filled with lush greenery, The Soul {talks} is a 2750 sq. ft. residence in Puducherry designed by Seeders, a biophilic architecture studio. This south-facing home, located on an 1800 sq. ft. plot near a bustling 100-feet main road, belongs to a nature-loving family of four. Despite being surrounded by buildings on three sides, the architects skillfully created an airy, multifunctional space brimming with tranquility and connection to nature.
“Post-COVID, homes have evolved into sanctuaries where people work, rest, and rejuvenate,” says D. Dinesh, Principal Architect at Seeders. “The importance of nature-centric design is undeniable, and our goal is to educate clients on the value of living in harmony with nature.”
The Soul {talks}: Open Plan Spatial Design
The home’s central feature is a double-height indoor garden, visible from the open-plan living, dining, and pooja spaces. A skylight and Fenesta sliding shutters flood the interiors with daylight while connecting the garden seamlessly with the indoors. The staircase, positioned strategically to maximize functionality, leads to the upper floors. The design blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, with carefully curated furniture from Coimbatore’s Capital Grand enhancing the natural ambiance. The kitchen, subtly tucked behind the staircase, is ventilated by multiple openings and acts as a bridge between the dining and living spaces.
The residence reflects Seeders’ ethos of sustainability through Porotherm brick jaalis, which offer thermal insulation while facilitating airflow. Greenery on the balconies and terrace adds a cooling effect, ensuring comfort even during Puducherry’s warmer months.
Design In Sync with Nature
The minimalist palette and natural textures create a serene yet stylish environment. Dominated by white walls, the residence feels expansive, as envisioned in the client’s brief. The flooring’s pale green Kota stone from Somany Ceramics, rustic terracotta-hued Porotherm blocks, and warm wooden furniture sourced with a heritage touch craft an earthy-chic aesthetic.
“The clients, inspired by their Chettinad roots, requested wooden elements reminiscent of traditional homes. We complemented this with matching veneers for wardrobes and cupboards,” adds Dinesh. Seeders also designed a custom bamboo installation for the pooja room, crafted by a local artist. This piece not only adds elegance but also creates enchanting shadow patterns as morning light filters through.
Strategically placed lighting from Philips India and Auro Bala Lamps enhances the home’s ambiance. The centerpiece is a banana-fiber chandelier, which diffuses light gracefully and embodies the project’s soulful essence.
The Soul {talks} is a masterclass in integrating natural elements with sustainable materials and traditional techniques. It’s a home that celebrates biophilic design while embracing the art of living in harmony with the environment.
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