Parnasambhar / पर्णसंभार | N. B. Architects

Located in northernmost region of Maharashtra, with a faint aural backdrop of the Arabian Sea and wrapped in a dense canopy of chikoo trees, this abode isolates itself in playful spatial experiences. Abutting the coastal road, the farmhouse secures its privacy through a thick green cover and thoughtful orientation.

The nonchalance in design, with spaces effortlessly spilling into one another, blurs the boundary between the built and nature. It is a place where being outside feels as though you are partially inside, and being inside offers the liberating sensation of the outdoors. The structure is oriented respecting the natural contours for ease of transition between the two worlds. Rightfully named after its immersive surroundings, ‘Parnasambhar / पर्णसंभार’ (an abundance of foliage) is a sublime farmhouse that is a haven for retired couple who has traded the bustling streets of Mumbai for the serene beauty of the countryside. Designed with care and consideration for those seeking a peaceful retreat, it offers a perfect blend of pastoral charm and modern comforts.

Rooted in a square plan, the habitable spaces are aligned with the natural contours, while the entry is tilted off the grid to capture true East. This holistic setting punctures the plan to invite the outside inside the house at two locations. The design creates a play of visual and spatial connectivity of spaces with immediate natural environment. The space is defined by a smooth, deliberate transition from enclosed, to semi-open, to open spaces. Thoughtful planning weaves distinct visual experiences across all levels. At lower level, one experiences ground with scattered dried leaves, with a play of shadows on it and roots embarking the journey upwards. The first-floor level elevates the perspective to tree-tops with fruits, flowers and birds chirping on the foliage. The terrace level liberates the mind from materialism with a view of scenic skyscapes, pastor lands and lakes – a spatial progression depicting the journey of the owner’s life from hustling routine to serenity.

Verandah and Aangan –

The cantilevered verandah makes way for unfettered, welcoming approach. With a backdrop of vibrant plants in open-to-sky flower bed, the space becomes a perfect stage for leisure and social gatherings spilling in the aangan in the front.

Entrance Foyer and Living room –

The path from main door through a narrow entrance foyer with a light well terminates at the neck of 22 feet high living room with dynamic fenestrations. A white elegant folded plate staircase in contrast with a dark sage green backdrop dominates this volume triggering an awe of grandeur. The composed fenestrations are designed to invite ample of natural sunlight without heat retention due to its constant shadow changing course. The small ones having mesh, create stack effect for hot air to escape. The internal light well becomes a space to pause and have a casual rendezvous.

Private Backyard –

The Backyard is nestled between the built mass and diverse vegetation creating perpetually shaded yet open-to-sky space. Flanked by plunge pool and semi-open dining, the backyard creates an ideal cocoon for private gatherings. This dining pavilion acts as a place holder and compels a visual dialogue between kitchen, backyard and living room with fluid circulation. The water body acts as a cooling agent keeping the summer heat at bay.

Materials and colour palette –

An earthy colour palette is carefully maintained throughout, depicting grounded yet tasteful lifestyle of the owner. The building borrows colours from immediate environment and tones them down to reflect out the harsh sunlight. The interiors follow the same principle with Indian katni marble and warm pinewood. These naturally expressive materials have a dialogue with nature making the structure climate responsive.

The design reinterprets Indian farmhouse and leans towards tropical modernism with regional textures, traditional decor, and a porous relationship with nature. The design prioritizes volume, dramatic natural lighting, and internal green spaces to create a sanctuary. The design ensures ease and serenity – from the soothing aangan perfect for morning strolls, to the cozy living room ideal for sharing stories with family. The design encourages a slower pace, allowing residents to reconnect with nature, pursue hobbies, or simply unwind.

With its warm ambiance, natural beauty, and tailored comforts, this farmhouse is more than just a home – it's a peaceful companion for life's next chapter.

Principal Architect(s) : Ar. Neha Joshi, Ar. Bahar Patil

Team Design Credits: Mrs. Prachi Patil

Structural Consultant: Dr. Tanuja Bandivadekar