According to the design requirements, slab extensions are done to increase the floor area of the first floor. Therefore, the layout of the same does not exactly superimpose with that of the ground floor, resulting in the juxtaposition of two different construction techniques : load bearing and framed construction.
It was a challenge for us to convince Ashwini (pradeep’s wife) for mud construction as it was not a conventional construction. To strike a balance between the two, we came up with a unique combination of Vernacular cum Contemporary design for their house. We ensured maximum use of the natural resources like the Earth, Sun, Air and Water for the Construction of the house. It is a composite structure where the compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) were used for load bearing walls on the southern and western side of the house to cut down the heat as-well.
The welcoming rammed earth compound wall, the pine wood gate, the classical stone steps and the contemporary RCC folded plated staircase leads one to the upper floor. The patterned jaisalmer inlay flooring and the bright yellow main door opens to the well-lit & ventilated living room, the graphical central courtyard and the bright colourful kitchen. It is a high ceiling & tall doors three bedroom house with a central courtyard, pooja room, utility and the terrace garden.
The wooden louvers window ensures cross ventilation and creates a positive environment in the house. Bhoomi is also equipped with a Bio-gas plant to produce natural cooking gas and natural waste water treatment plant on the terrace which caters for flushing and gardening purpose.
