Project: The Quarry House
Architects: Crest Architects
Location: Bengaluru, India
Area: 4,580 sf
Year: 2023
Photography: Shamanth Patil J
Designing for Nature and Family
Nestled amidst the peaceful farmlands near Bangalore, The Quarry House is a Vaastu-compliant residence that blends cutting-edge design with its natural surroundings. Designed for a family of five, this home stands out with its innovative 18-foot cantilevered structure and a limited 2,500 square foot footprint. The house embraces raw materials like stone and concrete, carefully chosen to integrate with the tropical landscape, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.
Strategic Use of Space and Overhangs
The house’s design addresses both the client’s functional needs and the unique constraints of the site. While the property spans 6,650 square feet, the client’s preference for following the traditional ‘Aaya’ footprint dictated a ground floor limited to just 2,500 square feet. To maximize space, the design incorporates multiple overhangs and strategically placed masses that define various areas while preserving an expansive feel. The open-plan design fosters a sense of spaciousness, with every room linked to the natural world outside through large windows and thoughtful placement.
Architectural Aesthetic: Raw and Minimal
The Quarry House gets its name from the raw integration of various stone types and exposed concrete. These materials, carefully chosen for their rugged yet elegant aesthetic, offer a modern take on the idea of a house built from the earth itself. Skylights are integrated throughout the house, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and create a strong connection to the seasons and changing natural light. The open spaces around the house feature stone steps and pathways that enhance the connection between the structure and the tropical landscape.
Distinctive Features: Floating Puja Room and Metal Staircase
One of the standout features of The Quarry House is the floating puja room, which hovers above a tranquil water body. Enclosed by a concrete wall and illuminated by natural light from above, this space offers a serene environment for spiritual reflection. The sliding partition wall between the puja room and the formal living area adds flexibility, allowing the spaces to be used as needed without compromising the home’s flow.
Another striking feature is the central metal staircase, cantilevered from a suspended concrete wall. Not only does this staircase serve as the primary connector between the house’s different levels, but it also acts as a sculptural focal point that draws the eye. The open design of the staircase enhances the open-plan layout, contributing to a sense of spaciousness while creating a visually dynamic element in the home.
Private Spaces with Panoramic Views
On the first floor, the home’s private spaces are located in three bedrooms, each opening onto a private balcony with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This design promotes privacy while offering opportunities to connect with nature. The master bedroom’s glazed partition allows visual interaction with the dining area and ensures abundant natural light.
The cantilevered guest room, designed with minimalist concrete finishes, acts as a canopy for the parking area below, while the son’s bedroom hovers above the deck and captures views of the water body below. These innovative design choices ensure each space feels connected to the natural world, making every moment spent in the house feel special and dynamic.
A Dynamic Living Experience
The Quarry House is not just a place to live; it’s a space designed to encourage curiosity and engagement with its environment. From the floating puja room to the exposed concrete features and the panoramic vistas from every bedroom, the house fosters a dynamic living experience, constantly evolving with the changing light and seasons. It is a true testament to how modern design can harmonize with nature, offering both a functional family home and a sanctuary for contemplation and relaxation.
