Excerpt: The Ikat Weave, a residence by Dhyey Chag Architects, blends traditional Indian architecture with modern design through a central courtyard that brings light and connection across three levels. Using exposed brick, concrete, and patterns inspired by Ikat, the home reflects a balance of simplicity and cultural richness. The design emphasizes natural materials, spatial fluidity, and a timeless fusion of past and present.
Project Description

[Text as submitted by architect] This project involves designing a residence on a 2400 sq. ft. plot, located in a densely built urban area where achieving optimal natural light throughout the day posed a challenge. The design accommodates a three-story structure with six bedrooms and all essential spaces. To ensure that the bedrooms and living room receive direct sunlight, an internal courtyard was incorporated into the plan. This courtyard, located centrally, acts as a key element to bring natural light into the common spaces, such as the dining area, circulation passages, and kitchen. Additionally, the double-heighted dining room further enhances the connection between all three floors. This design concept is rooted in the traditional Indian architectural principle of fostering communication and interaction, with the courtyard serving as a space of engagement across various levels.



Considering the materials locally used in the city of Jamnagar, the house façade has the touch of traditional nature with the exposed bricks with a contemporary edge as exposed concrete which strongly reflect the modern nature, The design features a dynamic expression, where concrete seems to emerge from a solid brick cuboid, symbolizing the fusion of past and present.
The interior design follows a brief from the client for a “Sattvik” (simple and pure) home. To continue blending traditional and contemporary elements, Ikat, an Indian textile pattern, became the foundation for the design language. While Ikat is rooted in Indian tradition, its geometric form lends itself to a modern aesthetic, which we abstracted to create the overall design narrative.



To bring texture and depth to the spaces, materials such as vitrified tiles, kota stone in leather finish and engraved patterns were used. These materials were carefully chosen for their tactile qualities, enhancing the ambiance of each space. The design incorporates traditional elements, such as jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balcony), pivoting rotating railings, transformable kitchen partitions, wicker cupboard shutters, foster beds and most of the spatial elements. These elements reflect traditional forms, while contemporary techniques and materials give them a modern twist.

The courtyard, a key design element, features exposed brick and engraved concrete walls, adorned with abstract Ikat patterns. The pooja room is designed with a skylight above, symbolizing the divine power above, and the connection between the sacred and the home. The master bedroom includes a louvered window that opens into the pooja space, allowing natural light and the spiritual energy of the room to infuse the home.


The bedroom designs are minimalist, with textured walls finished in colored lime plaster. Furniture elements, including beds, nightstands, and consoles, are crafted from teak wood and veneer, with brass accents adding playfulness and character. One of the rooms features a unique poster bed with detailed legs, while another room includes a micro-topping floor that transforms into a bed and nightstand, merging contemporary materiality with Indian design principles like the low-lying bed.

Fabric plays a significant role in this project, used in various forms throughout the design. From bed backs to intricately wrapped railings, fabric helps to soften the harder materials like wood, stone, and brass. It adds a sense of warmth and luxury, defining the space’s aesthetic language.
In summary, the gentle frugality and simplicity of design intent keep the house grounded and timeless. Spaces are generous and free-flowing, playful yet rooted in cultural history, offering a seamless blend of Indianness and contemporary living.