Excerpt: The Plus House by EssTeam Design Services LLP is a residence that integrates nature, light, and tradition into modern living. Its design concept mirrors the cyclical nature of the four seasons, a metaphor for the emotional and experiential journey of life. This division, inspired by the seasonal cycle, not only structures the layout but also infuses the home with a sense of movement, rhythm, and diversity.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] In the outskirts of urban Valsad, nestled amid the fringes of development, stands a unique house commissioned by an industrialist family. A family of four, with deep roots in traditional values yet progressive in their lifestyle, envisioned a home that would offer both personal space and a harmonious connection to nature. The design brief was clear—each family member should have their own sanctum, yet the house itself should reflect an interconnectedness, much like the passing of seasons that shape the rhythms of life.
The result is what the architects fondly refer to as the “Plus House,” a residence that embodies positivity, nature, and light. Its design concept mirrors the cyclical nature of the four seasons, a metaphor for the emotional and experiential journey of life. This division, inspired by the seasonal cycle, not only structures the layout but also infuses the home with a sense of movement, rhythm, and diversity.
At the heart of the design is the symbolic “plus” shape. The house is anchored by wooden-grained, form-finished concrete walls that extend vertically beyond the sloping roofs. These roofs, crafted with unique angular lines, break from tradition, offering a modern take on sloped design. Each of the four quadrants is dedicated to a different space within the home, and their layout follows the sun’s path throughout the day, allowing natural light to flow freely into each room.
The journey of light within the home begins in the east, where the living room welcomes the soft glow of the morning sun. A serene lily pond filters the light, creating a tranquil, almost meditative atmosphere. Above the living room, the master bedroom features a cozy Indian-style sitting area, offering a panoramic view of the street below. This blend of modern and traditional design invites the family to engage with the outside world while staying rooted in their heritage.
The southern side of the house, with its expansive roof overhangs, is designed for the monsoon season. Here, large windows can be opened to let in the refreshing rain while keeping the interiors dry and airy. In the northeastern corner, a dedicated meditation room takes full advantage of the morning light. The large windows allow the space to be bathed in sunlight, creating the perfect environment for peaceful reflection.
The design of the house plays with shadows and light in imaginative ways. The fins on the concrete walls cast intricate patterns, shading balconies during the hottest parts of the day. Even when sunlight doesn’t directly reach the rooms, shaded balconies offer the family a cozy retreat to enjoy the day’s quieter moments.
Skylights, positioned at the center of each quadrant, serve as the home’s focal points. These openings draw light into the core of the house, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow as the day progresses. The west-facing children’s rooms are tailored to their individual personalities—one designed for an active, sunlit ambiance, while the other, with a skylight over the study area, provides a serene, focused space for reading and reflection.
In terms of materials, the Plus House embraces an earthy, minimalist palette. The walls are formed from raw concrete and unplastered brickwork, exuding a rustic, grounded feel. Polished Kotah stone and Jaisalmer flooring provide a soft contrast, while wooden furniture is accented with brass and traditional fabrics, giving each room a warm, welcoming atmosphere. These simple materials reflect the family’s deep connection to Indian culture, while the contemporary design elements point to their modern outlook.
The furniture, inspired by the geometric patterns of Nigel Peake, brings a touch of retro charm. Earthy fabrics cover the wooden units, and stained wood strips and brass rods add an element of sophistication. These textures and tones extend to the finishes and furnishings, creating a cohesive yet vibrant ambiance throughout the home.
This home is more than just a living space; it’s a celebration of light, nature, and tradition. It is a house that tells a story, one that reflects the soul of the family living within it—rooted in the past, but reaching forward into the future with optimism and grace.
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