semi;colon
- Client:Private
- Location:Pune
- Area:5500 sqft
- Delivery:ONGOING
- Design Team:Prashant + Anu + Smarani + Sakshi
Located in the thriving tech hub of Hinjewadi, Pune, this private bungalow combines timeless colonial architecture with contemporary sustainable design principles. Designed as an elegant retreat, the residence balances classic aesthetics with eco-conscious features that make it both luxurious and environmentally responsible.
The architectural language draws inspiration from colonial-era design, featuring symmetrical facades, arched openings, and a subtle palette that exudes understated elegance. Large verandahs and shaded corridors enhance cross-ventilation and create seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences, while maintaining the charm of traditional Indian bungalows.
At its core, the project embraces sustainability with passive cooling strategies, rainwater harvesting, and the use of locally sourced materials to reduce the carbon footprint. The building orientation optimizes natural light and airflow, minimizing dependency on artificial systems and ensuring year-round comfort.
Nestled in Pune’s Hinjewadi landscape, the bungalow offers a tranquil sanctuary amidst the bustling urban surroundings, perfectly blending heritage-inspired architecture with modern sustainable living.
Between the Lines
Q1. What was the core design intent behind this bungalow?
The vision was to create an elegant retreat that celebrates the timeless charm of colonial architecture while embracing contemporary sustainable living. It’s a home where heritage and modernity coexist effortlessly.
Q2. How does the architectural style reflect colonial influences?
The design draws directly from colonial-era architecture — featuring symmetrical facades, arched openings, and shaded verandahs that express both grandeur and restraint. These classic elements were reinterpreted in a modern, context-driven way to suit today’s lifestyle.
Q3. What role does sustainability play in the overall concept?
Sustainability is woven into the architecture, not added on. The home uses passive cooling, rainwater harvesting, and locally sourced materials — reducing energy consumption and creating natural thermal comfort year-round.
Q4. How was the layout planned for comfort and environmental responsiveness?
The building orientation maximizes natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air-conditioning. Large verandahs and shaded corridors blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, creating a home that breathes with its surroundings.
Q5. What materials were chosen to support the sustainable narrative?
The design favors locally available materials, such as regional stone, natural lime plasters, and traditional roof tiles. This approach not only reduces carbon footprint but also connects the structure deeply to its local context.
Q6. How do traditional elements enhance the living experience?
Elements like arched doorways, colonial railings, and tiled verandahs bring a sense of nostalgia and permanence. They lend the home a lived-in warmth, while still aligning with the comforts of modern, functional design.
Q7. How does the design respond to Pune’s climate and context?
Pune’s moderate yet sun-heavy climate guided the inclusion of deep overhangs, cross-ventilated corridors, and open courtyards. These features keep the interiors naturally cool and filled with soft daylight, ensuring sustainability meets comfort.
Q8. What is the balance between luxury and responsibility here?
Luxury in this home is quiet and conscious — defined by space, proportion, and material honesty rather than excess. The focus was on creating a refined lifestyle that feels indulgent yet environmentally aware.
Q9. How does the project reinterpret “heritage” for today’s world?
It reimagines heritage as an evolving dialogue — borrowing architectural wisdom from the past while addressing modern environmental priorities. The result is a home that’s timeless, adaptable, and deeply relevant.
Q10. In one line, how would you describe this bungalow?
A colonial-inspired haven for modern living — where elegance meets ecology in perfect balance.
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