ZERO9 FARMPAD
- Client:PRIVATE CLIENT
- Location:Karjat, Maharashtra
- Area:1/2 Acre plot
- Delivery:DESIGN + BUILD
- Design Team:Prashant + Anu
- Photographer:Yadnesh Joshi
Love at First Site-Visit – Sustainable Farmhouse Design in Harmony with Nature
It truly was love at first site-visit. Towering trees, a flowing monsoon stream, and constant birdsong made this little pocket of land feel magical. From the very beginning, the design philosophy was clear: build less, grow more.
As the site was fertile agricultural land, our goal was to create a sustainable farmhouse with minimal architectural intervention, preserving the natural habitat while fulfilling the client’s spatial needs. After several design iterations, we finalized a compact ground floor and a modest first floor, striking the right balance between comfort and conservation.
Sustainable Construction Approach
To minimize environmental impact, we consciously reduced the use of concrete and opted for pre-engineered mild steel structures. A concrete plinth anchors the home, while the superstructure uses steel columns and beams. Traditional laadi-kobah flooring in Kota stone and PCC further reduced concrete usage, reflecting a low-impact, eco-conscious design approach.
A sloping mild steel roof fitted with insulated panels became a climate-responsive solution for the high-rainfall zone, reducing heat gain and softening the sound of rain. Exposed brickwork retained a raw, forest-home vibe, with crafted brick patterns casting dynamic shadows. Triangular glass voids under the truss invite abundant natural light while connecting the interiors with the surrounding landscape.
Living Amongst the Trees
Nestled amidst mature neem and jamun trees, the home was designed to feel like a nest in the treetops. Carefully positioned windows frame the canopies, blurring the line between inside and outside.
The ground floor opens with a generous verandah, serving as a threshold between the outdoor landscape and indoor living. An open-plan living room, kitchen, and dining area encourage fluid interactions, while a guest bedroom and common bath complete the level.
The first floor houses the master bedroom and a flexible lounge/workspace that can double as an additional bedroom. A large balcony extends into the treetops, designed with a peripheral ledge perfect for books or evening drinks. A cozy attic adds a playful touch—ideal for reading or kids’ activities.
Water-Sensitive Design
A natural monsoon stream on-site was carefully harnessed into a large aquatic garden. Stone barriers slow down water flow, allowing it to seep into the earth and recharge the groundwater—a thoughtful, slow, and deliberate sustainable water management practice.
Staff quarters were strategically placed in the southeast corner, complete with a caretaker’s room, driver’s room, toilets, and utility spaces.
A Vision for the Future
Named FARMPAD, this eco-friendly farmhouse is designed to stay humble within the trees, never imposing itself on the land. Over time, the site is envisioned to grow into a thriving food forest, embodying a sustainable, conscious way of living.
Between the Lines
Q1. What was the core idea behind this farmhouse?
The guiding philosophy was “build less, grow more.” The design minimizes human footprint while celebrating the natural character of the land — allowing architecture to coexist, not compete, with nature.
Q2. Why was sustainability so central to the project?
Because the site was fertile agricultural land, the intent was to preserve and enhance its ecology. Every design decision — from structure to materials — supports low-impact construction and long-term environmental resilience.
Q3. How did the team minimize concrete use?
Concrete was used only where essential — for the plinth and base structure. The rest was built with pre-engineered mild steel, Kota stone, and PCC, demonstrating how sustainability and structural integrity can go hand in hand.
Q4. What makes the roof design special?
The sloping steel roof with insulated panels was designed for a high-rainfall climate. It minimizes heat gain, enhances acoustics during rain, and adds a soft tactile rhythm to the overall experience.
Q5. How does the architecture connect with the natural surroundings?
Large windows and triangular glass voids frame tree canopies and sky views, ensuring the interiors always feel connected to the outdoors. The home literally lives amongst the trees.
Q6. What are the key spatial highlights?
A verandah that bridges indoors and outdoors, an open-plan living zone for shared moments, a flexible upper lounge that adapts to needs, and an attic that adds playfulness and intimacy.
Q7. How is water managed sustainably on-site?
A natural stream was turned into a living aquatic garden. With stone barriers slowing the flow, the system helps groundwater recharge, prevents erosion, and nurtures biodiversity on the land.
Q8. What materials bring warmth and authenticity to the home?
Exposed brick, Kota stone, mild steel, and glass create a palette that’s both raw and refined — blending modern efficiency with the earthiness of traditional craftsmanship.
Q9. How does farmPAD reflect the idea of mindful living?
It celebrates sustainability through simplicity — smaller built form, natural light, reused materials, and integration with landscape. Every corner invites slow living and conscious connection with nature.
Q10. What is the long-term vision for the site?
Over time, the farmhouse is designed to evolve into a self-sustaining food forest — a living ecosystem that nourishes people and planet alike, defining the spirit of farmPAD: Mindful Luxury Living.
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