Fact File
Location: Mathura
Size: 2325 sq m
Principal Architects & Interior Designers: Seema Puri Mullan and Zurir Mullan
Photography by: Dinesh Mehta

Mani Bungalow by Seema Puri and Zarir Mullan of SEZA Architects & Interior Designers in Mathura is a beautiful composition that emphasises perhaps the most fundamental feature of architecture—lines. In response to the tropical regional climate and the presence of a plethora of trees on site, the designers conceptualised a distinct spatial identity that showcases a rhythmic play of wood profiles. The result is a serene holiday home, with a small front court and water body and a large, more private rear court onto which the rooms open. A balance between built form and open spaces, coupled with a mix of traditional and contemporary design concepts and mesmerising vistas, make this a truly unique residence.

“Lines are the basis of any structure, and to keep the purity of form intact, we decided to use a play of lines for the design—starting in two dimensions and then continuing to use it to create a strong visual language in the third dimension. Therefore, when you first see the bungalow, your mind registers a series of lines; some thin, some thick, some horizontal and some vertical,” explained the designers. On approaching, the initial view of the residence is framed by a large tree in the foreground. Another one, closer to the site, was used as the focal point to design the porch around. The tree not only makes for an impactful entrance but continues upward through a large deck between the bedrooms located above. “The architecture is such that the spaces seem to merge, and you can see right through the front lawn to the rear from the same spot. All the public areas are at the lower level while the private bedrooms are above,” said the designers when asked about the layout of the home.

A beautiful spatial narrative is epitomised by a family lounge that opens towards the water body in the front and simultaneously connects with the rear court, resulting in the creation of beautiful vistas. Even the home theatre opens out onto a deck abutting the water body! Further elaborating on the unique spatial identity, the designers said, “The volume of each upper floor is set back from the lower one to create terraces for the upper rooms. We used a system of double walling with a 50-mm air gap to provide insulation and reduce the heat transfer within. Sit-outs are strategically placed so that you can enjoy your connection with nature while feeling protected by the built form. The balance between built and open spaces provides sufficient natural lighting, and the east-west orientation of windows provides ample ventilation throughout the home.”