A curious home that is simple but stylish

Will Sayner Will Sayner
Residence at H2, Balan & Nambisan Architects Balan & Nambisan Architects Modern houses
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 Today we're examining a luxurious residence in Bangalore, India, brought to us by Balan and Nambisan Architects. Unique in its design, this abode is a geometric labyrinth of amazing open plan spaces. Let's take a look inside…

On another level

 One can really appreciate how expansive the home's space is on the upper level of the outdoor area. There’s ample decking to relax and soak up some sunshine, and a nice touch of green has been added by the pristine rectangular lawn. Care has been taken here to ensure the property is as open as possible, with glass around the edges of the decking rather than railings.

A façade that's far from typical

 The façade alone sparks intrigue; we're greeted by a composition of rectangular shapes lit in such a way so as to accentuate certain parts of the building. Surrounded by vegetation and with lots of open space, the home seems to blend with its surroundings whilst still producing a powerful visual impact.

A maze of amazing spaces

What's hidden behind the exterior is just as impressive! The vast open space is compartmentalised into separate, multilayered areas, and yet nothing feels enclosed.

A work of art

 The interior design is as unique and bewildering as the exterior. The stairs here are reminiscent of an M.C. Escher painting—particularly in this black and white photo—as they connect a labyrinth of levels and geometric shapes. As with the exterior, glass is used as a barrier on the stairs and mezzanine so that every area can feel as open and unconstrained as possible.

Everything feels open

 Consistent with the open atmosphere of the home, even the bathroom has been crafted to maximise space. Fairly minimalist in design, the already expansive room appears bigger thanks to the large mirror, and the shower is enclosed by glass so that it doesn’t feel separate from the rest of the room.

Is this a spa?

 Below the upper-decking we have a beautiful pool and lower decking area to rival a quality hotel spa! There's also a shaded seating area for when that sun gets a little too much.

Open and closed

 Here on the lower level the lawn is far more expansive, and would certainly provide plenty of room for children to play. There’s also another smaller, shaded decking space that would be a great place to hide away and read; its sufficiently enclosed by the walls around it so as to feel private, and yet still fully exposed to the outdoors.

 Overall, this property challenges perceptions as to how a home can be structured; with the exterior partially enclosed and the interior partially exposed it utilises open planning to create fluidity between spaces, as well as between the home and its surroundings.

 If you're intrigued by this blending of indoor and outdoor space, then you should take a look at this beautiful Brazilian home.

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