Vaikuntha: A Harmonious Home Blending Minimalism and Nature

Located in the lively streets of Wakad, Pune, Vaikuntha offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. Named after the heavenly home of Lord Vishnu, this residence is more than just a house; it embodies tranquility. Designed by Tejas Shintre and Ojas Hiwrekar from Koriv Design Studio, Vaikuntha blends minimalist design with natural materials, creating a calming space that connects with nature.

A Vision Rooted in Nature

The homeowners, Jadeja and Gohil, approached Koriv Design Studio with a clear vision for their home. They were not seeking grandeur or elaborate details, but rather a space that felt raw, organic, and in harmony with the natural world. They desired simplicity—one that aligned with their spiritual journey and personal beliefs.

The architects faced the challenge of transforming the homeowners' vision into a living space that seemed to emerge organically from the earth. They aimed to incorporate materials that felt both organic and raw, with textures that were soothing to touch and grounding underfoot. To achieve this, they carefully selected a palette featuring natural elements like wood, raw concrete, jute, and stone. Each material was chosen for its tactile and visual qualities, ensuring that the home fosters a sense of calm and a deep connection to the earth.

Monolithic Marvel: The Living Room

As one steps into Vaikuntha, the first impression is that of quietude. The living room, dominated by monochromatic tones of grey and white, exudes an understated elegance. The room is defined by its simplicity, where every piece of furniture feels as though it is part of the structure itself. The architects sought to create a monolithic aesthetic—where the walls, floors, and furniture appeared as one cohesive entity. 

The architects envisioned the sofa as an extension of the wall, the beds integrated with the floor, and the storage designed to blend seamlessly into the space. Initially, the homeowners were hesitant about adopting built-in furniture, concerned about the permanence of such design choices. However, as the project progressed, they began to appreciate how these elements harmoniously integrated into their living environment. The living room, in particular, exemplifies this design philosophy. A swing crafted from raw wooden logs serves as a striking focal point, reflecting a significant cultural piece in Gujarati households and adding a personal and sentimental touch to the minimalist decor.

A Seamless Blend of Indoors and Outdoors

One of the most notable changes in the house was the transformation of the old balcony, which was seamlessly merged with the living room. This alteration allowed the architects to design a space that fluidly connects the indoors with the outdoors, capturing the essence of Vaikuntha. The newly created seating area features wood-finished cabinets, stone flooring, and a cane mesh ceiling, giving it the feel of an intimate outdoor room. This space was designed to bring nature inside, creating a relaxing and cozy nook perfect for meditation, casual conversations, or simply unwinding, all while staying connected to the natural surroundings.

The Kitchen: A Monolithic Space

The kitchen, much like the rest of the house, follows the monolithic design approach. Fronted by a breakfast counter and dominated by shades of grey and white, it exudes a sense of calm and order. The materials—raw concrete, stone, and wood—are consistent with the home’s overall aesthetic, creating a cohesive flow between the spaces. 

The kitchen’s simplicity is its strength, with the design focusing on functionality without compromising on style. The architects’ choice of natural, textured materials ensures that the space feels grounded, in harmony with the rest of the home’s earthy appeal.

Calm Spaces: The Puja Room and Bedroom

A home as spiritually inclined as Vaikuntha would not be complete without a space dedicated to prayer and meditation. The puja room, adorned with gentle arches and raw concrete walls, is a serene sanctuary designed for spiritual reflection. A door decorated with movable wooden balls adds an element of tactile engagement, inviting the homeowners to interact with the space in a meaningful way.

The primary bedroom reflects the home’s vernacular ethos, designed as a peaceful oasis. It features concrete-finish walls, wooden storage, and stone flooring that resembles cow dung, paying homage to traditional rural homes. The aim was to create a space that radiates positive energy, warmth, and harmony. The tactile qualities of the materials—open-grain wood veneer, raw stone, and concrete—enhance the room’s organic appeal, making it an inviting area for relaxation and contemplation.

In the children’s bedroom, the design takes on a playful yet grounded tone, with a megalithic staircase and raw pine wood furniture that ties into the overall nature-inspired aesthetic of the house. The choice of natural materials ensures that even in this space, the connection to the earth remains strong.

The Essence of Vaikuntha

For Shintre and Hiwrekar, the completion of Vaikuntha was not just about fulfilling a design brief; it was about creating a home that resonated with the souls of its inhabitants. “It's more than just a house; it's a home that reflects the spirit of those who live in it,” Shintre reflects. Every element of the home, from the built-in furniture to the natural materials, was carefully chosen to create a space that feels lived-in, organic, and calming. 

Vaikuntha stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design—design that not only caters to the aesthetic and functional needs of its occupants but also uplifts their spirits. The home’s earthy, minimalist approach is a breath of fresh air in a world of excess, offering a peaceful retreat that feels like an extension of nature itself.

A Sanctuary of Serenity

In a time when homes are often seen as mere commodities, Vaikuntha reminds us that a home can be much more. It can be a sanctuary, a reflection of one’s values, and a place of calm in an otherwise chaotic world. Through their thoughtful design and use of natural materials, Koriv Design Studio has created a home that not only meets the needs of its owners but also elevates their everyday living experience. Vaikuntha is not just a house—it is, in every sense, a home that offers its inhabitants peace, comfort, and a deep connection to the earth.