Bhatia Residence, Tithal, Gujarat

Embarking on a Sustainable Design Journey with NDDC: A Harmonious Blend of Recycling, Wellness & Creativity

As NDDC embarked on the ambitious RRR (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) design and build journey, the process became increasingly rewarding. The philosophy not only challenged us but also inspired the clients to embody this ethos. Our clients, Mr. and Mrs. Bhatia, a dynamic couple, brings quite a unique perspectives to the project. Mr. Bhatia is involved in the solid waste management industry, while his wife is a classical dancer and conducts spiritual workshops. This unique combination of professional and personal values drove us to create a weekend home cum commune space that reflects their sustainable vision and need for a flexible, multi-functional environment.

The site is located in Tithal, a serene coastal village in Gujarat, known for its beautiful black-sand beach and calm ambiance. As the site sits just 300 meters from the sea, this peaceful setting, away from urban bustle, makes it an ideal place for spiritual retreats and communal activities, blending perfectly with the couple’s vision for their weekend home.

Block Diagram

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

With Mr. Bhatia’s deep understanding of recycling, the project demanded creative solutions for reusing materials, hence driving our vision of incorporating shipping containers in the design and building an eco-friendly and economical space. We explored three different ways to compose the containers and eventually settled on a design that maximized openness and views, especially given the sea-facing site on the west. The final arrangement provided abundant natural light and open spaces, avoiding the feeling of being boxed-in.

Ground Floor Plan

First Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

Exploded View

Exploded View with Skin

Section

The site’s coastal location presented additional challenges, including strong sea winds and drifting sand. To address this, we incorporated a second skin on the exterior to mitigate wind and sand exposure. This also helped to protect the shipping containers and provided self-shading to prevent excessive heat buildup, ensuring the comfort and durability of the space. We also took the opportunity to integrate urban agriculture into the design by growing vegetables on the terraces of the first and second floors, contributing to the sustainability of the home.

The ground floor is dedicated to communal activities, featuring a yoga area and a community kitchen where the couple can host spiritual workshops and gatherings. While the first floor is designed to accommodate guest bedrooms and a central mingling area, fostering a sense of community. For the family’s privacy, the second floor was reserved for their personal space, offering more secluded areas and a retreat while still connected to the commune’s vibrancy below.

Through this project, we pushed the boundaries of the RRR philosophy, balancing sustainable practices with the need for a serene, inspiring environment for both work and retreat.