Embodying a philosophy of tranquility and mindful existence, the Nani House stands as a testament to thoughtful design for an elderly couple embarking on their golden years. This bespoke residence in India, conceived by Creations & Urban Saints, prioritizes comfort, accessibility, and an unbroken emotional connection to one's surroundings, rather than ostentation. It champions a lifestyle of unhurried appreciation, with its design weaving together expansive, sun-drenched areas that effortlessly merge interior and exterior realms, and blur the lines between past memories and present routines, creating a calm yet abundant space conducive to graceful aging.
The collaborative design ethos of Creations & Urban Saints, a prominent multidisciplinary architecture and interior design firm based in Central India, is evident throughout the Nani House. Known for their human-centric approach and refined material sensitivity, the studio integrates extensive experience with modern, research-driven methodologies. Led by interior designer Shilpi Sonar, architect Satyadeep, and ergonomics specialist Arpita, their combined expertise in spatial planning, material research, sustainability, and usability underpins the studio's philosophy. This approach ensures that design choices are rooted in understanding how spaces will be experienced over time, emphasizing lived functionality over momentary visual appeal.
In the Nani House, this profound design philosophy translates into a home shaped by effortless living. Creations & Urban Saints have skillfully eliminated traditional spatial divisions, ensuring smooth transitions between the garden, communal living areas, and private retreats. The design highlights tactile qualities over decorative flourishes, employing a sophisticated palette of natural stone, timber, and linen that will mature beautifully with time. Rather than demanding attention, the architecture gently invites inhabitants to engage with the home in an unhurried and intuitive manner. The layout is intentionally fluid, facilitating unrestricted movement and promoting long-term comfort. Expansive openings and large windows frame the surrounding gardens as living artworks, bathing the interiors in soft, natural light and promoting air circulation. The circulation paths are spacious and free of obstacles, ensuring ease of access without compromising aesthetic integrity. The garden seamlessly extends into the living areas, softening boundaries and fostering a consistent, integral connection with nature, which becomes an active companion rather than a mere decorative backdrop.
Within the Nani House, a sense of warmth is cultivated through subtle intricacies rather than fleeting trends. Neutral color schemes provide a serene backdrop, allowing personal keepsakes, well-loved books, and treasured objects to imbue the space with cherished memories. Meticulously crafted details, such as hand-carved wood, the distinct grain of timber, and the gentle sheen of brass, gradually reveal their beauty, much like stories unfolding over a lifetime. The furnishings are chosen for their ergonomic comfort and enduring quality, supporting the daily realities of aging while maintaining an air of understated elegance. While the aesthetic language is soft and timeless, every decision is underpinned by practical considerations. Thoughtfully layered lighting minimizes eye strain, textured flooring ensures stability, and precisely proportioned seating and workspaces facilitate daily routines with ease. Each area, from the kitchen to the reading nook and bedrooms, is designed as a space for lingering, encouraging unhurried engagement and reinforcing the home's core purpose: to enrich and simplify everyday life.