Pushpam Farm

The trend of weekend or second homes has grown in the post-pandemic era, reflecting a shift in lifestyle and aspirations. People have become more conscious of their surroundings, seeking opportunities to pause, reconnect with themselves, and immerse in nature. Pushpam Farm embodies this perspective, offering a serene retreat that contrasts with urban life.
Pushpam Farm is located in Umeta, Anklavav, Vadodara, near the Mahi River. The project spans 16,000 sq. ft., integrating built spaces with landscapes. Surrounded by farmland, the site has a single access point from the east. Two existing neem trees in the southwest corner serve as the foundation for the architectural layout.
The architecture draws inspiration from nature, fostering harmony between built forms and the landscape. Two intersecting angular axes of black basalt stone walls create a dynamic spatial division. The primary massing originates from the southwest axis, establishing an intuitive flow of spaces. The central void between these axes functions as the main entrance, sheltered beneath an angular roof.
A separate, isolated mass accommodates private areas, pivoting around the neem tree, which serves as a interactive transition between public and private zones. The swimming pool unifies both spaces into a vibrant plaza, enhancing the spatial experience. Positioning the built form toward the southern and western zones preserves an open landscape.
The architectural vocabulary favors a single-story layout to maintain humility and allow nature to flourish over time. The rectilinear configuration of rooms, with strategically placed corner openings, creates a seamless experience. Expansive openings enhance transparency and frame panoramic views. Open-to-sky showers, borrowed light strategies, and ventilation details enrich the experience, bringing surprise and connection to daily life.
A horizontal slit at seating eye level in the living area creates a reflective interplay between the pool and sky. The material palette is minimal and locally sourced, featuring black basalt stone for primary walls, lending a rugged character. This texture interacts dynamically with natural light, creating an evolving exterior aesthetic. Internally, a monochromatic plaster finish enhances spatial perception, while the matte quality softens reflections.
For flooring, rough-polished green Kota stone was chosen for its natural texture, low reflectivity, and ease of maintenance. Wooden furniture and doors complement the material selection, adding warmth and an earthy quality.
To infuse a sense of belonging and artistic expression, a custom-designed hanging light installation was incorporated. Inspired by the Mahisagar River, the fixture transforms into a sculptural element, adding a unique visual identity. Mood lighting enhances this feature, elevating it beyond illumination into an art piece that enriches both the ceiling and user experience.
For night lighting, low-Kelvin indirect illumination ensures a serene atmosphere without disrupting the surroundings. This approach fosters a calming ambiance, allowing the architecture and landscape to harmonize seamlessly even after sunset.
Pushpam Farm is a testament to the philosophy that architecture should extend nature, evolving organically over time. By integrating contextual elements, sustainable materials, and an experiential approach, the project creates a tranquil sanctuary that celebrates simplicity, mindfulness, and harmony with the environment.