Pastel House is a project designed by CDA Architects. The rapid urbanisation of cities is constantly pushing people to reimagine their homes. This is evident in the growing inclination towards natural living. The Pastel House in Raipur is a similar intervention that takes a unique stance on ?living with nature?. Designed for a family of medical practitioners with an affinity for the outdoors, the client?s design brief clearly emphasised the proximity to greens and abundant natural light, leading the architects to choose biophilic design as the defining design concept. Photography by Noughts & Crosses.

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While designing for doctors, it was imperative to plan for healthy living and well-being. Considering the post-pandemic milieu, the orientation of all spaces towards the central courtyard facilitates visual connections while staying in the confines of one?s space. The massing of the Pastel House is created to divide the home into two zones; the ground and the first floor constitute the private family areas, whereas the guest zone is a distinct wing limited to the ground floor while being connected to family spaces on the same level. The spatial arrangement generates a subtle play of masses besides granting fluidity to the space, and is dotted by semi-open verandahs; resulting in a view that appears monumental, yet serene. To incorporate biophilia and bring the house closer to the greens, the blocks are arranged in a pin-wheel-like arrangement that en...