Raintree House: A Climate-Responsive Chennai Masterpiece
Designed by Khosla Associates, Raintree House in Chennai is a 9,350-square-foot architectural marvel that harmonizes luxury with nature. Built around a majestic, ancient rain tree, this 4-bedroom home exemplifies tropical modernism, blending indoor-outdoor spaces with climate-responsive design to combat Chennai’s intense summers and monsoons. Completed in 2022, it’s a testament to sustainable luxury for a nature-loving family.
Architectural Vision
The house’s L-shaped plan is oriented along a north-south axis, with the living area as a central pavilion offering views of the rain tree to the south and a koi pond and garden to the north. The entrance court is defined by the tree’s sculptural roots, with the compound wall designed with cutouts to accommodate its branches. This thoughtful layout ensures the tree is omnipresent, creating a seamless connection with nature.
Climate-Responsive Design
Raintree House is engineered for Chennai’s climate. Four sliding doors in the living area open fully to the koi pond and garden, promoting cross-ventilation from south to north, keeping the interiors cool. The rain tree’s canopy shades the entrance, reducing heat gain, while the north garden provides respite from the sun. This design reflects Khosla Associates’ contextual approach, inspired by Geoffrey Bawa’s tropical modernism.
Luxurious Interiors
The interiors contrast a muted grey shell with vibrant garnet and ochre accents in furnishings and accessories. Custom furniture by Khosla Associates, manufactured by Virasp Batliwala, complements handwoven saree silk carpets from Sarita Handa and artworks by contemporary Indian artists like Mahmud Husain and Rathin Burman. Decorative lighting from European brands like LZF and Louis Poulsen adds focal points, elevating the aesthetic.
Key Features
- 9,350 sq.ft. over two floors with 4 bedrooms
- Central living pavilion with views of rain tree and koi pond
- Cross-ventilation via sliding doors for natural cooling
- Custom furniture and saree silk carpets by Sarita Handa
- Artworks by Mahmud Husain, Rathin Burman, and others
- Antiques sourced from Old Town Kochi
- Decorative lighting by LZF, Marketset, and Louis Poulsen
Gallery
Why Raintree House?
Raintree House redefines luxury living by integrating nature and sustainability without compromising elegance. Located in Chennai’s Mylapore, it offers a serene retreat amidst the city’s bustle, with proximity to cultural and business hubs. This home is a masterpiece for those who value eco-conscious design and bespoke craftsmanship, setting a new standard for Indian luxury homes.
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