The forest home in Kodaikanal takes inspiration from the idea of Temenos. The ancient Greek word translates as “a piece of land marked off from common uses and dedicated to a god”. It is intended to be a sanctuary, which once completed, it will be the permanent residence of two creative professionals.

The forest home is on one hand a celebration of the grandness of nature, while on the other a search for the quietness of introversion.

Typology

The stone walled courtyard creates this introvert retreat. It is located on a rocky outcrop in the middle of a forest. The courtyard opens with large vistas to the surrounding forest. On the side where the land drops down, a light timber clad pavilion, cantilevers over the edge. It enjoys spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The pavilion opens on two sides with deep verandahs to the forest. Along the long sides, timber shutters give the option to open or close to the Eastern and Western side, depending on the time of the day.

View of cantilevered pavilion

Site view

Concept sketch

Sketch on panorama view of site

View of courtyard

View of exterior

Interior view of pavilion

Plan

Section AA

Section BB