The Habitat

A Poetry in Brick and Stone: "NIKUNJ"
Nestled on a compact 40’ x 50’ plot along Magadi Road in Bangalore, Nikunj is a humble yet profound expression of sustainable living, designed by Archemist Architects. This residence embodies a seamless symbiosis between man and nature, reflecting the homeowners’ deep-rooted commitment to eco-conscious living in every design aspect.

The home’s planning prioritizes natural light and ventilation, creating an environment that breathes in harmony with its surroundings. A carefully punctured ceiling within the stairwell, embedded with glass blocks, allows daylight to filter through, illuminating the interiors throughout the day. The material palette is a fusion of locally sourced natural elements—wood, brick, and stone—infusing the space with warmth while upholding the essence of modern architecture.

With sustainability at its core, Nikunj incorporates several green building techniques to minimize environmental impact. Filler slabs reduce concrete usage by 30%, while 70% of the walls are constructed using Porotherm hollow clay blocks, significantly cutting down on river sand consumption and eliminating the need for plastering. These materials not only reduce embodied energy but also enhance thermal insulation, keeping the home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Water conservation is another key focus. A rainwater harvesting system collects and stores rainwater, with excess water channeled into a 15-foot deep recharge pit to replenish groundwater levels. A specially designed Reed Bed filtration system naturally treats greywater from sinks, showers, and washing machines, which is then reused for flushing and irrigation through a dual plumbing system. Solar sustainability is seamlessly integrated, with a 3 kWh grid-connected photovoltaic system supplying 95% of the home's energy needs, complemented by solar water heaters.

The landscape is not merely an aesthetic extension but a thriving ecosystem designed to nurture local biodiversity. A carefully curated wildlife-friendly garden attracts birds, butterflies, and small creatures, making Nikunj a sanctuary for both humans and nature. Custom-designed clay nesting pots are embedded into the stone façade, offering shelter to hole-nesting birds like mynas, owls, and parakeets. A gently flowing water feature oxygenates the fish pond, while hollow mud blocks and clay pots provide refuge for toads and other small reptiles. Over time, the garden has become a breeding ground for Red-whiskered Bulbuls, Scaly-bellied Munias, and Tailor Birds, alongside its permanent residents—Common Toads.

Through mindful design and ecological sensitivity, Nikunj stands as a testament to the philosophy that a home should not only shelter its inhabitants but also nurture the environment. This residence is a living, breathing space where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony.