A Basalt Stone Retreat By Khosla Associates

Khosla Associates designed a luxury retreat in the Sahyadris, Maharashtra, India. Building on a picturesque site in the Western Ghats, surrounded by mountains and lakes, the architects were asked to built a 2100 square foot, one-storey pavilion as a retreat from the pace of Mumbai life. 

Divided into two main living zones — one for enjoyment and relaxation during the day, and the other for rest and retreat during the night, the pavilion-like holiday home was designed to reflect the surrounding landscapes, allowing soft northern light to flood the kitchen, foyer and living areas. Constructed from black stone basalt of volcanic origin, the house respects the natural topography of its site. In terms of the interior, the architects state, “we had to exercise a great deal of restraint in the furniture and accessories, choosing to customize each piece to be in harmony with the architectural intent. Accessories were all sourced from Maharashtra, brass and copper vessels from Nasik and Bidriware from Aurangabad.”