Nairy Residence: A Masterpiece of Sustainable Design by Funktion Design

Located in the evolving landscape of North Bangalore, Nairy Residence stands as a symbol of architectural innovation and sustainable design. Nestled near the Jarakabande Reserve forest, the residence beautifully blends into its surroundings, embracing the subtropical climate while maintaining a connection to nature. Designed by Funktion Design, this 4,614-square-foot home (2022) integrates modern aesthetics with eco-friendly practices, creating a harmonious living environment for a multigenerational family.

A Unique Site and Concept

The site is a trapezoidal plot of approximately 3,500 square feet, flanked by roads on two sides and bordered by the lush, serene forest to the north. The terrain slopes gently from southeast to northwest, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the design. The proximity to the forest brings the soothing sounds of birdsong and the invigorating breeze, while also requiring strategies to protect the home from the local wildlife, such as snakes and insects.

The design of Nairy Residence responds to the needs of three generations—elderly parents, a couple, and their teenage daughter. Funktion Design’s solution blends aesthetic form with functional spaces, creating a family-centric, eco-conscious dwelling. The residence’s exterior reflects its robust nature, with a striking 3-meter-tall corten steel gate, its slender openings teasing the viewer with glimpses of the sanctuary beyond.

Architectural Features and Layout

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the tranquil sound of a koi pond, flowing beside polished granite steps that lead into the main foyer. This welcoming space is designed to provide both visual and sensory comfort, offering a resting bench for guests to pause and remove their footwear. The entrance foyer features a central axis, including a triple-height lobby, a suspended staircase made of verdant steel and wood, and a double-height prayer alcove. This axis acts as the pivot around which the entire house is organized, promoting seamless movement through the space.

The ground floor is designed with accessibility in mind, placing the parents' bedroom, dining area, and kitchen on the same level. The parking area is strategically positioned in the lowermost northwest corner, optimizing the layout. Above the parking level, the living room opens onto a terrace garden that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. The open kitchen, adjacent to a serene prayer space, overlooks a central courtyard with a prominent tree and a flowing waterfall. The prayer space itself is a double-height sanctuary, crowned with a circular skylight, creating a sacred atmosphere for family rituals.

Materials and Sustainability

Nairy Residence embraces a sustainable approach with materials that tell a story of environmental responsibility. The exterior and interior architectural elements include exposed concrete and brick, giving the house a raw, robust aesthetic. A continuous brick datum wall spans three levels, culminating in the graceful curve of the concrete roof that envelops and protects the structure. All windows and doors are crafted from recycled wood salvaged from demolished old houses, reinforcing the home’s eco-friendly ethos.

Natural Light and Spatial Experience

Strategic design elements ensure that natural light permeates the interior. Skylights allow sunlight to filter into the double and triple-height spaces, creating dynamic plays of light and shadow. The volume of these spaces amplifies the dramatic character of the home, enhancing its connection to nature and the surrounding forest.

The floating staircase, suspended from the curved roof, is a recurring design motif in Funktion Design’s projects, adding a touch of elegance and lightness to the overall architecture.

 A Modern, Eco-Conscious Home

Nairy Residence is more than just a home—it is a testament to the possibilities of modern, sustainable architecture. Through thoughtful design, eco-friendly materials, and a strong connection to nature, Funktion Design has created a space that offers comfort, beauty, and functionality for its residents across generations. This project is a striking example of how architecture can harmonize with its environment while addressing the needs of modern living.

All Photographs are works of Saurabh Suryan