Jalmanjar Farmhouse: A Sustainable Architectural Marvel by Put Your Hands Together - BioArchitects

The Jalmanjar Farmhouse, designed by Put Your Hands Together - BioArchitects, is a stunning example of climate-responsive and sustainable architecture. Nestled on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, India, this farmhouse spans 2,800 square feet and sits at the edge of a 12.5-acre farm. The architectural design seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings while prioritizing energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

Sustainable Design Inspired by Climate

From its initial sketches, the design of the Jalmanjar Farmhouse was driven by climatic performance and sustainability. Given the hot and dry conditions of Ahmedabad, the architects focused on passive cooling strategies and material efficiency.

A striking feature of the farmhouse is the perforated jali wall, constructed using Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB). This breathable facade filters sunlight while allowing natural ventilation to flow through strategically placed windcatchers, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment. The north-facing windows in the living and kitchen areas enhance this passive cooling strategy by maximizing daylight while minimizing heat gain.

Spatial Organization & Architectural Elements

Conceptually, the farmhouse is composed of two parallel rectangular volumes, housing the living and dining areas. These spaces flank a central open-to-sky courtyard, promoting natural light penetration and cross-ventilation. A passage and circulation core connects the volumes, leading to two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms on the upper level.

Beyond the primary functions, the jali wall extends beyond a mere facade element. It creates semi-open verandahs, balconies, landscape niches, service corridors, and an open-to-sky shower, enriching the indoor-outdoor experience. The strategic use of voids ensures that every space remains visually and physically connected to the surrounding farmland.

Material Selection & Structural Efficiency

The farmhouse is constructed with 9-inch-thick load-bearing walls using CSEB, which leverages the thermal mass of earth to naturally regulate interior temperatures. This results in a cooler indoor climate, reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems.

The roof structure follows a hybrid steel and concrete system, elevated beyond conventional heights to create higher volumes in bedrooms. This additional height enhances air circulation and prevents heat buildup, maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the year.

Minimal Footprint, Maximum Connection with Nature

Despite the vast 12.5-acre plot, the decision to create a G+1 structure was intentional—to minimize the built footprint and allow the farmland to remain the focal point. This approach preserves the agricultural essence of the site while ensuring that the farmhouse itself does not dominate the landscape.

Large expansive north-facing windows in the living and kitchen areas create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. These openings can be fully retracted, blurring the boundaries between the home and the farm, reinforcing the essence of a true farmstead dwelling.

A Testament to Sustainable Living

The Jalmanjar Farmhouse is a harmonious blend of vernacular materials, modern technology, and climate-responsive design. By integrating earth-based construction, passive cooling strategies, and minimal land intervention, this project stands as an exemplary model of sustainable architecture in India.

Project Details

• Architects: Put Your Hands Together - BioArchitects
• Lead Architects: Shahveer Irani, Areen Attari
• Location: Ahmedabad, India
• Area: 2,800 ft²
• Year of Completion: 2023
• Structural Consultant: Suhas Chande Consulting Engineers
• Project Management Consultants: Vertex Infra
• Photography: Amalgamate