Sustainable Architecture in Hyderabad: A Marvelous Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Discover the enchanting world of sustainable architecture with "Mayalogili/Nowhere," a masterpiece crafted by the architects at Nowhere in the heart of Hyderabad, India. This architectural marvel, curated by Hana Abdel, seamlessly blends traditional agrarian roots with modern design principles to create a sustainable living space for a family of four.

Design Philosophy

Derived from the Sanskrit word "Maya," meaning the wondrous power to turn an idea into physical reality, the house embodies the essence of illusion and appearance. Away from the city hustle, the residence is nestled within picturesque rock formations, featuring lanes shaded by seasoned trees and roads lit by filtered light. The design focuses on re-establishing tactile relationships with nature through creative material use.

Material Innovation

The solid periphery of the house is punctuated with large openings, replacing layers of cement with hand-plastered lime skin mixed with salvaged brick and marble dust. Reclaimed wood doors, melted aluminum for brass-coated fixtures, and repurposed stones from construction create a harmonious connection with nature. Common materials like brick and marble are manipulated to offer novel experiences, introducing a perpetual tension between knowledge, sight, and sensation.

Courtyard-Centric Design

Organized around a central courtyard sitting atop a rainwater tank, the three-storied house includes a living room, home office, dining area, kitchen, staff quarters, bedrooms, library, and an adjoined study. The design carefully balances public, semi-public, and private spaces, utilizing circulation and glazing to ensure privacy.

Environmental Integration

A lush landscape surrounds the house, providing respite from the growing colony, while water bodies create a micro-climate. The house efficiently manages stormwater drainage, incorporating an underground water storage tank that filters and stores up to 14,000 liters of water during monsoons. Innovative technology enables water harvesting from the air, ensuring a constant supply of drinking water without reliance on wasteful existing technologies.

"Mayalogili/Nowhere" stands as a testament to sustainable architecture, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity in the vibrant city of Hyderabad. This architectural gem not only provides a harmonious living space for its inhabitants but also sets a benchmark for eco-friendly design principles. Experience the magic of sustainable living in this thoughtfully crafted home, where every element tells a story of innovation and connection with nature.

All photographs are work of Vivek Eadara,Seetharam Vallabhaneni