neogenesis+studi0261 pair earth brick & concrete inside jungalow 2

jungalow 2 by neogenesis+studi0261: an agriculturist haven

Standing among the open fields on the outskirts of Surat in Gujarat, India, Jungalow 2 comes to life as a nature-filled dwelling for an agriculturist family. Local studio Neogenesis+Studi0261 completed the project by looking at its earlier work and the client’s first home, Jungalow, where a generous amount of plantation incorporated throughout lends it a verdant feel despite the urban setting (see designboom’s coverage here). This same instinct to connect spaces more closely to nature finds its way into Jungalow 2 — a new ‘extroverted’ home enriched by a mix of earth bricks, exposed concrete, and plenty of daylight. Composed of three separate units — completely self-contained yet seamlessly allied — the residence offers an immersive place where the client’s well-knit extended family would be happily cohabiting.

all images courtesy Neogenesis+Studi0261

combining three adjunct homes into one residential hub

Jungalow 2 by Neogenesis+Studi0261 (see more here) comfortably sits on the west while opening up the remaining plot to become a shared space, forming contiguity with the entrance otta. Overall a singular unit, the residence joins three adjunct homes with staggered massing and the diverse otta. Integrated differently, each otta offers identity and individuality to a unit. That being said, the layout prioritizes open spaces with fewer separations and encourages communication. ‘The four-bedroom abode is well connected to greens and terraces. The bedroom on the uppermost level sets a stage to gaze at the open farmlands. The pooja, an inimitable element, is a free-suspended RCC wall hanging from the slab above, which acts as a divider at the entry while the concave portion houses the pooja,’ explains the studio.

creating staggered massing

pairing earth bricks, RCC, and limestone, with lush flora

The material palette is carefully curated, exhibiting the physicality and textures in their honest form to maintain the overall earthy look and pair it with the naturality of flora. Jungalow 2 is clothed with earth bricks, exposed RCC, Mandana stone, reclaimed wood, metal, and glass. Considering the Surat climate, Mandana limestone is used as a flooring material (owing to its palpable benefits over sandstone) to minimize glare. Earth-brick, made of compressed soil mixed with Mandana stone dust, is sun-dried, lowering the carbon footprint. This combination, paired with finished ply and reclaimed wood, keeps the interiors timeless. ‘A keen eye was provided to the detailing of elements to revive the local artistry and fading techniques,’ note the architects.

Jungalow 2 pairs earthy bricks with exposed concrete under a skylit home

porches, breezy courtyards & green terraces at jungalow 2

The sense of being wrapped by the verdant context is further made apparent by courtyards, skylights, and large openings. The pivot windows and the Mandana louvers provide the least barrier as they visually allow one to extend into the greens. Shaded porches, breezy courtyards, and green terraces offer a comfortable ambiance with great habitation potential. The skylights elegantly render the exposed brick and RCC walls with a golden radiance of the transitioning sun movement. Meanwhile, furniture and light fixtures are custom-detailed to complement the space. Only the obligatory furniture pieces are crafted to make the home appear spacious without devaluing comfort.

Lastly, the landscape design keeps in mind the earthy materials for which xerophytic and related species such as Rubram grass, Rhoeo, and Terminalia are highly favored. ‘The image of the home is traditional yet contemporary, big yet grounded, three yet one, thus, finetunes the architecture to achieve an innate presence in the lush backdrop,’ concludes Neogenesis+Studi0261.