In a city like Bangalore, where space is a luxury, Shibanee & Kamal Architects have a bold and unique approach to housing design. Their philosophy? Every home deserves a garden, and if it can't have one, they won't build it.
This studio, based in one of India's most densely populated areas, has made it their mission to incorporate greenery into every residential project. But here's where it gets controversial: they don't see gardens as mere decorative elements. Instead, gardens are the foundation of their design process, influencing everything from the layout to the overall experience of living in these homes.
"The home just doesn't feel like a home without a garden," says Kamal Sagar, co-founder of the studio. This sentiment is not just a design preference but a deeply personal one, rooted in childhood memories of Enid Blyton's magical treehouse adventures.
To ensure their vision comes to life, Shibanee & Kamal Architects took control of the entire process. After seeing their designs altered by third-party developers, they established Total Environment, a construction and development arm that allows them to maintain creative control from start to finish.
"We realized the only way to make it work was to find the land, design, build, and sell it ourselves," Kamal explains. "By connecting the architects with the construction teams, we've created a seamless synergy."
A prime example of this approach is their project, Windmills of Your Mind, a high-rise residential development in the heart of Bangalore. Despite the urban setting, this project boasts more greenery than when the buildings were first constructed.
"Timeliness design" is a term the practice uses to describe their success. They've created homes that people want to live in for decades, never feeling the need to change or move.
Shibanee & Kamal Architects' emphasis on nature isn't just a design trend; it's a reflection of their personal connection to the natural world.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about having a garden; it's about creating a living, breathing space that enhances the overall quality of life.
What do you think? Is this approach to housing design revolutionary, or is it a luxury that's out of reach for most? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
