An Open-Plan House Unites Indoors and Outdoors

The Green Gable is a 700-square-meter weekend home located on the outskirts of Indore, India, designed by Atelier X Architects for a family seeking a peaceful retreat. The house features a single, linear gable roof that brings together all the spaces under one structure, giving the home a cohesive feel.

The entrance is marked by a freestanding canopy, leading visitors into the house with the sound of flowing water and the scent of Champa flowers at the main door. Inside, the roof’s design, supported by a green metal frame and wooden ceiling, creates a sense of space and openness.

The home follows an open-plan layout, where the dining, kitchen, and living areas are placed in a row, making it easy to move between them. These spaces connect seamlessly to the outdoors, including the pool, upper deck, and a large lawn. The terracotta block wall at the front adds an interesting element, controlling light and privacy for the Master bedroom behind it.

The Master bedroom on the ground floor is simple, with careful use of color, texture, and light to create a comfortable atmosphere. The home’s design challenge was its location in a flood-prone area, which required careful water management through dykes and trenches. This strategy not only protects the home but also helps recharge groundwater levels, eliminating the need for a traditional compound wall.

Throughout the project, the materials used remain consistent, ensuring a unified look across the house. The terracotta blocks are sliced and used for wall cladding, adding visual interest. The dense plantation surrounding the property helps control the local climate and offers privacy.

At night, the house takes on a different character, with lights illuminating the gable roof, making it appear to float above the structure. The Green Gable is designed as a space where architecture and the natural environment work together, providing a quiet and comfortable retreat for its residents.

Mid Western

Photos by Yadneysh Joshi