Header: Karan Gajjar / The Space Tracing Company
Situated near Gandhinagar in Gujarat, India, Aalloa Hills Residence offers a retreat that harmonizes with nature. Resting on a natural plateau with sweeping views of the river and forest, it hovers above the land, allowing the natural ecosystem to remain undisturbed. Designed by INI Design Studio, this net-zero home above the Sabarmati Riverside terrain, combines sustainable living with a bold aesthetic.
A floating structure in the wilderness
Perched on a natural plateau, the residence seems to float above the landscape, enabling the river and forest below to remain undisturbed. Its bright white structure contrasts sharply with the lush greens and earthy browns of its surroundings, while deep verandahs and a linear layout promote a sense of openness. A long access ramp threads through the site, connecting the staff quarters and guest house to the main residence, gradually revealing panoramic views of the valley.
Sustainable design and care for the surrounding environment
Designed with Gujarat’s climate in mind, the house incorporates passive cooling techniques to minimize energy consumption. Sunbreakers on the west side reduce heat gain, while an east-facing veranda provides shade during the day and an inviting outdoor retreat in the morning and evening.
A china-mosaic-lined rooftop reflects heat, and features such as double-glazed windows, wide cavity masonry walls, and a sunken slab filled with cinder maintain comfortable interiors without air conditioning for most of the year. Cooling breezes are further enhanced by a pool and waterfall flanking the main living space.
All existing vegetation on the site was preserved, with over 400 new trees and shrubs planted to create a habitat for the many birds and other creatures that frequent the area. This thoughtful initiative reflects a spirit of gratitude, giving back to nature for its abundant gifts.
Monochromatic luxurious interior
Geometry plays a crucial role in the home’s layout, balancing solid walls with open voids to establish a continuous connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The monochrome palette, featuring a bright white exterior for the horizontally oriented structure, is accented by black stone flooring along the balconies, creating a bold contrast against the natural tones of the plateau and valley.
The minimalist yet luxurious black-and-white interiors create a comfortable space that allows the landscape and artwork’s colors to take center stage. Public and private areas flow seamlessly, with a double-height living space serving as the central focal point.
As residents from every room step onto shaded outdoor spaces, they take in the lush, rolling landscape, framed like a canvas celebrating greenery through expansive fenestration, paying homage to the modernist masters by the INI Design team.
Project info
Project Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
Completion Year: 2023
Building Function: Private Residence
Architect Firm: INI Design Studio
Lead Architects: Jayesh Hariyani, Bindu Hariyani
Photo Credit: Karan Gajjar / The Space Tracing Company
