Header: Ishita Sitwala
On the quiet eastern coast of Tamil Nadu sits Pennyroyal Tea, a garden home that took two and a half years to complete. It wasn’t built just by a handful of workers. Instead, the creative studio MOS brought together a community of over 200 skilled artisans from all over India. This large group collaborated to create a space that feels special and deeply connected to the country’s rich heritage of handmade craftsmanship. The project was a massive undertaking in terms of coordination and skill, resulting in a residence that showcases what can be achieved when traditional crafts are central to modern design.
Materials with a story
The creators of Pennyroyal Tea were very particular about what they used to build it. They chose natural stone and solid wood sourced from the local region. This decision was about more than just appearance; it was about creating a healthier home with improved air quality, free from the chemicals often found in mass-produced materials. This focus on natural and local materials also means the house has a reduced environmental impact. Every surface, from the floors to the walls, tells a story about the land it came from.
Designed down to the last detail
Much of what you see and touch in Pennyroyal Tea was specifically designed for this house. About 80 percent of all the furniture, lights, and artworks were custom-crafted for their specific spot. This approach allowed the designers at MOS to fill the home with unique pieces that fit perfectly. Intricate mosaic flooring creates beautiful patterns underfoot, while custom brass installations catch the light. Nothing feels off-the-shelf. This dedication to custom work means every part of the interior is part of a larger, carefully considered picture, giving the home its unique personality.
Building for a smarter future
Beyond its beauty, Pennyroyal Tea is a great example of sustainable building. By designing most of the items in-house, the team avoided the waste that comes with mass production. They also considered what would happen to the materials at the end of the building’s life, ensuring that items like wood and stone could be reused or recycled one day. This reduces the home’s overall carbon footprint, both in its construction and in its daily existence.
It’s a project that demonstrates how thoughtful design can support local communities while also caring for the planet. MOS, the studio behind the vision, approaches every project with a fresh eye, creating personal and interesting spaces that don’t follow a set formula. Pennyroyal Tea is a clear example of that idea in action.
