Home tour: A multigenerational family home in India built around a lush central courtyard

“The family envisioned a home that fosters well-being, mindfulness, and intergenerational bonding,” recall Zafar Masud Choudhary and Monika Choudhary, founders of Habitat Architects. 

“As ardent nature enthusiasts, the family also desired a home that felt open, welcoming, and deeply connected to its natural surroundings–one that maximises natural light, and creates expansive yet intimate spaces.”

See also: Home tour: A luxurious multigenerational home near New Delhi showcasing homegrown materials

Striking a delicate balance between the traditional courtyard typology and modern aesthetics while also addressing the functional needs of a multigenerational family, designing a space that simultaneously embraces openness, privacy, and contemporary comforts requires meticulous detailing.

As such, the husband-and-wife duo drew inspiration from India’s traditional courtyard homes, particularly their ability to integrate nature with daily living. 

Don’t miss: 4 inspiring homes of designer couples in Malaysia

“Additionally, minimalist modern architecture informed the clean and functional layout, ensuring the home reflects both cultural depth and contemporary sophistication,” they add regarding the project that took 24 months from concept to completion.

Spanning approximately 6,000 sq ft, Courtyard House is designed with a deep respect for heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics, fusing modern minimalism and traditional Indian architectural principles.

Unlike traditional luxury homes that favour heavily on ornate finishes, this home emphasises clean lines and geometric forms, focusing rather on the beauty of structural simplicity.

Read more: Home tour: A tranquil modern farmhouse in New Delhi in harmony with nature

The two-storey residence is organised around the anchoring central courtyard that fosters a fluid dialogue between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The family’s unique wish for a versatile courtyard inspired the design team to include a smooth stone platform amidst a water feature and lush landscaping–a serene oasis that the family uses for morning yoga sessions. 

“The central courtyard remains the defining feature of the home,” the Choudhary couple note. “Its design demanded a nuanced approach to ensure it became the emotional and functional nucleus of the residence.”

See also: 15 best green homes in Malaysia

Comprising a formal living area, a family lounge, a dining room, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and four bedrooms, Courtyard House features floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors throughout both social and private spaces.

This allows natural light to flood in, while inviting verdant views into the tactile spaces made of locally sourced stone, natural wood, and exposed concrete–a striking fresh take on a contemporary luxury home set against lush greenery that provides a bit of colour and vibrancy to the indoor spaces.

Don’t miss: Home tour: A colonial-inspired bungalow in New Delhi with eco-conscious modernity

“These materials were chosen for their sustainability, durability, and the warm aesthetic they impart, ensuring the home remains both eco-conscious and visually compelling,” the founders elaborate.

They continue: “The luxurious Italian marble flooring adds sophistication and refinement while maintaining a cool temperature, making it comfortable for the homeowners year-round in the harsh North Indian climate.”

Read more: 7 astonishing hotels that celebrate vernacular architecture around the world

The colour palette, on the other hand, is intentionally earthy and grounded. Shades of beige, terracotta, muted greens, and natural whites were chosen to echo the home’s connection to nature, while promoting a calm, timeless elegance that resonates throughout the space.

Finally, the indoor swimming pool on the first floor deserves mention as it blends functionality with entertainment.

“The high-tech automated indoor swimming pool on the first floor has become a family favourite, doubling as a vibrant social hub for the family gatherings and events,” the Choudhary couple conclude.

NOW READ

Inside Peninsula House: The transformation of a Penang art deco landmark

How The Campus Ampang is revolutionising Malaysia’s retail landscape through adaptive reuse

Pacific notions: inside a family’s island getaway in Mindanao, Philippines