New Delhi-based Layers Studios for Design & Architecture (LSDA)’s projects are solid pieces of work realised through meticulous planning and sensitive use of building materials.
Layers Studios for Design & Architecture (LSDA) espouses an almost old-world approach to work – well-researched, intensively involved, and realised with a disciplined use of building materials that prioritises function over frill.
The New Delhi-based firm is led by Neha Bhardwaj and Gaurav Kapoor, and dabbles in architectural, interior and landscape design. The following three projects provide a good peep into the team’s originality when it comes to concept design as well as execution.
Kukreti House, Noida
The simplest of visages sometimes hide great nuance, and that is certainly true of this exposed brick home in Noida. Built for an NRI family, the structure had to be good enough for tenants when the family members are away, and be warm and ready if and when they returned.
It also had to be cost-effective and low-maintenance. To this fairly uncomplicated mix of demands, LSDA decided to add its own ingredients of original ideas. The team infused the home with an overall vibe reminiscent of modern earth structures – all stripped down natural hues with a plenitude of pergolas, and whimsical peppering of subtle colours for contrast.
The exposed scheme also helped save on painting and plastering costs. And, of course there is that timeless inspiration of the ‘jaali’ form, here realised with brick stacks. The home’s entire form was inspired by the architectural legacy of old Delhi, and applies its cantilevered layout to good effect. “Such kind of architecture is losing its relevance primarily as it requires much extra efforts and detailing from the architect’s end, but we feel that the results are worth the effort,” states the team.
Aloha On The Ganges, Rishikesh
LSDA is the landscape design consultant for this resort project overlooking the ethereal Ganga River valley and the greenery enveloped mountains beyond.
The team will be designing the Entry Area with its Stepped Terraces, and the Garden Area that will comprise of an open restaurant, a swimming pool, and the lawns, all soaking up expansive views of the river.
The team’s design plans centre around minimal interference with the natural gradient and topography of the river’s banks, and has informed the use of sustainable building materials culled locally, as well as minimal construction of walls.
The team’s respect for the natural levelling of the ground here is so sensitive that the restaurant kitchen has been pushed below the swimming pool deck. Aesthetically too, all thoughts are consciously understated.
The entry area will feature connected gardens on all terraces, while all the custom-made path lights will double up as planters. “The location of the site is absolutely stunning and it would not be wrong in saying that this is truly a dream project and site for any landscape architect,” states the team.
Accessories
LSDA can rightfully boast of a most original portfolio of accessories, and happily use it to showcase the degree of professional commitment that their involvement in a project entails.
The range of these accessories is impressive too, as it spans the humble and the elegant; the slightly geeky; and can travel up to the pop-artish and the somewhat-kitschy. One of the most impressive among these is the ‘Cycle Sculpture’, realised out of old car and Enfield Thunderbird parts, with an affixed headlamp to boot.
Another is a hand-painted storage unit showcasing the colourful, child-like imagery of the video game, Snood.
And the Wall Art and Dog Corner for a dog named KC that looks like a street lamp and has a movable hanging post for the feeding station, is well, just plain adorable.
Text By Shruti Nambiar
Photographs Courtesy The Architect
Contact
email: layersstudios@gmail.com
