The Wilderness Home

Nestled in a lush wilderness beneath infinitely blue skies is the Somawathie Holiday Bungalow. Constructed sustainably with minimal intervention in a natural setting, it stands out – and the bungalow highlights the contrast between its perfectly symmetrical dimensions and the surroundings. This architectural innovation is a rigid Cartesian geometric structure enclosing luxury amid wild shrubbery. The building is divided into two individual structures, which demarcate the units for guests and support staff. The VIP bungalow for guests comprises two double height rooms and two smaller rooms, and is equipped with a pantry and room for the caretaker. A magnificent view of the surroundings is on offer from the balconies adjoining the rooms while the viewing deck, which is a concrete roof that serves as a public space on the building, captures a panoramic view of the area. This structure sits on strong concrete stilts to safeguard it from inundation and the mammoth tuskers that roam freely in the vicinity. And the thermally insulated roof reduces direct solar heat and thus the temperature of the interior. The bungalow is made of clay bricks and has sun shading devices made from cinnamon twigs, which give the building a natural feel and sense of environmental responsiveness.