CHIC SPACES
Timeless Houses curated by noted architect Kapil Aggarwal showcases 17 exclusive private residences designed by leading architects of four countries - India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan. A chat with the architect
Aarti Aggarwal of Knock on Wood spills the bean on furniture design
What was the idea behind curating the coffee table book?
I have always been fantasised with the buildings and the way they are designed. I wanted to explore the projects from the designers own perspective, because it not only helps you understand the thought process, but also lets you feel connected to it. I started this process with my team to create a book that not only showcases great stuff, but also educates the reader about the details, techniques and local materials. It took us two years of hard work and research to showcase a story.
What is Timeless Houses all about?
Timeless Houses showcases 17 exclusive private residences designed by leading architects of four countries - India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Though all the houses are sited in the Southern Asian region, they are diverse in their architectural forms and styles. Designed by creative architects with international acclaim, these dwellings represent diverse geographical locations, climatology, cultures, lifestyles of the four South Asian countries, and hence different architectural form and styles. However, there are several unifying factors that bring these houses on one platform. Each project is an authentic and honest design that has the capability to remain functional for generations.
Which project did you like the most?
I liked all the projects. It is very hard for me to pick one, because all the houses are designed with great thought and with amazing spaces and details.
What can one expect while exploring the book?
This book is a concept of showcasing residences from four different nations. It takes you to a journey of not only the house, but also the story behind it, in the form of architect’s own perspective of the space and detailed drawings and materials. The brilliantly designed pages provide a walk-through experience of each dwelling; while the articles offer background information on the architects, their work philosophy as well as particular challenges, unique solutions, and materials used in the building process. The interviews at the end of each feature offer additional interesting insights about the houses and their designers.
Who are the likely audience?
Well, this book is for all the architecture enthusiasts, be it practicing architects or aspiring students or ones who wish to create their houses. The book contains a wealth of information for architects, planners, interior designers, as well as the casual reader with an interest in design and the art of living.
Surprises galore while working on the book?
Yes, there were couple of projects which were so amazingly designed and with whole new different approach to the challenges and that’s extraordinary. It was a great learning experience for me while exploring the projects from the other side of the river.
What’s next?
I am planning to create a book about conservation. When I started my project Haveli Dharampura back in 2010 and by the time it was turned to a great piece in 2015, my thought process continuously evolved towards conservation. I want to preserve the past glory, which could help people to understand and explore conservation from a different perspective.