Mumbai Artist Retreat

Nestled on the other side of the bustling Mumbai Bay stands as a home for artists seeking respite from the demands of the global metropolis. The location, characterized by its rural and agricultural ambiance, offers a spacious, natural environment, providing a stark contrast to the urban chaos. Despite its relative seclusion, the retreat maintains a connection with the city, with the distant Mumbai skyline serving as a constant reminder of the dynamic energy across the bay.

Situated in a low-lying coconut palm plantation near a beach, the site faces challenges such as saline groundwater during summer. The intelligent site planning incorporates a waterharvesting pond at the heart of the property, not only recharging the groundwater table with sweet water but also attracting an abundance of fish and bird life. The thoughtful division of the site into temporary residential, workspace, and long-term residential zones enhances its functionality.

To address the site's low soil bearing capacity and occasional flooding, the architects opted for nimble lightweight steel structures, elegantly lifted off the ground. The use of off-site manufacturing and nut-and-bolt connections minimizes on-site disturbance during construction. The columns, resting on stone boulders, offer a flexible construction method, allowing for potential reassembly on higher ground if needed.

The structure is designed as a "tropical shed". With two asymmetrical, pyramid-shaped roofs and skylights, the space encourages an experimental perspective. Bamboo V-shaped beams, with their irregular shapes and diameters cleverly managed through a zig-zag pattern, form the roof structure. Exposed from the inside, the bamboo framework is covered with lightweight cement sheets on the exterior, blending aesthetics with functionality.

The inclusion of a solar skylight not only generates power but also facilitates natural ventilation by pulling up hot air from the space below. The solar panels seamlessly integrate into the design, ensuring that their technological character complements rather than overpowers the aesthetic appeal of the structure.

The Other Side Studio is not just a retreat; it's a thoughtful synthesis of artistic vision, ecological mindfulness, and architectural innovation. As a beacon of sustainable design, it beckons artists to immerse themselves in a space that not only fosters creativity but also nurtures a deeper connection with nature and the self.