A 13,000 sq. ft. Delhi villa by Essentia Environments with smart technology integration

In the heart of Delhi, lies a villa that is more than just a home—it’s a celebration of space, light and thoughtful design. Spanning 13,000 square feet, this architectural marvel by Hardesh Chawla and Monica Chawla, Director and Creative Head at Essentia Environments envelopes one in a sense of calm, with a breathtaking view of the outdoor pool.

“While vacationing in the Maldives, the wife mentioned to her husband that she had her eye on our designs and wanted us to create their dream home. To her surprise, he had already saved our profile on Instagram!” says the team at Essentia Environments.

The villa’s ground floor is divided into two distinct wings, each speaking to the specific needs of the family. On the right, formal spaces shine—elegant, refined, yet never cold. A serene mandir offers a sacred space of reflection, while a private office and formal living area provide rooms for both quiet work and social gatherings. Adorned with curated artwork, luxurious marble accents, and refined paneling, this section of the home is hard to miss.

On the opposite side lies the family’s private space, anchored by a spacious family lounge. This room, as warm and inviting as it is functional, flows effortlessly into the bedrooms and dining area. At its heart is the show kitchen—a beautifully designed space meant to foster interaction and connection, while the main kitchen, more discreetly placed, handles the behind-the-scenes work. The master suite is a triumph of design, with separate walk-in closets and a lavish bathroom that embodies both intimacy and indulgence. Two additional suites cater to the family’s children and guests, and at the center of it all lies a playful, versatile play area that brings both joy and functionality into the home.

Descend into the basement, and you enter a world of recreation. Here, a home theater, bar, gym and games area await, each flooded with natural light courtesy of well-positioned cutouts and garden spaces that eliminate the typical basement atmosphere. The clever use of light ensures the space feels as connected to nature as every other room in this home, keeping the vibe bright and lively, yet intimate.

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Atop the villa, the terrace holds staff quarters and service areas—separated thoughtfully to ensure both efficiency and privacy. This integration of service spaces into the overall design ensures the family’s life flows uninterrupted, leaving space for both relaxation and quiet enjoyment.

Every aspect of this home is a reflection of the family’s unique vision. The villa is not just a space—it’s a smart home, equipped with automation systems that manage lighting, security and even fire safety. Whether it’s ensuring maximum sunlight, using eco-friendly materials, or making sure the space is suited to family life, every detail serves a purpose, and every room is a testament to how function can enhance luxury.

From the outset, the client’s brief set a clear direction. They sought a home that was compact but spacious, efficient but comfortable, and deeply connected to the surrounding farm. What emerged was a design that didn’t just echo minimalism but embraced it—focusing on maximising natural light and ventilation to create spaces that feel open and airy. Every room—whether it’s a lavish master suite or a fun-filled playroom for the children—offers ample space without feeling excessive.

Neutral tones of white, brown, and gray weave through the home. These muted hues give way to the vibrancy of art, textiles, and personal touches—rugs, cushions, and linens—infusing the home with colour and character.

True luxury today is rooted in sustainability, and this villa rises to the occasion. Solar panels reduce electricity consumption, while rainwater harvesting and efficient sewage systems help conserve water. A cow shed on the property provides fresh milk for the family, and native plants are cultivated to nurture the land, fostering a self-sustaining ecosystem.

The most rewarding aspect of this design was crafting spaces tailored for every member of the family, with a special focus on the children. The dedicated kids’ playroom is a haven of comfort and creativity, featuring cosy sunken seating where children can engage, relax, or simply daydream. The open layout ensures that circulation spaces are designed for both children’s activities and adult conversations.

FACT FILE:

Firm Name: Essentia Environments

Design Team and Designation: Hardesh Chawla and Monica Chawla; Director and Creative Head

Location: Chattarpur

Area: 13,000 sq. ft.

Photo courtesy: Vaibhav Bhatia