No frills, all heart: This Bengaluru home by ma+rs is designed for paws and people alike

Tucked away in Devanahalli’s (Bengaluru) northern stretch, on a 60’ x 90’ parcel, lies a home crafted for a family of four—and their trio of lively canine companions. In this home, architecture isn’t just about walls and floors but a fluid conversation between indoor and outdoor spaces, shared joy and moments of respite. This home by ma+rs seems to nod to the needs of both the human and furry residents.

As one approaches the house, a shaded walkway leads you through an entrance patio. It’s an intentional pause, a moment of transition from the outside world into this thoughtfully designed space. Crossing the threshold, the house reveals its spine—a clear axis running east to west, guiding you through each zone with gentle purpose. This central axis divides the first block, which houses private quarters, into two bedrooms on either side. Each bedroom spills into a private sit-out, a cosy nook where one can unwind, wrapped in both light and privacy.

Moving forward, the second block reveals itself: a green courtyard bathes the area in natural light, offering a gentle retreat for family members. The staircase, powder room, utility space and electrical room are nestled around this courtyard, quietly supporting the daily flow. The east-west axis draws one toward the heart of the home—the third block—which houses the double-height living, dining and kitchen area. Expansive and open, this space feels less like an interior room and more like an extension of the backyard.

The family’s brief was straightforward “wanting a four-bedroom home with the public functions being more important since they liked to hang out together as a family.” says Anisha Menon & Sabyasachi Routray of ma+rs . A tight budget defined the scope, emphasising a clutter-free layout so that both the family and their dogs could move freely.

No trend zone

Steering clear of fleeting trends, the design aimed to create an atmosphere of calm and protection, a space that feels like home from the moment one walks in. To achieve this, the team embraced a timeless, minimal approach with climate-responsive features. This is a home meant to evolve, where the family can add or change elements over time without compromising its core character.

Humble, clean and budget-friendly

With budget constraints in mind, the material palette is refreshingly straightforward. Exposed concrete slabs require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for regular repainting. Clean white walls add brightness, while vitrified tiles and locally sourced Sadarhalli granite stone provide durable flooring options for both indoor and outdoor spaces. The restrained palette not only keeps costs down but also highlights the spatial quality, allowing natural light and air to play their part in animating each space.

Also Read: You wouldn’t want to lose the key to this Australian double in the paddy fields of Goa

Sustainability at the heart

The tropical climate of Bengaluru influenced the design to prioritise natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. Rainwater runoff is harvested in an underground tank, used for gardening, flushing and car washing. The excess is directed into a recharge pit, helping replenish groundwater.

FACT FILE :

Name of the project: SAMAM

Firm Name: ma+rs

Design Team and Designation: Anisha Menon and Sabyasachi Routray

Location of the project: Bengaluru

Area: 3,500 sq ft

Photo courtesy: Atik Bheda Photography