Samara Homes in Ooty proves grey is more than just a millennial trend

Craving a burst of colours? Forget it! For millennials, it’s all about those 50 shades of grey when it comes to home decor. Peep into a local house or scroll through your cousin’s Pinterest. Or simply just give them a roulette of colours to choose from, and they’ll still hang on to some shade of grey. It’s clear—millennials are practically allergic to colour in their homes! But if the result is even remotely close to this homestay in Ooty, I wouldn’t mind. In fact, I’m all for it!

Originally constructed in the 1980s, Samara Homes along the scenic Ooty lake underwent a renovation. This homestay is not just a structure; it was a landmark filled with memories and craftsmanship, located across from the famous Honeymoon Boathouse. Unfortunately, years of neglect led to significant structural issues, resulting in its condemnation. Rather than opting for demolition, a dedicated group of architects, engineers and community members came together to revitalise this cherished building, aiming to preserve its legacy while breathing new life into its spaces.

In the expansive living area,large windows maximise natural light and minimise visual barriers, creating a  connection between the indoors and the surrounding landscape. The choice of soft, muted wall colours allows the  greenery outside to be the life.

The design encourages interaction with the natural environment by reducing interior barriers. The open layout of the dining and living spaces promotes a sense of flow and connection to the outside world. Pastel-coloured furnishings add a light, airy feel.

Acknowledging the community’s long-standing relationship with the building, the architects introduced contemporary elements while preserving its historical character. The use of local stone in the façade connects the apartments to the regional architectural style. To address Ooty’s heavy rainfall, protective sunshades were integrated to shield interiors from water intrusion.

Native tropical plants surround the building while the stone paving guides one in and out of the space.

The renovation employed cutting-edge engineering methods to tackle structural challenges while honouring the building’s heritage. The careful restoration of the original façade exemplifies a successful fusion of past and present, ensuring that Samara Homes will remain a valued community asset for years to come.

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