Traditional values meet contemporary aspirations in The Zen House crafted by EssTeam

Perched on the 11th floor of a residential tower in Surat, The Zen House is an exercise in thoughtful expansion and spatial harmony. Designed by EssTeam, the project transforms two adjoining apartments into a seamless, cohesive home for a family of four and their beloved dog. With a clear vision inspired by the homeowner’s background in psychiatry, the design prioritises calmness, warmth, and efficient space utilisation, while subtly overcoming the constraints of an existing structure. The result is a contemporary urban retreat where every element fosters comfort, functionality, and a quiet sense of balance.

Architectural Metamorphosis

The transformation began with meticulous attention to detail, as the design team navigated the complexities of working without initial site surveys. Each discovery of hidden structural elements became an opportunity for creative problem-solving, resulting in innovative design solutions that seamlessly integrated these challenges into the overall aesthetic.

Living Spaces that Breathe

At the heart of the home is the living room, an oasis of calm wrapped in a neutral palette of washed-out greys. This muted backdrop allows the textures and materials to take center stage, particularly the brick-clad wall, which infuses the space with warmth and depth. Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood—indirect sources and concealed fixtures create a soft, diffused glow, while the design smartly integrates structural beams within the ceiling to maintain a clean, clutter-free aesthetic.

A statement library unit serves as the focal point, its undulating shelves offering a dynamic contrast to the otherwise understated interiors. More than just a functional display, this unit cleverly conceals a floor-rising home theater screen, ensuring that technology remains unobtrusive without disrupting the room’s visual flow.

Spaces for Connection

The dining and informal living areas flow naturally from the main space, offering varied settings for family interaction. The informal living room particularly stands out with its thoughtful inclusion of pet-friendly storage solutions, acknowledging the four-legged family member’s needs while maintaining the home’s elegant aesthetic.

Personal Sanctuaries

Each bedroom within The Zen House tells its own colour story while maintaining the overall design narrative. The master bedroom’s maroon accents speak of sophistication, while the daughter’s room, complete with a mirror wall for dance practice and a dedicated guitar space, celebrates creative expression. The son’s room showcases brilliant versatility with its Murphy bed design and keyboard area, doubling as a private lounge when unoccupied.

Where Design Meets Life

With its mindful approach to expansion, The Zen House by EssTeam reflects the power of design to create balance in urban living. By merging warmth with functionality and individuality with cohesion, the home becomes a sanctuary where life unfolds with ease. Detailed and elegantly understated, it stands as a modern retreat where space, light, and emotion come together in perfect symmetry.

FACT FILE

Site Location: Dream World Residency, Surat

Construction Area: 2712 sq ft / 252 sq m (Carpet Area)

Cost of Project: Confidential

Year of Completion: 2024

Services: Interior Design, MEP Integration, Artworks

Firms Involved: EssTeam, OBL/QUE

Photographs by Pratikruti