Indian Studio Compartment S4 Completes Vernacular-Inspired Cow Shelter in Maharashtra

The Indian architecture firm Compartment S4 has finished constructing a new cattle shelter in the coastal town of Dahanu, Maharashtra. The project, named Gaughar (Cow House), is situated within a 340-acre fruit orchard. It replaces an old, deteriorating shed with a structure designed to be a humane and climate-responsive environment for both livestock and their caretakers. The design retains the original steel framework, painted red, and incorporates walls made from local black basalt stone and brick. These walls feature large archways and perforated sections. The layout emphasizes hygiene and the daily routines of the animals and workers, creating alternating enclosed and open areas to promote airflow, natural light, and easy movement. Co-founder Kishan Shah explained that the architecture supports the daily rhythms of agricultural care and activity. The design allows cows to move freely between indoor resting spaces and outdoor paddocks. To add warmth and craftsmanship, the studio integrated locally crafted elements. These include bamboo ceilings made with artisans from the Dang region and windows fitted with sections of block-printed ajrakh fabric. Perforated brickwork on the gable ends references traditional jali screens, and water troughs are inspired by matka clay pots. Shah noted that inspiration came from vernacular agricultural buildings and traditional material practices that naturally address the climate. The project aims to intertwine architectural form, animal welfare, and ecological systems. Photography for the project was provided by The Space Tracing Company.