AKSH Architects repurposes abandoned buildings into earthy retreat in Pune
The Earthen Retreat, a new collection of guesthouses in Pune, India, has been completed by AKSH Architects, transforming four neglected site offices and storage units. Spanning 557 square meters, the site now boasts eight guesthouses symmetrically arranged around a communal patio featuring a swimming pool. The original timber and steel frameworks were preserved, while mud and lime plaster in earthy tones of beige and dark green were applied to the walls and ceilings. Curved shapes characterize built-in benches, oval bathtubs, and arched doorways. Some bathrooms are partially exposed to the outdoors, protected by bamboo canopies. Founder Akash Shingvi referred to the project as 'intentionally radical,' designed to evoke a 'timeless, earthy, and deeply connected to nature' experience. This initiative illustrates how 'forgotten infrastructure' can acquire enduring cultural and environmental significance. Photography credits go to Harsh Lunavat. Other mud-based projects in India include Aurva Illam near Hyderabad and the mud-walled Winterfell house in Tamil Nadu.
Key facts
- AKSH Architects completed The Earthen Retreat in Pune, India.
- The project repurposes four abandoned site offices and storage units.
- The plot is 557 square metres.
- The retreat consists of eight guesthouses arranged symmetrically around a patio with a swimming pool.
- Existing timber and steel structures were retained.
- Mud and lime plaster were used for walls and ceilings.
- Bathrooms are partially open to the elements with bamboo canopies.
- Founder Akash Shingvi described the design as 'intentionally radical.'
- Photography is by Harsh Lunavat.
Entities
Artists
- Akash Shingvi
- Harsh Lunavat
Institutions
- AKSH Architects
- Dezeen
Locations
- Pune
- India
- Hyderabad
- Deccan Plateau
- Tamil Nadu
Sources
- Dezeen —