Iki Builds' Aurva Illam House in Hyderabad Reimagines Luxury with Local Materials

Iki Builds, an architecture firm, has finalized Aurva Illam, a residence located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, steering clear of imported villa designs. Vamshidhar Reddy, the principal architect, sought to redefine modern luxury by crafting a home that embodies the essence of its surroundings. The structure showcases vaulted shapes, positioning private areas above shared spaces. It utilizes materials such as rammed earth, local stone, and terracotta-hued plaster, with robust rammed earth walls providing unrefined textures. The ground floor is organized around a traditional mutram courtyard, complemented by a vaulted living space to the south. A salvaged granite cantilevered staircase ascends to the upper level. The name merges the Sanskrit word 'Aurva' (meaning 'of the earth') with the Tamil word 'Illam' (meaning 'home'). Photography by Vivek Eadara.