The Teak House is modeled after garden pavilions popularized by the Maratha kings of yore who ruled Central India. Pavilions are an answer to the tropical wet and dry climate of the region where it is so important to harness the wind for comfort. Therefore, The Teak House is oriented NW – SE so as to catch the predominant SouthWest wind. This orientation also keeps the summer sun out while allowing the winter sun in. Deep roof overhangs provide further comfort by ensuring that even low rays of the setting summer sun are kept out.
The Teak House owes its name to an extensive use of teakwood. A conscious decision was taken to reuse wood from old dismantled buildings. Even the white ‘Allahabad’ roof-tiles is from old dismantled buildings. The reuse of old building materials and of locally available materials such as stone contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and is our way of showing that we care for the environment.
Traditionally, pitched roofs are supported on trusses. In an innovation of sorts, trusses have been done away with; with the ridge member being propped up by a strategically placed central post and by hip ridges at its two ends. This has been made possible because of the steep pitch of the roof. The ensuing result is a high and uncluttered roof.
Be it broom finish plaster on walls, motifs on pedestals and brackets or a chamfer here and a groove there on teakwood posts and rafters, it is the subtle attention to detail that gives The Teak House that enduring quality.
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