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Photographer: Santhosh Loganathan

Chennai-based architecture and design firm Triple O Studio has designed the Monterosa Holiday Home amidst the hill of Sirumalai, Tamil Nadu. The location was chosen for its surrounding green valleys, wilderness, and sloped terrain. It was rebuilt on an existing foundation clad in stone on a steep slope, which cantilevers over the slope. Large terraces, expansive glass walls and deck areas overlook the natural beauty. Spread over 1500 sq. ft., comfortable couches have been placed for relaxation purposes.

An amalgamation of locally-sourced rubble masonry, thatch, straw, hand plaster, and terracotta have been used. In fact, and the foundation and plinth have been made out of the stone sourced from the site itself. Repurposed stems of old guava trees act as safety markers and add a rustic touch to the furniture and décor as well. They have been used in crockery, furniture, and other items to create a common aesthetic language. The waste dry grass was used for wall texturing, by spreading a thick layer of hay on freshly-plastered external walls. This was later coated with varnish to make the walls durable, complementing the concrete flooring.

Red laterite is used for the first-floor service walls, and materials for the thatched roof were sourced from Kerala. Furniture has been sourced from various exotic locations such as Africa and Peru, which reflects the clients’ love for traveling.