Tucked away behind a bold facade of rich red bricks and sleek black cladding, Maroon Masonry - Arbour Essence Residence is a poetic expression of identity, resilience, and craftsmanship. Designed as a deeply symbolic and sustainable family home, it is a study of how architecture can speak both to the heart and the earth.
“At its centre, a dramatic double-height lobby sets the emotional tone. Dominated by a striking, leafless tree wallpaper, the space serves as the spiritual heart of the home. The tree, stark and powerful in its monochrome form, represents resilience and the raw beauty of life's cycles. Perched on its branches are five birds, each symbolising a family member, gazing upwards towards a large skylight that floods the area with natural light. The imagery is deliberate, rooted yet aspiring, grounded yet reaching," explained Mohammad Arish.
Throughout the house, this theme of duality plays out in form and function. From the outside, the structure is strong and earthy, wrapped in locally sourced red bricks and softened by the organic rhythm of black panels. Inside, the tone shifts, warm natural light, open volumes, and hand-crafted elements create a sense of intimacy and openness.
Public spaces on the ground floor flow around a central courtyard, seamlessly connecting indoors and out. A custom-designed brick jali filters in dappled sunlight while allowing for natural ventilation, a nod to traditional Indian design sensibilities, updated for contemporary living.
“One of the standout features is the staircase. More than a means of movement, it's a sculptural focal point. Made from special orange granite and designed without risers, it appears to float mid-air, adding both vibrancy and elegance to the space without interrupting the visual flow," briefs Mohammad Arish.
Materiality is central to the home's character. Every surface tells a story. From natural stone flooring to wooden furniture crafted by Indian artisans, there is a conscious return to the tactile and the handmade. Lighting fixtures blend metal with natural finishes, while a palette of maroon, beige, deep brown and matte black adds richness without overpowering the eye.
Importantly, Maroon Masonry - Arbour Essence also walks the talk on sustainability. Local sourcing of materials not only supports regional craftspeople but significantly reduces the carbon footprint. The home uses passive cooling techniques, harnesses natural light through its clever spatial planning, and eliminates the need for excessive artificial interventions.
What sets this residence apart, however, isn't just its architectural language; it's the emotional resonance it carries. Every design choice, from the symbolism of the birds to the groundedness of the brick walls, speaks to a larger narrative of family, rootedness, and the desire to grow without forgetting where you come from.
In a time when homes are often defined by square footage or high-gloss finishes, Maroon Masonry - Arbour Essence reminds us that true luxury lies in meaning, mindfulness, and gracefully aged materials.
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