Tropical Modernism: Secrets of the Indian Ocean
A sustainable and functional way of living in beautiful spaces that draw inspiration from the majestic Indian Ocean lapping at coastlines, tropical modernism melds together traditional design practices with modern aesthetics. Modern tropical architecture specifically welcomes the natural elements and focuses on integrating light, ventilation and environment into your living spaces to make your home feel like a sunlit island.
One of the core principles of this design philosophy is the use of local natural materials, influenced by the cultural elements of the region. At Inaya we have employed locally-sourced laterite stone extensively. Our architect Ahsan Ansari says, “Laterite is indigenous to Goa, and we have used it not just as wall claddings but as a construction material. Right from the foundation to the walls, it’s laterite all the way. While Cotton House and Macassar House have accents of laterite on their facade, Cinnabar House is finished in soft hues of off-white, cream and beige, therefore calling for the use of mint stone.”
For the hot and unrelentingly humid climes of the Indian coastline, the use of natural building materials and techniques is crucial to making your home a cool sanctuary. Wide eaves and canopied lounges further provide shade and shelter from the sun. Open courtyards, colonnaded passages and reflecting pools subtly erase the boundary between the indoors and outdoors and ensure excellent ventilation. Strategically planned windows and sliding doors are other features that can open up the space, and give you a picturesque view of the lush topography around you.
Emphasise clean lines for a sense of transparency and lightness. Unadorned details can be made richer by blending in glass, metal and dark wood, with reflective surfaces lending an ever-changing quality to your home, transforming from the sunny comfort of day to the crystal glow of night. Evoke the charm and magic of a glistening ocean front and warm beaches by referencing blue and sandy colour tones in your interiors. Keep things simple yet sensuous, cosy yet luxurious for a tranquil retreat.
Strike a balance between concrete structures and organic textures with flowing spaces that invite native leafy foliage into your home. Living areas that extend outside into porches, gardens and terraces create a seamless transition into the environment. Bring in a relaxed island aesthetic with textiles, colours and patterns. Pops of colour against a palette of neutrals create an earthy yet decadent feel. As our interior designer Pavitra Rajaram says, “The first house is actually the most eclectic in terms of how the palette has evolved. So it’s grey but it’s got bursts of colour coming in everywhere — a lovely tropical yellow, a deep pink, a wonderful, brilliant turquoise.”
Tropical modernism is rooted in heritage, but creative and modern in implementation. By adapting to the environment and seeking inspiration from the elements, your home can evolve into a unique and intimate living experience. It’s the attention to little details that transform your beautiful space into an extraordinary one.
