Goa's historical ties to Portuguese architecture have left an indelible mark on its landscape. Characterized by vibrant colors, intricate floral patterns, decorative mouldings, and geometric tiles, this architectural style stands as a testament to the region's rich heritage. These structures are not merely remnants of colonial influence; they have come to reflect a distinct Goan identity.
At the heart of Goa lies the concept of susegad, which transcends mere lifestyle to become a philosophy permeating every aspect of life, including architecture. Derived from the Portuguese word sossegado, meaning quiet or tranquil, susegad embodies a relaxed, unhurried approach to life that cherishes leisure, comfort, and a deep connection with nature. This ethos is vividly reflected in traditional Goan homes, where architectural elements are thoughtfully designed to foster serenity and calm.
The brief was to convert an old Portuguese bungalow in North Goa into a resort while preserving its original charm. The Yellow House is the result of this remodelling exercise, reviving a traditional villa into a contemporary hospitality destination.
Design conceptualisation
The design encourages social interaction while preserving cultural heritage. Built interventions include a spa to the east of the existing property and a contemporary wing with suites to the west, featuring private gardens and courts.
A meandering driveway leads visitors through the spa and ends at the villa's entrance porch. The brownfield intervention reimagines the villa, accommodating a reception area, restaurant, bar, bakery, and additional spaces. The courtyard has been developed to an extended waiting lounge with communal seating around a central tree.
The bakery and the all-day dining section of the restaurant extend into alfresco dining areas, each tailored to the space's intimacy. The larger dining area seamlessly transitions to the pool, deck, and open landscape, ensuring a gradual flow from indoors to outdoors. Lush greenery envelops the suites, which are equipped with balconies on upper floors offering views of the verdant surroundings. Deluxe rooms along the southern edge boast outdoor spaces with jacuzzies, a comfortable setting with flexibility in seating arrangements, and a children's play area.
A key planning strategy focused on reducing excavation and integrating structures with the undulating terrain of the site. Many trees were conserved as part of this approach, with one tree in particular standing out: an ancient tree as old as the owners' house itself. It has come to symbolize endurance and bridging the past with the present.
Sustainability is further emphasized through the use of local materials, the restoration of historical elements, and the integration of Goan cultural motifs, ensuring the villa remains a vibrant testament to the region's rich history.
Adaptive reuse
Efforts to minimize structural changes are evident in the refurbishing of three spacious bedrooms within the original structure, creating airy and luxurious suites. The guestroom block is positioned laterally to maximize glare-free northern light, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. The entrance's unconventional design, achieved through staggered walls, adds an element of intrigue. A central water feature breaks the monotony of the circulation spine, visually connecting all floors.
Preserving the villa’s original charm, the trussed roof over the bar is reinforced and highlighted with a lush green hue. Painstakingly restored ornamental mouldings and terracotta roof tiles, along with refurbished arched windows and doors, maintain the historical connection. Handcrafted terrazzo tiles, featuring reimagined geometric motifs offer a unique aesthetic.
Cultural narrative through materials and art
Local materials play a pivotal role in grounding the project within its rich cultural context while emphasising the unique nature of each space. Rattan screens form the wooden cladding in the reception and are also used as a frieze detail in the all-day dining area. Bespoke furniture, crafted with local artisans, employs an earthy colour palette, infusing a tropical charm into the space.
The public areas come alive with vibrant colours, harmonizing with the spirited visual palette and echoing the romance of a Portuguese-inspired villa. Private rooms feature cheerful yellows, calming blues, and lush greens, creating a sanctuary that feels both exotic and intimate. Curated artworks evoke enchanting Goan architectural scenes.
The all-day dining area features mirrored walls that add depth and a touch of mystery, while a glazed shorter wall offers captivating views of the lush landscape. The bar's wall is adorned with exquisite green Udaipur stone. Custom lamps with a lustrous brass finish, crafted by local artisans, cast a warm, golden glow, enhancing the ambiance. The restroom vanity, with its sturdy base and antique bronze-finished mirror sourced from an heirloom market, adds a touch of timeless charm.
In a poetic departure from conventional design, jaali patterns were added to the corridors in the guestroom block, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow. Handmade printed terrazzo tiles, contrasting with the heritage rooms' beige Italian marble, lend a touch of artisanal magic to the guest room flooring. This careful selection of local materials and traditional design elements ensures that The Yellow House not only preserves but also celebrates the spirit of Goa.
Restoration efforts
The Yellow House started as a boutique hotel project and ultimately became affiliated with the Taj Group after its completion. The Morphogenesis approach prioritizes sustainability while paying homage to the property's original architecture, celebrating it in a new avatar. The design interventions culminate in a serene retreat nestled in the lap of nature.
