- Project: Kora Home
- Architect: Alara Studio
- Location: India, Chennai
- Year: 2024
- Area: 743 m2
- Photography: Yash R Jain
Kora Home, an 8,000-square-foot oceanfront residence in Chennai, India, is a stunning celebration of slow living, indigenous craft, and generational legacy. Designed by Alara Studio under the creative direction of Amrita Thomas, the home is a poetic reinterpretation of a coastal bungalow originally built by the homeowner’s father, a renowned architect at Chitale & Son.
This weekend retreat for a young family with two toddlers and their dogs artfully blends modern comfort with timeless craftsmanship. With sweeping views of the Bay of Bengal, the project reimagines beachfront living through the lens of wabi-sabi aesthetics—embracing natural textures, raw finishes, and handcrafted details.
A Contemporary Renovation Rooted in Heritage
Rather than demolishing the existing structure, the design team chose to honor its architectural DNA. The brief was clear: transform the home into a serene beach getaway that feels young, fresh, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Alara Studio infused the home with minimalist elegance and a tactile palette. Lime-washed walls, Kota stone flooring, and hand-chiseled textures define the material language, setting the stage for a grounded and calming atmosphere. Every surface celebrates imperfection and age, evoking a sense of timelessness.
“We wanted the space to breathe with the rhythm of the ocean,” says Amrita Thomas. “To feel effortless yet refined, soulful yet modern.”
Design Details That Evoke the Sea
Subtle marine references are layered throughout the interiors. In the double-height living room, an oversized woven cane pendant light draws attention to the seating area. The dining space features a handcrafted jellyfish-inspired light fixture floating above a live-edge wooden table—both artistic and organic.
A sense of play is introduced in the bar area, where custom terrazzo counters provide a splash of color and texture against an otherwise muted backdrop. A bespoke lighting feature above the bar brings cohesion to the lively composition.
Celebrating Indian Craftsmanship
A standout aspect of the project is its collaborative spirit. Alara Studio curated works from over 20 Indian artisans, makers, and emerging designers, resulting in an eclectic yet harmonious aesthetic. From handwoven rugs to custom joinery and lighting, each element tells a story of local craft and contemporary reinterpretation.
The interiors feel curated, not styled—rooted in authenticity rather than trend.
This layered approach transforms Kora Home into more than just a weekend house; it’s a living gallery of material honesty and craftsmanship rooted in place.
Architecture That Dissolves Into the Horizon
What truly sets Kora Home apart is its seamless dialogue between interior and exterior. Every window frames a view of the horizon. Open-plan spaces flow effortlessly into terraces, gardens, and the sea beyond. The architecture is not just a container—it is a participant in the landscape.
This project stands as a compelling case study in residential architecture that prioritizes emotional connection, craft, and site-specific design.
