Outhouse, Alibaug |
Project Area : 1.5 acres
This private seaside paradise in Alibaug flaunts a happy marriage of luxury and innate sensitivity to ecology.
The highly exposed coastal garden between the pool and the beach exemplifies principles of xeriscaping in a tropical context; the xerophytes and native species used require minimal water and maintenance, and promote a healthy, diverse soil microbiome. Maximised permeable surfaces aid water conservation by increasing infiltration of rainwater and recharging groundwater stores.
Towering indigenous coconut palms are interspersed around the many grass mounds of the garden. A playful mix of gray and black granite slabs in three different thicknesses, and smooth as well as Sadarahalli finish are laid on sand, forming paths through the mounds. In an effort to be environmentally friendly, the slabs have been loosely placed on the sand, without any cement or mortar fixing.
Boulders of varying sizes are littered around strategically as interstitial landscape elements that allow the softscape and hardscape to blend seamlessly.
Instead of prioritising lush green foliage, the plant palette features the bold architectural forms of succulents such as Agave and Sansevieria, and the rugged culms of giant bamboo. The Pilea muscosa provide excellent ground cover, occupying the niches between paving slabs. Whilst Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron selloum, Schefflera, birds nest ferns, and the larger- than-life leaves of Calathea lutea rest in the shade, cardboard palms and tall fragrant blades of Pandanus and the bask in the sun, tolerating salt spray.
A bridge over the large asymmetrical infinity pool connects the coastal garden to the pool deck that hugs the home. Minimalist pristine white deck furniture complements the built form. Another bridge leads to a cosy island in the pool. Complete with boulders laid onto the gravel, a firepit, and a funky, organically shaped raw wood seat, this is the ideal spot to take in the breath taking views of the sun setting into the Arabian sea.
A colour story of white and cream flowers is created through the profusions of Bougainvillea shubra bracts, vines like Thurnbergia grandiflora alba and Vallaris heynei, dainty crinum and beach spider lilies, sweet vanilla scented Lonicera japonica and the all time tropical favourite, Frangipani.
Image Credits : Ashish Sahi
