A groundbreaking residential project in Gurugram, India, has completely reimagined traditional home design by relocating formal entertaining spaces to the basement level. The Bammi family's 22,970-square-foot residence in South City challenges conventional Indian home layouts, where guests typically enter through formal living rooms on the main floor, with dining areas positioned near kitchens and bedrooms occupying upper levels.
Designed by Untitled Design, this three-generation family home presents visitors with an unexpected experience upon entry. Instead of the predictable formal living room greeting, guests encounter bedrooms on the upper levels and discover a staircase leading downward to the main entertaining spaces. The basement level houses the formal dining room, primary living areas, and entertainment zones—a complete reversal of typical floor plans that initially confused contractors but has proven highly functional for the multigenerational household.
The architectural approach incorporates distinctive design elements that create separate zones throughout the home. Kashmiri latticework and origami installations serve as defining features that help establish distinct areas within the expansive space. The entrance showcases a striking water element with stepping stones that guide visitors to glass doors framed in warm wood, setting the tone for the unconventional design journey ahead.
Material transitions play a crucial role in the home's design philosophy, particularly evident in the staircase connecting the basement entertaining areas to the upper residential levels. These transitions help differentiate between various zones of the house while maintaining visual cohesion throughout the space. A carefully curated console area demonstrates the thoughtful balance between traditional and contemporary elements, displaying traditional portraits alongside modern furnishings.
This innovative approach to residential design shows how reimagining conventional layouts can create more functional living spaces for extended families. The success of placing formal spaces in the basement level proves that challenging traditional design patterns can result in homes that better serve the specific needs of their occupants while maintaining the cultural importance of formal entertaining spaces in Indian households.
