A traditional mud builder from the Kutch area where mud houses have survived was sought out. The basic materials for construction namely the earth for the sun dried mud blocks for the walls was dug from the site itself while the thatch for the roof was locally purchased. Babul wood was used for the doors and windows as it is termite resistant. The chikni mitti (sticky clay) from Kutch, got by the artisans, was used in the decorative relief work, the mirror work and the storage units. The roof construction was in wood and bamboo. The crevices were filled with mud over which layers of thatch were laid in such a manner that rain water cannot seep in.For the interiors a collaborative effort was put in by the Kutchi craftsmen and the local furniture carpenters to evolve a comfortable furniture theme to blend in with the ambience and the craftsmanship. Special pieces of appliqué fabric and selected textiles in exuberant bright colors were commissioned by Parul Zaveri of Abhikram to echo the magnificent rabari quilts used in the house.
It offers an ambience of a simple rural setting in the exterior with creative interiors displaying Kutchi craftsmanship. The process demonstrates the success of the combined efforts of the traditional skills & contemporary designer’s inputs. The product is a visual treat.
