Design On A Politician's House

Homing In with
                              __________ SOUMYA ARYA

Simplicity can have various definitions. When cemented with bricks, it forms a structure quite similar to the one which belongs to Dilip Parikh. Snuggled between lush trees lies ‘Rewa’, abode of Gujarat’s ex-CM, right in the heart of commercial Ahmedabad.

Sculpted in 1968 by the deft hands of none other than the famous architect Charles Correa, this house has no airs about it. The Correa trademarks — naked brick walls and ceilings, Kota stone flooring, extensive use of glass and wood — can be seen here too. The Parikhs have emphasised the minimalist concept, though the house has treasured antiques adorning walls, nooks and corners. ‘‘I always wanted a spacious look and have used minimum furniture,’’ says Dilip Parikh.

Though the rules of Vaastu have not been followed, Parikh wanted the main entrance facing North, because it is considered auspicious. The house has been built in five levels. The first level is divided into three sections — services (near the entrance), summer (the central region) and winter (a sprawling sitting area). Explains Parikh: ‘‘No sunlight touches the walls of the central area during summers keeping it cool while the winter area stays warm when its cold.’’ The bare bricks lend a certain coolness and tranquility. What Parikh liked most was that they didn’t give shadows and reflections. His love for antiques and artefacts finds plenty of space here — right from the entrance to the far end of the house.

His collection ranges from a mini chariot about a 150 years old to Ganeshas, Singapore vases and an exquisite Belgium chandelier. The grand entrance door comes from Parikh’s now-demolished house in the walled city. Tradition and innovation go hand in hand. An old, carved chakki (grinding stone) stands have been converted into comfortable seats and the corners are lined with artefacts from Kumbakonam, Rajasthan, Delhi, Nepal and the interiors of Gujarat.

NID’s designs earlier formed a part of the furniture. But the Parikhs have been experimenting with various styles. Their last designer was the city’s leading designer Amit Sheth. Unlike most houses, Rewa has sprawling gardens in front and back, cutting it off from other houses and noise. ‘‘Prabhakar Bhagwat landscaped them when the house was built. Now it is Aashish Teli who has taken over from him,’’ says Parikh.

Correa was as proud of this house as the ex-CM himself. ‘‘It’s one of Charles’ prized designs,’’ he gushes. Rewa was declared the best architectural design of 1972 at the Conference of Architects, San Husen. Of course, the owner was complimented too for being cooperative.‘‘I accepted whatever Charles said. Yes, I gave suggestions, but what he said was the final word.’’

No chemical has been applied on the walls ever since the house was built, yet the house is cosy and weather-proof. ‘‘We clean them only once a year during Diwali,’’ he informs. The house, constructed on 2,500 sq feet, is a relic for architecture students from all over. ‘‘On Sundays, our house is flooded with students studying architecture. Many have worked on this house while preparing their thesis,’’ he says.

What makes Rewa more important and Parikh more proud is that it is the only standing residential building designed by Correa. The others have made way for modern super-structures. Parikh doesn’t fail to thank his contractors Gannon Dunkerley, a British company, which was subsequently taken over by Indians who did a great job. According to Parikh, the selection of architect and contractors is what goes into building a perfect house.

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