Manoj Patel builds a farmhouse out of Reclaimed materials
Manoj Patel Design Studio has completed a farmhouse on the outskirts of Vadodara, Gujarat, India, positioned between expanding urban development and surrounding agricultural land. Set on a 30,000 sqft plot with a built-up area of 1,500 sqft, the project explores material efficiency, climatic responsiveness, and spatial openness within a rural context.
The design adopts sustainability as a structural and material strategy rather than a stylistic approach. Exposed brick, locally sourced stone, and recycled materials form the primary construction palette. Brick cavity walls integrate ground beams, where RCC slurry is poured within the cavities to strengthen the structure. This method merges structural logic with material expression. Varied brick bond patterns contribute to self-shading performance, responding to the region’s hot and dry climate. Curved brick walls were shaped on site, reflecting the relationship between craftsmanship, geometry, and construction technique.
The built form is organized as a series of fragmented volumes. These distinct masses create interstitial spaces that allow landscape, light, and cross-ventilation to permeate the plan. Height variations across volumes assist in functional zoning while introducing vertical spatial modulation. An open central pocket operates as a landscaped courtyard, establishing a green core that supports informal gathering and play.
all images courtesy of Manoj Patel Design Studio
Sustainability informs both structure and material selection
Geometrically, the farmhouse balances curved and angular forms. Soft, curved brick surfaces contrast with sharper volumes, generating a rhythmic composition structured around courtyards and transitional zones. Circulation is conceived as a sequence of spatial shifts rather than a linear passage. Sloping roof profiles respond to climatic conditions and contribute to the silhouette of the structure. A glazed central volume functions as a visual anchor, channeling daylight deep into the interior and strengthening connections between different programmatic zones.
Manoj Patel Design Studio extends the architectural language into interior spaces through handcrafted details and material continuity. Patterned flooring, custom joinery, and artisanal finishes introduce layers of local craft. Light and shadow activate exposed textures throughout the day, reinforcing the tactile qualities of brick, stone, and reclaimed materials.
Bathrooms are treated as spatially immersive environments within the farmhouse. Stone surfaces, handcrafted tiles, reclaimed wood, and pebbled flooring contribute to a material palette that emphasizes tactility and natural reference. Fixtures are integrated within stone joinery, reinforcing material continuity. Natural light and ventilation enhance the environmental performance of these spaces while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
the farmhouse is located on the outskirts of Vadodara, between urban expansion and agricultural land
exposed brick, local stone, and recycled materials define the construction palette
curved brick walls were shaped on site through skilled craftsmanship
varied brick bond patterns create self-shading surfaces suited to a hot, dry climate
curved and angular geometries create a rhythmic architectural composition
height variations help define functions while modulating spatial experience
interstitial gaps allow landscape, light, and cross-ventilation to permeate the plan
patterned flooring and custom joinery extend the architectural language indoors
exposed materials interact with shifting light and shadow throughout the day
bathrooms are conceived as immersive spaces grounded in natural materials
stone, reclaimed wood, handcrafted tiles, and pebbled floors emphasize tactility
project info:
name: Recycled Material Farmhouse
architect: Manoj Patel Design Studio | @manoj_patel_designstudio
location: Vadodara, Gujarat, India
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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