Timber-Framed Coastal Homes

The Timber Residence in Vagator, Goa is recognized as India’s first home constructed entirely from mass timber, relying on eleven glulam portal frames to shape a prefabricated and modular structure. Each frame was precisely engineered in Delhi before being transported to Goa for assembly. The home is elevated on stilts and supported with retaining walls to protect the natural slope of the land while offering panoramic views of the Chapora River and the Arabian Sea. This approach not only preserves the topography but also highlights how sustainable methods can merge seamlessly with architectural elegance.

The exterior is clad in charred timber panels that ensure durability against coastal weather conditions. Inside, the space embraces a minimalist palette of white walls, dark floors, and exposed beams, creating a refined yet warm environment. A glass-walled workshop connects to a timber deck framed with greenery, softening the transition between interior and exterior. The glulam construction serves both visual and ecological purposes, offering warmth while also storing carbon, establishing this house as a landmark for sustainable residential design in India.

Image Credit: Architecture Discipline