SHIRO

A Home Bathed in Light: A Minimalist Haven in Jakkur, Bengaluru. Some homes are designed with sustainability in mind, and some with minimalism. But this one, nestled in the quiet pockets of Jakkur is an experience—where space, light, and life flow seamlessly together. Photographing this home was less about capturing its structure and more about telling the story of a family that truly lives in harmony—with each other, with nature, and with their beloved dog, Shiro. An Open Canvas of Light and Space The house, designed by Ar. Lavannya Goradia, of Studio Alaya and built by the in-house team is an embodiment of simplicity. Built with sustainable materials, it stands unassuming yet elegant. The heart of the home is its central courtyard, crowned by a gigantic skylight that floods the space with natural light. It isn’t just an architectural feature; it’s the pulse of the house, setting the rhythm of light and shadow throughout the day. From a photographer’s perspective, this was a dream. Every corner played with sunlight in a way that felt almost poetic. The openness, the well-spaced layout—it all allowed for movement, not just for the family but for my lens as well. There were no barriers, no confined spaces. Just an organic flow from one side to the other. Shiro, the Soul of the Home Every home has a central character, and in this one, it wasn’t just the architecture—it was Shiro, the family's four-legged member. While I framed my shots, I found him weaving his way effortlessly through the spaces, lounging in sunlit patches, and becoming an unintentional muse. The bond between Shiro and the family was palpable. He wasn’t just a pet; he was a part of the home’s energy, responding to its openness, its warmth. Every time I clicked, I found moments of pure connection—a child leaning against him, a parent watching over with a smile, or Shiro simply finding his spot under the skylight, basking in the glow. Minimalism with Meaning This isn’t minimalism for the sake of aesthetics; it’s a way of life. The absence of excess isn’t a restriction but a choice—to keep what truly matters. Every piece of furniture, every material, every open space contributes to an environment that is uncluttered yet full of life. There’s something refreshing about a home that doesn’t overwhelm, that breathes with its inhabitants. As I packed up my gear, I realized this wasn’t just another project—it was a reminder of how architecture, when done right, can nurture not just the people living in it but the way they live. This home isn’t just built—it’s felt.