CollectiveProject

By Editorial Staff - 3 March 2025

Hidden among mango trees, the Debris Block House is located in chaotic Bengaluru. An example of responsible construction, the project focused on reusing materials. CollectiveProject’s design for this private residence recovered debris from a pre-existing building and transformed it into distinctive elements: mud blocks were used for walls on the upper floors, and exposed concrete finishes on the ground floor.

In a striking contrast with the plastered façades of nearby buildings, given the minimal street-facing façade, the design sought to make the home “disappear” into the surrounding greenery. Functional necessities dictated that the construction cover the entire 300 sq. m lot, the maximum allowable limit. An exception was made on one side, where the building’s footprint was set back to protect a large tree growing on-site.

The ground floor living area is an open and fluid space, embracing a living room, dining area, and kitchen characterized by large sliding openings that offer privileged views of the surrounding vegetation. Like an artwork, a staircase and ramps rise to the first floor, crossing a central atrium filled with natural light that streams through strategically placed skylights. This level features four bedrooms overlooking a TV room and a library. On the second floor, a music room and private study open onto a terrace, a space for outdoor dining sheltered by tree branches. Large planters and the many plants on each floor enhance connections with nature. These features also screen the building, helping it to blend into the neighborhood’s greenery.