Kora Home by Alara Studio: A Cozy Beach Resort in Chennai

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Kora Home, an eight-thousand square foot ocean residence in Chennai, India, is a wonderful celebration of slow living, indigenous crafts, and family heritage. Created by Alara Studio under the artistic direction of Amrita Thomas, it is a poetic reimagining of a beach bungalow originally built by the owner's father — a renowned architect at Chitale & Son.

Elegant modern living room with neutral tones, contemporary furniture and stylish decor showcasing refined architectural design elements and a cozy atmosphere

This weekend resort for a young family with two small children and dogs skillfully blends modern comfort with time-honored crafts. With an elegant view of the Bay of Bengal, the project reimagines seaside living through the lens of wabi-sabi aesthetics — embracing natural textures, raw finishes, and handcrafted elements.

Modern Update Rooted in Culture

Rather than demolishing the existing structure, the design team chose to honor its architectural essence. The goal was clear: transform the house into a serene beach retreat, youthful, fresh, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

Alara Studio filled the home with minimalist elegance and a tactile palette. Coved walls, a Kota stone floor, and hand-finished textures define the materials, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere. Each surface emphasizes imperfection and age, evoking a sense of time.

"We wanted the space to breathe with the rhythm of the ocean," says Amrita Thomas. "To feel comfortable yet refined, soulful and contemporary."

Design Details Inspired by the Ocean

Invisible nautical references are woven into all interiors. In the two-level living room, a large cable chandelier draws attention to the relaxation area. In the dining room, a medusa-shaped fixture floats above a live-edge wooden table — both art and organic style.

The bar introduces playfulness with individual travertine countertops, adding color and texture to the more neutral background. A special lighting element above the bar gives the composition a sense of completeness.

Celebrating Indian Crafts

A standout feature of the project is its collaborative spirit. Alara Studio brought together works from more than 20 Indian artisans, masters, and emerging designers, giving the space an eclectic yet harmonious look. From handwoven rugs to custom assembly and lighting — each element tells the story of local craftsmanship and modern reinterpretation.

The interiors appear curated, not merely decorated — founded on authenticity rather than trends.

This layered approach transforms Kora Home into more than just a weekend getaway; it’s a living gallery of honest materials and indigenous crafts.

Architecture Blending into the Horizon

The most distinctive feature of Kora Home is its seamless dialogue between interior and exterior. Every window opens to the horizon. Open spaces flow smoothly into terraces, gardens, and sea. Architecture is not just a container — it participates in the landscape.

This project serves as a compelling example of residential architecture that prioritizes emotional connection, craftsmanship, and place-based adaptation.