Nestled in the picturesque hills of Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, the Stepped House by Studio Lotus embraces simplicity and harmony with its natural surroundings. This Indian eclectic-styled house features stunning views of blue mountains and coffee plantations, designed to blend seamlessly with the contours of the land.

About Stepped House
Coonoor lies at 1,850 meters (6,070 feet) in the blue mountains of the Nilgiris. It features lush tea and coffee estates, fruit orchards, and botanical gardens. Studio Lotus designed the Coonoor House to blend into this picturesque environment.
Design Brief and Layout
The goal was simple: build a hill retreat that could become a permanent home for a family. The 10,000 sqft house includes large living spaces, a master bedroom, two additional bedrooms, a library, kitchen, and utility room. It also has an organic garden and landscaped outdoor areas. Context-Driven Concept
The house integrates with the site, weather, and surroundings. Its south and east faces offer stunning views of coffee plantations. The southwest orientation maximizes both views and southern sun intake, crucial for Coonoor’s cool climate. The house sits close to the northern boundary to shield it from the adjoining property.
Minimal Ecological Impact
The design team placed the house on the flattest part of the terraced site. This approach minimized ecological damage and reduced construction time. The house appears as a single horizontal level until approach...