Nagpur's Stunning Lakeside Farmhouse Blends Modern Design with Nature
A new 7,000 sq ft lakeside farmhouse has been completed in Nagpur, Maharashtra, designed by Ishita Sharma Designs. The project faced a unique challenge: blending modern living with the natural beauty of a working farm beside Futala Lake. The result is a home that lets the landscape take centre stage.
The farmhouse stands on two floors, organised around a striking double-height staircase tower. On the ground floor, a single bedroom offers a quiet retreat. Above it, the first floor opens into a spacious living area, featuring a lounge, dining room, pantry, and powder room—all facing the lake.
A glazed corridor links the two first-floor bedrooms: a master suite and a shared room for the homeowners' daughters. This design choice ensures that even while moving between spaces, views of the lake remain uninterrupted. The location itself presented the biggest hurdle. Building beside a working farm and a lake required careful planning to respect the natural surroundings. Over the past two decades, Futala Lake's environment has changed dramatically. Urban growth—including new homes, businesses, and infrastructure like the MIHAN airport—has replaced much of the original wetlands. Pollution from sewage and waste has also harmed water quality, leading to issues like eutrophication and loss of wildlife. While efforts in 2011–2021 aimed to restore the lake through beautification projects, challenges like illegal construction and climate pressures have persisted. Despite these obstacles, the farmhouse was designed to complement, not compete with, its setting. The architecture allows the landscape to guide its presence, ensuring the home feels like a natural part of the area.
The completed farmhouse now offers a peaceful retreat that harmonises with its lakeside and farm surroundings. Its thoughtful layout maximises views and natural light while addressing the complexities of building in a sensitive environment. The project stands as a response to both the site's beauty and the broader changes reshaping Futala Lake.
