No concrete, only boulders: Just 2 hours from Bengaluru, this 2,400 sq ft forest farmstay is built with natural stone, mud blocks, wood and clay

There are houses made of concrete, but have you ever heard of a house made around boulders? If you think it’s impossible, then The Boulder House might change your perception. This rustic farmstay, nestled within the scenic landscapes of Shoolagiri, in a serene village setting in the Krishnagiri region, is constructed around natural boulders. Just 60 kms away from Bengaluru, a 2-hour ride will take you to this offbeat accommodation, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Boulder House is owned by Candida Louis, a female biker and Tanmayi Bollina.

Boulders shape architecture

The Boulder House blends sustainable living and architectural innovation, offering a unique backdrop that respects its natural surroundings. The large and grey boulders dominating the region have not been removed. Instead. The modest 2400 sq ft accommodation is built through these boulders and lush plantations. Encircled by rugged cliffs.

The design is inspired by vernacular architecture, skilfully integrating natural elements like mud, stone, wood, and clay. Content creator Priyam Saraswat recently got a tour of the 3 BHK property and, needless to mention, he was awe-struck by the cave-like spaces.

How the farmstay stays naturally cool

Visitors are greeted by a double-height volume once they step inside. There’s no dearth of ventilation, with the layout ensuring a continuous flow of hot air upwards and outwards. The system keeps the rooms naturally cool without requiring any artificial cooling. Uninterrupted nature views throughout the house are another highlight.

A rocky outcrop at the rear of the property naturally frames a courtyard that flows into the living space, further strengthening its connection with the landscape. The pitched roofs are topped with clay tiles for insulation, while select glass inserts allow daylight to filter indoors.

An immersive experience

Elsewhere, Porotherm clay blocks replace conventional concrete fillers in the flat roofs, helping reduce heat gain. Sustainability extends to the farmstay’s utilities, with an 8KW solar backup powering the property. Sloping roofs channel rainwater through gutters into underground tanks for household needs and drip irrigation. A biodigester treats waste by separating sludge from water, protecting groundwater from contamination.

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The property is divided into 3 sections: the Scenic Room, The Boulder Room, and The Eco Room, with The Boulder Room being the top choice for guests due to the boulder-laden natural scenery. The open terrace, dotted with potted plants, opens to a 360-degree view of the surroundings, accompanied by cool breezes, rustling leaves, and chirping birds.