Casa Luna
A hospitality retreat in the desert, designed to respond to the cycle of the moon and the shifting quality of desert light.
Casa Luna is set within the arid landscape outside Jaipur, where the quality of light changes dramatically from the harsh clarity of midday to the soft luminosity of moonlit nights. The architecture uses thick sandstone walls, deep recessed openings and a series of water courts to moderate the desert climate. At night, the building seems to glow from within, its warm interior light spilling across the sandstone terraces.
Design
Philosophy
Casa Luna is set within the arid landscape outside Jaipur, where the quality of light changes dramatically from the harsh clarity of midday to the soft luminosity of moonlit nights. The architecture uses thick sandstone walls, deep recessed openings and a series of water courts to moderate the desert climate. At night, the building seems to glow from within, its warm interior light spilling across the sandstone terraces.
Sandstone
Locally sourced Dholpur sandstone forms the walls, its warm pink tone shifting with the angle of the sun.
Handmade Tile
Handmade terracotta floor tiles provide thermal mass, keeping interiors cool through the hottest hours.
Brass Mesh
Brass mesh screens replace glass in the breeze openings, filtering insects while allowing air to flow freely.
Plaster
Lime-washed plaster in the interiors glows softly under lamplight, creating warmth in the desert nights.