Unallome: Vernacular Design in North Goa
A look at how we reimagined this 12-room bed and breakfast in North Goa, embedding the spirit of 'susegad' into every wall and corner.
Unallome embodies the susegad philosophy by blending vernacular Goan architecture with local, sustainable materials. The building's design, with its classic columns and deep eaves, honors the region's heritage while creating a space for modern, mindful living.
This tranquil 12-room bed and breakfast in North Goa was designed for moments of quiet joy. Here, a guest finds a peaceful spot to read amidst lush greenery, perfectly capturing the spirit of slow, intentional living that defines Unallome.
Slow mornings unfold into lively gatherings in the communal area of Unallome. We designed this space with handcrafted wooden stools and tables to invite connection, reflecting our vision of a sanctuary where guests can reconnect with nature and each other.
Children play by a large window that frames the dense Goan foliage, a scene that captures the essence of Unallome. The design seamlessly integrates the indoors with the outdoors, creating a space that feels open, natural, and full of life.
The communal bar and dining area at Unallome is crafted from natural wood and rattan. The space is designed to be simple and functional, allowing the beauty of the materials and the surrounding nature to take center stage.
This dining space at Unallome blends rustic tropical aesthetics with local craftsmanship. It is a haven for mindful guests, celebrating Goan vernacular architecture and fostering a strong sense of community and connection to nature.
A close-up of the bar area, showcasing the raw texture of the salvaged wood countertop and the simple, elegant line art on the walls. Every detail is chosen to reflect a commitment to authenticity and handcrafted beauty.
Art and reflection are woven into the design of Unallome. A large, circular mirror reflects a custom mural, adding a layer of creative expression to the bathroom space while maintaining a connection to the earthy, organic aesthetic.
The bedroom at Unallome is a sanctuary of calm. Here, our founder Ritika Rakhiani enjoys the serene atmosphere she designed, which features a cane bed, macrame wall hangings, and a soft, earthy color palette.
The bedroom design is rooted in natural materials and soft forms. The cane-woven bed frame, paired with woven pendant lamps and a delicate floral mural, creates a space that feels both grounded and serene.
About Unallome, Goa: The Soul of Susegad
Notice the raw texture of the salvaged wood at the bar. We chose this material specifically because it holds the memory of the past, much like the red-oxide flooring throughout Unallome. It is not just decoration; it is a tactile way to anchor the space in the local vernacular, proving that luxury in a home stay often lies in the honesty of materials rather than expensive, mass-produced finishes.
A Dialogue with Goa's Soul
Designing Unallome was not about imposing a new structure onto the landscape; it was about listening to what the site needed. The goal for this 12-room bed and breakfast in North Goa was to move beyond the typical tourist aesthetic and create a space that breathed with the region.
Why Material Honesty Matters
We opted for a palette that respects the surroundings:
- Salvaged Wood: Used for structural elements and furniture, giving history to new spaces.
- Bamboo & Rattan: Incorporated for natural airflow and a lightweight, tropical feel.
- Red-Oxide Flooring: A nod to traditional Goan homes, providing a cool, grounding surface underfoot.
- Earthen Paints: Natural pigments that soften the walls and connect the interiors to the earth outside.
Designing for 'Susegad'
The 'susegad' philosophy is about more than just relaxing; it is about intentionality. We designed communal zones—like the dining area with custom wooden stools—to foster connection rather than isolation. The layout encourages guests to move from the private sanctuary of their rooms into shared spaces where yoga, art, and music can flow naturally. By balancing the private with the communal, we created a hospitality space that feels less like a hotel and more like a home that has simply been waiting for its next story to begin.
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