Heritage encompasses a wide range of inherited objects, ideas, culture, and traditions, blending both tangible and intangible elements passed down through time. It should not be confused with merely preserving or restoring the old, but rather embracing the essence of what has been inherited. Chettinad, Tamil Nadu, is a region historically known for its wealthy merchants who once thrived from global trade, but the Great Depression of the 1920s marked the beginning of their downfall. Today, the city’s once opulent homes lie in ruins, their grandeur faded, symbolizing a discolored painting where the past's richness stands in stark contrast to the present decay.

In this context, a home in Chettinad stands as a testament to a fusion of traditional cultures, some preserved heritage, and contemporary design. The clients envisioned a modern home deeply rooted in the cultural essence of Chettinad’s glorious past. The design embraces fundamental elements like massing, an open-plan layout, and a hierarchy of spaces connected through corridors and projected eaves. These features create a harmonious relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the home to reflect both the rich traditions of the past and the aspirations for the future.