Dreaming of the Mountains
The journey to creating The Sky House in Sitla, Kumaon, began with a deep affection for the stillness and grandeur of the Himalayas. Aanchal Gulati Nath
and her husband, Sumeet Nath, an interior designer and architect respectively, found themselves increasingly drawn to this remote outpost after falling in love elsewhere and marrying in Delhi. Their initial visits, a few times annually, transformed into a longing for a personal sanctuary away from city life. This sentiment, first conceived around 2009 when they acquired land, took thirteen years to materialize. The construction process, initiated some years after land acquisition, was deliberately slow, mirroring the unhurried rhythm of mountain living. This mindful approach was also driven by the significant cost associated with land development in the hills, prompting the couple to avoid rushing the project and instead invest wholeheartedly over time. The culmination of their efforts, completed four years prior to the article's context, resulted in a second home designed with a core principle: to harmonize minimalist interiors with the dramatic spectacle of the Himalayan panorama, ensuring that the mountains are an ever-present element of the experience, regardless of one's location within the house. They find themselves drawn back to this haven for extended stays, often spending 7 to 10 days each month, with the period between October and January being their absolute favorite due to the exceptionally clear and stunning mountain views.
Designing with Nature
The very name, 'The Sky House,' encapsulates the profound connection to the expansive heavens and the majestic Himalayas that defines this dwelling. This nomenclature reflects a lifestyle deeply attuned to the natural surroundings, a principle that guided every design decision. 'How we live is how we designed the house,' Aanchal explained, emphasizing the integration of indoor comfort with the outdoor splendor. Expansive glass panels act as living frames, presenting the snow-capped peaks as a constantly changing masterpiece. The visible range includes some of the world's most iconic mountains, such as Nanda Devi (India's second-highest peak at 7,816 meters), Trishul, Nanda Kot, Nanda Ghunti, and the distinct Panchachuli. Below these formidable summits, lush pine-covered hills descend into a valley cradling the town of Almora. While the architectural style is contemporary, the interior is grounded by traditional elements like Kota stone flooring and wood-paneled ceilings, evoking the warmth of a mountain abode. A vibrant red entrance door provides a striking contrast to the otherwise neutral color scheme, adding a welcoming splash of color to the serene aesthetic. This thoughtful blend ensures that the home feels both modern and intrinsically connected to its mountainous setting, offering an immersive experience of the Kumaon landscape.
The Hearth's Embrace
At the heart of The Sky House lies its inviting living room, a space designed for relaxation and connection. The focal point of this area is an exceptional cast-iron fireplace, uniquely positioned centrally atop a stone platform. This striking feature not only anchors the room but also emanates a comforting warmth, its glowing embers casting a gentle ambiance on crisp winter evenings. It's within this cozy setting that time seems to unfurl, encouraging longer conversations and shared moments over a glass of wine. Aanchal shared that the desire for a central fireplace stemmed from their own love for gathering around log fires during previous mountain visits, making it an essential element for winding down. Complementing the fireplace is a piece of custom artwork created by Thai artist Tanarug Sangpradub. Rendered on mesh, this unique piece artfully depicts the mountains, resembling a richly textured tapestry rather than a conventional painting. Nearby, a collection of books beckons guests to settle into the comfortable sofa. The deliberate absence of curtains ensures that the panoramic views of the peaks remain unobstructed, drawing the eye outward and reinforcing the home's deep connection with its spectacular surroundings, making it a true sanctuary for contemplation and enjoyment.
From Private Haven to Homestay
When the owners are away, The Sky House transforms into an exclusive homestay, offering discerning guests the opportunity to experience its unique charm. Bookings are for the entire property, ensuring privacy and an intimate atmosphere for visitors. Accommodation details and pricing are adjusted based on the number of guests and rooms utilized. The resident caretaker and cook, Om Prakash, alongside housekeeper Pramod Kumar, are on-site to ensure guests receive attentive service and comfort. While Aanchal and Sumeet are not physically present during guest stays, they meticulously manage guest needs and arrangements remotely, maintaining the high standards of hospitality. This thoughtful approach allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Sitla, immersed in the carefully curated environment of The Sky House, experiencing firsthand the blend of modern comfort and natural splendor that the owners cherish. The homestay offers a rare chance to inhabit a space designed with such profound intention and appreciation for its breathtaking location, providing an unforgettable mountain escape.
