In 1976, in Valsad, Gujarat, Ballubhai Makanji Desai bought an ancestral Parsi bungalow built in 1939. In return, he made a quiet promise to the previous owner: every evening, he would light a candle by the well at sundown. And for the next forty years, he did—honouring not just a man, but a memory. The house was no ordinary structure. On a narrow 165 x 55 ft plot, 22 rooms were packed like train compartments—tight, dim, and brimming with stories. As the candle flickered each evening, its light danced on the walls that had absorbed decades of voices and lives. But over time, the house began to unravel. Leaks appeared. The rooms felt more li
In Valsad, Gujarat, the House of Memories, designed by Hardik Shah of Studio Lagom, is a testament to the unique interplay between architecture and daily life. Filmed over four days, this project captures the essence of home through the authentic experiences of its residents. Unlike typical architectural films, this documentation immerses viewers in the natural rhythms of the household, revealing how the occupants live and interact within their space. The house stands out with its exposed brickwork and inviting courtyard, which serves as a backdrop for cherished daily rituals. Notably, the courtyard features a well where the grandfather enjoys his daily shave from a local barber—a tradition that underscores the home's deep connection to its inhabitants. The rare opportunity to film with the actual residents made this project particularly special. Their warmth and hospitality created an environment where the house felt like home, highlighting how a building becomes a true home through the bonds of its multi-generational occupants. The House of Memories is a beautiful example of how architecture and personal experiences intertwine to create a living, breathing space.
