If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a luxury mountain home in India that blends timeless architecture with modern comfort, the House in the Hills is the perfect inspiration. Nestled beneath the Mussoorie hill slopes in the Doon Valley, this home is a rare example of how colonial-inspired architecture can harmoniously coexist with nature-focused interior design.
Blurring the Lines Between Indoors and Outdoors
The design philosophy is rooted in bringing nature inside. Large windows, open courtyards, and roof skylights ensure the home is always filled with fresh air and sunlight. The sloped roof, clad in deodar wooden panelling suited for the rain-rich environment of the valley, creates a dramatic double height in the drawing seating area. The front portion is slanted, while the flat section at the back forms the ceiling of the upper mezzanine floor. Between the drawing room courtyard and the dining room, two intricately carved wooden pillars curated from different parts of India act as striking design elements. Though decorative, they serve as a subtle visual division between spaces with different purposes, framing the interiors with heritage-rich craftsmanship.
Colonial Charm and Luxury
The home takes cues from the area’s colonial brick architecture, with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and warm wooden cladding. Skylights above the living room flood the space with natural light. The dining space features a towering carved partition that brings a sense of grandeur while maintaining intimacy. One of the most distinctive details is the rain chain — a Japanese-inspired drainage system traditionally used to guide rainwater from the roof to the ground in a controlled, visually pleasing way. Here, it has been adapted into an Indian ethnic setting, blending seamlessly with the home’s aesthetic. It functions efficiently in the heavy monsoon climate of the valley while doubling as a sculptural outdoor feature.
Bold Colours, Heritage Touches
While the architecture is steeped in history, the interiors embrace bold modernity. The coastal blue kitchen stands out with handcrafted heritage-style tiles and sleek cabinetry. Every corner has a custom design detail, from the carved wood ceiling in the lounge to glass-fronted cabinets that keep the kitchen light and open. The kitchen connects directly to a home vegetable garden, enabling true farm-to-table living.
Why the House in the Hills is the Ultimate Luxury Home Design
- Combines heritage architecture with modern functionality.
- Maximises natural light and ventilation for healthy living.
- Showcases curated Indian craftsmanship in every detail.
- Integrates functional design elements that work in a hill climate.
Planning your dream home in the hills? The House in the Hills proves that luxury home design in India can be both climate-conscious and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s not just a home — it’s a lifestyle built on craft, purpose, and place.
