THE OBSERVATORY Nilgiris
6-8 Guests | 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | Breakfast included | Cook Available | Vegetarian Kitchen
Celebrate slow living in the Eastern Nilgiris with The Observatory, a unique 3-bedroom private luxury home, choreographed to keep you spellbound by the sweeping carpets of lush green tea and craggy tree-topped peaks.
The Observatory redefines the meaning of sustainable luxury through design. Located close to the hill town of Kotagiri, the villa was conceptual-ised and built with over 80% of upcycled woodwork and furniture that contrasts boldly with unplastered surfaces to create a look that is truly magical.
On its lower level is the expansive open plan living and dining space with a conservatory, fireplace, one bedroom and a compact kitchen. The expansive floor to ceiling glass panes in the dining area opens up the landscape into the home and fills up the interiors with the warmth of natural light. A beautiful wrought-iron staircase leads to the mezzanine with a daybed and book nook. Two bedrooms lead off from here, each with its own outdoor balcony. Vintage aside, expect all the trappings from a luxury mountain home, wrapped in hardwood floors & timber roof beams.
Around your villa abound leopards, bear, and bird-life aplenty. Make time for expert-led nature walks, discovering the indigenous communities and their culture, and making forays to Coonoor and Ooty. More importantly, take a moment for yourself and observe your own sensory responses to this beautiful luxury home and your surroundings. Happiness as they say is a DIY project.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Location & Design
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The Observatory is located in the hamlet of Aravenu, off the Catherine Falls Road, about 15 minutes from the hill town of Kotagiri, about 45 & 60 minutes from Coonoor and Ootacamund respectively. Coimbatore Airport is just 2 hours away.
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Conceptualised by designer Preetha Chandrasekaran of Dhakshini Antiques, the villa is made from over 80% of up-cycled content - say hello to 150-year old metal structural elements, equally old hardwood floors and ceiling panels, and vintage woodwork and furniture. This contrasts beautifully with unplastered brickwork (still carrying the makers stamp) and exposed concrete beams and slabs. Specially commissioned art work, gorgeous carpets, white linen curtains, and premium linen lend a luxurious softness to the space. The entire house is bathed in sunshine and daylight with large doors and windows in almost every room.
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This is a house that not just warms the heart, but nourishes the soul. This is a villa that opens-up the mind and is ideal for artists, writers and creators.
Shared Spaces
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The main entrance leads to a single large communal space. On your left is the living area set around a working fireplace. Large French doors lead onto a small deck and the front lawns. Further inwards lies a pantry station with appliances and a door leading to a compact kitchen. More double glass doors lead onto a long running outdoor deck with a day bed. The highlight of the lower level is the glass walled and ceilinged conservatory that frames the mountainscape and tea estates. Set against this is the beautiful antique dining table that is the hub of daytime activity. On the opposing side is a chaise lounge and a plant-filled indoor garden. A powder room sits adjacent to the entrance.
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A beautiful wrought iron spiral staircase leads to the mezzanine floor overlooking the dining area. Here is a large day bed and low seating for games and reading. Outside is the laundry room and a staff bathroom.
Sleeping Spaces
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Three beautiful and luxurious bedrooms sleep 6 guests. One bedroom, ideal for seniors, is on the ground floor with a four-poster king bed, ensuite bathroom, and a private sit-out overlooking tea & mountains.
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A spiral staircase leads up to the first floor with two bedrooms. One is a twin-bedded room with a large bathroom and the other is the master bedroom with its own four poster queen bed, writing desk and the best views in the house.
The mezzanine has a day bed and an extra roll-away to accommodate 2 more guests. If needed, they have access to the powder room on the ground floor.
Each LuxUnlock Villa Experience includes the incredible domain expertise of our team, and supported by our LUX Concierge. We work closely with you to develop a Trip Itinerary that reflects your personal interests. From the moment you book a LUX Villa until you return home, you have continuous access to our curated circle of tour guides and domain experts and a host of wonderful, authentic, and unique experiences.