Cleft House

2. Firm: Anagram ArchitectsLocation: Delhi, IndiaThis joint family home’s white stone facade sports slanting profiles and a deep crevice that runs through the length of the volume. The cleft that produces the look of a ‘broken monolith’ draws ample light and the wind-tunnel effect brings thermal comfort inside the home. See more striking home exteriors here

For a sleeker look, you can opt for surface-treated, high-polish marble and granite slabs as well. Their satiny surfaces and organic grain can turn any plain elevation into something unique and eye-catching. Similar to wood and brick facades, stone facades can be cloned with the use of tiles and sheets made of engineered composite materials. “It is always recommended that one uses stones which are native to an area and easily available. Granite and marble slabs come in a variety of shades, are eco-friendly and highly durable,” says Pai. He adds, “Red sandstone from Dholpur and Agra, pink sandstone from Jodhpur, and other vernacular stones have been used traditionally on building facades since earlier times. They not only instill a timeless appeal, but also extend the life of the structure dramatically.” Browse more Indian home exteriors here

Houzz at a glanceWho lives here: The Kumar familyLocation: New DelhiYear built: 2018Size: 1340 square metres (14,425 square feet), 6 bedrooms with ensuite bathroomsArchitects: Anagram ArchitectsPhotography by André Jeanpierre Fanthome, Suryan//DangLocated in a busy street in Gujranwalan Town of New Delhi is the Cleft House with an unusual, eye-catching windowless facade. The facade is designed in a monolithic style and made of white marble panels that are mounted on a steel structure. “Our design proposal revolved around the desire of the client to have a unique yet convivial home which promotes an introverted environment for their family,” says Madhav Raman, the co-founder and principal architect of Anagram Architects.