The first engagement focused on developing a comprehensive ecological masterplan to transform this 5-acre farm in Shoolagiri into a self-sustaining homestead. The design process began with a detailed study of the site’s climate, valley topography, soil conditions, and broader ecological context, including the impacts of regional mining and forest degradation. Local reference ecosystems informed the planting strategy, ensuring the proposal was grounded in native flora and ecological processes.

A clear zoning framework from Zones 0 to 5 organised spaces for habitation, cultivation, and wild habitat. Water security formed a central pillar of the design. An integrated storm water management system was proposed, comprising six ponds, five basins, a swale, and rooftop rainwater harvesting structures to capture runoff and recharge the shallow aquifer and the existing pond.

Dedicated areas were planned for ragi cultivation, a raised bed kitchen garden, and two diverse food forests structured around plant guilds, including one for the pastoral community in the area. Two wild zones were retained as ecological buffers and habitat patches to support biodiversity and long-term resilience.