Adar & Natasha Poonawalla’s Farmhouse: Inside a retreat of elegance and equestrian charm

In the heart of Pune’s verdant countryside lies one of India’s most extraordinary luxury farmhouses — the retreat of Adar Poonawalla and Natasha Poonawalla. More than just a weekend hideaway, this expansive property blends heritage, lifestyle, design, and equestrian culture in a way that reflects the Poonawalla family’s passions and personality.

Key Facts:

Owner(s): Adar Poonawalla (CEO, Serum Institute of India) and Natasha Poonawalla (philanthropist & fashion enthusiast).
Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India — set within a substantial stud farm estate.
Estate Size: Approximately 100 hectares of stud farm and landscaped grounds.
Main Structure: A two‑storeyed farmhouse with classic bungalow aesthetics and equestrian influences.
Design Features: White walls, tile roofs, turrets, and a striking entrance that blends tradition with stately charm.
Key Interior Highlights: A 19‑feet conservatory with a translucent ceiling designed for star gazing and leisure.
Decor & Style: Interiors feature international art, equestrian motifs, and curated collectibles.
Heritage: The property was originally owned by a prominent Indian industrial family before being acquired by the Poonawallas.
Notable Guests: Members of British royalty have visited the estate, underscoring its social and cultural prestige.

A Grand Farmhouse Set in a Stud Estate
Unlike typical city mansions, the Poonawalla farmhouse stands as a country residence deeply rooted in lifestyle and leisure. Spread over about 100 hectares near Pune, it sits within a stud farm — a nod to the family’s longstanding love for horses and equestrian culture.

The farmhouse itself is a two‑storeyed bungalow with defining architectural elements like white exteriors, turrets, and low‑pitched tile roofs, creating a timeless and stately image against the backdrop of open fields and stables.

Design Elements and Interior Vibe
Stepping inside, the farmhouse reveals a blend of sophistication and personality. An impressive 19‑feet conservatory with a translucent roof invites natural light and offers spaces for leisure and contemplation — including what designers call a star‑gazing lounge.

The interiors are curated with distinctive pieces from around the world, from artworks and vintage aircraft models to equestrian motifs that echo the estate’s stud farm roots. This interplay of global influences and local passion infuses the home with life and character beyond mere opulence.

Heritage and Evolution of the Property
Architectural Digest India notes that the farmhouse — along with the surrounding stud farm — was originally purchased from the Mahindra family before being embraced by the Poonawallas and expanded over time.

In 2015, designer Sussanne Khan and the Poonawallas worked on enhancing parts of the estate’s interiors and amenities, adding modern touches while respecting the house’s classic lines and setting.

A Social and Cultural Hub
While primarily a private family residence, the farmhouse has also played host to distinguished visitors, including British royalty — a testament to both its hospitality and its standing within elite social circles.

However, unlike urban palaces or high‑profile city estates, this farmhouse embraces open space, natural surroundings, and lifestyle pursuits, making it a fascinating case study for architects and designers interested in how luxury residences can integrate environmental context with personal narrative.

Farmhouse as Experience, Not Just Residence
Adar and Natasha Poonawalla’s farmhouse in Pune isn’t merely a residence — it’s a living canvas of lifestyle, heritage, and design sensibility. Its expansive grounds, equestrian heritage, and thoughtful architectural and interior elements reflect the owners’ personalities and passions. For architectural enthusiasts, it stands as an inspiring example of how residential spaces can fuse tradition, leisure, and cultural expression.