Welcome to “The World at Home: 31 Real House Tours Around the Globe.” Check out where else we’ve visited this month here.

Overlooking a stream and surrounded by serene gardens, this beautiful home in northern India in Dehradun, the capital of the state Uttarakhand, belongs to Sujata Sharma, the matriarch of her family and a naturopathic healer. The house’s front door is often left open to the natural surroundings, so much so that a small family of birds has built a nest in the foyer—you can’t see them, but there’s periodic chirping to prove their presence.

I was introduced to Sujata through my new friend Nitin, a local videographer and all-around creative. When we pulled up to the sprawling property, located on a private road in a pastoral part of town, Sujata greeted us. This home’s vision came to life thanks to her love of nature. As a naturopathic healer, she makes medicine from local plants and herbs, and her passion is natural fragrances; she smelled like jasmine and roses.

“Our home is a labor of love,” explained Sujata. “It took us a few long years to complete the house, but every discussion and squabble was worth it in the end.” Sujata’s son Kartikeya and wife split their time between Dehradun and Delhi—both are lawyers. Sujata continues: “We ended up deviating quite a bit from the architect’s original plan; with each family member adding their touch, and ended up with the perfect home for us.”

My Style: Simple yet beautiful.

Inspiration: Nature.

Favorite Element: Water and forest.

Biggest Challenge: To keep my piece of heaven how I like it.

What Friends Say: That they want to keep coming back.

Biggest Embarrassment: Not being prepared for my guests

Proudest DIY: My bare wall Buddha corner.

Biggest Indulgence: My garden and flowers

Best Advice: Keep your nest free of clutter and your life will follow suit.

Dream Sources: Anything that sparks joy in me.

Thank you to Sujata and the rest of the family for your hospitality.

⇒ House Tour & House Call Submission Form