Transposed Courtyard House: Redefining Cultural Ethos in Goa Architecture. Architectural design has long been influenced by the notion of the traditional residential layout. Courtyard situated at the center of the house, serving as a harmonious and symmetrical focal point. Shifting the courtyard away from the house’s center addresses the evolving dynamics of domestic and urban life, reflecting these changes. This adjustment reflects the increasingly blurred boundaries between the private and public realms. Observe this re-arrangement in various regional contexts; moreover, it creates diverse spatial compositions with courtyards positioned off-centre.
Editor’s Note: “Reimagining the spirit of a Goan home, this residence gracefully unfolds around a tranquil courtyard, creating an intimate sanctuary. The thoughtful integration of Sopo seating into the contemporary design pays homage to the cultural heritage of the region.. The warm embrace of concrete and brick, intertwined with a deep sensitivity to the climate, unfolds a living experience that is both timeless and profoundly connected to its surroundings.” ~Simran Khare
Transposed Courtyard House in Goa Architecture: Responses To Urban Adaptation | Studio MSA
This architectural project re-imagines goa architecture style houses. Further, it integrates a central courtyard concept arranged outside the house to foster social dynamics.
Shifting the courtyard’s position within the residential plan has enhanced functionality. This change also better responds to the evolving needs of occupants.
At the heart of the design is the transposed courtyard, which serves as a multifunctional gathering space. Moreover, it promotes social interaction among residents and visitors.
The design emphasizes communal interaction through a dedicated “Sopo” seating. It reflects the rich cultural heritage of Goa while adapting to contemporary living needs and fostering social interaction.
The house is strategically oriented along the East-West axis, optimizing natural light and ventilation, while minimizing direct sun exposure. The house takes advantage of existing tree cover in the southwest, creating a shaded environment that enhances comfort and sustainability.
The external courtyard is enveloped by a Mangalore tiled screen, which conceals it from the roadway. This transforms the area into a cocooned, private domain near the main entrance ideal for both social interaction and peace.
The centerpiece of this tranquil oasis features flourishing Frangipani tree, whose aromatic blooms enhance the space. The dynamic interplay of daylight cast upon the plain white walls and terracotta screen imbue the space with a distinct sensory richness. This richness evolves throughout the day as the light changes.
The Mangalore tiled screen is strategically positioned not merely as a functional barrier but also as an alluring architectural element that captivates the viewer’s gaze and orchestrates a seamless transition between the public realm of the street and the private sanctuary of the courtyard.
A modern interpretation of the low height verandah leads to the double-height living room with a sloping roof, thus it seamlessly bridging the contemporary design of the house with its contextual surroundings.
The full-height windows and louvered shutters adorn the living room, bathing it in soft, diffused northern light. Additionally, the design allows the room to enjoy the benefits of natural ventilation. Additionally, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for the occupants. The wooden fenestration, complemented by the lime-washed walls, lends a rustic charm to the space, thus it harmonizes with the traditional architectural vocabulary of the region.
The reading niche with terracotta filler slab creates a seamless transition between the living and dining areas. Moreover, fostering a cohesive and interconnected living experience.
Drawing on the rich heritage of Indian architecture, the Brick Jali, strategically positioned to filter the ample southern light, effectively mitigates the potential for the double-height stairs to become uncomfortably warm, preserving the desire for a passively cooled and temperate interior that is attuned to the local climate.
This centralized cross-ventilation design, leveraging the Venturi effect, ensures the efficient expulsion of warm air from the interior, consequently, it further enhancing the overall thermal comfort and energy efficiency of the house.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio MSA
Project Type: Residential Architecture Design
Project Name: Transposed Courtyard House
Location: Goa
Year: 2024
Built Up Area: 856 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ar. Manali Vartikar & Ar. Sagar Kamat
Photography Credits: Hemant Patil
Manufacturers: Bharat Floorings, Hafele, Mlime, Philips
Structural Engineer: Vidhyadhar Kakodkar
Source: Archdaily
Firm’s Website Link: Studio MSA
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio MSA
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