Any project where an architect receives an open hand is an ideal project. However, as the studio acknowledged during Bricks@47, it’s also an immense responsibility. It helped that we knew the occupants well, personally, and could discuss accurate programmatic solutions during the formation of the brief. A striking brick house with hints of traditional design and essence of reformed living, is designed for a young nuclear family with 4 permanent residents. Apart from the proverbial bedrooms the program evolved with 2 studies and several overlapping, yet shared family spaces. Each of these were constantly engaged with the 18’ high dining. 

A Striking Brick House with Hints of Traditional Design and Essence of Reformed Living | Design Plus

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Editor’s note : “Seldom do Architects enjoy the liberty to explore their creativity, but when they do, it can produce wonderful experiences. This project beautifully demonstrates the ability a humble material like brick showcases when tamed thoughtfully. Its modern, semi-jaali facade not only brings a refreshing touch to the expansive interiors but also, stands out as a prominent feature. Noteworthy elements include the organic jaali overhang on the terrace and the Jack Arches in the study that initiate an instant dialogue with its users.” ~ Venessa Thomas (Co-Editor)

Understanding that the couple is known for hosting impromptu gatherings, the public function was taken to the 2nd floor [top floor] instead of impeding into the areas that the family was expected to occupy at any time. This public function was the Bar. While the indoors accommodate a gathering of 18, the adjacent terraces could account for a gala.

To assist in hosting the frequent galas, the terraced landscape carried functional elements like the built-in Barbeque, a platform for lighting a bonfire, permanent wood-clad furniture, and of course abundant plantation. The fact that the owner is always the life of the party, and never away from a jovial narration, the terrace carried a small amphitheater for his potential audience. 

An additional interpretation of the requirement was the expandable kitchen. The lady of the house is also a professional chef, who would conduct frequent training sessions. The kitchen was designed with one of the walls as collapsible doubling as a worktop to allow for 5 students, with vantage to the various culinary activities.

One of the beautiful conversations that ensued during the design development was the idea of carrying memories from the couple’s ancestral home. The ever-present scent of the Nimbu Tree, the monochromatic geometric flooring inlays, the clean terrazzo floor, and the enjoyment of lazy winter afternoons at the veranda, fused the essential romance to the developing spaces. 

Sustainable Green Home [Our shared ethical responsibility] – The clients were completely synchronized with the Studio’s Philosophy of being Ethically Green. The house has received a Platinum certification from IGBC Green Homes. Some important aspects covered are as follows:

Construction Technology [Building Construction classes at the site] – The project offered the potential to be a playfield for several design and construction techniques. From designing elements using custom-written codes, such as the parametric brick wall and parapets or the double curved canopies, to relying on century-old methods of spanning distances like the jack arch. The house was a testing bed for Hi-tech design tech marrying low-tech construction tech. An AEC pipeline which we believe is India’s great strength

The site also helped our principal, Mr. Arun Bij, to organize building construction classes for the studio, especially since some of the elements needed unfortunately dying skills. Terrazzo flooring for instance. Once a thriving and economic flooring system has completely gone out of the current preference list.

The proportions of chips to cement, water content, laying profile, and temperament were all highlighted via self-demonstration. These classes made us romanticize an era where the architect himself was the master builder. 

Fact File

Designed by : Design Plus

Project Type : Residential Architecture Design

Project Name : Bricks@47 House

Location : Noida

Year Built : 2019

Project Size : 6000 Sq.ft

Principal Architects : Arun K Bij & Abhishek Bij

Design Development : Aakanksha Khatri & Harjyot Singh

Photograph Courtesy : Suryan // Dang

Source : Archdaily

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