Abhyudaya-Villa in Ahmedabad | KNS Architects
Context:
In an urban zone with other villas abutting the Site; the plot was a barren piece of land with no immediate views.
Concept:
The Concept was to create an ‘Urban Oasis’ within this dry & arid piece of land with internal view sheds.
Description:
Clean lines and angled geometry dictates the design for this 1500 sq.mt. villa at Ahmedabad. The architectural vocabulary integrates the principles of modernism with traditional responses to the local geography and climate.
FACT FILE:
Firm : KNS Architects
Principal Architects: Ar. Kanhai Gandhi, Ar. Neemesh Shah, Ar. Shresht Kashyap
Location: Ahmedabad
Area: 15000 sq.ft.
Photo credit : Radhika Pandit
The design envisages the top floor as a floating white mass with interplay of scooped hollows. In order to infuse movement and dynamism into the structure angular planes were introduced in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions. At some places this profile flows forward and lifts up to create sharp angles along certain facades while it also flows down extending to form the linear lines of the landscaped flower beds.
In response to the harsh climatic conditions a number of passive design principles were adopted. Double walling on the first level helps insulate against the harsh summers and cold winters while offering weather protection for the glazed openings. Additionally, the first floor is cantilevered outward providing a weather shade for the ground level. Maximum glazing has been introduced along the north facade while the south and west faces have been kept impenetrable.
The house was positioned at the southern end of the plot, away from the entry giving enough depth to perceive the structure. This also doubled up as a grand entrance with manicured lawns leading to the entrance porch.
The habitable spaces are planned around a central courtyard enabling cross ventilation across maximum rooms. A shallow water body which wraps along one side helps cool the cross breeze thus lowering the ambient temperature and creating a comfortable micro-climate.
Landscape was a key element considered while designing. These were used to define direction as well as connect the landscape with the built structure. Strategic placement of trees along the fringe of the double height spaces enabled sun shading & cooling along with a thick plantation along the periphery of the plot to maintain privacy from neighbors.
The material palette was chosen to complement and lend to the elegant clean lines of the structure. Wood cladding to bring warmth to the ground level and white paint finish to lend a lightness to the first level. The interiors have been kept simple, uncluttered and minimalistic designed in a homogenous colour scheme.
Given the compact footprint of the residence, designed on a 140 sq. m. plot, the idea behind this simple home interior design was to open each space into an outdoor verandah or balcony to make the space look spacious and have an ample amount of sunlight, but still want to maintain the privacy in each […]
Studio Lotus proposes a unique archetype for retail design with the new brand experience center for luxury jewelry label Sunita Shekhawat. The art of Meenakari, or enamel work, is an age-old technique renowned for its vibrant and intricate designs on metal surfaces. While enamel work originated in Persia, it has flourished in India, particularly in Rajasthan, where […]
The Silhouette House’s design philosophy revolves around creating a harmonious balance between functionality, aesthetics, and emotional connection. Inspired by the client’s diverse lifestyles—a merchant navy officer’s quest for serenity, a PR officer’s need for warmth, and the joy of nurturing young children—the home, with its sloping roof design, is designed as a sanctuary that blends […]
This exquisite villa is located amidst lush greenery in Bangalore. This house design offers a perfect blend of modern architectural design and traditional South Indian aesthetics. Thoughtfully crafted to reflect the cultural heritage of its residents, the villa features sleek contemporary lines complemented by classic South Indian furniture and decor. South Indian House Design Offers […]
House of Heights: How design shapes relationships and well-being? “A house can transform its people. The living room, the tallest space in my home, is where we socialize, express our feelings, and spend the most time—an open arena for life’s conversations. The impact of front elevation design on home and harmony further emphasizes how thoughtful design […]
Spacious, inviting, and intimate, courtyards have an integral place in the vernacular architecture across India. Beyond their climatic purposes, courtyards assume the role of a social space, a space for contemplation, and a space where something happens. Their presence in various forms, proportions, and sizes has been a ubiquitous feature in Indian vernacular architecture. The […]
When you walk into a room, what’s the first thing you notice in the interiors? The furniture, the walls, or the ceiling? Often overlooked, the ceiling plays a significant role in defining the ambiance of a room. If you’re looking to add some flair, sophistication, or a modern touch to your living room, false ceiling […]
SASWATHA, the residential architecture project by GVQ Design Studio, is located in Thrissur, Kerala. This thoughtfully designed home caters to a joint family consisting of two brothers, their families, and their parents. Spanning approximately 2,700 sq. ft on a 15-cent plot, the residential architecture is meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of a multi-generational […]
This simple farmhouse design is a humble residence that responds to the climate and site. It is a fun fact that the house is both an inward and outward looking house at the same time. One of the USPs of the simple farmhouse design project would be that it connects well with the most playful […]
Indie Tales, a 2 story house design in Pondicherry stays true to its identity stands apart with its unparalleled charm amidst a narrow conservative neighborhood. This abode embraces a quiet reflection of modern lifestyle and traditional nuances within a limited budget for an intimate family of 5 across 3 generations. The residence evolves as an […]