search

Screen House | The Grid Architects

 Screen House| The Grid Architects

Screen House is a beautifully integrated development that houses a large family and various age groups. It comprises three discrete spaces, each one serving the needs of sub-sets of the unit, yet linked in spirit and design.

The site is located facing north, with all other three sides abutting adjacent properties. Within this, the three main constituents — facing west, north, and east — are arranged in a C, encircling a central green courtyard that actually functions as a common space; an open-air living room. This is where the family congregates, to share stories, watch movies, read, and unwind.

The connectivity of the three homes is articulated by waterbodies, semi-open spaces, and vegetation; while sightlines have been maintained by selecting plants and trees (especially those of the central court) which are not too dense or will not become too tall.

The individual homes were planned to keep in mind the size of the plot, sun path, family requirements, climate. The architecture explores the interplay of alliances between plant life, water, sky, built-form, and humans.The building comprises of sections interlocked with the functionality of the spaces to create a balanced whole.

Elevationally, all three structures see a prominent use of brise soleil in the form of screens — hence the name. The landscape was meticulously planned to seem natural, organic, with several waterbodies at intervals. For the architect, water plays a symbolic role. “It changes our relationship to space,” he says. “It creates a reflection and adds an element of sensuality. Water symbolizes life.”

The exposed concrete on the elevation is tautly balanced with the earthen color and screens. A basic, close-to-nature basic palette was selected — stone, wood, and concrete — which helped create a stable thermal mass.

During the day, the house takes on a very “private” appearance. A veil of timber screens, horizontal and vertical, wraps around the houses, protecting the façade and the main living areas from the harsh sun and heat of the climate of Ahmedabad.

But at night, with the rooms illuminated within, the effect akin to a magical lantern. Everything was planned in rhythm: architecture, landscape, and interiors. Each house has a waterbody at the entrance porch and a personal sit out in the continuum. The intent was to keep the homes warm and welcoming, a house that always remains open.

A living space that merges with the garden, so that it almost becomes a part of it. The constant presence of water in every house infuses serenity. The screens protect and form a transparent curtain to the garden maintaining a visual connectivity between exterior and interior. A co-evolution which resulted in a coherent structure and style and expression maintaining architectural vocabulary.

The interior is artistically composed and remarkably spacious. The orientation is to catch the breeze through balconies, verandas and wide overhanging/cantilevered eaves that would also provide requisite shade.

The interior programme clearly demarcates and segregates semi-private and private areas. Even beyond the main entry, a vestibule caters to casual visitors.

After this, the programme unfolds via a passage leading, on one side, to the prayer room, kitchen and dining and patio, and, on the other, the guest room, elevator and staircase.

The staircases of each homes are defined differently each a sculptural element on its own. The prayer room is a place for spiritual repose highlighted by daylight that penetrates from a skylight above.

The double-height of the indoor living room in conjunction with the green vista that unfurls through floor-to-ceiling windows furthers the ‘living in a garden’ endeavour.

The dining rooms are also extended to a timber patio with a lily pond brimming with koi fish.

Essentially, the ground floor living areas are conceptualized as an open space overlooking the landscape filled with biodiversity and water. In contrast, the upper level is private and houses three bedrooms, each one overlooking the central landscape, and featuring a generous ensuite and dressing–closet.

The development also shares several facilities such as a well-equipped gym and jacuzzi in the basement of a separate structure, an outdoor barbeque facility attached to a covered, fully-glazed gazebo, and a fire pit to cater to extending to the garden and water bodies.

The selection of materials, meticulous attention to detail, modulation and movement of space planning and inculcating landscaping as part of the whole, are the hallmarks of this development.

There is abundance of natural light and nature. The Screen House is an urban residence that embraces the community living culture. A quiet retreat amidst the bustle of the city.

Habitat 0 Creates A Communal Space Anchored by A Community Club House | RA Design Studio

The design of Habitat 0 begins with the central concept of a vacation home community organized around a circular form. This layout places individual spaces radially around a central circular courtyard, creating a communal space where every area has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a […]

Read More

This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance | Vaktra Architects

Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance. This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance […]

Read More

Pranjali is a Modern Bungalow Design Rooted in Calm and Humility | Samast Design Studio

Pranjali – The Doctor’s Bungalow is a peaceful and practical modern bungalow design located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The name Pranjali, meaning “a graceful offering” or “a gesture of respect,” reflects the spirit of this residence—a calm, humble, and thoughtful space created for a doctor couple seeking balance in their busy lives. The design goal […]

Read More

The Stone-Crete House Is A Brutalist Ode To Contemporary Style Architecture | MPA Design Studio

The contemporary style architecture house is located in the lively urban context of Thaltej, Ahmedabad nestled within a private cluster of four bungalows. Though the home enjoys the benefits of community, it also maintains a high degree of privacy and seclusion. This is achieved through a carefully considered spatial arrangement, despite the proximity of a […]

Read More

This Retreat in Velhe Shows How Organic Homes Connect Deeply with Nature | Fractal Chaos

Screenwriter and director Megha Ramaswamy approached Fractal Chaos to design an organic home as a weekend retreat in Pasli Gaon, Velhe—a village about 150 km from Pune. The site is located between the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, which gives it a unique ecology with 4 seasons. Drawn to the land by a bordering […]

Read More

This Modern Traditional Kerala House Stands As A Refined Architectural Response | i2a Architects Studio

Situated in the bustling residential neighbourhood of Koorkenchery, Thrissur, Dr. Lakshmi’s residence stands as a refined architectural response to a narrow 15.53 cent plot. The 4214.07 sq ft home is a seamless blend of modern traditional kerala house, with an Indonesian inspired grey white exterior that exudes sophistication. The design strategically employs linear planning, integrating […]

Read More

This Tropical Home Design Features A Striking Sloped Terracotta Roof In Kerala | Vriksha Architects

Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]

Read More

50 Indian Door Design For Main Door To Enhance the Curb Appeal

The door design for main door is a defining feature of any Indian home, embodying both style and cultural significance. In a country rich with diverse architectural traditions, the entrance to your home reflects not only personal taste but also cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate carvings of traditional Indian door designs or […]

Read More

This Simple Farmhouse Design Responds To The Climate And Site | Dipen Gada & Associates

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 […]

Read More

Top 25 Architects in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is a city that boasts a rich and diverse architectural heritage that has been shaped by its history and cultural influences. The city has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Qutb Shahis, the Mughals, and the Nizams, who have all left their mark on its architecture and influenced young architects in Hyderabad. The […]

Read More
  • Why It Is Important For Elders To Move Into Retirement Communities

    How to Choose the Right Backup Generator for Your Home