The thought was to create a space which would act as a formal real estate workspace in the daytime and a family retreat in the evening. By its name, as it is, ‘Leveled. This office with a garden is defined using levels, in terms of volumes, surfaces as well as edges. These levels are rationalized in a way that they embed into the pre-existing context, which has been retained in its maximum possible form. the same levels also enable the play of light and shadow in the internal spaces. Pre dominantly, it was an important thought to use or retain the existing plantation in the context.
Editor’s Note: “In a quiet corner where work meets wonder, ‘Leveled’ unfolds like a whisper of nature and intention. A workspace that listens to light, shadow, and roots, which is not just designed, but discovered. With every level, light filters deeper, and the lines between built and grown dissolve into something beautifully whole.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
This Office with Garden Blurs Boundaries between Work and Retreat | Arcline Architects
In here, these levels also create a hierarchy, eventually leading to its functionally dominant space. The design achieves these levels through two volumes of different heights. Internally, vertical edges and wall surfaces connect them, while externally, a horizontal surface links the volumes. This horizontal element also functions as a sun cutter for the internal space, as the main light opening faces the South West.
Every space has its own characteristics, which further form the functionality and sustainability of the space. The major internal volume of this workspace captures natural light and casts dynamic shadows. The dynamics of volume allows natural light in this space throughout the year.
Formulation of the different functionalities in this work space is such that the journey through the hierarchal spaces eventually leads to the dominant space.
This journey spans through an axial open walkway to which the built mass and variation of volumes orient to, then there is a buffer space which eventually leads to the bigger volume which also is the major workspace area.
This axial open walkway and semi-open spaces popping out of the volumes visually and functionally stitch the landscape and the built volumes together.
Local and sustainable materials such as exposed brick cladding and stucco define the workspace, reducing the carbon footprint.
A major part of the green cover remains intact, while local species of plants, shrubs, and trees enrich the landscape.
The plantation defines the built volumes visually, making them easy to differentiate. Inside, conventional bricks and wood create a balanced visual workspace. This visual balance further makes space so cheerful to be a part of the context.
Fact File
Designed by: Arcline Architects
Project Type: Office Architecture Design
Project Name: L E V E L E D – work place with a private garden
Location: Ognaj, Ahmedabad
Year Built: August 2024
Principal Architects: Juhi Patel & Shravan Patel
Photograph Courtesy: Umang Shah
Execution: Woodplus, Darshna Traders and Local carpenters & Masons
Drawings & Details: Tanvi Jooshi & Devansh Jayswal
Firm’s Instagram Link: Arcline Architects
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