search

Transposed Courtyard House in Goa Architecture: Responses To Urban Adaptation | Studio MSA

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

goa architecture

Design Perspective

This architectural project re-imagines goa architecture style houses. Further, it integrates a central courtyard concept arranged outside the house to foster social dynamics.

goa architecture

Shifting the courtyard’s position within the residential plan has enhanced functionality. This change also better responds to the evolving needs of occupants.

goa architecture

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.

goa architecture

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.

goa architecture

Climate Responsive Approach

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.

goa architecture

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.

goa architecture

goa architecture

Sensory Attributes

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.

dinning room

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.

goa architecture

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.

Living Room

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.

Dining Area

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

For Similar Projects >> This Open Air Amphitheatre on a Kerala Roof Design is an Ideal Music Venue

Ananta Spa And Resort: A Retreat Rooted in Nature and Luxury | Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL)

Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL) blurs the boundaries between structure and nature with the conceptualization and design of the elemental villas at Ananta Spa and Resort, Ajabgarh. Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli ranges, the design of the resort draws inspiration from the vastness of its surroundings and natural elements. Each villa type, including Earth, Lagoon, […]

Read More

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

10 Tropical Houses in India: A Symphony of Design and Nature

Imagine a home that breathes with the breeze, where sunlight filters through lush foliage, and the vibrant hues of nature are an extension of your living space. Tropical houses are architectural marvels; a profound dialogue between human habitation and the natural world, born from centuries of adapting to warm, humid climates. Far from rigid structures, […]

Read More

Kerala Style Homes: 15 Must-Know Projects In India

Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]

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
  • This Luxurious Modern Home Sparks Contemporary Elegance | DREAMSPACE -The Design Studio

    What is Indian Vernacular Architecture? | Interview with Ar. Himanshu Patel | TADPod