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
This architectural project re-imagines goa architecture style houses. Further, it integrates a central courtyard concept arranged outside the house to foster social dynamics.
Shifting the courtyard’s position within the residential plan has enhanced functionality. This change also better responds to the evolving needs of occupants.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The Liquescent house, located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, is a testament to organic architecture, a dialogue between the built and unbuilt, and the careful integration of natural elements. The architect’s inclination towards the design language is imbued with a natural fluidity, shaped by a childhood immersed in clay. This formative experience—working with a material […]
The rural residence is thoughtfully situated on a 9,000 square foot plot in Pappanadu, a village renowned for its rich communal life and cultural heritage in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Designed to accommodate a couple and their mother, the objective was to create a distinctive home that not only stands out aesthetically but also remains accessible […]
The design philosophy of Bhide’s Farmhouse in Pune, deeply rooted in organic living, embraces modern minimalism while incorporating elements of rustic charm. The emphasis is on creating a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the lush landscapes of Maharashtra. The design prioritizes simplicity, authenticity, and sustainability. Editor’s Note: By beautifully incorporating rustic […]
This modern house by the lake is inspired by traditional Wada architecture while incorporating contemporary aesthetics and functionality. Embracing nature, the architectural design reflects cultural heritage, technological advancements, and natural surroundings. With its exposed brick exterior, central courtyard, landscaping, a swimming pool by the lake, and a narrow alley entrance reminiscent of old Wadas, this residence […]
If you were to step into this Hyderabad house, you would sense harmony in paradox as it harmonizes two distinct units. With both units seamlessly woven together with open-to-sky transitional spaces. Moving around, you get the impression of belongingness, thriving in complete balance with a respect for individuality. This Hyderabad House Harmonizes Two Distinct Units […]
Reflecting grandeur, this Delhi house, also called as Nievus Villa reinterprets classical architecture through a contemporary lens, resulting in a sophisticated, and inviting home. FAB Studio undertook the challenge of creating a residence that seamlessly integrates into Delhi’s architectural landscape, while blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Editor’s Note: “By merging classical elements with contemporary […]
The sentiment of togetherness is conceptualised the best way by Shreesh Design Studio LLP in this luxe house and has executed it with brimming affection. ‘The Luxe Wave,’ as so appropriately named, is a residential haven located in the warm arms of a homely neighborhood in Rajkot, Gujarat. The coming together of familial bonding and […]
A building that is constructed and designed to be environmentally responsible and resource-efficient design is called a green building. Green buildings are designed to maintain or improve the quality of the environment around them. Deep under its stylish mien, with Nature running through the veins of this house of 3732 square feet, is a green […]
Coloured glass is incorporated into the east facing elevation of the house with a plan designed to interact beautifully with morning sunlight. As the sun rises, light filters through the coloured glass, casting vibrant, colourful rays throughout the interior and creating a dynamic, uplifting atmosphere. Each piece transforms into a radiant, gem-like feature when struck […]
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 […]