The two story house maintains the authentic essence of semi-openness, while incorporating a contemporary context and ambiance. It is located in the semi-arid city of north Karnataka-Gadag.

Editor’s Note: “A dramatic play of geometry and volumes embraces this residence in Karnataka. The bold ‘Red’ evokes a sense of nostalgia, taking one back to the traditional brick-mortar houses. A visual drama within the residence is created by the steel trellis which casts a captivating play of shades and shadows throughout the day.” ~Simran Khare

Two Story House Maintains the Authentic Essence of Semi-Openness | Jacob + Rathodi Architects

The plot for ‘The Red Courtyard House’ was carved out from an acre of land owned by the client, which faces the main road on the south and the secondary road on the west.

The family, with two sons and dogs, desired a spacious home with a large garden for their furry friends to enjoy. Our visit to their ancestral residence, a traditional North Karnataka home with an expansive open court, provided us the inspiration to design their new dwelling.

The color ‘Red’ has a strong association with traditional brick-and-mortar buildings and we’ve used this visual metaphor to emphasize the aesthetics of our structure. Inside, warm wooden textures combine with lighter flooring tones to create a cozy atmosphere.

The lush green landscaped pockets inside imbue the property with the atmosphere of a miniature oasis, a welcome contrast to the otherwise arid and heated climate of the city. The bold shingle-covered sloping roof that forms a westerly elevation is designed consciously to form a sun-shielding facade for the west side wing and to conceal the services on the terrace.

Heart of the house: Courtyard

Our design philosophy is to create a micro-climate within urban living spaces, offering a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. To achieve it in this two-story structure, a centrally landscaped double-height courtyard with a pond feature is its epicenter.

The courtyard is open to the sky (with safety grills) and is facing the north side of the dwelling. Unlike traditional courtyards, here a steel trellis has been incorporated to enclose the courtyard and filter out the region’s harsh sunlight.

The use of steel as a material serves a dual purpose: it functions as a safety feature and is also designed as a key aesthetic element of the building’s elevation. The steel trellis pattern throws a plethora of shadows, which play throughout the day creating a visual drama of lines on a red canvas.

Form and Visual Imagery

The project’s architectural vocabulary was conceived to showcase its spaces boldly through their form and massing, given its location on a corner site facing multiple roads. The rectilinear boxes provide ample room for the bedrooms and Home-Theatre wing, while the double-height courtyard is a central hub.

Staircase

The staircase, emanating from the dining zone, is strategically placed to connect both bays of the edifice.

Other Spaces

The remaining spaces includes a living room, a dining area, and a breakfast area with an open kitchen. It also has three bedrooms, a home theater, a private balcony, and a semi-open patio arranged around.

The vertical steel trellis sprouting from the roof ensures security and partially screens out the afternoon sun.

This arrangement, with large sliding windows allows ample natural light and ventilation to enter and circulate.

Fact File

Designed by: Jacob + Rathodi Architects

Project Type: Residential Architecture Design

Project Name: The Red Courtyard House

Location: Gadag, Karnataka 

Year Built: 2023

Duration of the project: 24 Months

Built-up Area: 5500 Sq.ft

Principal Architects: Ar. Girish Rathodi & Ar. Vineetha Sara Jacob

Photograph Courtesy: Shamanth Patil

Products / Materials / Vendors: Lighting – Hybec / Sanitaryware – KOHLER / Windows – My Windows Paint – Asianpaints / Flooring tile: Simpolo

Consultants for the Project: Civil – Rabani Nagral

Firm’s Instagram Link: Jacob + Rathodi Architects

Firm’s Facebook Link: Jacob + Rathodi Architects

For Similar Project>>> A Climate Responsive Courtyard House In Kerala With An Earthy Palette And Natural Materials