Ahmedabad
Shayona Consultant | Prashant Parmar
A multitude of massive frames at various levels, spacious semi-covered green terraces at all floor levels getting animated with a play of light permeating through geometrically-patterned MS trellis at the top of the largest frame and a unique experience of varying volumes right from the entrance sums up, very briefly, the spatial experience of The Shaded House.
The client had a requirement of a 4BHK Bungalow, along with a garden space that permits interaction with nature through the air, natural light and rainfall.
The 4000 sq. ft. site is surrounded by 2-4 storey buildings on three sides in the Paldi area of Ahmedabad city. The permissible frontage- the only means for natural light, aeration and establishing visual connections with nature and outdoors- was merely 27’ wide. These factors, although challenging, did not stop the Architect from pulling off a handsome design.
The facade is expressive, crowned by a self-shading structure. The elevated gardens on the southeast side are carved out of grey cubes clad with wooden-figured MCM cladding material, while the walls look astonishing with exposed brick cladding. A simple white frame as a base element is stretched up to the highest level with a striking MS screen on top of it. It adds character to the design that overlooks the green spaces on site and helps to cut out harsh sunlight entering into the interior spaces, while creating a magical play of light and shadow.
The entrance veranda gives an essence of the volumetric difference from the triple-height to the double-height. The vestibule gives the impression of an open-plan layout that allows for a seamless transition from one space to another.
The layout of the house is uncomplicated and flows naturally from common to private activities. The bright and airy living room exudes a sense of refined taste with its plush, nude-coloured sofas, stone-clad wall and sunlight that seeps in through the tall windows connecting the front garden. The front garden acts as a source of light and ventilation for the ground floor.
Sandwiched by activity areas on three sides, the family room comes up as a cosy entertainment room for the family. The dining is connected with the puja room on the northeast side, acting as a central core with a triple-height space. With an intention of allowing an influx of natural light, large windows have been installed throughout the house.
The ground floor space is minimal, but it seems to have no design void that one would want to fill. The staircase and lift act as a vertical transition to all floors.
The first-floor passage leads to three bedrooms and overlooks the dining and puja. A coherent and authentic interior has been developed, based upon a thorough understanding of the demands of its occupants. The interior follows a subtle colour scheme, highlighting the luxurious Italian marble flooring, rich materials and exquisite décor details.
The second level encompasses the entertainment room and a huge-shaded terrace garden. The terrace garden to the south-east façade elevates in the front, visually connecting all three levels. The screening on the ceiling brings a sense of ornamentation to the house and consolidates the architectural language of the facade as the focal point of the project. It provides shelter from the sun and creates different light patterns throughout the day.
In a nutshell, The Shaded House stays true to its name and allows people within the house to experience cohesive, dynamic and regal spaces that deepen a connection with nature. Designed in a modified, mid-century modern style, this home in Ahmedabad has distinct elements that infuse a sense of drama into every space.
FACT FILE:
Project Name : The Shaded House
Project Location : Paldi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Architecture Firm : Shayona Consultant, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Principal Architect : Prashant Parmar
Design Team : Harikrushna Pattani, Hemang Mistry, Ashish Rathod, Pooja Solanki, Vasavi Mehta.
Plot Area : 4000 sq.ft
Gross Built Area : 5200 sq.ft
Budget : INR 3000 / Sq.ft. Approx.
Completion Year : 2021
Photo Credits : Inclined Studio