The Span House

The designers embarked on a journey when designing Span House, a project that posed both professional and personal challenges. Serving as both designers and clients, the couple envisioned creating two distinct yet interconnected residences to accommodate their extended family in Ahmedabad's serene Shilaj area. The primary requirement was to facilitate communal living while maintaining individual privacy, achieved through two homes sharing a central garden space. The architectural vision focused on integrating the residences with nature and maximizing natural light penetration throughout. This principle guided the design of spacious interiors characterized by open-plan layouts that seamlessly connect living, dining, and kitchen areas to the lush greenery outside. The exterior showcases a blend of solid structures and floating canopies, featuring exposed brick and R.C.C finished roofs juxtaposed with modern marble claddings and expansive glass openings. Each residence, while adhering to basic Vastu considerations, exhibits unique interior aesthetics. Span House 1 embraces a tranquil blue-themed palette, contrasting with Span House 2's vibrant purple tones. These choices not only define each home's personality but also contribute to a serene and inviting atmosphere. Strategically positioned openings towards the north ensure diffused natural light and picturesque views, enhancing the spatial experience. The lower levels of both homes encompass public spaces like bedrooms, formal living areas, family dining, and kitchens interconnected as open spaces. The grandeur of the entrance doors and the fluid transition from single-height to double-height spaces further amplify the sense of openness and connectivity within each residence. The heart of Span House lies in its central family living space, connecting seamlessly to the garden via a verandah and to the adjacent Span House 2 through a balcony on the first floor. This interconnectivity fosters a sense of community while maintaining individual living spaces. Material applications play a crucial role in defining the project's aesthetic and functional aspects. From exterior elements like exposed R.C.C and brick to interior flooring using Alaska grey Italian marble and innovative wall claddings such as travertine marble and fabric-backed glass, every detail reflects meticulous design choices aimed at enhancing comfort and visual appeal. Span House stands as a testament to thoughtful architectural design, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with the traditional Indian ethos of communal living. Through meticulous planning and innovative use of materials, Ar. Disha Patel and Ar. Jaymin Patel have created not just residences, but harmonious living environments that celebrate connectivity and individuality within a shared family context.