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Architects: Archimatrix India Associates
- Area: 6297 ft²
- Year: 2020
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Photographs:Justin Sebastian
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Manufacturers: Fenesta, Samsung, Weiner, Xpelair
Our Approach as Architects - The Contour House is set on top of the hills of Pezhakkapilly in the suburbs of Muvattupuzha. Set in a picturesque backdrop, this 6300 sq. ft. single-storied abode is located on a 70-cent site. The client, an entrepreneur, wanted a spacious and comfortable dwelling overlooking the lush, landscaped premises to escape from work-related stress and a busy schedule. The topography of the site was an interesting challenge encountered in the process. The client also wanted the existing vegetation to be retained. This was tackled by building along the contours.
Altering the gradation of the site was done without disturbing the existing site geography which resulted in a house set amidst a lush green setting that offers a retreat-like ambiance. The Contour House, true to its name is set respecting the nature of the contours of the site. This led to the development of engaging volumetric combinations that brought about a solid exterior and fluid interior spatial configuration. Pockets of green and water bodies are carefully integrated with the design adding visually pleasing aspects. Further planning was done by analyzing the microclimate and ecological aspects of the site.
Details - The slope was used as an advantage to zone and segregate public and private spaces in the residence. The interior spaces are sculpted with site contour as the inspiration. The main entry leads to the intermediate level which accommodates the living space. The prayer room is placed on the upper level and the lower level contains the kitchen, dining, and work area. Bedrooms are arranged along the contour levels away from the public zones to provide privacy for the users. Usage of UPVC windows seamlessly establishes exterior to interior visual connectivity. Treatment of spaces with these transparent walls enables the user to enjoy the exterior landscape in the comforts of interior spaces.
Courtyards are carefully integrated into the plan breaking the massive singular structure and are visually connected to all the common areas and family spaces. The client is a highly sociable person who required spaces to host family gatherings, long verandahs are incorporated near the main entry for the same purpose. Column-free central family space is another main highlight of this residence. This adds to the spaciousness creating an open and flexible layout to accommodate more people during family gatherings.
Sinuous windows mimicking the site contour are provided along the slope and stairs connecting the levels. This space acts as a recreational zone becoming a viewpoint from where one can enjoy the gradual arrival of rain from uphill. Skylights above the common areas flood the space with natural light during the daytime. Screens with intricate geometric patterns are used to partition out a comfortable, private majlis for the female members of the family. A wooden staircase in this central space to access the rooftop infinity pool adds lightness to the interior space and does not become a hindrance to the open layout.
Each bedroom is assigned only the optimum space that’s required to avoid making it overwhelming and packed. Bedrooms are designed to suit the taste of the user adding personalized detailing. Proper positioning of windows here ensures that the rooms benefit from cross ventilation and entry of ample natural light. The kitchen is the most utilized space during daytime and is placed in the center of the plot acting as a surveillance point with a view towards the main and rear access. The natural look and warmth of the wooden flooring add coziness and life to the interior spaces.
Courtyard - Courtyard spaces have been seamlessly integrated into the plan as voids of lush green pockets between the singular mass, which in turn amalgamates diverse spaces of the house. In addition to its role of forming aesthetic sinews of the residence, it also induces natural ventilation, bringing in a congenial micro-climate to the interior spaces nestled between them. These spaces encompassing vegetation and water bodies offer exquisite views from the common spaces around it, which reflects access to outside nature, and enhances the visual quality of the spaces inside the house. The courtyards due to the virtue of abundant daylight and strategic positioning turn into avenues of recreational activities, reflecting the client’s affinity for sociability.
Exterior - The exterior form comprises projected solid masses connected by wavy slabs derived from site contour. The facade is adorned with a lattice pattern inspired by Islamic motifs based on the religious and cultural beliefs of the client. This was executed on CNC-cut metal screens, and louvers adding grandeur to the frontage. The play of light and shadow displayed when natural light strikes the screens and louvers adds to the aesthetic quality. In a nutshell, exterior and interior spaces are carefully designed to meet the requirements and personal preferences of each family member with the sole aim of creating a jovial and peaceful home for them.
