Project Brief: To design a house for a 3-generation joint family.
Concept: The concept was devised as a juxtaposition of 4 layered boxes with a parasol roof covering the space in between. This space transpired into a series of central volumes of the house, connected to each other in sections. The plan was organised in a way that the northern side of the site was utilised as a water body and courtyard that overlooked the main public space of the house. The ground level housed the oldest generation's master bedroom, a guest room, kitchen, etc., along with the public areas.
The puja was placed at the central vertical axis directly opposite the entrance. The entrance was through a double-height wooden screen where the main doors were a combination of multiple shutters, thereby allowing varied opening sizes depending on the use. The second level housed the 3 bedrooms for the 2 other generations, while the third level housed the entertainment zone and the domestic help quarters.
The interconnecting volumes allowed for a connection between the various generations & also lent grandeur to the interior space since the cross axes became free in the section.
The house is designed as a strong response to the extreme climate of Chandigarh since the large glass openings are only oriented to the northern side, while the openings to the southern and western sides are shaded by deep overhangs and vertical shading devices. Two terrace gardens on the second & third levels reduce the heat gain from the roof.
