Nestled in Saligramam, Chennai, this open living house graces a 14-cent square plot enveloped by a concrete jungle. With roads flanking the east and north, the challenge was clear: create greenery, privacy, and immersive experiences within. The design ingeniously splits the expansive block into east and west sections, connected by a central north-south green space. A verdant transitional entry on the east welcomes guests, offering a sanctuary from the urban clamor.
The courtyard, cocooned from the outside world, seamlessly integrates the common areas in the front block and bedrooms in the rear, ensuring a balance of openness and seclusion. A strategically placed South-West water tank provides shade, while a terrace garden dynamically connects with the home theatre above, creating a harmonious interplay of spaces.
On the first floor, a wooden bridge unites the blocks, featuring rooms with panoramic views of the garden. The dining space, nestled between two courtyards, becomes a nurturing hub for family togetherness. The kitchen opens into a covered courtyard and embraces the elements, inviting rain and sunshine.
The central courtyard, adorned with a Buddha statue, emerges as the heart of the house, creating a serene atmosphere with the soothing sounds of a fountain. The use of natural materials like porotherm bricks, leather granite, and Bangalore stone seamlessly integrates the indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a symbiotic relationship with nature.
This architectural masterpiece stands as a beacon of tranquility, a perfect blend of thoughtful design, natural elements, and an oasis of green amidst the surrounding concrete landscape.