Excerpt: Desai Residence by andblack design studio is designed as an ‘L’-shaped form that responds to the hot, arid climate by minimizing heat gain and creating a shaded garden as a cool microclimate. The design fosters fluid spatial experiences, with interconnected living spaces oriented to greenery and natural light. Exposed concrete, brick, wood, and stone define an earthy palette, while balconies and terraces blur boundaries between inside and outside.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] Situated on an elongated plot oriented along the east-west axis, this residence in Ahmedabad is thoughtfully designed to respond to the region’s hot and arid climate. The linear form strategically minimizes heat gain on the west facade, while the south facade is predominantly walled, housing service areas such as staircases and washrooms. This functional zoning creates an effective thermal buffer, enhancing the building’s environmental performance.
The ‘L’-shaped configuration liberates the northern quadrant, which is developed as a garden. This open space remains shaded for most of the day, providing a cool microclimate. All public areas, including the living spaces, are oriented towards this green expanse, creating seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.
Challenging contemporary tendencies towards compartmentalized living influenced by individualistic lifestyles and air-conditioning, this design fosters fluid spatial experiences. Spaces are deliberately interconnected, promoting a sense of openness and continuity.
The material palette of exposed concrete and brick celebrates the raw beauty of natural materials, lending an earthy character to the house. This exterior aesthetic is carried into the interiors, reducing the need for surface cladding.
Wood is strategically incorporated to soften the interiors, featuring full-height doors, wooden partitions, and bespoke solid wood furniture. Large louvered pivot doors along the corridor filter light and allow ventilation when closed, while seamlessly connecting the interior to the outdoors when open. The flooring continues the gray tone of exposed concrete with Kota stone, contrasted by vibrant Jaisalmer stone arranged in a parametric pattern to add visual interest. Touches of brass at the entrance complement the ochre accents, introducing subtle elegance.
The house is designed to embrace its natural surroundings, with every view thoughtfully framing the lush greenery outside. Balconies and terraces are positioned to engage with the existing mature trees, allowing nature to flow into the living spaces. This careful integration of landscape and architecture enhances passive cooling while blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.
By prioritizing natural light, ventilation, and fluid spatial connections, this project redefines contemporary living in a hot, arid climate. It challenges conventional boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces while celebrating the inherent beauty of natural materials. The design is a testament to andblack’s commitment to contextual architecture, creating a home that is both a functional refuge and an immersive experience deeply connected to its environment. Thoughtfully crafted, the house stands as an embodiment of a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature, reflecting an ethos of simplicity, openness, and authenticity.
Drawings
Images
