Excerpt: H2, a residence by Design Plus, is designed around two existing trees, creating a nature-centric, inward-looking home. Emphasizing vertical transparency and light-filled interiors, the design integrates a central courtyard, skylights, and staggered volumes to enhance connectivity and spatial flow. The house blends functionality with natural elements, fostering a warm, interactive family environment.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] Location: The project is located in Dollars Colony, behind the Air Force Training Command and just off the airport road.
Site Context: The site featured one mango tree in the northeast and one jackfruit tree in the southwest of the site. The design was centered around both trees.
Design Brief: The requirements called for a 6-bedroom house with ample entertainment space for friends and family. The entertainment space on the ground level was positioned next to the mango courtyard, with sliding folding doors. During large gatherings, these doors allow the space to open up to the car park, creating a fluid connection between the areas. The mango courtyard opens into the entire section of the house. A sculptural staircase bridges the courtyard and dining area.
The bedrooms were arranged on the south and north sides, creating a central staggered double-height open space. A skylight with metal trails allows natural light to lite the central space. The skylight creates dynamic light and shadow effects on the blank wall, which is visible from all corners of the central area.
The bedrooms feature large benches in place of balconies, with well-designed metal trails outside the benches. This creates a play of light and shadows while reducing heat gain. The terrace is aligned towards the front and opens to a large green space, overlooking the Air Force Command and CPRI, ensuring good cross-ventilation.
Construction Technique: The construction technique includes RCC frame structures with wire-cut brick wall infill. Natural timber is used for door frames and shutters, while aluminum windows come with security bug mesh. Flooring consists of timber and marble. MS enamel-painted trusses support skylights, and local undressed stones are used for wall cladding.
Conclusion: The design successfully addresses all the client’s requirements by integrating natural light into the courtyard and central open space. This design made the house inward-looking and vertically transparent, fostering a strong sense of connection within the family.
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