Excerpt: Harshana Residence by Murali Architects blends traditional South Indian elements with contemporary design, aiming to foster social interaction and a connection with nature. The residence features reintroduced architectural elements like thinnai and kunds that serve as informal gathering spaces and encourage interaction. Open courts maximize natural light and cross-ventilation, while landscaped pockets create a serene living environment.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] Located in Medavakkam, Chennai, Harshana Residence sits amidst a neighborhood of diverse architectural styles and varying building heights. Designed with a vision to revive and reinterpret elements of traditional architecture, the residence blends heritage-inspired concepts with contemporary needs. The design focuses on fostering social interactions, enhancing connections between spaces, and seamlessly integrating nature into the built environment.
Central to the residence’s concept is the reintroduction of architectural elements such as the thinnai (a traditional raised platform for seating) and kunds (water reservoirs), which act as social nodes for informal gatherings. These features not only encourage interaction but also echo the essence of traditional South Indian homes. Strategically placed open courts punctuate the structure, maximizing natural light and cross-ventilation while establishing a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The integration of landscaped pockets within the residence further enhances this interplay, creating a serene living environment.
The residence is accessed through two distinct entrances, catering to different needs. A formal entrance leads to the welcome pavilion, offering a grand reception area for guests. In contrast, an informal entrance caters specifically to the client’s elderly parents, providing direct access to a comfortable lounge space designed for their convenience. The internal layout of the house follows an open-plan concept, with interconnected spaces for the kitchen, dining, and informal living areas, ensuring a sense of continuity and openness.
The home features five thoughtfully designed bedrooms, each with its unique purpose. The client’s parents’ bedroom is situated for easy access, while the master bedroom shares a direct connection with the daughter’s bedroom, fostering a sense of family closeness. Two additional guest bedrooms provide privacy for visitors. Every bedroom opens to a balcony, offering visual connections to the outdoors and inviting in natural light and fresh air.
A basement garage, accessible via a ramp, reflects the client’s passion for automobiles, providing a dedicated space for their collection. The backyard further enhances the home’s social appeal, with a swimming pool and shared interaction spaces that serve as a bridge to the neighborhood, promoting community engagement.
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