A small 50-year old house exists on the site, which is to be demolished. The aged Burma teakwood rafters/doors/windows of the existing house are proposed to be re-used in the new construction.
The newly proposed construction consists of a 4000 sft dual-unit residence spread over three floors, with the Ground Floor residence for rental purposes and the First and Terrace Floors for the client’s family. The main design challenges in this project were to counter the extremely hot and humid climate of Chennai and to cater to the spatial and privacy requirements of two separate families living within the same premises. The floor plans were to adhere to Vasthu guidelines. The site had a restricted entranceway from the road and hence vehicular circulation and parking requirements posed quite a challenge on their own. The client being a car-lover added an extra dimension to the whole design picture!
The site consists of a long internal driveway which is the only entrance/exit to the site. Provision has been made for parking 5 cars. An existing well has been retained and is to be replenished with an effective rainwater harvesting system.
The Ground Floor residence comprises about 1600 sft of built-up area. It consists of a large Living and Dining area with a Kitchen, Utility, 3 bedrooms and 2 toilets. Ample cross ventilation has been provided for all bedrooms. Privacy of the tenants is ensured by providing a separate entrance gate and side main entry into the house.
The client’s residence has a separate entrance through an external staircase. It incorporates a large Living and Dining area, an open kitchen with a breakfast nook, 3 bedrooms and a Home Theatre Room. Balconies, Toilets and other service/utility areas have been incorporated as necessary. A small central courtyard with a skylight above provides plenty of natural light and ventilation for the entire house. Ample cross-ventilation in the bedrooms ensures fast movement of hot air from the internal spaces and makes way for fresh air to come in. The Terrace Floor consists of a small pantry, a gazebo and terrace garden.
- Project type : Residential construction
- Project Scope : Architecture & Interiors
