The architecture of the building strives to develop a geometry which would express the slender frames of the cuboids. The deeply recessed surfaces of the cuboids are large openings for light, ventilation and access to the landscape.

This building configuration generates articulated frames of horizontal and vertical planes against solid blank masses. The segregation of vertical and horizontal planes is further emphasized by use of colours and teak cladding on the soffits of the slabs; with an attempt to create a frame which is rigid yet slender due to its expression.

On the west facade, the master bed space on the ground level has a cantilevering balcony on the first level over its outdoor seating adjoining the garden space. The large balcony cum deck on the first level creates an abstract visual tension and balances the slender frame which overlaps the mass.

The north facade has masses of varying levels and a slender slab supported by slender metal columns forming the entry verandah at the main door.

The east facade has an expansive verendah which opens up to the back garden. The upper level has terraces overlooking the garden; creating shaded evening spaces as sit-outs.

In terms of site planning, the house sits in the centre of the site, with the back garden on the east side and the front garden along with the parking structure on the west side. The house has an approach road from the west side. The utility structure with support facilities is located at the far end on the east side flanking the back garden. The entry to the home is from the north face; where one is guided from the entry vestibule to the formal living space. It is connected to a double height space in the centre of the house which consists of the stairs and a large skylight; which illuminates the interiors with natural light all throughout the day.

The family space, dining and the kitchen space are placed on the east end, opening to the family verendah and the back garden.

The master bed space and the parent’s bed space on the ground level are located on the west face with the individual verandas opening out to the front garden.

At the upper level on the west face, the son’s bed space and the guest bed space are located with balconies facing the front garden.

The linear stone planters alongside the front lawn at the main circulation path have been placed strategically to divide the lawn and the common movements. The planters are high enough to act as seating in the front lawn, but at the same time ensuring there is visual connection to the outside.

The concept of the interior is to realize an understated elegance and luxury in the expression of the interior.

The interior of the home is an amalgamation of various materials. The flooring is done in polished Italian marble; natural teak and smoked oak veneer is used for furniture in tandem with various stones.

The interiors have an inevitable presence of colours in all the spaces of the home. The colours bring as sense of vibrancy to the spaces exuding warmth and energy.

The house pays tribute to various upcoming Indian artistes and their works are displayed at various prominent places in the home. The works of these artists inspires us to create more spaces which may become a backdrop to highlight the wonderful work they do.

Project: The House of Akin Cuboids
Location: Ahmadabad
Area of the structure: 8500 sq. ft. (built-up area)
Design Firm: Ahmedabad Matrix, Ahmedabad
Principal Architects: Chintan Tamboli
Design Team: Chintan Tamboli
Structure Consultants: Shreeji Consultants, Ahmedabad
Utility Consultants: Bhavin Upadhyay, Ahmedabad
Electrical Consultants: Bhavin Upadhyay, Ahmedabad
Horticulture: Fali Kekobad, Ahmedabad
Aluminium Windows: Magic windows, Ahmadabad
Furniture sourcing: Design Connect
Lighting: Neptune Enterprise, Ahmadabad
Fabric sourcing: Palette, Ahmadabad
Photography: Photographix India/Ira Gosalia