Chasing the light: This Ahmedabad home by Hsc-Designs challenges conventional boundaries

Who says that house has to be a perfect cuboid? Just like this one one it can protrude in directions other than the defined ones. Located in Ahmedabad, this home by Hsc-Deigns is surely a stand out. Situated along a busy road, the residence dubbed “House of Dynamic Sunlight” is thoughtfully designed around a central double-height space, strategically aligned with the sun’s path. This central area, which features a large dining space flanked by faceted windows, is illuminated by morning sunbeams, creating a vibrant, welcoming environment for family breakfasts. The facade, reminiscent of a vertical courtyard common in Gujarati culture, serves as a communal gathering spot. This space is more than just a design feature; it embodies cultural traditions and provides a unique social setting.

The design of the faceted windows is a key element in this home, engineered to manage light and shading throughout the day. By analyzing sun patterns and climatic data, the design ensures that every space, including the bedrooms, benefits from a dynamic play of natural light, enhancing the living experience throughout the day.

Given the constraints of a single-bay layout imposed by the compact plot, careful planning was required to balance privacy and functionality. Bedrooms are arranged to ensure a buffer zone between private and semi-private areas, while the central dining space is strategically positioned to serve as the focal point of family gatherings. Its central location not only highlights its importance but also ensures it receives ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere for meals and family bonding. The soaring ceiling height further enhances the sense of openness and warmth.

The approach to the house is marked by large teakwood doors and an extended porch, providing a visual connection to the entrance. Elevated to protect against potential flooding—a necessity given the house’s low-lying location—the porch also serves as a traditional sit-out area. Positioned to the east, it offers a shaded space to enjoy morning tea or practice yoga with the rising sun.

The project faced significant budgetary constraints, necessitating innovative construction methods and materials to achieve the desired results. To address these challenges, alternative construction techniques were employed. Faceted walls were built using brick and lightweight concrete blocks, with local workers trained to create staggered wall formations. These walls were then clad in terracotta tiles, a local material known for its insulating properties.

The combination of double walls and terracotta tiles provides effective insulation against the harsh Ahmedabad heat. The design also incorporates extrusions that offer shading for windows, reducing the need for extensive HVAC systems and contributing to cost savings. Grey lime plaster, used as an insulating coat, further enhances the home’s heat protection.

The deliberate interplay of materials and geometric forms contributes to the project’s unique architectural expression. Terracotta tiles arranged in varied directions create a striking pattern, adding a sense of balance and harmony to the overall design.

Also Read: Biju Janata Dal’s new headquarters by Studio Lotus in Bhubaneswar is themed on inclusivity and deep-seated regionalism

Despite its smaller footprint, the residence cleverly utilizes its central and transitional spaces to create a sense of expansiveness. These interactive areas are illuminated by shifting sunbeams, which weave a beautiful interplay of light and space throughout the home. This dynamic interaction of sunlight and architecture is what inspired the home’s name: the House of Dynamic Sunlight.

Fact File:

Name of the project: House of Dynamic Sunlight

Firm Name: Hsc-Designs

Area: 5,000 sq ft

Location: Ahmedabad

Photo credits: Vinay Panjwani