Fluid volumes traverse between nine existing trees on the southern side of a 3,311 sqm plot, with 2 of the trees punctuating the open deck areas and the others in close proximity of the Nine X Nine house, located in Gandhinagar, India. The entry to the plot is located between a large cluster of trees on the northwestern corner, revealing the house slowly as one moves inside, from the gate.
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- Photo credit: Vinay Panjwani
The location of the built spaces towards the southern side generates a large garden on the northern side, with all the rooms oriented towards the garden. The orientation is planned in response to the hot climate prevalent in this location, with temperatures in excess of 35°C for most of the year, and the sun in the southern hemisphere.
The House forms a ‘T’ shape in plan and section simultaneously. Entered from the northern side, a central spine branches towards the east and west, with a focal spiral stairway at the centre. Sectionally, the house is entered at the ground level, with one level above and one level below.
A generous sunken courtyard space on the western side allows natural light and air to the subterranean level, linked to the ground level garden by an open stairway along an undulating wall with a waterfall. This waterfall on the western side, and a shallow reflecting the pool on the north-eastern side, provides passive cooling to the spaces. Six of the existing trees onsite were retained within the sunken courtyard, and another three on the south-eastern side.
The entrance level of the house includes the common areas, including the living room, dining room, kitchen, and guest bedroom. The upper level houses three bedrooms for the family, each one opening up on two sides towards trees and the garden. The subterranean level is planned with entertainment spaces and a small gallery to house the art collection of the owners.
Every space in the house opens into large cantilevered decks that are partially sheltered and partially open, allowing these transitional spaces to be used in different ways based upon the weather. These deep recesses serve to keep the internal volumes cool throughout the hot summer months when temperatures can rise to 50°C. The internal palette is minimal with white marble flooring, wood furniture, and subdued accents throughout.
The house is designed to be energy efficient, with no air conditioning required throughout most of the year. There is ample natural light in each part, as well as water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and the use of natural materials in the interior.
The Nine X Nine home is designed contextually to the site, retaining all of the existing trees and buildings between them. It is responsive to the climate by reducing heat gain due to its planning and orientation, creating spaces that merge with nature.
