House Between Two Neem Trees

The design centres around a courtyard, with spaces planned in harmony with the climate and context. Habitable areas are situated on the eastern side, while service areas are placed on the west, acting as a heat buffer. Good cross ventilation is ensured by rooms opening into the courtyard space on the eastern side. The south facade features a double-walled cavity brick structure, reducing heat gain from the southern sun. Windows, protected by deep sunshades, are also doubly glazed with an air gap for insulation.

The courtyard is located in the centre of the house, with all living spaces elevated to the floor above, ensuring privacy for the open space within the building footprint. From the street, one is greeted by a patterned stone double-walled facade, which provides a modern impression of a fort-like structure that conveys safety while creating cool and shaded interior spaces. The house contributes to environmental sustainability by incorporating passive cooling strategies, rainwater harvesting, and rooftop solar panels.

The project incorporates passive architectural planning, with habitable spaces positioned towards the east and north sides and services planned towards the west to act as a buffer, reducing heat gain. The south wall is double-walled with clay bricks, clad with Indian sandstone, and features recessed windows to further reduce heat load. Water conservation is achieved through rainwater harvesting in the courtyard and backyard, as well as a drip irrigation system for the terrace garden. The courtyard acts as a heat sink, flushing out warm air at night and allowing cooler air to enter, creating an efficient stack effect module that also promotes cross-ventilation through the interior spaces. Double-glazed window panes on all windows provide greater insulation and noise reduction.

Enclosed balcony spaces help reduce direct radiation and glare into the bedroom spaces. The project emphasises material sustainability by sourcing locally available materials, such as Indian sandstone for the facade and Sadarahalli granite for outdoor areas. Green products, such as hollow clay bricks on the south facade, keep the interior temperature regulated year-round. Cool roof tiles are used on the terrace flooring to reduce heat gain from above. Metal and reclaimed teak wood are used for the interior staircase. Energy conservation is addressed through an automated sensor-based electrical system and the incorporation of solar panels on the roof.

In conclusion, the 'House Between Two Neem Trees' exemplifies thoughtful and sustainable design, seamlessly blending with its urban surroundings while prioritising environmental consciousness. By leveraging passive architectural strategies, the house ensures optimal ventilation, lighting, and temperature regulation. The use of locally sourced materials and innovative technologies further enhances its sustainability credentials. This project meets the client's requirements for spacious, well-ventilated living areas and stands as a model for environmentally responsible urban architecture. The harmonious integration of nature, thoughtful design, and sustainable practices make this house a true sanctuary within the city.