MATERIAL INTIMACY

THIS OFFICE PLUS RESIDENTIAL MULTI-LEVEL BUILDING IN NASHIK BY PDP ARCHITECTS IS AN ARCHITECTURAL REALISATION OF THE CLIENT’S VISION OF AN ECLECTIC, AESTHETICALLY PLEASING, SUSTAINABLE SPACE.

The site was densely wooden and had an existing bungalow, which was around 50-60 years old. The plot was abutted by a large open space on the west and a school on the east. During the process of building the new mixed-use structure, the architects carefully retained all the trees, while the existing structure had to be completely razed.

ADDRESSING CLIENT REQUIREMENTS

The client brief listed down a large parking space on the ground floor and an office on the first floor, besides a multi-level residence for 12 members from the second floor onwards. On the aesthetic front, he spelt out a desire for a residence that would not only hold its own in the neighbourhood now, but also retain a stamp of uniqueness in the coming years.

MATERIALISTIC VISUAL RELIEF

The built form took advantage of the openness on the west side. Elevation wise, the design team strategised to scale down the structure through materiality. Thus, while the fir (office) level and fifth floors are defined in paint, levels two to four are wrapped by an natural stone. Connections to th outside are achieved through bespoke MS vertical louvres and horizontal louvres inserted in a band-like manner for visual relief.

THE PLAY AND EXPERIENCE OF SPACES

In addition to being Vaastu-compliant, the functionalities had to be connected to create a sense of cohesiveness as well as expanse. This was facilitated through strategic placement of double-height volumes and triple-height courtyards, creating an interesting spatial play and experience.

A PLETHORA OF AREAS