Related Tags

Architecture

2022

TEXT CREDIT : HOTHAL SIDHPURA

Standing on a small 875-sq-ft plot in central Vadodara, Cube House celebrates subtlety of expression and timelessness of design. While it presents a vision of simplicity, “the intricacy of design unfolds bit by bit, allowing the materiality to come through markedly,” says Komil Patel, principal architect at his eponymous Vadodara-based practice. The client’s wish-list was quite succinct: they wanted a home that was airy, minimal and exuded simplicity. But the team tried to read behind this statement, gleaning information about what the family wanted through several conversations and discussions.

The ground+three storey built-form was articulated as a balanced orchestration of massing, extrusions and set-backs. Voids established a seamless programme, while lofty volumes facilitated the entry of light and air, allowing them to travel in a better fashion.

The spatial programme of the house and the zoning of the plot were dictated by the fact that the parking, utility areas and a guest bedroom had to be placed on the ground floor. Above this, the first floor houses the common areas such as the living room, the dining area and the pooja space, forming an interconnected entity, in addition to one more bedroom. Two more bedrooms lie on the second level, and the last storey is devoted to entertainment/leisure spaces such as the terrace garden, bar and home theatre.

The interior shell, which is mainly neutral and features wood and grey tones, is energised with strategic application of colour brought in via soft furnishings, art and artefacts.