Shandana Residence

A residence connected across different levels through a courtyard, emphasizing the interaction of the outdoors with the living spaces.

The design incorporates multiple private zones across the house that are connected visually and spatially through the central courtyard. The size and placement of the basement level courtyard provides the perfect backdrop for communal use, a place to entertain with guests, grow with family or reflect individually in the pool. Furthermore, the open space transports light and fresh air to all the main living areas creating comfort with well lit and ventilated spaces while maintaining intimacy and enclosure for the multiple generations of the clients family that occupy the house. The dynamic relationship of the outdoors with the interior creates a fluid space at the basement level that invites the user to cross the permeable division. The planning has taken full advantage of all available space and maximized the potential of each program. Considering the location of the house in the foothills of the Margalla Hills, the window fixture designs have been kept such that they maximize views by minimizing hardware at the eye level.

The aesthetic language of the house expresses a harmony between contemporary design vocabulary and a focus on local handcraft. Exhibited through the use of hand made glazed terracotta tiles forming the mosaic floor of the courtyard, as well as the brick facade which is emblematic of local considerations and regional materiality. The use of dark metal acts as an accent along with the deep hues of the green marble and terrazzo wall and flooring finishes poured in situ. The large skylight and brick jaali that welcome the user as they enter the house reflect the symphony of the modern design language and traditional materials and elements.

This house is an exercise in concise and cohesive spatial planning with a vibrant and varied aesthetic expression.