the courtyard house by sanjay puri architects

the courtyard house by sanjay puri architects
all images courtesy of sanjay puri architects

‘the courtyard house’ by sanjay puri architects responds to the extreme climate conditions of its location, where summer months reach an average of 45 degrees celsius. the firm takes advantage of its close proximity to a cement plant in rajasthan, india, by realizing the dwelling as a composition of variously proportioned concrete volumes that are arranged over the changing landscape–each of the living spaces are oriented to capture views from all sides via deeply recessed openings that form transitory sheltered areas between the inside and outside, while at the same time reducing heat gain on the interior and increasing overall energy efficiency–the exposed concrete structure also employed for its thermal properties. the layout of the residence references the principle of traditional indian courtyard houses in order to combat the heat and create a cooler environment, with the planning ensuring cross ventilation through all areas of the house.

the primary programs which respond to the client’s requirements, are organized around a large central courtyard, connected to additional guest rooms through an open corridor. these secondary areas extend into protected gardens with privacy created by grass covered earth berms that physically integrate the structure into the terrain. additionally, bathrooms and dressing areas also open onto small, enclosed, external green spaces, with the internal courtyards and terraces surrounded with large mounds of earth which offer increased privacy to residents, while also providing shade.

the natural and built environment converge via earth berms surrounding the exterior of the home

the house is positioned on the site allowing views of the surrounding landscape from all sides

‘the courtyard house’ is a composition of variously proportioned concrete volumes

elevation

approach

open corridors link the interior with the exterior

planning ensures cross-ventilation through all areas of the house