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Architecture

2022

Nestled in the town of Ahmednagar, the Linear House is a contemporary idea designed for a Christian family of four. While simplicity is the driver of design, innovations in construction and form elevate the project envisioned by the them.

The site itself inspired the concept and design. Since the linear orientation restricted the horizontal play of space, the vertical axis was explored. Designing for light, ventilation, and openness while maintaining privacy was a challenge since residential structures blocked the longer edges of the narrow plot. Courtyards within the house and effective use of setbacks mitigated this issue. North light was invited in, while the south facade was covered with cavity walls and dead walls to cut harsh sunlight. The whole project is a symphony of geometrical shapes and volumes that play around with light and shadows, adding movement to the built form.

Ahmednagar,Maharashtra,India

Architects	:	Illusion Design Studio
Area	:	5382 sq. ft.
Year	:	2022
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/illusiondesignstudio.insta/

Living room of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

The first glimpse of the house is an enormous triangular MS grill, framed by exposed concrete. The grill is not only aesthetic but also functions as a privacy and safety barrier. An alternative to typical windows, it ties the elevation together. The patterned gate opens onto a landscaped front garden. Shades of green complement the neutral tones of the built, guiding the onlooker inside the house.

The ground floor has the servant’s living quarters and a parking bay paved with a beautiful floral inlay. A dog-well staircase leads up to the first floor, where the family resides. Upon exiting the stairwell, the double-height courtyard space greets one with a mesmerizing play of light and shadows that dance in through the grill opening.

Dining of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

Bar room of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

The entire house rests on sunken slabs with upturned beams. This innovative technique played a pivotal role in the success of the project. It maximized the openings in all rooms, and also provided a clean conduit for electrical and plumbing services. By using plywood shuttering for casting instead of metal framing, a smooth finish for the exposed concrete was achieved.

Kitchen of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

Prayer room of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

Staircase of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

Corridor of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

Family room of Linear House by Illusion Design Studio

The prayer room on the second floor is oriented to let in ambient north light throughout the day. One of the most striking features of the project, the cross of light at the altar is thus illuminated throughout. In the corridor, large openings create a serene vertical connection with the sit-out below. Muted tones adorn the house - Exposed concrete, white, and a pinch of beige, with the occasional splash of pastels in the bedrooms. The embellishments in engraved veneer are another creative innovation. A happy accident, they noticed that the singed CNC cut veneer fit perfectly with the color scheme. Done for the first time in the city, this engraved veneer is revolutionary in its installation.

The project stays true to the nature of the materials and grand without being opulent. But as architectural exploration runs wild, the house does not forgo its basic intent. Built with wonder, and brought together with love, the Linear House stands tall - a home for the family, for generations to come.