Related Tags

Architecture

2023

Photographer : Pawan Vijayvargi

Situated in a luxurious yet densely populated residential zone, The Screen House stands as a striking and modern architectural marvel. Situated on a compact 30' by 45' east-facing plot, the house draws the attention with its striking façade that sets it apart from neighboring dwellings. Despite the constraints like - limited space, privacy concerns due to its position at a T-junction, and a less-than-ideal west-facing orientation—the design creatively deals with each obstacle. Close neighboring structures made it tough to access natural light and ventilation, making the architect’s design ingenuity even more critical to achieving the desired living experience.

The Screen House overcomes these limitations through incorporating large windows and open-to-sky spaces into house that allow ample sunlight and airflow to filter through the home. These features develop a bright and airy atmosphere, fostering a sense of openness that counters the confines of the dense urban setting. The carefully thought-out placement of windows enhances natural light penetration throughout the house, ensuring that each room feels well-lit and welcoming despite the crowded surroundings.

Upon entering the house, visitors are welcomed by an expansive living room that sets the vibe of the home. The open and connected layout, strategically placed windows which surround the room, including a fixed window that provides a view into the kitchen area, enhances connectivity between spaces. The staircase, seamlessly incorporated into the living space, adds to the sense of spaciousness, creating an illusion of greater volume. Cleverly, the area beneath the staircase has been repurposed as a television unit, maximizing functionality and making effective use of every inch of the available space.

Ratlam,Madhya Pradesh,India

Architects	:	Mohit Jain & Architects
Area	:	3,185 sq. ft.
Year	:	2023
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/mjain_architects?igsh=YXBzdWFzN25hbXhy

Exterior view of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Main entrance of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Entrance of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Living room of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

The family’s wish for close connectivity between bedrooms led to a design where all the three bedrooms are planned on the first floor, each with access to a spacious shared balcony. This common outdoor area encourages family interaction and allows a relaxing, semi-private space for leisure. On the ground floor, the layout consists of a living room, guest room, and a combined kitchen and dining area, which receives abundant sunlight thanks to an open-to-sky space(OTS) and a strategically placed window. The second floor has a huge multipurpose room, perfect for hosting gatherings or providing a space for family activities, adding versatility to the home’s functional design.

To maintain effective airflow throughout the residence, windows have been installed in both the east and west sides, encouraging cross-ventilation. This careful arrangement ensures that each room receives a steady flow of fresh air, creating a comfortable indoor environment that reduces reliance on artificial ventilation. This design consideration is particularly valuable in an area with limited access to natural airflow due to the surrounding structures, highlighting the architect’s commitment to blending comfort with efficiency.

Living room of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Kitchen of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Pooja Area & Staircase of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

A minimalist design ethos guides the interior aesthetics, featuring neutral base tones, understated patterns, and vibrant furniture that adds pops of color to the living spaces. Wooden textures are used thoughtfully throughout, imparting warmth and a sense of grounded sophistication. The overall effect is one of subtle elegance, creating an ambiance that is both contemporary and inviting.

The elevation of the residence highlights a blend of vertical design elements, including PVC rafters, CNC-cut jali screens, and metal pipes. The patterned jali screens serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. By casting intricate shadows on the balcony floor and walls, the jali adds a layer of visual interest to the exterior while also enhancing privacy. These screens filter the intense west-facing sunlight, creating a softened, diffused lighting effect within the home, allowing the residents to enjoy natural light without the discomfort of harsh glare. This intricate screening solution is a testament to the careful balance struck between aesthetics, privacy, and environmental considerations.

Master Bedroom of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

Daughter's Bedroom of The Screen House by Mohit Jain & Architects

The Screen House is a thoughtful and dynamic response to the constraints of urban living. Through innovative design choices, such as the use of open-to-sky spaces and strategic window placement, the residence achieves a light-filled, ventilated environment that belies its compact footprint and dense setting. The blend of minimalist interior style, vibrant furnishings, and practical yet poised exterior elements brings out a home that not only fulfills the practical requirements of the family but also draws attention as a visually attractive addition to its surroundings.