R S A: A Unique Residential House Design

A Blend of Nature and Architecture

The house, located on a north-facing 500 sq. meter corner plot in Delhi, India, is surrounded by trees. The designers took inspiration from the site's characteristics and developed an introverted planning approach to maximize the connection with nature. The focal point of the design is the striking red silk cotton tree, which is visible from the living space on the first floor through large pivoted louvered windows. These windows not only provide breathtaking views but also filter sunlight, creating a consistent and diffused interior light quality throughout the day.

What sets the R S A design apart is the attention to detail and unique features. The shadow cast by the existing tree on the building has been mimicked into a feature wall on the facade. This 30 feet tall tree silhouette, punched out of stainless steel sheets, is backlit, creating a stunning visual element. The use of stainless steel sheets, painted white using etching primer, adds a touch of modernity to the design.

The design also prioritizes natural light and ventilation. The triple-height staircase volume on the west side of the house allows abundant natural light to flood the central areas. Every space in the house is carefully designed to maximize natural light and reduce the use of electricity during the daytime, aligning with the client's requirements.

The realization of the R S A design involved a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. The backlit tree facade was created by punching 2mm stainless steel sheets, with the leaves cut using water jet technology. The boundary wall is clad with local granite in different finishes, achieved through a mix of CNC routing and hand dressing by local artisans. A glass bridge connects the house on the first floor, featuring large laminated glass sheets resting on metal box sections.

The R S A design project started in May 2015 and was completed in May 2017. Throughout the process, the designers faced challenges such as pivoting the large teak wood louvered windows and fine-tuning the intensity of perforation in the stainless steel sheets for the backlit tree facade. Custom-developed pivot hinges were used to withstand the weight of the windows, and extensive research was conducted to achieve the perfect viewing distance for the tree silhouette.

The R S A residential house design is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. It not only provides a comfortable and visually stunning living space but also showcases the designers' creativity and attention to detail. This design was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2018, recognizing its outstanding and ingenious contribution to the field of architecture and design.