The Courtyard: A Unique Recreational Space Designed by Nischal Abhaykumar

Creating a Connection Between Old and New

The site of The Courtyard was once part of the garden belonging to the clients' grandparents' house. To minimize the impact on the existing house, the design aimed to maintain a connection with the old structure. This led to the decision to preserve as much of the existing garden area as possible and position the entrance of the new building to open onto this space.

What sets The Courtyard apart is its use of mass-produced components to create a unique building. The two-storey structure features a rectangular plan, a flat roof, corrugated metal walls, and a mild steel frame. However, the standout feature is the corrugated polycarbonate sheet facade that encases the multi-purpose event space on the first floor. This thin and translucent material allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

Inside the building, a steel structure made up of I-beams is showcased and painted black, adding an industrial touch to the space. The deck sheet ceilings are left exposed, while the floors combine concrete and timber for a modern yet warm aesthetic.

The Courtyard boasts a range of unique properties that make it a standout design. The use of affordable, mass-produced components allowed for a cost-effective and efficient construction process. The incorporation of the polycarbonate sheet facade not only maximizes natural light but also creates a stunning visual effect, transforming the building into a glowing light-box at night.

Operating The Courtyard is a seamless experience. The polycarbonate sheet facade is lined with rich textured drapes that can be adjusted to control the amount of natural light during specific events. The windows, made from the same material as the walls, can be opened to let fresh air into the building. These thoughtful design elements ensure a comfortable and adaptable space for various activities.

The construction of The Courtyard was completed in June 2018, with a duration of 75 days. The building spans a built-up area of 3500 sqft, while the site area covers 6000 sqft. The project has received recognition for its innovative design, winning the Bronze A' Design Award in 2019 in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category.

The Courtyard is a testament to the power of design to transform spaces and create unique experiences. By seamlessly blending old and new elements, Nischal Abhaykumar has created a recreational space that serves as a hub for art, culture, and community engagement.