SPACE architects' affordable housing in india emphasizes simplicity through color

in gujarat, india, SPACE architects has realized a residency complex that uses bright block colors to stand out from the crowd. the development, which includes a stilted apartment block as well as a row of two bedrooms houses, is defined by the vibrant licks of color that differentiate one house from the next.

slanted walls give the impression of having been carved out of the façade

designed by SPACE architects as middle income affordable apartments, the development is intended to stand in contrast to the more decorative, traditional architecture of the area. entitled ‘the stanwood residency’, the buildings are the outcome of a process wherein SPACE attempted to derive the purest form of architecture beyond conventional decoration. in the apartment block, simple balconies with ample openings in each room ensure uninhibited airflow and maximum natural light throughout the day, ultimately performing a major role in the energy efficiency of the building. simple grid base planning with neat detailing and modest proportions create an simple, expressive building distinguished from its more ornate neighbors.

each terrace is assigned a single, eye-catching color

the row houses are notable for their eye-catching roof terraces, whose slanted walls give the impression of having been carved out of the façade. as with the apartments, each terrace is assigned a single, eye-catching color, identifying separate apartments with their own personal shade. on the lower level, the house’s front facing inset windows echo the color of their roof, creating a cohesive and charming aesthetic that both unifies and emphasizes the separate homes. throughout, the design is guided by straight lines and angles, standing in contrast to and bisecting the natural landscape. it is this simplicity of concept that SPACE architects hold at the core of it process, stating, ‘if it is not timeless, it is not sustainable architecture.’

the design is guided by straight lines and angles, standing in contrast to and bisecting the natural landscape

 
simple grid base planning and modest proportions create a building distinguished from its more ornate neighbors

floor plan

arrows demonstrate the journey of natural light through the complex

the building is ventilated in part by the generous balconies of each room

strategic wall placement ensure optimal space for each room

proportions demonstrate an atmosphere of equality and balance throughout  

the initial plan for the building

project details:

architect: space
project name: stanwood residency (apartments & row housing)
location: halol, gujarat
area: 80,000 sft.
status: partially completed
structure engineer: avm engineers, vadodara
client: satva developers, vadodara

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edited by: peter corboy | designboom