This built-form situated at DLF Phase 2 Gurugram by CitySpace ‘82 Architects is a visual retreat to behold. Showcasing the urban concept of living, Ar. Sumit Dhawan has executed architectural planning and facade design for this project, depicting the urban concept of living. The facade reveals a unique identity in serving as a biological retreat while being conducive to the experience and aesthetics of a luxurious residence.

The client brief called for the design for four-floor units. Blending opulence with the utilitarian, this collection of floor units allow colors, patterns, and different aesthetics to interact with each other, resulting in an alluring design narrative. However, as these units were to be used collectively, they needed to be low on maintenance as well. Clever innovative techniques are used by the architect to gain maximum efficiency in the four units as all four units are designed to be used by four different families in an urban setup. The material palette used includes stone texture paint, zinc, and aluminum weights. Believing that an architect excels at converting raw ideas into reality, this composition designed by the team at CitySpace ‘82 is tastefully realized. Built with contemporary expressionism, these modern-day homes are reflective of the changing ideologies of the residents along with a touch of the architect’s design style.

Due to the apartment-based lifestyle, the client demanded a zero-maintenance house. All room layouts have been designed in a way that fosters the need for low maintenance. The facade is a stunning work of art, where zinc and stone have been used. Ensuring the residents’ security from pests-related issues, the facade has materials incorporated that are resistant to termites and water. With the advent of technology and the increasing popularity of smart homes, these floor units are fully automatic, with a foolproof security system, automatic gates, and VRF technology for air-conditioning. All these measures aim at making the life led by the residents convenient. Further, home automation ensured the notion of a low-maintenance household as all the periphery functions like a gate opening and sensor lighting are taken care of. In order to ensure zero maintenance further, air-tight windows, and aluminum tracks are used. The interiors also have plenty of greenery and natural light streaming through to allow the residents to be in touch with nature.

Entering through the ground floor, there are three parking spaces allotted to each resident. The car parking has been designed in such a way that it does not interfere with the resident’s views of the landscape. The driveway is paved with granite, adding long-term durability to the road. The home opens to the entrance lobby, with enough space to seat up to four people. The lobby is on the stilt floor where servant’s quarters are designed, each with its own bathroom. Additionally, this area also has four storerooms. The stilt floor is connected to the upper floors via a stairway and an elevator to ensure optimum functionality for each resident. The landing space before the staircase showcases a gorgeous wall art. Each floor unit has four bedrooms, each with an attached bathroom. Each apartment has a walk-in wardrobe along with a dresser being a separate unit in the wardrobe. Keeping the resident’s religious custom in mind, a mandir room has also been designed in the layout. Open plan living room has been designed which blends seamlessly with the dining hall, allowing a flow in movement. The kitchen in each apartment has a cozy breakfast nook that permits one to have a quick bite, avoiding the need for a lavish spread. Every floor unit has been equipped with a segregated section meant for services such as washing and ironing clothes along with an area for washing dishes and a janitor’s closet.

Passive strategies were introduced into the design scheme through the use of cavity walls with insulation material like vermiculite, thermal break fenestrations with high-performance dgu glass. Monolithic spray puffs on the terrace for insulation purposes, horizontal and vertical shading devices, and on-grid solar panels at the terrace level incorporated also aid in making the design energy efficient. The materials used in the façade further encourage zero maintenance.
This resplendent home has truly shown how CitySpace ‘82 Architects are masters in blending form and function in each house they create.