The transparent box is the story of a 70-year-old colonial home that has been reimagined to become a contemporary space of living. It narrates the transformation of disconnected, poorly lit spaces into a light-filled energized habitat, by taking out unnecessary inserts and revealing the beauty of the original volumes.
The Transparent Box (Source: Saka Studio)
The home is redesigned by a boutique design practice based in Gurgaon. Studio S.A.K.A. was established by Swanzal Kak Kapoor and Atal Kapoor, in 1999, with the ambition of creating mindful and passionate designs. The transparent box is one such manifestation of their creativity reflected in a built form. The site of the house is located on a one-acre land at Civil Lines in Delhi. The house contained imprints of the home passed down through generations, along with four cluttered rooms for a family of three to live in.
Living area and renovated spaces (Source: Saka Studio)
The old home surprised the architects with the potential spaces that were overshadowed by the walls built around them. It had many possibilities to open out with its double-height ceilings, a frontage oriented towards the north, and a magnificent garden.
A major goal for the renovation was to let in as much natural light as possible. In response to the central idea of bringing light inside, the envelope of glass served as the "skin" that embraces the spaces from all sides. Glass as an element weaves its story around three main concerns: framing views, visually connecting the house with the outdoors, and uniting it as a whole.
Glass Skin surrounding the space (Source: Saka Studio)
The toughened glass skin of the renovated spaces revealed two sides of the home towards the exteriors - one is the driveway, and the other is the garden. The greens visually enter the home, transforming the quality of the interiors. By borrowing views as well as reflections inside, this creates a sense of living with nature. The external living space is completed by a reflecting pool, water cascade, pergola, and stone wall in the background.
The double-height space is divided into two, creating a mezzanine space. By using the raw double-height essence of the old house, these spaces have been converted into a cosy contemporary home. The existing ceiling coverings were removed to reveal the double heights and the old, arched, vaulted ceiling.
Workspace-Mezzanine (Source: Saka Studio)
A linear glass box cantilevering into the garden transforms the interior spaces to welcome the greens. Through the work from home zone, one can see the blue and green canvas of the outdoors beyond.
Garden and Built relationship (Source: Saka Studio)
Throughout the house, glass complements the design of the spaces by setting up dialogues between them. A juxtaposition of glass layers with the existing structure and elements, and outdoor vegetation transforms the composition into a harmonious one.
The service areas are as interestingly planned as the other living areas. The master bathroom in the house gets the advantage of being located adjoining the garden. One can look into the garden from the large glass window facing the wash basin.
There is also a narrow-slit window in the WC area that allows diffused light into the bathroom. With light coming from two sides, the bathroom imbibes the idea of the openness. With a splash of colour, the second bathroom adds a fresh touch to the otherwise muted palette. A unique arrangement with a floating mirror adjoining the shower cubicle helps tackle the tight space.
Interior view of washrooms (Source: Saka Studio)
As a space, this home has witnessed and transcended time. It houses deep, meaningful stories of its inhabitants. Reflecting its layers of past, present, and future, it lives up to its name as a transparent box! With exquisitely less, it says a lot more to create a memorable, healing, and nurturing abode.
What was the goal of transforming the 70-year-old colonial home?
The goal of transforming the 70-year-old colonial home was to modernize the structure while preserving its historical essence. By incorporating glass extensively, the renovation aimed to create a transparent, open living space that brings in natural light and offers a contemporary aesthetic, while still respecting the original architecture.
How was glass used in the renovation of the colonial home?
Glass was used in the renovation to create large, transparent surfaces that replaced traditional walls, allowing for an abundance of natural light and creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The use of glass in windows, doors, and partitions helped to open up the space and give the old home a modern, airy feel.
What challenges were faced in integrating modern glass elements into a colonial structure?
One of the main challenges was ensuring that the modern glass elements complemented the colonial architecture without overpowering it. Careful consideration was given to preserving the home's historical character while incorporating contemporary design features that enhanced functionality and aesthetics.
How does the transformed colonial home balance modernity with its historical roots?
The transformed colonial home balances modernity with its historical roots by using glass to highlight the original architectural features while adding modern conveniences. The juxtaposition of old and new creates a unique living space that honors the past while embracing the future.
What impact did the use of glass have on the overall ambiance of the home?
The use of glass had a profound impact on the overall ambiance of the home, making it feel more open, bright, and connected to the surrounding environment. This transformation not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also improved the functionality and comfort of the living spaces.
Radhika is a storyteller first and an architect second. She believes that architecture is a powerful tool to address society. Read More
