Chikhlipada, a quaint village nestled within Dahisar T manor, boasts a total of 17 houses spread across its five distinct padas: Chikhlipada, Naptipada, Deurpada, Oplipada, and Dengipada.

Originally, the village was home to simple jhopdis, makeshift shelters that were later replaced with more durable structures constructed using locally sourced materials. These new houses are a blend of bricks and kaarvi, a material sourced from nearby forests used primarily for windows and side structures. The side structures, exclusively crafted from kaarvi, serve as storage spaces for grains, drums, and other construction materials, reflecting the village's roots in labor and farming.Each household typically accommodates three family members, a common feature across the village's tightly-knit community. Many villagers engage in farming and labor work, underscoring their industrious spirit and deep connection to the land.

SITE PHOTOS

OBSERVATIONS

Here are the observations and insights about the living conditions in Chikhlipada village:

1.Main House Usage: The main house serves as the primary living space for family members. It is where they spend most of their time.

2. Underutilized Store Room: The store room, built with kaarvi, is noted to have a lot of empty space and is not being fully utilized for storage purposes.

3. Active Spaces: The verandah and living space in the main house are identified as the active areas where family members engage in daily activities.

4. Light and Ventilation Issues: There is a significant issue with light and ventilation in the main house. The North and North-East facades are completely closed off by brick walls, restricting natural light. The only source of light comes from gaps between GI sheets, but this is limited to certain times of the day.

5. Kitchen Water Leakage: During the monsoon season, the kitchen faces problems with water leakage, affecting the living conditions and cooking activities.

6. Sanitation Facilities: There is no dedicated washroom facility in the house. Family members use open spaces and rely on a mori (a traditional bathing area), highlighting the lack of adequate sanitation infrastructure.

SITE DRAWINGS

DESIGN PROCESS

During the design process, I observed the underutilized backyard garden and envisioned a transformative approach to integrate it into the house design. Instead of allowing the garden to merge directly into the interior, I conceived multiple courtyards strategically placed throughout the layout. These courtyards serve diverse functions including gathering areas for family and friends, playgrounds for children, spaces for organic farming, and even an innovative underground refrigerator for storing produce.

By orienting the house around these courtyards, I aimed to create a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. This design not only revitalizes the neglected garden but also enriches the living experience by fostering a close connection with nature. Each courtyard is designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, promoting a sustainable and enjoyable lifestyle.

Overall, this approach transforms the house into a dynamic living environment where the boundaries between inside and outside are blurred, encouraging residents to interact with and appreciate the natural surroundings. It exemplifies a thoughtful integration of landscaping with architecture, turning what was once an overlooked space into a central feature that enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants.

DRAWING PROCESS

FINAL DRAWINGS