archthroughlenses

Whistling Winds

Designing a space on the context of climatic response of the site with a operative about the space of the house. The site is located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan residing under the Cold and Sunny climatic zone. This particular region has major temperature shifts as compared to other regions in India. The temperature shifts is not only seen during the change of seasons but the temperature shifts drastically with day and night. The site is located near a lane diverging from a main/larger road consisting of Bungalows , row houses ,etc. consisting of some old traditional buildings and some new concrete buildings

Site on Google Earth

Site Drawings

Site Contour model

Site Narrative

To the north lies a lush bamboo forest, whose green expanse breathes life into the surroundings. To the south, near Nakki Lake, a crocodile sanctuary adds an element of wild mystery to the area.

The climate and environment of Mount Abu play a crucial role in shaping the way people live. Some homes, with their shared spaces and community spirit, reflect a way of life that is in tune with the environment.
The cool mornings and pleasant evenings make these gatherings in the shared spaces comfortable.

In some areas, farming thrives, with patches of land dedicated to growing crops. The fertile soil and favorable climate allow the residents to cultivate their own food, adding to the self-sufficiency of the community.

The houses seem to whisper stories to those who take a moment to listen. They press close together, like old friends who share secrets. Though their walls are near, each house maintains its own unique character and charm. The buffer spaces between the houses are alive with activity. These open areas serve as vital communal spots where residents gather, engage in conversations, share stories, and connect with each other.

The communal spaces become the heartbeat of the neighborhood, transforming the harsh extremes of weather into opportunities for warmth and interaction. These gatherings offer a break from the solitude that could otherwise dominate the area.
Given its location in the northern hemisphere, the sun’s southern trajectory influences the design and orientation of buildings to maximize comfort and energy efficiency throughout the year.

During the winter months, the sun remains low in the sky, casting longer shadows and providing softer, less intense light

Climatic Analysis

Sun Angles (derived from the sun path)

The maximum sun angle falls on 21st June at 87.26° and the lowest sun angle falls on 21st December at 24.04°.It can be observed that the south direction will be critical during the months of April , May and June when the sun angle is high and the temperature levels are on rise. In the months of December , the low sun angle (24.04°) allows solar ingress from south which would induce heat inside the built-form. As there are houses on the north side of the site outside, although it impacts the over shadowing on the site it will not affect the design strategies.

Wind direction and speed

The wind flows from South-West and North-East direction almost throughout the year. The highest hot wind velocity of 6m/s is recorded from South-West direction in the months of November to March ; the highest cold wind velocity of 12m/s is observed from South-West direction.The hot wind flows from North-East direction and the site is subjected to higher velocity of winds from same direction. It can be enveloped that the prevalent wind flows for the site are from South-West and North-East direction most of the year.

April to June ( Summer )

July to October ( Monsoon )

November to March ( Winter )

Key Diagram

Temperature

Dry Bulb temperature

Dry Bulb temperature X Relative humidity

Precipitation

The average dry bulb temperature ranges from average low 11°C to average high 38°C. The month of May records the average daily high temperature 40°C and January holds the record of average daily low temperature as 10°C. The months of May and June indicates a spike of average relative humidity from 45 to 48 % indicating the onset of monsoons. The gradual drop of average relative humidity is observed from the month of January to April.

Daily Diurnal Temperature

The temperature shift seen daily is huge. Keeping the numbers aside, the temperature change feels like "Being on a frying pan for the day and kept in a refrigerator for the night."

Design Narrative_Whistling winds

Living in this house is like inhabiting a symphony, where space and sound intertwine to create a sensory experience unlike any other. The design draws inspiration from the shape of a whistle, inviting air through wide openings on the axis of the North-East and South-West side that do more than just fill the space—they make it sing.
In the living room, the cold, crisp air from the South-west and North-east side moves gently, producing a soft hum that shifts with the breeze. The room feels alive, as if the house itself is breathing, with the sounds changing throughout the day in harmony with the flow of air. It’s a space that resonates with the rhythms of nature, where every breath of wind brings a new melody.
The dining area amplifies this experience, with its expansive openness allowing light and sound to dance together. Air flows freely here, filling the space with a soft resonance that makes every moment feel vibrant and connected. The boundaries between inside and outside blur, creating a seamless harmony with the surrounding environment.
Transitioning into the bedroom, the sounds soften to a gentle whisper. The air, now calmer, creates a serene atmosphere, turning the room into a secluded space of the house. Here, the house’s subtle music surrounds you, offering peace and tranquility.
The wide openings throughout the house are not just functional; they are essential to the experience. The built form transforms the house into an instrument, where the flow of air brings it to life, creating a soundscape that is as much felt as it is heard.