This 4,500 sq. ft. villa, situated in the heart of Kukatpally, Hyderabad, was designed to make the most of a narrow 30' x 60' plot. Despite the spatial constraints, we turned this challenge into an opportunity by creating a dynamic, open layout with a strong sense of spatial continuity. The design approach centers around a central open-to-sky courtyard that floods the villa with natural light, providing an expansive feeling of openness. One of the most significant challenges of this plot was its narrow width and the fact that it is surrounded by built structures on three sides, limiting access to light. In order to address this, we focused on bringing as much natural light as possible into the house through the front façade, which faces west. To prevent excessive heat gain from the harsh afternoon sun, we incorporated thick projecting slabs and jaali screens that help filter the light while minimizing heat absorption.

The open-to-sky courtyard (OTS), located towards the north, is a key feature that draws in light to the innermost parts of the villa. The canopy above the OTS has been carefully positioned to interact with sunlight throughout the day. The shadows cast by the canopy create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow on the walls, enhancing the visual interest and atmosphere of the courtyard. This design feature ensures that the villa remains well-lit while maintaining privacy and shielding the interior from the elements.