Ahsan Residence: Of large window, smart screening and thoughtful communal space
The residence features clean lines, expansive spaces and large windows to bring in natural light and provide stunning landscape views, along with abundant indoor-outdoor connection through the layered gardens
When it comes to a personal residence, the beauty and uniqueness of architecture are shaped by the dreams, experiences and identities of its inhabitants. Designed by architect Md Shahanawaz Bappy from Ground One, the Ahsan Residence in the capital's Bashundhara Residential Area is an example of this notion.
When the industrialist family approached Bappy for their home design, they had a clear vision. They dreamed of a residence full of open spaces, greenery and a structured communal area. An urban oasis to rest and rejuvenate, so to speak, to nurture meaningful family connections.
The result is a thoughtfully designed three-storey Ahsan Residence situated on a spacious 16-katha corner plot, strikingly juxtaposed against neighbouring tall condominiums.
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"The design of Ahsan Residence mindfully responds to its surroundings, standing out as a contrasting yet harmonious structure," Bappy explained.
The residence is a homage to the ancient residence design of the sub-continent, where every household had an open yard in the middle or in a corner, more commonly known as "uthan" where families spent quality time indulging in "adda."
To facilitate such experiences, Bappy designed the grandmother's bedroom on the first floor adjacent to an open terrace overlooking the pool and gardens, around a staggered room layout, which rendered it the family's favourite spot for interactions.
The Ahsan Residence was completed in four years, with minimal deviation from its initial plan. "Originally, the residence was to feature grid-like structures throughout. However, at the request of a family member seeking to include an office space, the design for that section was altered. Instead of grids, glass walls were incorporated to create a modern, transparent aesthetic," said architect Md Shahanawaz Bappy.
The architect describes it as a straightforward and traditional project.
Privacy through an outer layer
The outer exterior features a combination of fair-faced walls (made from concrete or brick that has a smooth, unplastered surface) and red brick walls.
In light of the family's conservative nature, the issue of privacy emerged as a concern in the design. To address this, the architect has taken great care to create a screening mechanism along the peripheral grid of the building. Every bedroom and its adjacent balcony or terrace is screened with these grids for privacy.
While some grids are concrete, most other grids are made of mostly wood with metal bases. The residence features a ground floor with a generous 12-foot ceiling height, creating a spacious and open ambience. The upper floors maintain this sense of openness, with slightly varied ceiling heights.
"This not only provides an added layer of privacy but also creates a visually stimulating play of light and shadow. The screen also facilitates a sense of visual connection that extends from the internal spaces to the outside world in a controlled and measured manner," added Bappy.
The living room features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Amalgamation of nature and modern structure
Nature has influenced the materiality of the residence. The trees, the sunlight and the air all contribute to creating a positive ambience facilitated by a flawless architectural design.
Throughout the residence, greenery takes centre stage in various forms, including creepers, grasses and trees. These natural elements not only enhance the aesthetics but also serve functional purposes. Beyond the structural screening, the lush vegetation provides an additional layer of natural screening, further ensuring privacy.
Transcending conventional norms, the bedrooms have been designed spaciously with a terrace. The interior spaces are also thoughtfully designed where the open terraces are incorporated with functions.
Of sustainability and strategic designs
Local materials such as brick and concrete are predominantly used in the building. Additionally, the strategic use of natural light and air further contributes to sustainability. The design transcends conventional norms, offering spacious bedrooms with terraces and open terrace functions, fostering simplicity.
The parking facilities are entirely accommodated in the basement, freeing up valuable space on the ground floor for other purposes. To address the waterlogging challenges often encountered in Bashundhara, the ground-floor garden has been strategically elevated by three feet above street level.
