Shubh Patel
A Architectural Diary
Environment and Architecture
WIND SHADES_Shubh Patel
Warm and humid
Ponda,Goa
Ponda, Goa is centrally located in the state and is slightly positioned inland. Ponda is surrounded by gently rolling hills and elevated plateaus, and is known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. These hills are covered with dense forests, plantations, and a mix of tropical and deciduous vegetation. The proximity to the sea plays a vital role in shaping the home's design, with the salty breeze adding a refreshing touch to the air that circulates within.
The homes are designed with a deep understanding of the local climate and harmony with the environment. A typical Goan house features a sloping, tiled roof designed to withstand the heavy monsoon rains. The overhangs provide shade and protect the walls from the sun and rain. Even on the hottest days with the use of large windows and doors it ensures a constant flow of fresh air.The charming bay windows and welcoming porches invite light and air into the living spaces.
The verandah serves as a social space, while the courtyard is the heart of the home, used for family gatherings and religious ceremonies.The design of the house, with its deep verandahs and open courtyards, invites these gatherings, creating spaces where memories are made and cherished.
The weather in Goa is tropical, characterized by hot, humid summers and a monsoon season that brings life-giving rains. Winter in Ponda is a season of comfort, community, and celebration. The mild temperatures and clear skies create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for both relaxation and activity. Homes in Ponda, often designed with thick, laterite walls and deep verandahs, are built to withstand the heat.
As the morning sun shines on the land, it highlights the rolling hills covered with different types of trees. Large mango and banyan trees stand proudly. The gentle slopes suggest a thoughtful design that will work together with the natural flow of the land. The site is more than just a piece of land; it is alive and ready to blend into Ponda's vibrant landscape. The neighboring houses, reflecting the region’s rich architectural traditions, blend seamlessly with their environment.
Stepping inside, the heart of the home reveals itself—a courtyard open to the sky. It is a sanctuary where the elements meet, a place where the warmth of the sun is tempered by the coolness of the shade, where rain nourishes the earth, and where the stack effect quietly works its magic.
Elevation
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Process models
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Living in this house is an experience of continuous connection with the elements. The rectangular courtyard, oriented north-south, captures the prevailing winds, allowing a gentle breeze to sweep through the space. This orientation enhances cross-ventilation, making the courtyard and adjacent rooms feel fresh and airy. The openings—large windows on the western side and doors—around the courtyard amplify this effect, drawing fresh air in and pushing warm air out, maintaining a constant flow that keeps the indoor spaces comfortable.
The courtyard itself is bathed in natural light, its open design reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The sunlight nurtures the plants and greenery, strategically placed to provide shade. The courtyard becomes a bright, vibrant area, alive with the subtle play of light and shadow.
Verandas, with their deep overhangs, extend from the house, offering inviting spaces for relaxation and social gatherings. They shade the windows from high summer sun while allowing lower winter sun to enter in while being sheltered from the sun. Furnished with cozy seating and dining areas, they’re perfect for enjoying meals or chatting with the guests in a natural, sheltered setting. The veranda seamlessly blends with the courtyard, creating a shared experience of outdoor living where nature is always within the reach.
The carefully positioned windows on the south-western side capture the breeze, improving indoor air quality and creating a sense of harmony with the environment.
Final Model
