Mumbai
1961-66

This is an early attempt to deal with the context and climate of Mumbai. In order to create two lines of defence against the rain and sun, a belt of auxiliary spaces (verandahs, studies, dressing rooms, etc) are arranged to form a zone of protection around the main living areas.

The apartment is on two levels with a difference of 75 cm between the living room & the main bedrooms Since there are only two apartments per floor, each unit is open on three sides, creating through ventilation and a subtle ambience of cross-light. Over three decades of occupation by the same family, the apartment illustrated has had to deal with many different changes in the ages and the space requirements of its users – and this is where the cordon of auxiliary spaces along the western and eastern faces have proved extraordinarily responsive and flexible, combining with the main rooms to deal with a large number of spill-over activities in an easy and economical manner.