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This Multi-Generational Home in Ahmedabad Evolves as the Journey of its Copper Façade Unfolds

In the expanses of a 2.5-acre plot in Ahmedabad, a residential marvel by Spasm Design epitomises the harmonious blend of nature and architecture

Nadezna Siganporia

April 4, 2024

This multi-generational home employs copper to mitigate the harsh Ahmedabad heat, enveloping the dwelling in a ventilated facade that ages gracefully, its patina a testament to the passage of time. Photograph by Umang Shah

Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Size of the plot: 2.5 acres
Year of completion: 2022
Design firm: Spasm Design
Principal architects/designers of the firm: Sangeeta Merchant & Sanjeev Panjabi
Photographer: Javier Callejas and Umang Shah

Spasm Design has always endeavoured to build the script of their architecture with the specificity of the place, the people and the particular site. Photograph by Javier Callejas

For Spasm Design, architecture has always been about more than just building structures. The design firm has garnered recognition for its unique approach that weaves the essence of a place, its inhabitants, and the surrounding landscape into the fabric of its creations. With each project, principal architects and founders, Sangeeta Merchant and Sanjeev Panjabi, endeavour to craft a narrative that resonates with its occupants, embodying a harmonious blend of aesthetics and purpose.

The sprawling multi-generational home is 2.5 acres of verdant splendour. Photograph by Umang Shah

Understanding the family's desire for a life intertwined with the outdoors, the design presents a three-tiered structure that melds into, sits upon, and floats above the verdant surroundings — Understanding the family’s desire for a life intertwined with the outdoors, the design presents a three-tiered structure that melds into, sits upon, and floats above the verdant surroundings. Photograph by Umang Shah

This deep-rooted belief saw fruition in the form of a sprawling multi-generational home ensconced within 2.5 acres of verdant splendour. Tasked with building a home that redefines living to be in constant dialogue with nature, they embarked on a journey to sculpt a sanctuary that caters to every generation residing within—from the joyous laughter of grandchildren playing in the gardens to the serene repose of the elders.

Every space was meticulously planned to foster family intimacy and afford personal solitude. Photograph by Javier Callejas

The challenge was monumental. The home had to integrate entertainment areas, living spaces, a kitchen zone that could easily handle the needs of a large family, temple, gymnasium, home theatre, spa, bedroom suites, and myriad staff and service structures, including an extensive garage. This exhaustive list was distilled into a seamless design, every space was meticulously planned to foster family intimacy and afford personal solitude. “The brief was ambitious,” says Sanjeev Panjabi, “which led us to design the layout over three levels – a body that sinks in, sits on and floats over the surrounding greens, connected by a network of courtyards ranging from intimate to regal.”

Indoor and outdoor living. Photograph by Javier Callejas

The materiality of this residence is a symphony of Indian stones, woods, plasters, and metals; the design language celebrates the uncoated textures of these noble materials. Photograph by Javier Callejas

At the heart of Spasm Design’s approach is a profound respect for materials and their impact on both aesthetics and functionality. Here, copper takes centre stage, enveloping the home in a ventilated facade. This cladding will gracefully age over time, its evolving patination adding a depth of character. “The intent was to deliver a truly contemporary modern home built fully in Indian stones, woods, plasters, metals, and so forth,” Sangeeta Merchant explains. “We enjoy the celebration of true uncoated textures of such noble materials. Light, greenery, glorious Indian stone and fine carpentry will underscore this project where we were afforded a complete carte blanche.” Along with this symphony of materials, the body of the structure – a confluence of board-planked concrete and copper – stands as a testament to this material celebration.

A wide verandah allows crisp sunlight and fresh air to enter the residence. Photograph by Javier Callejas

The connection to nature is further emphasised through the integration of sustainable and passive climate control strategies like roofed greens, water bodies, misting systems, and a ventilated façade. Photograph by Javier Callejas

Beyond its visual allure, the copper façade also serves an extremely important function – it counters the intense heat while significantly prolonging the structure’s lifespan. The home is a fortress against the arid heat of Ahmedabad, employing a plethora of passive and active climate strategies. The architecture incorporates roof gardens, buried programs, water bodies, misting systems, ventilated facades, pergolas, and meshes to ensure the home remains a cool oasis.

Copper takes centre-stage in this expansive residential home, designed by Spasm Design. Photograph by Javier Callejas

The extremely collaborative process saw specialists and artisans come together to create bespoke elements. Photograph by Javier Callejas

A deeply connected effort and a spirit of teamwork were integral to the realisation of this architectural feat. “A truly satisfying experience, this build was a real collaboration of builders, engineers, landscapers, artists, craftsmen, metal forgers, façade specialists, marble sculptors, the clients and us,” Merchant continues. Together, they created bespoke elements that elevate the home’s design—custom lighting, furniture, handrails, and intricate wood and marble works that reflect excellence in craftsmanship.

While the stately home stands glorious in its architectural prowess, it also champions the value of joint family living. The home has become a stage for intergenerational interaction, where the simple joy of communal living is celebrated daily. The client’s reflection, “What more joy than to live with my sons and to see my grandchildren playing on the lawns,” echoes the core mission of Spasm Design – to create spaces that transcend their physical boundaries, fostering connections and nurturing the essence of family.

The resulting environment is one that reveres the natural beauty of raw materials, from the patina of copper to the warmth of Indian stone and wood. Photograph by Javier Callejas

As this home matures along with the family it houses, it will continue to evolve as an example of thoughtful design. It is a beautiful testament to the purpose of architecture – not just for shelter but as a crucible for memories, a witness to tradition, and a sanctuary for future generations. Through the meticulous use of materials, respect for the environment, and dedication to craftsmanship, Spasm Design has once again redefined what it means to create a space that is truly a home. “Architecture must unite the family,” Panjabi concludes.