In the residence design of the couple Engr Mostafizur Rahman and Tamanna Mostafiz, a seamless flow of space has been created, blurring boundaries between the interior and the exterior. Thoughtfully conceptualized by Syed Kushol Architects, the design is contextually responsive and contemporary in flavour.
Syed Kushol Architects is an architectural firm formed by Architect Syed Abu Sufian Kushol. Artist and Interior Designer, Mashud Ahmed was also associated with him in this project.Syed Kushol is currently the Assistant Professor at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
Being involved in academia and architectural practise, Ar Kushol’s design ideology is to always practice what he preaches. His projects are known to break architectural conventions and are often characterized by a research-based approach. In 10 years of practice, the award-winning architect was involved in a wide range of projects that engage directly with the natural environment. Despite being diverse in scale and setting, each of their works responds to its context, in conceptualized and realized forms.
In accordance with their design philosophy, Syed Kushol Architects team planned a contextually-responsive residence design, incorporating all the clients’ requirements. “We attempted to create an environment that prioritized nature and sustainability.
The residence design creates a dialogue with the context and environment, keeping functionality into consideration. The truthfulness of every character is unfolded in every corner without relying on any superficial ornamentation”, explains Ar Kushol.
A remodelling and extension of an existing building, the residence in Baridhara was designed to suit the lifestyle of the family that loves to entertain and host large gatherings.
The building possessed the wealth of an unparalleled view of the Banani Lake on the backside. Thus, the house’s architectural expression celebrates that view and connects the design with its natural surroundings. The constraint; however, was that the new design had to be integrated keeping the previous structure and column grid in consideration.
Set on an expanse of 4250 sft for the total duplex area, the residence is segregated according to the functionality. The half unit of the ground floor serves as the public space while the full-floor unit of the upper floor comprises of private spaces.
As one enters the residence, the understated yet expansive interior space opens up beyond. The eyes are instantly shifted to the double-height terrace courtyard with a void for natural light and ventilation in all the units facing it. Green vegetation fills up the courtyard and the adjoined fountain enhances the tranquillity of the space.
You can feel the nature through the house, and enjoy the seamless flow of space from indoor to the outdoor. An innovative concept was implemented in the window treatment, where instead of installing railings; exterior exposures had been remodelled with 10-inch planter buffer boxes.
They add greenery and work as a safety barrier at the same time. The ground floor comprising of the foyer, living and dining were kept as open as possible, with the only divider being made of glass-enclosed jamdani saree, belonging to the owner’s mother.
It not only adds an artistic touch to the space, but also holds sentimental value for the family. Reflective black glasses were installed on the walls of the dining space so that the green is reflected, accentuating the natural environment.
Upon ascending the stairs to the upper floor, the roof aperture fitted with clear glazing brings natural light to the internal staircase. Housing 4 bedrooms, family living, kitchenette and a terrace, the upper floor is functional and utilitarian. A corridor accentuated with greenery leads you to the terrace, overlooking the spectacular view of the lake. The terrace is divided into two parts- an open-to-sky side with grass and a semi-shaded seating space. On one side, the bedroom of the couple opens to the terrace, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows for a constant view of the surrounding. The house is topped by a roof, enclosed by planters and vegetation, making for an ideal space for unwinding and enjoying nature. “Highrise buildings now have a common challenge of integrating nature into the space. Hence, we tried to dilute boundaries between interior and exterior, creating a unique spatial dynamic.
The client can immerse with the full experience of the nature from their rooms”, concludes Ar Kushol.
A neutral shade of white rules the interior, to create a contrast with the deep walnut wooden texture and marble flooring. Most furniture pieces were customized and reclaimed to blend well with the design. A rich palette of wooden furniture and thoughtfully designed cabinetry add a sense of finesse. Generous spaces intertwined with nature provide a powerful setting for both family gathering and intimate retreat.
