THAZHAI

Thazhai was conceived in response to a site defined by its challenges—a long, ribbon-like plot with service cables running through its center. To address this, the main bungalow was positioned toward the rear of the site, transforming that portion of the plot in the foreground into a vantage point and probably commercial space in the future. This placement allows for a slow, deliberate entry sequence, where the house gets gradually revealed as one moves toward it. To accommodate parking and staff quarters, and to elevate the main living areas to a height from which the road and surroundings could be viewed, the entire structure is lifted on a plinth, sitting atop the service zone below. 
The site itself was barren, devoid of vegetation—an emptiness that gave rise to the project’s core idea: to create a home nestled in and defined by greenery. With the building’s significant massing, courts were introduced and various functions arranged around them. These courts act as the lungs of the home—bringing in light, facilitating airflow, and containing pockets of foliage. the landscape is carefully choreographed so that greenery is visible from every vantage point. No matter where you stand, your view includes foliage. This spatial intent became the heart of the project and led to its name, Thazhai—meaning “foliage.”

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