SITE:

The project site is located at the base of a hillside on the North with views of a rice fields and coconut groves sloping towards the sea towards the South. It is approximately 3 acres, jointly for the Saffron Condos and Townhouses.

 

PROGRAM:

High density, low rise apartment complex geared primarily as vacation getaway homes for residents of nearby Mumbai.

 

CONCEPT:

The site slopes up gently from the approach road to the hills towards the North creating an interesting transition from plane to slope. Apostrophe decided to keep this transition as open as possible, creating a shaded tropical micro climate as a modulated space between the site and the condos. The ground space was designed as a series of terraces that gently move up the slope. Terraces accommodate planters, water-bodies, walkways and recreational space.

The building mass allows for open to sky courtyards that filter light into the ground floor terraces and also allow light and ventilation into the apartments. Building circulation emerges from the courtyards and is enveloped in landscape. At the base of the hill is a large deck with swimming pool that is shaded by the building mass to create a private environment opening onto fantastic views of the hills beyond.

 

The Condos are 3 bed units with living areas that open onto large balconies. The top level condos take advantage of roof access by a 'butterfly roof' at the living rooms. These units are are on two levels with the living room located ½ level above the bedrooms and opening onto the roof terrace with a large clerestory window.

 

MATERIALITY:

The project is constructed with a typical RCC frame and slab system. The site has several retaining walls that are constructed in stone masonry with RCC support. Infill walls are created with lightweight cement blocks.

The primary finish materials are glass, wood and natural stone.