- Project: Corner House
- Architect: DADA Partners
- Location: India, New Delhi
- Year: 2023
- Area: 1000 m2
- Photography: Lightzone
Urban Context Meets Sustainable Design
Strategically positioned on a corner plot in a prestigious suburban enclave of New Delhi, Corner House by DADA Partners presents a refined response to the complexities of urban engagement, privacy, and climate adaptability. Completed in 2023, this 10,763-square-foot residence boldly interacts with the streetscape on three sides while offering sanctuary-like interiors built around a lush central courtyard.
A Dramatic Entry That Frames Nature
The entrance to Corner House is understated at first glance, but soon reveals a striking architectural gesture—a cantilevered timber-clad wall floating above a reflective water pool. This bold element transforms into an inverted L-shape, forming a shaded portico that filters early morning sunlight into the entry foyer.
The interplay of timber, water, and shadow sets the tone for a home that is both contemporary and context-sensitive.
Courtyard Planning: A Spatial Divider and Unifier
The home’s plan is anchored by a central courtyard, placed strategically at the corner of the site. This open-air void provides visual openness, natural ventilation, and a vital green lung for the house.
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Formal Wing (Front): Includes a verandah-connected foyer, formal lounge, and gallery space. The verandah links to the front lawn, while a fireplace turns the gallery into a multi-functional dining and event area.
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Informal Wing (Rear): An open-plan kitchen, dining, and informal living room faces south-facing gardens. These green spaces capture low winter sun, warming interiors naturally.
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Master Suite (Ground Floor): Tucked into the southwest corner, the suite has glazed walls on both ends—connecting the bedroom to the rear garden and the private lounge to the internal courtyard.
This division between formal and informal zones is softened by a staggered linear corridor, creating a gentle, dynamic circulation flow through the house.
First Floor: Private Living and a Pavilion
The upper floor contains four additional bedrooms, including a second master suite with a north-facing balcony overlooking the internal courtyard. A fully glazed multipurpose pavilion crowns the formal area below, ideal for studio use, recreation, or private gatherings.
This space offers panoramic views of the verdant core while bringing natural light deep into the residence.
Environmental Control Through Passive Design
Corner House embodies passive solar design strategies to achieve both comfort and efficiency:
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North-South Orientation: Key living areas face north or south, minimizing heat gain and maximizing daylight.
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Minimal East-West Glazing: Reduces harsh morning and afternoon sun.
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Cross-Ventilation: Windows are strategically placed to encourage airflow.
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Timber Louver Facade: A wraparound screen on the upper west side provides self-shading and privacy, forming a breathable, low-maintenance envelope.
The west-facing street edge is solid and grounded, ensuring visual privacy at the street level while the louvered upper facade introduces softness and rhythm.
A Timeless Statement of Climate-Responsive Luxury
With its courtyard-centered spatial logic, tactile material palette, and bioclimatic strategies, Corner House by DADA Partners reimagines contemporary Indian living. It merges urban exposure with internal retreat, offering a fluid connection between architecture, landscape, and light.
This is not just a house—it is a framework for slow living in an increasingly fast-paced city.
