A poetic confluence of form and function amidst nature in Gandhinagar, India.
Project Name : Nine x Nine House
Project Location : Gandhinagar, India
Architect/Interior Designer : Sanjay Puri Architects
Principal Architect/Designer : Sanjay Puri, Nina Puri, Ayesha Puri Kanoria
Photographer: Vinay Panjwani
Tucked discreetly amidst a dense canopy of trees in Gandhinagar, India, the Nine x Nine House reveals itself gradually. The approach, from a gate nestled in the northwest corner of the plot, leads visitors along a shaded path, allowing the home to unfold slowly, almost ceremoniously through the foliage.
Tucked discreetly amidst a dense canopy of trees in Gandhinagar, India, the Nine x Nine House reveals itself gradually. The approach, from a gate nestled in the northwest corner of the plot, leads visitors along a shaded path, allowing the home to unfold slowly—almost ceremoniously—through the foliage.
The architecture of the house is conceived as a ‘T’ in both plan and section. Entered from the north, a central linear spine punctuated by a sculptural spiral staircase extends laterally to the east and west, anchoring the home’s layout. Spatially, the home is organized across three levels: an entry-level ground floor, a private upper floor, and a subterranean level carved thoughtfully below.
One of the most striking features is a sunken courtyard on the western side, where light and air cascade down to the lower level. This open-to-sky space, animated by a sinuous wall and cascading waterfall, connects visually and physically to the garden above via a sculptural staircase. The cooling effect of this water feature, along with a shallow reflecting pool in the northeast corner, contributes to the house’s passive thermal regulation. Remarkably, six mature trees were retained within the sunken courtyard, and another three preserved along the southeast edge—testament to the home’s ethos of building with nature rather than over it.
The entry level houses the communal spaces: an expansive living room, dining area, open kitchen, and a guest bedroom—each flowing effortlessly into the surrounding landscape. The upper floor accommodates three family bedrooms, all opening on two sides to embrace the trees and northern garden, ensuring cross-ventilation and serene views.
Below, the subterranean level is dedicated to leisure and culture: a media lounge, entertainment spaces, and a private gallery showcasing the owners’ art collection. Despite being below ground, this level is bathed in daylight and fresh air thanks to the open courtyard design.
A defining characteristic of the Nine x Nine House is the use of deep, cantilevered decks adjoining each room. These transitional spaces, partially sheltered and partially open, act as thermal buffers while serving as extended living areas. They can be adapted throughout the year, offering shade in the peak of summer—when temperatures can touch an unforgiving 50°C—while welcoming in light during cooler months.
Project Name : Nine x Nine House
Project Location : Gandhinagar, India
Architect/Interior Designer : Sanjay Puri Architects
Principal Architect/Designer : Sanjay Puri, Nina Puri, Ayesha Puri Kanoria
Photographer: Vinay Panjwani
