Reaching New Heights on Malabar Hill
28th November '17
A long neglected roof area on top of a private residential block finally inspired the owner to put into practice his ideas to create something special. His inspiration was to create a roof terrace to be used for family relaxation and entertainment and make full use of the spectacular panoramic views across the bay and out to the Arabian Sea. .
The concept was to build a structural space frame disguising the existing service block and lift motor room. The space frame is, in effect, a huge pergola with vertical trellis side screens, and supporting cross timbers that provide shade from the sun and privacy from neighbouring properties.
The lift access to the roof top opens into a fully glazed lounge and refreshment bar. The room has a spectacular illuminated ceiling and opens out onto a raised timber deck with steps down onto the main roof deck areas. Another outside bar on the front terrace provides an interesting focal point and has soft indirect illumination.
A higher deck level with a spectacular view to the south east towards Marine Drive, overlooks the main terrace and is accessed by an external staircase and via a small tunnel passage opens onto the balcony deck.
At this higher level, to the rear, is another balcony looking north west creating an intimate casual dining area.
Chelsea Lighting Design was invited in the early stages of the proposal to create a lighting solution for the project. The challenge was to create a scheme that was both sympathetic with the architecture and also to the surroundings. The aim was to contain the lighting within the structure and minimise any effect that may result in pollution or unwanted interference with neighbouring properties.
Indirect lighting was used to enhance the structure and provide warm washes, with direct lighting grazing against the trellis to emphasise texture. High level projectors were installed to light downwards on to the timber deck area and the resulting reflected light gave the whole structure a golden glow.
Planted containers with fragrant Frangipani have been used to soften the space and some localised lighting has been provided for these.
The client is delighted with our interpretation of the brief and the spectacular result.
Photographs courtesy of Kaushik Mukherjee Architects
www.kmarchitects.co.in
