House Around The Skylight

This project involves the renovation of a 25-year-old row house measuring approximately 1500 sq. ft., originally designed within a rigid grid and lacking adequate natural light to meet contemporary living requirements. After nearly two decades of continuous use, the house required a spatial and experiential transformation—one that could enhance daylight, openness, and overall quality of living without altering its fundamental structure.

The design process began by identifying underutilised areas within the existing footprint. An unused covered parking space was reimagined and repurposed as an informal living zone, setting the foundation for the project’s spatial reorganisation. This strategic intervention became the catalyst for redefining the internal layout and reorienting the house around light-filled, active spaces.

With improved light quality as the primary objective, the renovation introduced vertical openness that allowed daylight to penetrate deep into the interiors. This shift transformed previously dull and inward-looking spaces into bright, engaging environments, significantly improving visual comfort and spatial depth. The introduction of light from above added a new dimension to the house, enriching everyday experiences and altering the perception of scale.

Having lived in the home for nearly 25 years, the users sought a renewed sense of freshness within familiar surroundings. To counter the stiffness of the existing grid, the design language deliberately introduced fluidity. This approach is evident in the spatial transitions, custom furniture elements, and the redesigned staircase. During the evolution of the staircase, an amphitheatre-like form emerged organically, transforming a purely functional element into a casual seating area that supports informal interaction and daily activities.

An open layout, improved connection with the outdoors, and a restrained, minimalistic palette define the overall aesthetic of the house. By focusing on light, flow, and simplicity, the renovation successfully redefines the home—creating a contemporary living environment that feels expansive, connected, and deeply responsive to the users’ lifestyle.