House in the Hills : The Challenge

A site in the hills with gorgeous views looking into the mountains and a lush green lawn all around. Doesn't sound like much a of challenge does it? 

But consider this site to be a narrow linear plot that is an extension of the lawn to an existing house. Seems more challenging now, doesn't it?

A challenge, Yes. But an opportunity as well. To make the most of this narrow site while still encapsulating the most gorgeous views of the hills. We had to ensure that the house would compliment the existing built while still standing out on its own, fulfilling the requirements of the client while still interacting with the site around. 

There were many questions that came to mind when we started. We had a beautiful house set against the backdrop of mighty mountains. Would another cottage be able to fit into this context? How do we ensure that the green space stays as it is or perhaps more beautiful than before after this cottage is placed there? How do we create a structure that complements it surroundings? How do we use architecture to enhance the beauty of the space where it resides?

We found ourselves some answers, but only after immersing ourselves into the context and coming up with a design that evolves from the context itself. 

If we were to place a single block along the length of the site, we realized that we would have fallen short in terms of the area requirement. The idea then, was not to spread horizontally but rather spread vertically - bringing in the views and vistas of the surroundings at the top whilst still having an open garden at the bottom.
How exactly did we go about this? Come back tomorrow to know...

-Mannat