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“Being true to their roots"

– Medha Sobti, Insite Magazine

Natural light is the key focus in Skylight House, which is set on a 360 sqm plot in Salt Lake. The local regulations allow 4-storey constructions on plots up to 400 sqm, and we utilised approximately 7000 sqft across the upper three floors, with the ground floor dedicated to parking. Due to the proximity of neighbouring houses (about 3.6m apart), we had to be mindful of privacy when incorporating large windows.

To maximise natural light while maintaining privacy, we introduced a vertical light shaft through a skylight over the main living area, complemented by a horizontal ventilation flow on each floor. This layout encourages interaction among family members while ensuring proper light and air circulation.

Using a skylight offers the benefits of a traditional courtyard—such as natural light and family connection—while protecting the space from weather elements. However, we also addressed the challenging heat in Kolkata's humid climate by integrating retractable fabric covers for the skylight, which can be controlled remotely. To make the 4-storey villa appear more like a house, we used inclined fins to create a scaled-down effect, enhancing its aesthetic while fulfilling functional needs.