#EDLoves these sun-drenched coves by Khushnu Panthaki Hoof and Sönke Hoof of Studio Sangath

A sun-lit corner in homes, we believe, is one of the best ways to capture the #goldenhour. Not only does the light create a sense of warmth but it also accentuates the abode’s interiors…akin to an artistic visualisation of the space. Much like us, Studio Sangath founders Khushnu Panthaki Hoof and Sönke Hoof love playing with natural light in their projects.

The multidisciplinary partnership focuses on institutional and residential architecture, interior and furniture design, publications and curation of exhibitions worldwide. Their aim? To design spaces that encourage the permeability of the environment into their manifestation.

“It is natural light that defines the character of a space in any building,” the duo says, adding, “The modulation of light crafted through openings of varied types—bounced, indirect, direct, skylight—and their locations generate views that make the space appear truly theatrical.” Take a tour of our favourite spaces by the creative couple… 

6. 079 Stories

Oscar Niemeyer famously said, “It’s the drawing that led me to architecture, the search for light and astonishing forms.” A tour of this project by Studio Sangath and we can’t help but understand what Niemeyer expressed! The courtyard in this venue features overlapping and interlocking spaces that create shadows and varied moods throughout the day. A skylight slit flushes the space with daylight, while the horizontal ribbon window at eye level brings in reflected light for a warm glow that changes tone depending on the angle of the sun.

5. Black Perch

“We created a double layer of wooden charred louvres and a wall in the front to regulate the light,” share the designers. The two surfaces modulate light and create a bounced light effect, which incepts a golden glow within. The louvres play different roles as they modulate and guide sunlight and can control the privacy of the space. Interestingly, the louvres also change colour depending on the direction of the sun and the season.

4. KA House

A play of intersecting volumes forms multifaceted intersections that allow light in. The central atrium is illuminated by the light, which bounces off various planes and fills the space with sunny hues during the day. “Light is the most important threshold between the inside and outside—almost like a natural timekeeper. So, for us, the modulation of light is what makes the space dynamic and alive. It generates new experiences throughout the day and the seasons,” divulge the designers.

3. Saar residence(see scroll above)
Light and shadow, fierce and soft, come together to create ripples that are bold and evocative in a single breath. Standing dignified with its minimalistic approach, this home is a treat for the senses. The entirely underground space is naturally lit with the help of skylights! The direct light washes down the peripheral walls and bounces into the spaces that flow into it. 

2. Sinha Slats

“The play of light and shadow from dawn to dusk inevitably instigates the way we feel and move around in space,” share the duo. In this home, light pouring in via the skylight acts as a separator between old and new.

While the glass is a placeholder for the void, the light on the old facade fills the new space. Sliding elements with wooden slats over a full-glass facade lets users modulate the light within and regulate views. 

1. 55+56 Sumeru

James Turrell said, “Light is not so much something that reveals as it is itself the revelation.” In this case, it is what can be modulated to suit the mood. The skylight brings in a diffused glow, while the louvres modulate light and ventilation.

Together, the two elements create a symphony of spatial experience. A central shaft of light penetrates the house from the room to the ground, indirectly illuminating spaces at every level creating diverse moods throughout the day.