perforated terracotta screens enclose pool pavilion within indian residence

Oct 13, 2025 - 22:00
perforated terracotta screens enclose pool pavilion within indian residence

Pool Pavilion is shaped around water as a spatial counterpoint

 

Thirdspace Architecture Studio has completed The Pool Pavilion, a residence designed around the relationship between water, light, and spatial balance. Located within a dense urban neighborhood in Belagavi, India, the home integrates a semi-open swimming pool pavilion as both a climatic device and an experiential extension of domestic life.

 

The eastern setback of the plot is reinterpreted as a pool pavilion defined by terracotta screens and a glass canopy. This zone functions as a transitional layer between the interior and exterior, mediating light, temperature, and privacy. The public areas are arranged between the transparent pool enclosure and the solid private block, creating a sequence of interconnected volumes that balance openness with enclosure. Sectional openings enable layered views across spaces, allowing soft reflected light from the pool to animate the interiors. The plan adheres to Vastu principles while maintaining spatial flexibility. The design seeks equilibrium between programmatic density and a sense of openness, aligning the client’s requirements with environmental and contextual constraints.


the front view reveals a calm interplay of solid and open volumes | all images by Suryan and Dang

 

 

Thirdspace employs a restrained palette of timber and neutrals

 

The site demanded the accommodation of multiple functions, parking for seven cars, service areas, four bedrooms, a home theater, and a pool, within limited space. The architects resolved this through a series of calibrated spatial moves. The residence is raised on a high plinth, allowing the semi-ground floor to contain service areas in a compact layout. This frees the upper ground level for the primary living zones, organized along a north–south spine. The pool occupies the eastern edge, transforming the setback into a semi-open pavilion. Defined by terracotta jaalis on three sides and a glazed roof above, the pavilion contributes to passive cooling by moderating temperature and humidity. It also acts as a focal element within the spatial hierarchy, connecting the living and dining areas through adjoining decks and sit-outs.

 

A restrained palette of timber finishes and neutral tones defines the interior, complemented by diffused daylight and reflections from the pool surface. The use of natural materials and light modulation supports the home’s environmental responsiveness while establishing a calm visual identity. Externally, the building maintains a measured, opaque expression that contrasts with the openness of its interior configuration. Within, spatial overlaps, controlled vistas, and sectional transparency create varied experiences of movement and inhabitation.


the view at dusk highlights the warm glow of interior spaces and screened openings


the pool area acts as a light-filled extension of the main living zones

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water is a spatial counterpoint, mediating temperature, light, and visual continuity


the dining space opens to views of the pool, enhancing the home’s sense of openness and connection


double-height glazing brings in abundant light, making the pool a focal point within the interiors


folding doors open the living area to the pool, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors


a quiet seating corner overlooks the pool, filled with dappled light filtering through patterned screens

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a restrained palette of timber and neutrals defines the home’s material language


the staircase forms a central spine, visually linking different floors and spaces


the interior connects living spaces with the pool area through layered openings and natural light


the bedroom pairs warm tones with soft daylight to create a calm, inviting retreat


gentle sunlight fills the bedroom, creating a serene and airy atmosphere


filtered daylight creates shifting patterns across the pool and interior walls

 

project info:

 

name: The Pool Pavilion (House for the Netalkars)
architects: Thirdspace Architecture Studio

principal architects: Praveen Bavadekar, Namrata Betigiri

design team: Praveen Bavadekar, Madhuri Gulbani

structural design: D L Kulkarni & Associates, Belagavi

gross built area: 600 sqm

location: Belagavi, Karnataka, India

photographer: Suryan and Dang

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

The post perforated terracotta screens enclose pool pavilion within indian residence appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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