THE CREST

THE CREST

 

Nestled atop a commanding hill, this home embodies the essence of a modernist recluse’s idyllic retreat. Poised on the western periphery of the Kathmandu Valley, this expansive 22 Ropani estate balances proximity to the city with an alluring sense of seclusion, offering a haven where one can truly disconnect and find respite from urban chaos.

 

The journey into the residence commences at the foot of the hill, where a dramatic winding road gracefully makes its way up the hillside, weaving through the very structure of the building itself.

 

Upon entrance the eye is immediately drawn to the striking underbelly of an expansive 35-foot cantilever, boldly extending from the firmament into the open sky, parallel the rest of the hill.

 

This arrangement serves dual purposes: first, it unveils a breathtaking 180-degree vista of the entire valley, unveiling an incomparable panorama that captivates the senses.

 

Secondly, the elevated perch atop the hill grants peerless privacy to the open-plan dwelling, shielding it from prying eyes of neighboring properties. All that greets the curious gaze is the captivating underbelly of the structure, while the fortunate inhabitants of The Crest are treated to sweeping views.

 

As one ventures further along the meandering road, a realization dawns upon the visitor – the project holds more secrets yet to be unveiled. The path actually grants vehicular access to the summit of the hill, where a parking lot and entry point to a second house come into view, a perfect foil to the first.

 

While the first house asserts its presence with a dominating projection, commanding the landscape, the second dwelling harmoniously nestles into the gentle slope of the hillside. Designed for discreet elegance, this handicapped accessible unit caters to the needs of an older couple yearning for ample sunlight and an immediate connection with the meticulously cultivated fruit orchard that has thrived over the years. Connected yet separate from their children’s residence, this sanctuary offers a harmonious retreat where generations intertwine, fostering a sense of cherished togetherness while honoring the need for individual spaces.

 

In this enchanting architectural ensemble, two distinct homes coexist in perfect symbiosis, each embodying its unique character and purpose. Together, they form a testament to the power of design, seamlessly blending with the natural contours of the land, and offering a sanctuary where privacy, tranquility, and familial bonds intertwine amidst a tapestry of breathtaking vistas.

 

Within this mesmerizing architectural ensemble, a captivating harmony emerges as two individual residences gracefully coalesce, creating an extraordinary testament to the power of design. Mirroring the organic undulations of the land, these distinct abodes embrace their own character and purpose, converging to form a sanctuary where privacy, tranquility, and familial bonds intertwine amidst a tapestry of breathtaking vistas.

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