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The idea for Nine X Nine stemmed from the unique site context — a 3311 sqm plot in Gandhinagar, densely populated with mature trees. Instead of clearing the land, we chose to design around the trees, letting them guide the spatial layout. This led to the concept of fluid volumes weaving through and between nine key trees, resulting in a T-shaped plan and section. The home responds to its hot climate with a north-facing garden, deep overhangs, and passive cooling elements like a waterfall and reflective pool. Every space was imagined to be in dialogue with nature — shaded, ventilated, and flooded with natural light.
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The Nine X Nine house is deeply rooted in its landscape, with the architecture shaped by the presence of nine existing trees that were carefully retained and integrated into the design. Located in Gandhinagar, a city known for its green cover, the house continues this ethos by creating a built form that meanders around nature rather than displacing it. The structure is positioned on the southern side of the plot, opening up a large garden on the north, allowing all rooms to face greenery while minimizing heat gain. The house blends into its environment, with open decks, sunken courtyards, and natural materials reinforcing a seamless connection between built and unbuilt, between the urban edge and natural retreat.
Sustainability and eco-compatibility were central to the Nine X Nine house. The project retains all existing trees on site, building around them rather than removing them. Passive cooling strategies include a waterfall on the western side and a shallow reflective pool on the north-east, both helping to naturally cool the house. The layout ensures ample natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling. The house uses white marble flooring, wood furniture, and subdued accents made from natural materials. It also incorporates water recycling and rainwater harvesting systems, ensuring minimal environmental impact.The large overhangs reduce heat gain & improves the energy efficiency of the spaces.
The Nine X Nine house is defined by its deep integration with nature and its climate-responsive design. Located in Gandhinagar, it is planned around nine existing trees that shape the form, flow, and character of the house. Built volumes are interwoven with the landscape, creating a T-shaped layout in both plan and section. The house is entered at ground level, with one level above and one below, anchored by a central spiral staircase. A sunken courtyard with a waterfall, open stairway, and retained trees brings light and air into the lower level. Passive cooling, natural materials, and open decks ensure comfort year-round. Every space opens toward greenery, blending indoors with outdoors, creating a home that is both sustainable and serene.
Living in the Nine X Nine house has been a truly grounding experience. We feel connected to nature every day, with trees framing every view and light filtering in beautifully through the spaces. The house is calm, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed — it breathes with the seasons. It’s more than a home; it’s a quiet retreat that brings us closer to the landscape we love.
Sanjay Puri is the principal architect of Sanjay Puri Architects, a firm that was established in 1992 & has won over 370 international awards.
Sanjay graduated in 1988 from the Academy of Architecture, Mumbai & has been on the jury of several competitions including the World Architecture Festival , Architizer New York, Inde Awards Australia, Dezeen Awards U.K. & Architectural Review Awards U.K.
Sanjay has been a speaker at numerous architectural & design events in London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Singapore, Barcelona, Venice & Milan.
With a current firm strength of 108 architects & designers, Sanjay Puri Architects have ongoing projects in 54 Indian cities currently.
The current projects include master planning, Architecture, Interior design, event design & product design across various typologies.
