VILLA SHODHAN

Construction started: 1951

Location: Ahmedabad, India
Opened: 1956
Architectural style: International and Brutalist architecture
Alternative names: Shodhan House
Architect: Le Corbusier

When we talk about any building of Ar. Le Corbusier, we are definitely talking about his five
design principals that are in some way used in his design and building. These are:
1. Pilotis
A grid of concrete or steel columns replaces the load-bearing walls and becomes the basis of the
new aesthetics. The decisive factor is the idea of supporting
structures on pillars in order to make the soil freely usable. Allowed for a reduced building
footprint.
2. Free Ground floor
Since walls did not need to reach the earth, the ground floor could be open and used for free
circulation and landscaping.
3. Free Façade
The absence of load-bearing walls allows flexible use of the living space, which can be divided by
screen elements.
4. Ribbon-Window
The horizontal windows cut through the non-load-bearing walls along the facade and provide the
apartment with even light. It gives the interior a lightness and
offers views of the surroundings.
5. Terrace Garden – Roof as the fifth façade
The roof could be used as an aesthetic element; as a crown. The idea to bring the landscape to
the roof was both functional and aesthetic.
For this building to be incorporated into the culture and style of Ahmedabad, Le Corbusier
incorporated features of old Ahmedabad houses.

 Prominent reflection is the double height living room on ground level for opulence and
status.
 The open plan of the building allowed Villa Shodhan to be integrated into the Indian
environment.
 The angular, strong, geometric form of Maison Citrohan clearly reflects the masculine
aspects present in architecture.
 The interconnected nature of the ventilation and shade systems also highlights the
similarities.
(Reference: Zahara 2020, Villa Shodhan Ahmedabad, India by Le Corbusier,
http://architectuul.com/architecture/villa-shodhan.)