Suvadu - Annai Sita Illam

Located in a tight urban fabric in Chennai, Suvadu – Annai Sita Illam is a masterclass in navigating a narrow 26’ x 87’ plot while preserving deep emotional and ancestral ties. The residence was designed by D.L.E.A. for the family matriarch, Sita, serving as a cultural bridge for her children and grandchildren who live abroad. By prioritizing the retention of original site features—including a restored traditional well and ancient mango trees—the architecture anchors the family to its roots. The design strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern spatial demands, utilizing a vertical spine and triple-height volume to ensure the home remains light, airy, and deeply connected across all levels. Vernacular construction techniques are prominently displayed, featuring red, green, and grey oxide flooring alongside pot-filler slabs for thermal comfort. Most notably, leaf imprints on the exposed concrete ceilings serve as literal "traces" of the site's history, marking memory on the very skin of the house and providing a tactile connection to the family's heritage.