Wulumuqi Road Roof House
The civic transformation of Lilong housing block, Shanghai to rebuild the 1930’s modern heritage set in motion the wheels for a daring interior intervention. Based on sustainable practices, the scheme aims to replace the existing flat concrete slabs with pitched red clay tiled roofs made from recycled material from nearby sites and tying it to shanghai vernacular. Hence, the urban policy not only adds a traditional edge but also stresses the importance of rebuilding cities from recyclable material and gives jobs to otherwise unemployed craftsmen. A twin effect of the newly triangulated roof is seen on the interior;
• Creates space for an attic bedroom and study, freeing up the main floor as an enlarged loft.
• Introducing the dormer, from which the triangular forms of the ceilings, walls and the staircase balusters is extrapolated.
Courtesy of SKEW Collaborative
Existing in contrast with a traditional civic exterior and a modern fluid interior, the apartment now exudes certain dynamism. The walls and ceilings are composed of overlapping triangular surfaces and the balusters are separately articulated. A programmatic edge is also achieved for the interior along with added benefit the roof level access and passive cooling. Becoming a study in modern sustainable ethics, the design thus emphasizes the dichotomy of looking forward with giving equal respect to the past. 
By:Akansha Gupta
