A jagged metal roofscape shelters large open terraces at the Lateral Verandah House, a dwelling near Pune, India, designed by local studio Malik Architecture.

The home sits on a steep, densely forested site with dramatic views of the Tung Fort ruins to the east, close to another residential project by the studio.

Referencing this historical fort, Lateral Verandah House was built on a plinth of raw basalt stone, which steps down the site's slope to create a gradual shift in levels.

"The familiarity and historical application of this stone in every type of shelter, from the village home to the forts, turns these heavy elements into a built landscape," explained Malik Architecture.

"Everywhere, there are allusions to the surroundings and to the past," the studio continued.

The home is organised across two levels, with sleeping and mechanical areas housed in the stone base and living spaces opening onto large terraces occupying the bright and open upper level.

Stepping and rotating slightly as they move down the hillside, these living spaces are wrapped to the north by a large infinity pool with a wooden terrace along its edge.

Full-height windows and glass doors shaded by wooden screens allow the lower bedrooms to open onto a sheltered terrace around a large tree.

Lateral Verandah House's angular roofscape is supported by a combination of steel columns and flitch beams, covered in sheets of corrugated metal that are left visible. These sheets are punctured at points to allow light to enter or trees to grow through.

"The roof follows the stepping plinth as it adapts to the gradual shift in levels," said the studio. "It undulates, shifts, sidesteps, hovers and allows the passage of the hill and of the existing trees as it provides shade and frames the near and distant views."

The material contrasts of the exterior are carried through to the interiors. The upper levels have a minimal, contemporary finish of glass and white walls, while the lower level is defined by exposed stonework and concrete.

Mumbai-based Malik Architecture was founded by Kamal Malik in 1976. Previous projects by the studio include House of Voids in Delhi, which was shortlisted in the urban house category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

The photography is by Bharath Ramamrutham unless stated otherwise.