Feature request: Auto-load CLAUDE.md from subdirectories when working on files

Problem

When running Claude Code from a parent directory (e.g., ~/projects/), project-specific CLAUDE.md files in subdirectories are not loaded, even when actively working on files within those subdirectories.

Current behavior

When Claude Code is started from a parent directory, only the CLAUDE.md in that directory is loaded. CLAUDE.md files in subdirectories are ignored even when editing files in those subdirectories.

Example:

• Start Claude Code in ~/projects/
• Edit files in ~/projects/book/
• ~/projects/book/CLAUDE.md is NOT loaded

Expected behavior

When I read/edit files in book/, the book/CLAUDE.md should be automatically recognized and loaded as additional context.

Why this matters

1. Cognitive overhead: Requiring users to cd into each project directory before starting Claude wastes attention and breaks workflow
2. Multi-project workflows: Many developers work across multiple repositories in a single session
3. Context relevance: Project-specific instructions should apply when working on that project, regardless of where Claude was launched

Proposed solution

When Claude reads or edits a file, check if there is a CLAUDE.md in that file's directory (or ancestor directories up to the working directory). If found, load it as additional context for that file's operations.

Environment

• OS: Windows 11 / macOS (cross-platform user)
• Claude Code version: Latest