ME House

When M&E came to us to design their family home, they were looking for something not dissimilar to their neighbours’. As we got to know them better, we learned that they were design-savvy and had bold, distinct personalities. Many of the design decisions, from concept to detailed design were driven by these. 

The brief was short and simple. It was to be a sanctuary away from the hustle of everyday life, as well as a fun house for their children. With the idea of a sanctuary, the house takes its shape in the form of an inward-looking U-shape, where common areas and bedrooms overlook into the courtyard. 

The biggest challenge in building in the tropics would be the need for an abundance of sunlight yet keeping the house naturally cool. Designed to take on a U-shaped plan, cross-ventilation is suitably designed such that it allows hot air entering the house to be cooled by the bioswale at the end of the central courtyard. The bold concrete wall that shields the western sun, allows the interiors to cool naturally, and thus discouraging the overuse of air-conditioning.

Beyond sustainability gestures, the house, though seemingly simple, contains several contrasting moments of delight. In stark contradiction to its undisclosed facade, the house proves to be surprisingly open inside. The delicateness of a thin metal plate extending and folding dramatically down to wrap around the car-porch is juxtaposed with the heaviness of concrete. The timber-screened arrival space and treehouse in pure circular forms stand out from the rest of the rectilinear house. All these elements of extremity create a tension and balance within the project.

Whilst it was client’s initial goal to build a house not dissimilar to the other houses nearby, we felt that the clients’ unique personalities deserve a home that reflects it.