A father wanted his two daughters and their families to live with him. This sparked the idea of a multi-generational house where the owner could enjoy retirement with his family close by and the younger families have their own space and privacy while reaping the supportive benefits of living with grandparents.
The parti is simple – a series of volume based on hierarchy and use. Each houses one family with the central block for the grandparents and main gathering space. Thus, every family unit has separation but are still part of a cohesive whole, fostering connectedness at times. Clean edges and neat planes result in a clear composition of boxes nestled in the landscape, making for an engaging dialogue between nature and the manmade.
The three volumes form a U shape surrounding a generous garden and swimming pool. This allow for views across the garden so family units are not isolated while in their wings. The courtyard garden is also a way of creating internal views for a plot that faces nearby neighbours.
This U-shaped form anchors a secondary theme of abundant landscaping floor area for the family who love gardening and experiments with urban farming to enjoy the fresh produce that they grow while passing on gardening knowledge to the third generation.
Designed as a tropical home, the 1,170.79-square-metre bungalow orientates north-south for optimal natural light and ventilation through all the volumes.
Long overhangs and louvred aluminium screen panels create thermally comfortable interiors with ample cross ventilation, and reduced heat and glare.
In the thresholds adjoining the daughters’ wings to the central block, mini gardens, designed as inviting foyers, enliven the acts of transition. They are set within the house’s confines but offer a sense of being immersed in the garden.
Hanging plants drape from the roof like green curtains, their filigree letting in soft light.
Naturally ventilated, lushly planted and punctuated with round skylights, these transitional spaces bridge the indoors to the external environment in a casual but deliberate manner.
Teak-clad ceiling, and solid timber doors and screens amplify the sense of nature. Black steel elements and dark aluminium-framed glass openings give the architecture a contemporary edge.
Assorted marbles for the living room’s flooring, feature wall and the powder room are expressed as large planes, embellishing the home with their natural patterns.
Balinese Sukabumi tiles for the pool, cobble granite stone for the driveway and textured paint on external walls completes the home’s tactility.
