“Weaving Gardens into a 3-Story Home”

13 June, 2025

During the design process, the architects identified key considerations: how to ensure the house remained connected to its surroundings while retaining its unique character, and, crucially, how to address the issue of western sun exposure, where the side of the house would be directly exposed to the afternoon sun.

Implementing special design methods to modify the microclimate.

Rather than relying on rigid shielding solutions, the architects modified the building’s facade to create a rhythmic push-and-pull effect. This strategy not only reduced the surface area directly exposed to sunlight but also added depth and rhythm to the architecture.

Balconies covered with greenery act as a sunshade to reduce heat.

The building’s form creates a gentle play of light and shadow, and as one moves past the structure, the spatial experience changes with the time of day—a fascinating visual effect born from practical calculations.

The living room is surrounded by greenery.

The fish pond is also part of the microclimate adjustment strategy inside the house.

Natural landscaping was a key focus in the design. In this project, greenery is not only incorporated in the garden but also extended to the balconies and facade buffers.

Various types of plants are used to create a layered canopy.

Careful consideration went into the selection of plants: low-growing shrubs for ground cover, climbing plants for vertical coverage, and a few native species with high vitality to reduce maintenance complexity.

The homeowner, with their background in environmental and green space expertise, provided valuable advice.

Each green space serves a specific purpose, providing shade, filtering dust, improving the microclimate, and contributing to the overall sense of tranquility.

The glass doors blur the boundaries between inside and outside.

Taking advantage of the dual aspect of the plot, the interior spaces are arranged to benefit from natural ventilation and light. Large glass doors replace solid walls, expanding the views and enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior.

Greenery is visible from every direction.

Effective use of skylights and double-height spaces.

Skylights and double-height spaces are integral to the building’s structure. These openings are strategically placed around the staircase and elevator core, serving as light and air conduits for the entire building.

The space gains depth through indirect lighting.

The sense of stuffiness often associated with tube houses is eliminated, replaced by a continuous flow of air from the ground floor to the roof. This feature helps keep the LAAN House cool even during the hottest summer days.

Simple interior focused on functionality.

Consistent color palette and premium materials.

The interior design emphasizes simplicity and clarity of function. Each space is tailored to the family’s practical needs, achieving an understated yet refined aesthetic.