Spatial planning is crucial in land-scarce Singapore, especially when you have to think out of the box (literally) in order to solve issues relating to sound pollution and privacy.
In this 404sqm landed property home situated at the corner of a junction and close to a school, the creative team at Hyla Architects had to come up with a solution to shield the home from public eyes as well as noise from the nearby school during the day.
In order to block out the noise and allow for privacy without cutting out the amount of natural light flowing into the home, the team proposed a façade with a grid-like design.
According to the information from Hyla, "Each of the 3 sides faced different views and orientation so each has a different strategy. An almost blank off form concrete wall on the side shields view and noise from the school. A light and breezy concrete screen at the front encloses an outdoor space with lush planting that feasts on the morning sun."
Light filtering through the gaps in the facade create an interesting shadowplay cross the interior of the home.
Corridors within the home run alongside the length of the house, while the open-plan design helps to bring the spaces on the various floors together seamlessly.
In the living room of this three storey home (with a rooftop deck), pre-cast concrete create a chic Industrial look, complemented by timber cladding on the shelf and beam. The design team's eye for attention extends to the design of a wooden casing to conceal the air-con unit.
The master bathroom is designed with a glass roof. Not only does this help to open up the space, it also helps to keep the bathroom dry and well-ventilated. The remaining space behind the vanity wall was converted into a garden, providing a beautiful vista for the homeowners when they are by the counter.
The slant along the pitched roof enhances the unique design of the facade, sheltering the house from the sun's rays during the day while becoming a lantern at night when the lights from inside the home shines out.
The minimalist style runs into the living room, where the stone counter contrasts strongly with the wood cladding on the back wall and shelf. A large square opening above helps to draw the eye to the living area on the second floor of the house.
Despite the open-nature of the home's design, the full-height pre-cast concrete wall along the side of the home helps to block off the noise from the road as well as the school next to the home.
Wooden slats divide up the spaces in the living and dining room without cutting them off visually. This is a great way to let light flow throughout the home effortlessly.
In the evenings, the home is transformed into a lantern, glowing from within. Modern and chic without being too intrusive onto the existing landscape around, such is the wonderful design of Hyla's proposal.