Modification: The Alleyway House (Part 2)

The previous entry is Part 1 of The Alleyway House as published in Architecture Asia Magazine.

Sources:
ArchDaily.Com : Alleyway House
By: Nico Saieh

Architects: Formwerks Architects
Design Team: Alan Tay, Gwen Tan, Seetoh Kum Loon, Berlin Lee
Site Area: 150sqm
Project Area: 240sqm
Project Year: 2006
Photographs: Courtesy of Formwerks Architects

Situated in a non-descript, low-rise neighbourhood, the 2 1/2-storey intermediate terrace house is a rebuilt for a family of four and their pets.

Landlocked on 3 sides by the part and rear walls of neighbouring plots, the site with its dominant linearity is conceptualized as an "alleyway". The "alleyway" with its porosity is crucial for effective cross-ventilation through the dwelling. Organized along the open thoroughfare are the extroverted communal spaces while the private spaces are "hung" on the upper floors within enclosing walls. 

Throughout the entire section of the dwelling, a rough, cement-rendered party-wall extends, forming a unifying element for various parts of the dwelling. This textured wall most obvious along the open communal spaces, is intended for creeping plants.  

Against the cement-rendered wall, sits the centerpiece of the thoroughfare; a 2-storey cage structure which houses the family's precious parrots in the lower tier and on the upper tier, an outdoor shower accessible from the master bedroom.

 

           

Beyond the ground-level communal spaces, at the "wall-less" front of the dwelling, a layer of plants shields the space from the street for privacy. The living space is also raised from the street level to minimize visibility. At the front, closely spaced, galvanized-steel grilles fold down from the car porch canopy as the entrance wall. Besides serving as the last line of security, these grilles are also an effective privacy veil. The transparency of the alleyway spaces is only fleetingly noticeable from the street when the dwelling is viewed head-on, blurring the boundary between the street and the "alleyway".

 

Modification: Double Facelift for Terrace House

Sources:
StarProperty: Double Facelift for Terrace House
By: Willy Wilson
Photographer: V from The Muzes

Terrace house is a medium-density housing style made popular by the British during the late 17th century. Typically, terrace house exist within a cluster of identical structures that share sidewalls. 

The adoption of terrace house style in Malaysia and Singapore came during the early days of British colonization. Similar to British terrace house design, the layout for the Southeast Asian variations see living quarters on the front and top floor, with the kitchen at the back.

Terrace house design is still popular in Malaysia and Singapore, although today's design sees more emphasis on air circulation and inner courtyard to accommodate the humidity of local weather. 

A professional couple, who prefers to remain anonymous, has recently renovated their terrace house that is located at an upscale neighborhood. With help from architect PK Ee of Ziggurat Sdn Bhd, they decided to bring in a dash of modern sensibility to their 4000sq ft house.

The porch has been sealed from the rest of the walkway to serve as a foyer. Here, the ceiling is lofty and the feature wall is intimidating. The rest of the front yard consist of a small garden and space to accommodate a car.

But what's special about this house is the unique exterior, which sees bold screen block in diagonal pattern. StarProperty.my spoke with the proud homeowner and the architect recently.

A modern touch

There's an undeniable sense of spaciousness in this house. Blessed with natural light and adaptable floor space, it seems clear that the focus of the renovation was to create an expansive feel to the house. 

The layout of the house is rather simple. A porch, two living area and a kitchen on the ground floor; a master bedroom, complete with an en-suite bathroom on the first floor; and the newly built second floor houses two bedroom for the kids, a balcony as well as a study area.

To accommodate the weight of the second floor, some construction adjustments must be done. According to the homeowner, some pillars have been moved in order to achieve structural balance. But Ee admits that this wasn't the most challenging part. For him, exploring new ideas that fit his clients' brief, while maintaining the originality of the house, was indeed the real challenge.

"I took the opportunity to explore some spatial issues," he says of the raised ceiling at the entrance and concrete wall feature seen there. But he is quick to add that his unorthodox aesthetic and material selection was not without reasons.

According to him, the entrance has been designed to create an immediate sense of spaciousness, which isn't common in a terrace house.

"That was challenging!" he exclaims.

Adding modern touch to the house is the use of glass for the door, walls and ceiling. The homeowner explains that the use of glass is important, as she and her husband desire a house that is blessed with natural light.

The modern aesthetic is also evident in the selection of furniture. Professing that she isn't a good curator when it comes to furniture, the homeowner decided to play it safe with clean-cut pieces in neutral color.

"I bought most of the furniture in Gudang and Janine. Realizing that I'm not good in putting things together, I decided to buy a set of furniture as exhibited in the shop. The whole furniture set - the sofa, dining table, chairs, the lights and the Arco lamp - except for the cushion cover, are from these two shops," she adds. 

Unique facade

Further establishing the modern identity is the house's unique facade. According to Ee, the screen block was created to tackle a few issues inherited in a typical terrace house such as security and privacy. 

"I told PK that I wanted the rooms to have big glass wall, but I knew that there would be a privacy issue, as the house is located on the side of the road. So the idea to have a screen block (covering the glass wall) was always there, but I didn't know what would be the appropriate design and material," says the homeowner.

Ee then translated her idea with a structural facade. Made out of molded steel and concrete, and finished off with steel reinforcement, the screen also gives the house a modern identity.

He explains that he drew inspiration from Foundation Maeght building, which was designed by modernist architect Joseph Lluis Sert. Located at Saint-Paul de Vence, Southeast of France, the building has a simple but unique facade, thanks to its repetitive pattern.

"I wasn't sure if the screen would blend in with the overall theme of the house, but my husband and I decided to take the risk. We are happy with the final look," she quips, adding that Ee's design was an ingenious and budget-friendly solution.

Keep it homely

Apart from the concrete, glass and steel, the house also incorporates earthly elements such as wood into the interior. The homeowner explains that although she and the husband were open to the idea of modern concept, they didn't want a stark living space "that looks like a show house".

"We didn't want to add marble either. When combined with glass, concrete and steel, marble exudes coldness. We opted for wood instead, as it oozes a warmer feel," she explains.

The ground and first floor are covered in American Oak, which is less grainy in texture and lighter in shade when compared to normal Oak. Meanwhile, the second floor uses Burmese teak.

An impressive art collection adds pizzazz to the house. The artworks, which carry similar colour range, consist of masterpieces by local maestro such as Khalil Ibrahim. 

When asked about the details of the renovation, the homeowner explains that the process took nine months to complete and cost around RM900,000.  

Modification: 31 Blair Road, Singapore - Another Project by Ong & Ong

Sources:

ArchDaily 31 Blair Road by Ong & Ong

By: Nico Saieh

Architect: Ong & Ong Pte Ltd

Location: 31 Blair Road, Singapore

Project Team: Diego Molina, Maria Arango, Camilo Pelaez, Ryan Manuel, Linda Qing

Project Year: 2009

Photographs: Tim Nolan

Concept

Continuity of spaces eliminate the boundary between inside and outside, in order to create multiple relationships between diverse activities that occur in a residential realm. Austere and minimalistic with a constant analogy to industrial spaces.

The final scheme is an innovative response to the constraints of a conservation building. A traditional facade embraces a contemporary way of living, that has meticulously achieved a delicate balance between the old and the new. This has created a unique and effective house design, the exterior and the modern approach to the interior has been designed in context with the surroundings.

Conservation aspects

The scheme is an innovative response to the constraints of a conservation house. The beauty of the house is that it has a neutral environment that has been designed to appeal to all tastes, due to its future rental focus.

Conservation of properties in Singapore advocate:

- Maximum retention

- Sensitive restoration

- Careful repair

It was necessary that most of the existing elements of the building envelope were retained, this constraint helped shape the project. Inspiration was taken from the smallest detail on the existing facade (the bamboo motifs). Subtlety this theme was carried throughout the project.

The five foot way leading to the double leafed entrance, typical to shop houses in this area has been sensitively restored to its original condition. This particular property features a forecourt that gives spatial and additional green relief to the narrow plot. The decision was made to populate this space with a dense luscious bamboo garden, in response to the ornate bamboo details that feature on the front facade.

 

Another key constraint was that the height of the second floor was unable to be altered, to ensure that the front elevation did not change. Inventively, the ceiling was raised to accommodate additional space in the roof. Creating a mezzanine space on the second floor. 

 

To resolve lighting issues within this new space, a jack roof was created to allow large amounts of light in. A new light and airy space had been crafted.

Monochromatic tone selection was used throughout the scheme to accentuate that the project was attuned to the conservation aspects of the site. It is apparent that the colour pallet used in the project creates a clear connection with the heritage of the site. The subtle choice of natural materials does not draw attention away from the historic aspects of the scheme, only compliments them.

On approach the house looks like any other renovated terrace on the street. Past the thick bamboo front garden the initial impression upon entering is the continuous view through the building. It is spacious for this kind of typical long and narrow terrace plot.

A fixed furniture wall running the length and height of the house, allows for an open living space. This creates continuity between all social activities at ground level.

The designed furniture wall functionally accommodates all living necessities and extends to all other floors. Each area is defined by the use of subtle cove lighting and recesses in the walls that suit multiple atmospheres.

An elegant solution

The folded steel-sheet staircase hangs elegantly from a suspended I-beam at the top of the house. This sculptural circulation space services the main part of the house. Inspiration is drawn from the bamboo theme creating a key architectural feature in the house. The staircase is a playful addition to the house.  

Continuity of space

Each bedroom benefits from an uncluttered en-suite bathroom, that employs sliding doors that tuck away into the walls. This strengthens the continuity of space throughout the house.

Materials used like natural teak run throughout the upper two floors encouraging a warm feeling. white terrazzo flooring gives a spacious ambiance to the ground level and bathroom floors, while white mosaic tiles cover bathroom walls, adding some texture to the spaces.

The altered roof allows light to pour through the attic space and to the mezzanine on the first floor.

   

The master bedroom at the top of the house has been designed with a connection with the kids' room below. This reiterates the concept of continuity between each space, not only horizontally through the house but vertically.

Each bedroom has full-height window shutters along one wall that are similar to the traditional exterior shutters. This creates a unity in the project and accentuates the concept of continuity and austerity.

A pleasant addition

The rear steel spiral staircase leads up to a guest bedroom and a roof terrace. The BBQ pit could be used to entertain however it is also an ideal space for a quiet evening meal. 

The contrasting minimal approach taken on the rear facade complements the ornate decorative front facade. This approach emphasizes the detail and craftmanship of the existing facade. It created an overall unity in the project between old and new elements. The austere composition of the rear facade is a contrasting solution however maintains the concept of unity and continuity, in creating a neutral residence. 

By night the roof of the rear stairway acts as a Beacon emitting a warm glow on the roof terrace. 

Environmentally thinking

A large internal courtyard bisects the house. This courtyard not only allows for the flexible inside/outside space, which encourages natural ventilation but also allows light to penetrate both sections of the house. This new intervention creates a light and a spacious feeling around the air well. 

Potential less energy consumption may be one of the overall ecological benefits owed to the large internal courtyard.

This private courtyard is a perfect place to relax outdoors or entertain; the bamboo garden complements the soft tones of the smooth sandalwood stonewall that raised the height of the building.

Unpretentious

The overall scheme is an unpretentious solution to the growing constraints of working with conservation properties. It sensitively promotes attention to the historic facade. The new renovation is a responsive contrast to the original facade resulting in a functional house design that should appeal to any tenant in the future. 

Modification: 55 Blair Road, Singapore

 Sources:
ArchDaily 55 Blair Road by Ong & Ong
By: Nico Saieh

Architects: Ong & Ong Pte Ltd
Location: 55 Blair Road, Singapore
Design Team: Diego Molina and Maria Arango. Camilo Pelaez
Project Team: Diego Molina and Maria Arango. Camilo Pelaez. Ryan Manuel, Linda Qing
Interior Design: YPS
Project Year: 2009
Photographs: Derek Swalwell

55 Blair Road produces a spatial experience that excites the senses by promoting light open plan living which is unusual to this type of terrace house. This residence brings a balance between nature and contemporary living in a renovation of an Art Deco style terrace. 

Concept

To create a light open plan living space, whilst promoting Inside/Outside space. The contrasting relationship between the metallic elements and subtle tones within the house create an exciting spatial relationship throughout.

55 Blair Road project is a renovation and restoration to a traditional Art Deco style shop house. Originally the house was renovated 10 years ago. The new owner however believed it was too dark and desired more light in the living spaces.

Adhering to the conservation constraints of maintaining the existing envelope, a solution was reached. The residence was design around a young professional who had a clear vision of how the house should appear. The final scheme met that vision. 

The entire second floor in the main section of the house had been allocated for a master bedroom/study space with en suite bathroom. 

The restored traditional facade of the property envelops the new living space accommodating all the desired spaces of the client.

Bringing light into this long plot was an important consideration. A large air well divides the two sections of the house allowing for maximum light to penetrate the living spaces. Aluminium wall cladding wraps around the void. The aluminium bands reflect light into the living spaces. 

The void acts not only as a large light well but also encourages natural ventilation within the house.

The intricate linear bands are a modern contrast that reflects the traditional ornate facade. This metallic architectural language used throughout the scheme emphasizes a unity within the spaces. The subtle tones and metallic elements complement each other to create a common theme throughout the house.  

Continuity of space was a key concept to promote the relationship of outside/inside space. The first floor employs flexible glazed walls that lead directly to the pool. The main section of the house is separated by the outdoor pool and frangipani garden. When both sides of the glazed partitions are open the first floor becomes one large space. The scheme proves to be an approach that promotes diversity of space. The ground floor is not only a lounge and dining area, it is an ideal place to relax and sit poolside. The intention to create a diverse space on the first floor adds huge value and appeal to a property this size.

The TV and music appliances are hidden in recesses in the wall that are concealed when not in use by large pieces of art. This reiterates the concept of continuity of spaces. The lighting can be controlled by an integrated computer that can be used to set lighting moods within the house.

The rear section (service area) of the house accommodates the kitchen space, a powder room, the maids' room and a roof terrace. A steel spiral staircase links these spaces. The internal courtyard divides the two sections of the house however the same choice of materials is carried through the whole scheme to ensure unity.

The kitchen has been finished in a seamless aluminium cladding. This creates a refined kitchen space.

A balance between the aluminium and the frangipani garden in the internal courtyard has developed a stimulating spatial experience. The contrasting relationship between the organic element and the long linear metal elements provide a suitable connecting space.

Several stepping-stones link the lounge and kitchen space across the pool divide.

The Century Frangipani is a native tree that has been associated with Buddhist and Hindu cultures. The old twisted trunk adds to the character of the house. It is contained within modern elements. This reflects the concept of the house in the way the old facade contains the modern. 

The house is laid out on an axis that almost acts as a line of symmetry. The layout of spaces certainly is arranged to this line. 

The master bedroom features an en suite bathroom space that is a contrasting architectural language to that of the facade. It is glazed box that cantilevers over the pool area. This modern intervention emphasizes the playful nature of the scheme. Internally there is a total contrast to the ornate facade. The unsubtle architectural styles contrast each other in a way that contributes to the overall scheme. 

The traditional flooring was used within the modern addition. The walnut planks runs through the second and third floors in response to the heritage of the property. 

The sculpted stone bathtub sits at the edge of the cantilevered box overlooking the pool and garden below. The other bathroom fixtures are constructed in a similar stone. However the bathtub is the key architectural feature that completes the bathroom. 

 

 

Another appealing feature of the master bedroom is that there is a large void that allows a view down to the first floor. The plan of the master bedroom space is true to the axial layout of the house. Integrated symmetrical bookshelves line the walls that lead to the study area. 

To overcome the constraint of maintaining the height of the second floor a new mezzanine space was created to accommodate an additional guest bedroom in the attic space. A jack roof was necessary to allow sufficient light into the attic. Light is able to penetrate through the house. 

The main spiral staircase depicts a rhythmic ribbon that ascends to attic space. This key architectural feature acts as a central pin through the main section of the residence. Naturally lit by a roof cylindrical skylight that creates a vertical strike that can reach the bottom part of the stairs. This organic approach reflects the natural aspects of the house with a modern interpretation. On the second and third floors the stairwell is encased in a stainless steel mesh. This detaches the circulation space and spatially breaks up the bedroom areas. 

The overall scheme successfully establishes a relationship between inside and outside space. The approach of situating a swimming pool in the centre of the house produces a space that is diverse and suitable to a range of activities. The benefits of the flexible space leading to the air well gives the occupant the option of creating a different type of space within the house. The aluminium clad air well draws light into the residence ensuring a well-let open plan living space meeting the client's desires.