Blocky volumes of exposed concrete juxtaposed with vibrant greenery define House K, an 885-square-metre residence located in Nghệ An, Vietnam. Designed by HGAA, this family home features a central courtyard and stepped terraces, maximizing residents’ connection to nature through a stunning rooftop garden.
Simplicity and Sustainability at the Core
“Simplicity, sustainability, and harmony with nature and local lifestyle” were the guiding principles, according to HGAA. The home integrates a central bamboo courtyard, rooftop vegetable garden, and private gardens for each bedroom, transforming movement through the space into a sensory journey. The garden is a key element that enhances the sensory experience, blending urban living with nature.
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Designed Around Green Spaces with a Thriving Roofscape
A paved walkway directs from the street entrance to a central barbecue area. The home’s U-shaped concrete form encases this vibrant heart of the house. Concrete accents both its exterior and interior, chosen for durability and contrast with the surrounding tropical plants. The rooftop area further complements this design, providing a peaceful retreat amidst urban surroundings.
Smart Layout and Sustainability Features
Tall bamboo screens the glazed ground-floor walls. The interior features a central hall flanked by dining and kitchen areas and a double-height living space. HGAA’s design adheres to feng shui principles while ensuring each space, including ground floor bedrooms and bathrooms, enjoys garden views. This rooftop oasis plays a crucial role in maintaining these principles.
The upper levels offer additional green vistas. First-floor bedrooms open onto a garden terrace, and the second-floor bedroom boasts a private roof terrace. The rooftop vegetable garden conceals technical areas while providing sweeping views, exemplifying contemporary Vietnamese botanical architecture.
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Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Design
The house is strategically set back from the street, with gardens acting as natural insulators against heat. Wide eaves and surrounding gardens reinterpret traditional cooling techniques in a contemporary context. This green design is a testament to this innovative approach, merging traditional wisdom with modern aesthetics.
HGAA’s commitment to integrating nature is also evident in their previous works, such as a preschool in Ha Long City designed with metal mesh walkways intended for climbing plants. Meanwhile, Inrestudio has completed a nearby project known as 100 Windows, offering a multi-generational living space with mismatched openings.
Photography by HGAA showcases the innovative design of House K.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What defines the architectural style of House K?
House K is defined by blocky volumes of exposed concrete juxtaposed with vibrant greenery. It features a central courtyard and stepped terraces, highlighting a strong connection to nature with a rooftop garden.
What sustainability features are incorporated into House K?
House K incorporates a rooftop vegetable garden, private gardens for each bedroom, and integrates traditional cooling techniques with wide eaves and surrounding gardens. These features reflect the principles of sustainability and harmony with nature.
How does House K integrate traditional wisdom with modern design?
House K combines traditional cooling techniques using gardens and wide eaves with contemporary aesthetics. The home is strategically set back from the street, with gardens acting as natural insulators against heat, merging tradition with modern design.