/ Chiang Mai, Thailand /
/ Story: Supachart Boontang / English version: Bob Pitakwong /
/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham /
Haven’t got a clue about what to do with small living spaces? This loft house of an architect should give you some ideas towards a quick fix. Find out how.
When talented young architect Sarin Nilsonthiyoung was planning on building a home for himself, he envisaged a place where he could wear anything he wanted and have free movement without bothering anyone and vice versa.
Wish granted, the small loft house now sits peacefully enveloped by thick, rubbed concrete walls. It looks like a fortress, perhaps because of that tunnel-liked entrance. Step into his world, and you come before a cozy loft house under the lean-to roof typical of an attached greenhouse.
Small but uncluttered, the loft-style home offers 100 square meters of carefully thought-out floorplan.
The workspace is tucked away on a tiny mezzanine that hovers above the living room. There is a closet that fits flush with the staircase. Nothing goes to waste. Even a niche above the bedroom’s window has enough room for a wall-mounted cabinet.
It’s not just design that’s cool. Construction was resource-efficient every step of the way.
The owner used recycled timber and leftovers from other things to make not only concrete forms, but pretty much everything else, from windows casings to door frames to furniture.
Green construction is not the only thing that goes into making this little house unique. It’s practicality that comes from creative ideas.
Every morning the homeowner wakes up to the sight of a peaceful rock garden reminiscent of an early Zen temple. Close at hands stands an outdoor bathroom, where he can shower alfresco – the best way to end the day in the sun.
“I feel good every time I come home,” said the owner. “Home is where one enjoys a freedom to live life well and with ease.”
That said, his loft house is by no means a big house, but it’s the answer to all his lifestyle needs. As the old saying goes, a man’s home is his castle. We couldn’t agree more.
Owner/Designer: Sarin Nilsonthi of D_Kwa Architects
You may also like…
