LIVING / Living ASEAN - Inspiring Tropical Lifestyle

A Modern Steel Home Promotes Wellness through Reconnecting with Nature

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Story: Supachart Boontang / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham /

The design of this modern steel house fosters a harmonious relationship between man and mother nature. What presents itself as a chic, cubic steel structure draws its inspiration from traditional homes in the neighborhood and the lifestyles characteristic of the people in a locality.

For the most part, the house is made of recycled building materials adapted to suit a new use. Among them is the steel structural framing that reduces building time and noise pollution on the job site, making it suitable for dry construction.

The homeowner, Thitiwoot Chaisawataree, who is an architect and professor of architecture at Kasetsart University, shared the following with us:

“My parents wanted to transform the storage building at the back of their house into a relaxation room for hosting friends and relatives. The renovation plan involved dismantling and repurposing parts of the old structures that were no longer needed.

“The plan also emphasized adapting materials from past projects for use in a different purpose. They included hollow cement blocks, glazed tiles, electrical switches and outlets, paint, cast iron decorations, spiral staircases and steel rod fencing. And as the result of all this, a bright and airy modern steel home was created.”

To lower humidity and enhance air circulation in the home, the floor was elevated to a plinth height above the natural ground level. Hardwood flooring materials were scarce. It was fortunate that the homeowner had purchased these materials and stored them for eight years prior.

They included wood planks 20 inches wide, 2 inches thick and 5 meters long that were used to build hardwood flooring. The design stipulated that none should be cut. One advantage of reclaimed timber is its low humidity content and reduced vulnerability to insect infestations.

The newly renovated home, spanning approximately 100 sq. m., is spread over two floors. The ground floor encompasses the primary open-plan living area. The second floor, which can be reached through a staircase outside the first-floor corridor, houses a bedroom, sitting room, workspace, and bathroom.

The architect, reflecting on his project, said: “Despite the ceilings being lower than usual at around 2.30 meters, the sitting area feels spacious. It draws inspiration from traditional Thai-style homes which prioritize creating living spaces in harmony with the environment, rather than emphasizing decorative elements.

“With this in mind, even a box-shaped house can be adapted to incorporate such design principles.”

Modern Steel House Bangkok — Reclaimed wood planks find a new use as flooring materials on the first level. The use of movable furniture allows for future updates to meet the changing needs for space.

Speaking of the current trend in urban design, the homeowner wrapped up his perspective about this modern steel house very nicely.

“I’ve observed that today, we often face challenges in integrating the environment seamlessly into our home design. We’ve distanced ourselves so much from nature and, consequently, become more reliant on energy for various necessities, such as air conditioning and insulation.

“It seems we’re prioritizing the aesthetics of our home’s exterior over a design that naturally shields us from environmental factors. Over time, when we realize that the house doesn’t meet our needs, we consider expanding our living spaces. Ill-conceived designs can sometimes result in aesthetically displeasing outcomes.”

2-8 — [Left] The contrast of orange with black enlivens the interior living spaces. / [Right] A perforated cement block wall promotes effective air circulation.

“Specifically for the Thai lifestyle, a comfortable home is one that’s tailored to the needs of its residents. Even better if the functional spaces are adaptable, allowing for potential future expansions.

“Simultaneously, the Tropical hot and humid climate of Thailand should be a primary consideration in home design. Comfortable interiors stem from design that harmoniously coexist with nature. Well-conceived floor plans ensure optimal air circulation and offer protection from the elements. It’s advisable to steer clear of materials that retain excessive heat.”

Owner/Architect: Thitiwoot Chaisawataree

Visit the original Thai article…

บ้านเหล็ก หัวใจไทย

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A Home-cum-Art Gallery amid the Bustle of Downtown Yangon

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Yangon, Myanmar /

/ Story: Samutcha Viraporn / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Rithirong Chanthongsuk /

Despite being located in a vibrant prime location, this home-cum-art gallery in Yangon is a fascinating place with a serene atmosphere and qualities that delight and please the senses. Architecturally speaking, it’s a nexus of ideas from different styles, places, and times.

The white mansion mixes and matches the visual elements of Contemporary and Colonial styles of architecture. Plus, it puts an innovative spin on traditions of years gone by, resulting in charm, good looks that tell the story of ongoing change in modern-day Yangon.

The calm and peaceful place is a short distance away from a busy market on Nawaday Road. Min Han, the homeowner, is on hand to give a warm welcome and show us around the premises.

The three-story home has many interesting features that apparently blend well together creating a building that works as a cohesive whole. Take for example the Modern-style wing that stands in perfect harmony with the nearby Colonial-style mansion. It’s a new addition to the original structure that’s zealously preserved.

home art gallery Yangon — A vivid color painting and wood furniture in dark brown dominate the hallway on the first floor. Unique elements of design including large bay windows are preserved in every part of the Contemporary style wing.

Other than that, the floors have since been improved and refinished, while room dividers are remade to create a light and airy atmosphere on the inside. In front of the house stands a two-story family business building, where traditional Burmese snacks and light meals are sold, including Yuzana Pickled Tea Leaves.

Nearby, a fence beautifully crafted of stone masonry separates a parking space upfront from outside and protects the family home from the noise and hubbub of the big city.

“In fact, I am not much of an artist. But I like collecting works of art, especially those of U Maung Maung Hla Myint, who is nationally renowned for his bright color paintings. Vivid color paintings make the space feel more lively,” said Min Han.

To create a sense of spaciousness, the architects put in a steel staircase with glass railings at the center of the house plan, resulting in unobstructed views of the whole interior. In general, the room is comfortable, airy and well-lighted, thanks to skylights above the stairway leading to the third floor. Together, they make the furnishings and other decorative details more noticeable.

The bedroom’s white interior contrasts with dark brown colors of wood beams, posts, and ceiling joists.

For a neat appearance, the system of electrical wiring and lighting is arranged in a tidy way pretty much in the same fashion as that of a typical art gallery. There are spotlights on the installations, which makes the interior spaces look very well organized. As a private gallery, the hallway also doubles as a rendezvous point for friends and relatives coming by for a visit.

A spacious sound studio in the back confirms that a music lover lives here.

The shower room is plain and simple. Attention to detail is reflected in the use of different materials separating dry and wet areas.

The homeowner not only paid attention to detail but also actively participated in making design decisions every step of the way, resulting in perfect visual harmony from beginning to end. All told, it’s a delightfully warm home and an art gallery combined into one cohesive whole. And it conveys a great deal about the homeowner’s love of art and a taste for something different.

[Left] The upright structural support is crafted of wood posts. Where appropriate, all sharp edges are removed. / [Right] To create a light and airy feel in the interior, the stairway is built on a steel frame with glass railings. There are no risers between the treads for good ventilation.

Architect: Spine Architects Co, Ltd

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Sekeping Tenggiri: A Concrete House and Nature Blend Together Beautifully

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia /

/ Story: Ekkarach Laksanasamrith / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Soopakorn Srisakul /

There are ways to bring the outdoors in and enjoy the benefits of nature without ever leaving your home. Likewise, a concrete house in Malaysia named Sekeping Tenggiri has embarked on the journey to establish a sanctuary for the mind.

Sekeping Tenggiri — The building has been lovingly restored using steel structures. Leveraging steel technologies offers a fast and convenient alternative in construction.

Located in Jalan Tenggiri, a district of Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur, the house graces a modest plot of land. Nonetheless, the homeowner adeptly integrates a plethora of natural features into the design for a look that blends seamlessly with the environment.

Plants and natural light work harmoniously to soften the stark surfaces of building materials, creating a warm and well-lit ambiance.

The house belongs to Ng Sek San, who is the founder of Seksan Design, a landscaping and architecture firm in Kuala Lumpur. He told us that the house was a renovation of two adjacent homes skillfully transformed with a clean sweep.

Ng is also an art collector, which is evident in one side of the house dedicated to an enviable art collection that’s open to the public with no admission charge.

The two-story home boasts a comprehensive range of functional spaces, including an ample sitting room, dining room and kitchen, complemented by a refreshing swimming pool and seven bedrooms.

An experienced landscape architect, Ng started out with a modest garden while working on this house. Over time, he progressed to larger projects, smoothly integrating exterior and interior spaces so that they become a whole. To him, a garden is a room, and his exterior design spaces resemble extensions of the interiors.

An exemplary illustration of Modern Tropical style, Sekeping Tenggiri is designed to mitigate heat and prevent moisture-related issues. Long overhangs and awnings provide protection against scorching sunlight, while exposed roof sections and plain floors contribute to a clean and simple aesthetic.

Materials such as concrete masonry, bricks, wood, and steel were utilized, with the main structure being steel-reinforced concrete. The thoughtful incorporation of nature into the living space is evident in details like raising the floorboards 40 centimeters from the concrete floors, promoting air circulation that naturally cools the upstairs bedrooms.

Opaque walls are replaced by glass louvre windows that usher in light, creating airy interiors. Transparent materials in parts of the roof facilitate ample sunlight, particularly over the swimming pool.

As has been demonstrated, Sekeping Tenggiri features numerous passageways that facilitate air movement. They include the spaces between wooden floorboards and along the corridors, plus openings in exterior walls. These design elements not only enhance ventilation, but also contribute to the house’s uncluttered and incredibly relaxed appearance.

Architect: Ng Sek San of Seksan Design Landscape Architecture and Planning

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Rooftop Oasis in the Heart of Bangkok

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
GARDEN,LIVING

Welcome to another side of Phetchaburi Road. Leave traffic jam behind and step into the rooftop oasis garden of Vikrom Kromadit, the famous Thai author as well as creator and CEO of Amata Corporation.

/// Thailand ///

Story : Panchat Changchan /// Photos : Sitthisak Namkham

*Surrounded by groups of office and residential buildings, an oasis in the cramped confusion of the metropolis*

The concrete and river-pebble pathway winds around under native Thai trees such as gold apple, white sandalwood, and bauhinia standing among taller ones, with sweet fragrances of lignum vitae and gardenia wafting from dazzling blossoms on elegantly formed branches. Nearer to the ground were ferns, arrowroot, konjac, elephant ear, ground orchid, bromeliads, and moss displayed verdant greens. It’s unbelievable that this garden exists high on the rooftop of a big building in the heart of Bangkok. The soil is only about 15cm thick, so what secret techniques did they use to get this perfection?

*First view out outside theKromadit Building elevator: an arboreal tunnel arched with cape jasmine and climbing ylang-ylang*

*Vikrom Kromadit, the businessman and famous author, enjoying the garden atmosphere he created*

Vikrom tells us, “A garden isn’t something you create and are suddenly finished with. A garden is a living thing. This all happened in stages over 8 – 9 years. At first, we experimented. After we got moss and ferns growing well, we added a lot of improvements. By the time we had it looking good, we’d perfected our knowledge of cultivation and maintenance. The last stage has been the most enjoyable, but it’s all about constant change and adaptation.

*Garden entrance gate, engraved with ancient symbols and set in an arbor of crepe gardenia and other gorgeous plants*

*Cape jasmine gardenias amid perennials and other tall shrubs, growing on rocky mounds with moss for slow growth similar to bonsai*

*Besides shade-givers such as gardenias, tall bushes such as the climbing ylang-ylang refresh the garden with beautiful forms and fragrant flowers*

“There’s nothing temporary here, so maintenance is the most important factor, ensuring plants grow strong and adapt to the environment. The trees are hardy, slow-growing domestic species. They’re planted at intervals on mounds of earth in line with primary building columns and beams, as the roof was not designed to hold a garden’s weight. We worked on a look as natural as possible, even using cement tree supports formed into natural root and vine shapes. Nature is nature. Some things we think of as natural are actually not. In the real forest there’s nothing artificial, but here we have to use certain techniques to make it look like the real thing.”

*Behind the beautiful garden and green lawn is Vikrom’s residence, its Thai architecture a perfect fit for the selected Thai vegetation*

*Trees planted on rocky mounds with wooden supports overgrown with climbing vines – clinging to roots are small plants such as button orchid and moss*

I walked around in admiration. This space of less than half an acre contains a waterfall, grass lawn, and a wooden deck that can hold 400 people and is used for various events.

*Trees planted all along the curving garden path, each with differently shaped supports, offering contrasting garden views*

*Below two guayacan trees are large, well-cared-for golden chicken ferns, plus tree ferns, davallia, Royal Project fern, birds-nest fern, and arrowroot*

Sun and shade are important factors for a forest garden, requiring both long-lived shade trees and shade-tolerant plants. In front, savanna grass, bromeliads, and arrowroot; further in, golden chicken fern, Royal Project fern, and Teysmannia palm

*In front of the main door grow Cape jessamine and guayacan, showing flowers and spreading sweet fragrances to passers by*

Birds and other creatures roam freely, a unique sight in the heart of the city. Saying this is heavenly is really not an exaggeration: it has the look of one of nature perfect jungle gardens. Clearly, the owner and creator here loves and understands nature and has created his own heaven, where all things live together in happiness.

link: http://www.baanlaesuan.com/category/garden

The Mix of Traditional and Modern Design in a Thai Stilt House

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Photography: Rithirong Chanthongsuk, Sitthisak Namkham /

This Modern Thai stilt house incorporates traditional wisdom into its modern design. All aspects of the environment are taken into account, including air circulation, calmness and comfort.

*This Modern Thai stilt house is a product of mixing traditional Thai elements into the design scheme that emphasizes eco-friendly materials and modern technologies.*

The couple incorporated traditional Thai wisdom with the best in modern design to create this modern Thai delightful home. The Thai stilt house of Panupong and Busakorn Hiranrak inspired by changing the design.

Obviously, some of the imported concepts didn’t seem to go together well with the kind of climate we have in Southeast Asia.

*Modern symmetrical design enhances the house’s tranquil details. Crisp, clean lines and calm hues go together well with unornamented concrete walls.*

Located in Bangkok’s Bangplad District, the house sits on a plot that was once part of a lush agricultural landscape. Architect Bundhit Kanitakhon explains:

“The land for many years used to be a thriving fruit orchard served by a well-planned irrigation system. House design was honest and straightforward, taking into account directions of the winds, the sun, and seasonal flooding. The result was a simple home with a modern edge and comfy atmosphere.”

On the outside, this Modern Thai stilt house was made of concrete masonry, for the most part unornamented. Closer examinations revealed elements of a true Thai style personality – ideal house orientation, suspended ground floor, and the so-called breathing wall design.

*The master bedroom on the second floor boasts high ceilings in peaceful cream tones. Sloped ceilings and cool bed cover design add to the overall appeal of the room.*

Ideal building orientation

There is a sense of auspicious energetic flow and comfort. The main log axis of the building runs East-West, allowing it to capitalize on natural air movement and effectively reduce heat.

Protection against sun, winds and rain /// Steeply sloped roofs with long overhangs protect the house from scorching sunlight and throw rainwater clear of the wall. Air blocks that form the exterior walls also allow for good air circulation and keep the house cool.

Suspended ground floor

Its stilt house design provides for effective under-floor air circulation, which is a form of the passive cooling characteristic of homes in Southeast Asia.

The stilts raise the house one meter above the surface of the soil to protect from seasonal flooding, ventilate air underneath the suspended ground floor, and effectively reduce humidity.

*Antique chinoiserie furniture adds appeal to the dining area adjacent to the show kitchen. The dark-colored long table and bench pull out cultural influences in the décor details.*

High ceilings make the hallway light and airy. Lit by a trio of suspended fixtures, the area is clearly visible from the bedroom on the second floor. Vivid color ceramic tiles add interesting effects to the design scheme.

Breathing wall design

This Thai stilt house is all about creating one seamless transition from the inside to the outside. Indoors living spaces are light and airy thanks to an array of 26 windows that stand 3.6 meters tall. They open up to bring in the outdoors. The teak wood shutters are the work of master builders from the old capital Ayuthaya.

Meanwhile, walls are composed of air blocks. The so-called breathing walls not only promote good air ventilation but also add to the overall curb appeal.

The house’s other distinctive features include a large central terrace, steep roofs arching upwards, and lush green surroundings.

*The wood terrace provides easy access to all functional areas. During the day, all 26 teak wood shutters that stand 3.6 meters tall open up to bring in the outdoors.*

Central terrace

The central court is the largest open space that connects with and supplies fresh air to other parts of the house. A form of cooling strategies, it ensures the occupants are thermally comfortable all year round.

*Utilizing natural light, the lofty stairway is big and tall by any standard. Even the platform half way to the top is large enough for a small art gallery.*

[left] Natural light illuminates the second-floor bathroom through a skylight and sliding glass windows. The amount of light on the side is controlled by Venetian blinds. [right] Vanity lights illuminate the countertop area. For better vision, choose the right bulbs that emit near natural light.

Steep roofs design

The house boasts steeply sloping tile roofs that arch upwards about 40 degrees to allow for rapid rainwater run-off.

On the edges, the eaves from an overhang that not only protects the building from scorching midday sun but also throw storm water clear of the walls. The steep roof design also serves as a natural cooling strategy.

*Roof shingles are made of kiln fired earth known for its ability to not only dissipate heat* quickly, *but also prevent radiation from reaching the interior living spaces.*

Natural surroundings

Thanks to the creative design, the house blends well with the green surroundings. Nearby, mango, banana, and jackfruit trees thrive alongside other vegetation that provides a crisp, cool canopy keeping the occupants comfortable all year round.

*In the backyard, a fruit orchard keeps the house well supplied all year round.*

On the inside, ample living spaces boast Asian inspired décor. Airy rooms are decked out with classic Thai and Chinese furniture from years gone by. Old cabinets, tables, and a Chinese style daybed are carefully placed to ensure they don’t clash with new sofas and trendy modern shelves. There is a seamless transition from one area to another.

Modest design concepts also pull in the natural earth tones seen throughout the house, from wood to kiln fired ceramic tiles and the air blocks.

On the inside, old eco-friendly furniture adorns the ample living room. Traditional and Oriental elements add some cultural flair to a cozy atmosphere. The exterior walls are composed of air blocks for privacy and good ventilation.

*Adding harmonious proportions of handicrafts to the decor brings a strong cultural element to the limelight. A stage is set for story telling.*

[left] Floors made of ceramic tiles are ideal for keeping homes cool in hot climates. [right] Window shutters are crafted of teak wood known for durability. Some of the shutters are equipped with small awning windows. They are ideal for areas that need privacy, but still let some light and breeze into the room.

Architect: Bundit Kanisthakhon, Natee Suphavilai

Interior Designer: Sirirat Ketphol

Big Gardening Ideas for Small Urban Areas

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
GARDEN,LIVING

The gardening ideas of colorful flowers welcome guests to the garden of Thanawat Suwinai Phreusabenja of Inmindhamlet community on Soi Ari 3. Located inside is the gardening shop Mc&Ami, where people love to look into the glass-partitioned display area at where butterflies are attracted to the scents of flowers. The Living ASEAN team itself became interested and came to investigate.

/// Thailand ///

Story :Panchat Changchan /// Photos : Chaiyapruk Podang /// Landscape :Thanawat Suwinai Phreusabenja

*The table décor creates a bright, lively party atmosphere.*

*The dining table creates an intimate and uniquely festive atmosphere as surrounding garden ornaments and “showroom” shelves serve as a backdrop.*

We arrived at twilight, as Thanawat was setting up the dining table in the garden to welcome us, amid vibrant colors of flowers in the garden and on the table. Asked about the decor, he said,

*Combination flower planters beautify the entrance. Thanawat got the inspiration from seeing flower vases set at different levels, tall leafy plants at the top descending down to small flowers.*

“I got the idea from a respected teacher;she gave me a book about Claude Monet’s garden. She expressed her wish that I could find that sort of happiness in the rest of my own life. Thinking about that made me try to set my garden in Monet’s natural and beautiful style, and what you see here comes from that.”

*Thanawat Suwinai Phreusabenja, gardener and distributor of Mc & Ami gardening equipment, also the owner of Inmindhamlet Community Mall.*

After dinner, we walked around the garden, which is overflowing with decorative ideas. Thanawat himself designed the creative little cement doll family of pigs,lion statues using Spanish moss for a mane and ducks carrying egg sacks in their mouths. With unique choices and placement both flowers and decorative plants are mixed in with tropical rainforest varieties. Inclusions exotics and unusual kitchen vegetables which are all in vigorous growth.

*A pair of decorative lion sculptures: one displays an imaginative use of Spanish moss as the lion’s mane.*

“My concept is to just sow seeds and let the plants grow by themselves as best they can. The beauty is in non-native plants trying to make their way and naturally adapt in a strange place, with a different kind of beauty than before, in leaves, branches, and colors. But when planting we do have to consider whether a plant can coexist with the others. Is it shade-tolerant? Can it survive with a vine growing over it?”

*Entryway post with a faucet for watering flowers. Functional and attractive, too.*

Another minor miracle is that all this grows in what used to be a parking lot, which Thanawat covered in topsoil and gradually planted over.

*Small shrubs with flowering plants below. Rising above is a mix of leafy plants, broad and point-formed, creating a filled-out appearance.*

“The fun is in the challenge. We have a hard concrete yard. You would think that we cannot plant. Think again. Just have a concept and a passion, and a garden is created from Shallow root systems, a single level of soil, good for bamboo, ferns, flowering plants, bushes, and kitchen vegetables. We found added benefits from things we can plant and grow slowly, and that will flower for a long time, so we aren’t constantly cutting things back.”

*A gate through the iron fence into the garden, where a white gravel path contrasts nicely with greenery and ornamentation.*

We also have odd blossoming schedules and odd shapes that grow and nourish beauty. Adapt and don’t accept failure because the hard cement doesn’t fight back, but this is still a formula for success.

*Besides flowers, there are kitchen spices like basil and pandanus palm that add color and beauty.*

*Small steel planter boxes trap rainwater. Semanggi and star grass add a chic look.*

link: https://www.facebook.com/Inmindhamlet-soi-aree-1458360097813741/?fref=ts

A Thai-Isan Style Home Showcases the Richness of Vernacular Design

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Udon Thani, Thailand /

/ Story: Wuthikorn Sut / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Soopakorn Srisakul /

“We want a Thai-Isan style home, the kind that not only embraces vernacular design typical of the Northeast but also fits in well with the social and cultural environment,” said homeowner Pierre Vermeir when asked about his traditional-style country home in Udon Thani’s Baan Dung District. Having lived in Thailand for a long time now, Pierre is quite at home with the Thai way of life. He is also passionate about the warmth and hospitality indigenous to the region.

The new house that’s warm and full of character sits on land that has been the family home of Nittaya Pansamdang, Pierre’s better half. When the home they’ve lived in needed repairs, the couple thought it wise to go for a complete teardown to make room for a new one. And that’s where Kanika Ratanapridakul, of Spacetime Architects, came into play and turned ideas into a reality.

Country Home in Udon Thani — A proper plinth height protects the house floor from direct contact with moisture, while the front porch offers plenty of room for family hanging out together. Plus, there’s the quality of being positive in attitude. Friendly neighbors shout out greetings as they pass by in the late afternoon.

“Pierre wanted a Thai-style house, a wooden one that’s comfortable to live in and not too big. He made that clear from the get-go,” Kanika said.

“As I got around to working on it in earnest, it became clear that the country home was for me as well. It was more suited to my character than other types of design. So it made communication easy because we ended up pursuing the same line of thought.”

A low-profile platform bed is in keeping with the culture in which sitting on the floor is the norm, a polite way that has had pride of place in society since ancient times.

The first floor raised at plinth height boasts an airy hallway reminiscent of the unique ground-level living space of a house perched high on sturdy poles. The exterior walls are crafted of timber in clapboard patterns alternating with glass louvre windows and fiber cement boards. The three types of building supplies were the materials of choice for their simple, clean appearance.

“The house is built strong using ordinary building supplies and methods no different from others in the community,” said Kanika. “It’s the coming together of the right materials, the skills, and well-planned design on a budget, resulting in the perfect form, color and texture that merge into countryside vernacular.”

The shower room is of wood and concrete in smooth finishes. Polished concrete surfaces protect against humidity and seepage, while louvre windows, aka jalousie windows, improve ventilation. — The shower room is made of wood and concrete with smooth finishes. Polished concrete surfaces protect against humidity and seepage, while louvre windows, aka jalousie windows, improve ventilation.

Pierre is obviously pleased with the result. The beautiful country home in Udon Thani stands in peaceful harmony with the rural landscape. To ensure there is no obstruction of view, the boundary fence formed by densely growing bushes and shrubs is kept at the right height.

Taking everything into account, the house plan is truly a breath of fresh air. Upstairs, balconies with deck bench seating in the front and back look out over the surrounding countryside. Downstairs, simple clean decks and patio ideas enhance the garden view and offer visual continuity connecting the home with others in the community.

The front façade, especially, overlooks an outdoor area where children from within the neighborhood run and play.

From a design perspective, the home represents a juncture where vernacular and contemporary styles are married. The house main frame is built of H-shaped steel beams for strength and durability, while the layout, build quality and visual elements are quintessentially Northeastern Thai, aka Thai-Isan.

On top of its pleasantness, the house is created for easy, comfortable living, physically and mentally.

Asked how he finds living out in the country, Pierre says: “It’s not the same. Imagine living in Bangkok and then making a trip to visit family in Udon. Life would have been different.

“Compare that with having a home in Udon and commuting to work in Bangkok from time to time. The latter makes sense. It is comforting to know there is a country home awaiting your return, one that is peaceful, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.”

“I want a simple country lifestyle. After all, life isn’t about just me alone. It is about reaching out and interacting with others in the community. And that is what makes Thai-Isan culture unique and warm. There is a touch of country in the lifestyle, and I find that delightfully charming and attractive.”

The kitchen comes fully equipped to handle all kinds of cooking big or small. Louvre windows allow good ventilation making clouds of smoke and odors fast dissipate.

Pierre now commutes a few times monthly between Bangkok and his new home. In future, he intends to live permanently in Udon Thani. Here, life just gets more fun hopping on a motorbike ride to a nearby market and back.

He enjoys cooking and inviting friends over for dinner. Occasionally he entertains visitors from overseas. Speaking of which, it seems a new trend is fast rising as more people are looking forward to living “life in the slow lane.” To Pierre, that’s life.

Owner: Pierre Vermeir and Nittaya Pansamdang

Architect: Spacetime Architects

Visit the Original Thai version…

บ้านไม้ในโครงสร้างเหล็ก ที่เล่าเรื่องไทยอีสานสมัยใหม่ในบริบทเดิม

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Little Joys in the Small Garden

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
GARDEN,LIVING

Little joy with a cool lush green small garden in front of a pretty white house protected in front by a hedge of English banyan. Sukanda and Chaiyanon Mimarayat were inspired to create this beautiful place by the book cover of Small Garden from Baanlaesuan Publishing.

/// Thailand ///

Story : Warapsorn Akkhaneeyut /// Photos : Sitthisak Namkham /// Landscape : Little Tree

Seeking out the garden designer, Siriwit Riubamrung of Little Tree, they had to wait two and a half years to enlist his help. “When we first went to Little Tree the Designer needed to see the actual site, but the big floods came and we couldn’t continue for another year. Then prices were higher, so we had to wait even longer.”

In the meantime Sukanda redecorated, the space adding on a small cottage in a mixed French country and vintage style and a relaxation room with a porch, walkway, and lawn, all while waiting for the garden to arrive.

*English banyan line two sides of the walkway entering the house*

*Inside the little gate is a comfortable space to sit, but the tall hedge keeps it private.*

“Our old place was a townhouse with retro façade, not like this at all. Then we started getting out more, and thought about copying the look of restaurants and coffee shops we liked, such as Agalico, which Little Tree designed. We gave Siriwit a free hand because we liked his concepts, but of course he discussed everything with us in advance. He made adaptations from the original work plan such as increasing the height of the hedge barrier in front for more privacy.”

*A checkerboard tile pattern fronts the house, and cobblestones set diagonally on the washed sand walkway*

Inside the garden is a very private enclosed space, with a chic black lawn table on top of cobblestones set in diagonal lines, fragrant yellow gardenias, and bright flowers scattered here and there for a relaxing, casual mood.

*These gorgeous rectangular English banyan hedges took 2 years to reach their 2-meter height*

*Near the pond, detail-textured cape plumbago encroaches on the walkway, with knot root foxtail adding a striking look.*

Siriwit helps with color coordination as well as prices and brands. In the mix of plants he inserted Fukien tea and English banyan hedges trimmed into geometric shapes to relieve harshness so the garden looks orderly, but not too formal. He adds, “I played with shapes and forms, the diamond-shaped walkway and yard with checkerboard lines of tile in the front. The central court is trapezoidal, so I took away the unevenness with two lines of banyan plants.

*Hedge plants mixed in with free-form: semi-formal, easy maintenance; trim hedges every 2-3 weeks, or once a month if strapped for time.*

“We used medium-sized plants with beautiful forms placed symmetrically. Golden gardenias. Leafy plants with different shades: neons, silvers, spotted coralberry, evergreen spindle, lime. Put in a pond with a cute rabbit-head fountain.”

*View from the lawn table into the house takes in a precise organization of plants and decorative components*

A beautiful verdant garden with a vintage feel. A place to walk in and relax with a cup of your favorite coffee. Peaceful, relaxing.Once you’re here, where else would you want to go?

*By the owners’ design, attractive flowerpots adorn a shoe-placement shelf.*

*Between the house and relaxation room the indirect light calls for shade-tolerant plants like the dwarf neon hydrangea along the path.*

*Pink-flowered hydrangea contrasts with vines of spotted jasmine climbing the house.*

link: http://www.littletreegarden.com/

Townhouse Makeovers / Home Renovation Ideas

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
IDEA,LIVING

A good home renovation could turn even a decade-old townhouse into a unique house reflecting the owner’s taste and personality.

/// Thailand ///

Renovate the 30-year-old and 3-storey townhouse to the warm industrial home. With its gray and simple exteriors contrasting from the iron gate and black roof, and interior open floor plan, you can do different kinds of hobbies within this area. This stylish design can give you the warm cafe atmosphere, yet harmonize the bold style with the white brick wall.

Design-Decorate: Kirin Chaichana

A 70-year-old unique stunning home is replaced by a simple and modern home structure with a touch of period wooden home style. With its shiny white marbles over the ground floor, it can give a simple and modern look and feel. While the studio is designed to enhance the vintage style by extending the terrace on the upstairs, installing delicate-line curve steels, reflecting the vintage touch amongst the modern-style.

Design: Thita Kamonnetsawat and Pongsak Kobrattanasuk

Two townhouses were added by steel structure to the front yard without removing the previous building’s structure. It’s easy to use steel as the main material since it can be easily installed. Insert some trees to the structure to add a soft touch to the bold line. Connect these two houses with the center courtyard with the iron bridge, while decorating the interior with the gray-black color so that it will suit with the house.

Design: Suriya Ampansiriraj

link: http://www.walllasia.com/

Outside of the commercial buildings near Ratchanaddaram temple is still being preserved its main structure but renovated all interior design by combining the old wood with steel structure and laying with red bricks. This renovation will enhance an industrial-contemporary style hostel with decorative cozy rooms.

Design-Decorate: Arx Architects Co.,Ltd.

link: http://www.arxonline.nl/index.php/nl/

You can renovate all the old commercial buildings by installing aluminum lath parted with modern plexiglass and combining with the little touch of classic elements. The gray-brown palette will help create a warm and cozy atmosphere in the tiny renovated townhouse.

Design: Kirin Chaichana and Nitcharat Chaisagnuanjirakul

link: http://www.roommag.com/home-ideas-1/scoop/12798/daily-idea-renovated-townhouse/

A Simple Yet Elegant Cube-Shaped Home in Yangon

By livingasean
September 22, 2016
HOUSE,LIVING

/ Yangon, Myanmar /

/ Story: Supachart Boontang / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Rithirong Chanthongsuk /

From the outside, this cube-shaped home with a swimming pool as the centerpiece looks like a combination of three overlapping boxes. Distinctive simple line design sets it apart from the rest in the neighborhood. The hall just inside the front entrance is well connected to all living spaces around it. Based on the form-follows-function principle, it’s thoughtfully devised to create a seamless transition from room to room, plus easy access to all intended functions and amenities.

The three-story white home with a cool undertone stands at the center of the property. Homeowner Thin Thin Lwin was on hand to show around. Asked about her thoughts on inspiration, she said:

“Just the two of us, my husband and I, live here. The home was built on what used to be a vacant lot. To begin with, we didn’t want a place that was going to be too big for our needs. We wanted just enough functional areas with easy access to other parts of the house, kind of like keeping with long established traditions from the past.

“By happy chance, I have a friend who is an architect, and the rest is history. Stephen Zawmoe Shwe and I have been good friends since we were kids. So we asked him to design it.”

Cube-Shaped Home in Yangon — The boundary fence made of concrete features large openings at intervals to improve the flow of air in and out of the property.

Have a look around the first floor. The overall effect is impressive. The house with a subtle shade of white looks like three dimensional shapes coming together neat and clean. The interior at the front of the house is light and airy thanks to double height ceilings.

It’s two stories tall to be exact. There is a sense of interior elegance. The spacious, well-ventilated hall is well connected to other rooms around it. One of them, a living room, is clearly separated from the dining area and kitchen.

simple white house — There is visual and spatial continuity from the cozy dining area all the way to the pool and beyond.

The second floor has two spacious bedrooms, each with a private balcony to take in the view and cool breezes. The swimming pool below is clearly visible from here.

Other than that, interior design emphasizes crisp, clean lines and white tones that go together well with shades of gray. Furniture comes in warm earth tones that enhance the charm of natural wood flooring.

The third floor is a penthouse with a panorama of the city landscape. A peaceful place for relaxation with family, it’s great for stargazing in the dark of night. There is a large Buddha room on one side, where the homeowners come to pray and perform religious rites.

All things considered, it’s simple clean line design that makes this Cube-Shaped Home in Yangon stand out in the rustic old town neighborhood. Well-thought-out planning ensures there are plenty of functional areas and modern amenities for comfortable living. Plus, it’s energy efficient thanks to passive cooling strategies, such as large windows that open to bring in cool breezes and natural light.

Where appropriate, louvered awnings are installed to minimize the amount of sun on the exterior wall. They reduce the workload on air conditioning and make the home perform as intended amid the hot and humid climate.

Architect: Spine Architects Co., Ltd

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A good home renovation could turn even a decade-old townhouse into a unique house reflecting the owner’s taste and personality.

A Simple Yet Elegant Cube-Shaped Home in Yangon

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