/ Bac Ninh, Vietnam /
/ Story: Samutcha Viraporn / English version: Bob Pitakwong /
/ Photographs: Trieu Chien /
Having to build on a narrow piece of land, an architect creates an urban home ingeniously designed to utilize the space in imaginative ways. Relevantly called “House in Trees,” the slim plan makes the best of circumstances by letting nature permeate.
The so-called “House in Trees” sits on a narrow lot measuring 5 by 15 meters in Tu Son, a county town in Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam.
The area is fast becoming industrialized as the city grows. Putting it mildly, the impacts of urban growth are already being felt, from noise to traffic fumes and other negative effects that come with industrialization.
On top of that, the location dictates that the house be built facing west.
Be that as it may, the design team at Nguyen Khac Phuoc Architects succeeds in creating an uncluttered, incredibly relaxed home for a family with two teenage children.
Where the land is so narrow, the only way to go is up. The slim floor plans afford three bedrooms with baths, living room, kitchen, carport and storage, as well as an entertainment center, worship room, laundry.
The five-story home makes good use of two void spaces, one in front, the other in the center court.
Because the front façade is facing west, the architects fill the front void space with a leafy tree to protect the interior living spaces from hot afternoon sun and traffic fumes.
The second void space at the center is filled with greenery while lush shade keeps the homeowners naturally cool all year round. The idea is to let nature permeate as much as can be.
Tall bamboo and leafy trees diffuse natural light during daytime hours and protect the interior from gusty winds and rain.
One of the unexpected ways to decorate with plants. Greenery brings good energy, textures, and character into every space.
“The design is done within the context of the home’s unique surroundings,” explained the architects.
“We incorporate nature in the floor plan to promote better living condition for people living in it. Urban growth and industrialization are fast happening and they no doubt have impacts on the environment.”
Architect: Nguyen Khac Phuoc Architects