Blog : Concrete House

Modern Concrete Home with a Bright Interior Courtyard

Modern Concrete Home with a Bright Interior Courtyard

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

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

/ Photographs: Sungwan Phratep / Styling: Boonyawee Boonnak /

Albeit rather small in terms of land area, a pleasingly graceful concrete home feels spacious and airy thanks to a warm and welcoming interior courtyard.

concrete house courtyard

Architect Intanon Chantip can still recall the day he was building this house for the most amazing person in the world — his mom. He insisted on making a nice, little center courtyard an integral part of the home plan.

“My idea is that no one wants to live alone,” he explained. “A courtyard comes in handy to help people reconnect with nature. A green space can turn an ordinary home into a vibrant dwelling place, plus it’s a friendly environment attracting birds and bees, cats and other animals.”

concrete house courtyard

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concrete house courtyard

After his mother passed, the house was inherited to his brother, who had never been fond of a courtyard idea. Initially he wanted to put in a roof to shelter it from storm water runoffs.

But after having lived in it for a while, he had a change of heart. Like a blessing in disguise, the center yard over time transformed into a little Tropical paradise enabling him to live a refocused life embraced by nature.

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In cross section, a charcoal sketch shows the house’s side elevation in relation to a small center courtyard.

concrete house courtyard

concrete house courtyard

The house’s interior boasts double high ceilings with a beautifully crafted spiral staircase on one side of the room. There are elements of unmistakable elegance manifested in the design that makes the hallway cozy and inviting.

The lush center courtyard can be seen in full view from both downstairs and the upstairs balcony.

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Lush green vegetation turns the little courtyard into another day in paradise.
Lush green vegetation turns the little courtyard into another day in paradise.

It’s amazing how a once unpopular idea transformed into the heart and soul of a family. Here, it sends a strong message that nature is so important in our very existence. A small center courtyard with thriving Tropical plants could very well be the first thing on your to-do list next time you plan to update your home. Unmistakably good design!

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Architect: Intanon Chantip of INchan Atelier (www.inchan-atelier.com)


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A Wooden Home Embraces the Enduring Appeal of Traditional Style Architecture

A Wooden Home Embraces the Enduring Appeal of Traditional Style Architecture

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

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

/ Photographs: Chaiyapruk Podang /

Created by a master architect, this contemporary wooden home in a suburb of Bangkok bespeaks the timeless elegance of traditional style residential architecture.

contemporary wooden house

“It’s my intention to build this house out of wood because our country has strengths in wooden architecture,” said Chatree Ladalalitsakul, a nationally renowned architect. “Use of wood is the root of our wisdom and culture. It has made us self-sufficient in residential design and construction.”

contemporary wooden house

contemporary wooden house

The three-story home is crafted mainly of wood and structural concrete in beautiful flatwork finishes. Its uncluttered interior space is evidence of a minimalist style, combining aesthetics and functionality in ways that allow materials to show off their unique character.

Because the owner wanted his home to be perfect in every way, he gave the builders all the time it took to do it once and do it right. The resulting unsurpassed craftsmanship took three years in the making. The house emerged as a magnum opus in Thai residential architecture as he intended.

Striking the right balance, the interior showcases just enough pieces of magnificent woodwork, some of which are rare in this day and age.

contemporary wooden house

The house plan is divided into two zones according to needs and activities. There’s a 10-meter-wide open space that clearly separates the private residential area from the office zone. The in-between space provides semi-outdoor room to chill out in the cool breeze looking out over the pool.

The first floor of the residential wing has plenty of room for dining, an open kitchen and piano room. The second floor holds a bedroom with private workspace, while the third contains a multi-use area for rest and recreation plus the owner’s favorite hobby, painting.

contemporary wooden house

contemporary wooden house

Sharing his work experience and a passion for wood, Chatri said: “A culture of wood construction that for centuries has benefited from the wisdom of our predecessors is on the decline. If it’s gone, our next generations will lose it forever.”

contemporary wooden house

Overall, it’s a contemporary wooden home of outstanding merit. This is one that bespeaks the homeowner’s energy and enthusiasm to keep inspiring young architects to do their parts in preserving traditional-style wooden house design and architecture for years to come.

contemporary wooden house


Owner/Architect: Chatri Ladalalitsakul of Tonsilp Studio


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A Small but Practical Loft House in Chiang Mai

A Small but Practical Loft House in Chiang Mai

/ 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.

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loft house

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.

loft house

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.

loft house

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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.

loft house

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.

loft house

An alfresco shower – the best way to call it a day.
An alfresco shower – the best way to call it a day.

loft house

“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


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Ordinary Concrete House with Extraordinary Interior

Ordinary Concrete House with Extraordinary Interior

/ Chiang Mai, Thailand /

/ Story: Panchat Changchan / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Rittirong Tongjunsuk /

A drab and gray ordinary exterior belies a concrete house’s exciting interior rich in eclectic styles.

concrete house chiang mai

Inspired by simple living as a lifestyle choice, Krishnapong Meechunuk the homeowner can still recall leaving behind the chaos of the workplace and heading for the North of Thailand.

concrete house chiang mai

concrete house chiang mai

He puts in a dream home in Chiang Mai, where life begins again as farmer in a simple L-shaped house. Charcoal powder is added to the mix to create concrete wall textures in dark shades of gray. But that is not the only thing unique about this concrete house.

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concrete house chiang mai

Inside, each room showcases an original decorating style. The living room shows signs of a tilt toward vintage décor, among them a wall-mounted mirror in a French-style frame.

At the center an elegant marble coffee table stands in front of a red sofa with butterfly chair in matching hues. The set was bought from a Paris flea market. A kitty-corner from it stands a glass-front armory filled with souvenirs from theaters around the world. Black stage curtains at the entrance conjure up images of an opera house foyer.

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The modern workspace says a lot about the homeowner’s passion and a lifetime of journeys. The work desk is made from a section of an aircraft wing that comes coated in nickel. A set of silver color chests of drawers accentuate the cozy appeal of the room.

concrete house chiang mai

Close at hand, the reading room speaks to the industrial loft style. Bookshelf poles and brackets are made of water pipes adapted for different uses. The emphasis on repurposing is inspired by a clothing store in New York.

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concrete house chiang mai

“This is the first house that meets my expectations in every detail,” said the owner. “I did the decoration at my other houses in Bangkok too, but because they were move-in ready homes, design choices were limited.

“For this concrete house, I had the freedom to mix and match all the ingredients and styles myself. I’m very proud and very happy.”

concrete house chiang mai


Owner/Designer: Krishnapong Meechunuk


Visit the original Thai article…

บ้านปูน สีเทาเข้มท่ามกลางธรรมชาติบนเขา


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Contemporary Home in a Calm, Peaceful Forest Setting

Contemporary Home in a Calm, Peaceful Forest Setting

/ Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand /

/ Story: Wuttikorn Suthiapa / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Thanakitti Khamon, Nattawat Songsang /

This contemporary house looks like it’s crafted entirely of timber, thanks to effective use of color, texture and techniques to create interest. It stands hemmed in by the healthy foliage of tall trees in Nakhon Ratchasima, a province in Thailand’s Northeast.

modern house Nakhon Ratchasima

A few years back when her family planned to build a new house, architect Kanika Ratanapridakul was assigned to the task. It was the first time she had to work directly with local builders and suppliers.

At first, things didn’t go quite as smoothly as expected, but it was a mission accomplished nonetheless. The key to success lies in being a bit more flexible to ensure things get done right, on budget and on schedule.

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“This home may have some imperfections, but it has the same good quality as the other projects I have been involved in previously,” said the architect, adding, “It feels natural and relaxing.”

modern house Nakhon Ratchasima

modern house Nakhon Ratchasima

To create a serene wooded landscape for her home, Kanika came up with a better idea. She had experience growing single-species stands of trees, dealing with homogeneous woods in the past. But this time, she thought differently.

And the result of all this, the house now stands surrounded by a mix of tree species, with a different set of characteristics, ranging from Indian cork to mahogany to bamboo.

A heterogeneous mixture offers many benefits. In no time they grow and mature to become a healthy ecosystem, turning the landscape into a little forest. At ground level, the land is covered by shrubs in bright tones, including Minnie roots, or popping pods, and pinto peanuts.

Evergreen foliage along the perimeter fence shades the bedroom from the heat of the afternoon sun.
Evergreen foliage along the perimeter fence shades the bedroom from the heat of the afternoon sun.

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The architect chooses house-on-stilts design for its warm, intimate feeling and better air circulation. Its open concept living area makes for flexible space utilization.

To create the look and feel of a wooden home, real timber is used only in areas that people always pay attention. They include the floors, ceilings, stairs, handrails, and wood paneling walls opposite the bedrooms.

As she puts it, that’s enough to create an easygoing wooden ambience, despite the fact that main building materials are concrete and metals. It’s about making effective use of available resources.

Solid wood panels make up decorative walls in the bathroom opposite the bedroom.
Solid wood panels make up decorative walls in the bathroom opposite the bedroom.
modern house Nakhon Ratchasima
Bench railing design incorporates the guard rails and deck seating in one solid piece.

“Wood impacts feelings and emotions. It makes the house feel warm and comfortable. Plants are one of the two groups of living organisms. They come into being, live and thrive just like us humans,” she said.

Many brilliant ideas went into making this modern house in Nakhon Ratchasima cozy and inviting. Yet it’s not flawless. Ironically it’s the imperfections that makes it perfect for the forest setting.

modern house Nakhon Ratchasima
[Left] An increase in the interior space is achieved by building a bump-out bathroom extending from the exterior wall. / [Right] The TV feature wall protrudes outward, a clever hack to increase the interior space.
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Architect: Kanika Ratanapridakul of Spacetime Architects Co., Ltd. (www.spacetimearchitects.com)


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A Concrete House with Bamboo Interior Decoration

A Concrete House with Bamboo Interior Decoration

/ Chiang Rai, Thailand /

/ Story: Otto Otto / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Sungwan Phratep /

Introducing a plain and simple concrete home that captures the essence of the cultures of Southeast Asia. Like an unforgettable journey back in time, it uses bamboo design for interior decoration. Step inside and be enthralled by a bewildering array of items made of bamboo and craftworks showcasing a passion and individuality.

The homeowner is a nationally renowned painter. When his old house was receiving more visitors and friends than it could handle, he decided to build a new one right next to it. The result is a living space handcrafted with grace and sustainable elegance.

The first floor holds a trendy open-concept living room with dining space done in the loft style. It houses a collection of paintings that dominate bare concrete walls.

If visitors should feel like spending the night here, guest accommodation is only a flight of cantilever stairs away.

Loft House with Entrancing Bamboo Design

Loft House with Entrancing Bamboo Design

There is a touch of the exotic in the bedroom designed by award-winning designer/carpenter Yutthana Bumrungkit. He thinks this modern building needs a bit of craftworks to create a delightful local ambiance.

Ceiling treatments are fashioned from cleaved bamboo paneling, while the walls are covered in flattened bamboo poles arranged horizontally to highlight a naturally split pattern and nodes in rustic amber color.

Even the doorknob is crafted of a bamboo gnarl.
Even the doorknob is crafted of a bamboo gnarl.
Light switches are hidden in plain sight behind knotted bamboo sticks put together in a miniature lattice.
Light switches are hidden in plain sight behind knotted bamboo sticks put together in a miniature lattice.
Rustic handrail is crafted of a giant bamboo pole, part of the designer’s rare collectibles.
The rustic handrail is crafted of a giant bamboo pole, part of the designer’s rare collectibles.

Ceiling treatments combine strand woven paneling with braid design, ideal bathroom décor of bamboo aficionados.
Ceiling treatments combine strand woven paneling with braid design, ideal bathroom décor of bamboo aficionados.
An ultramodern chandelier fashioned from sheets of mulberry paper fills the interior with an orchestra of electric lights.

The raw look of lofts and warmth that comes with bamboo design combine to give this house modern rustic appeal while showcasing the owner’s passion and individuality.

In a nutshell, the giant woody grass of Southeast Asia still has plenty of room to grow in the world of modern design.


Designer: Chan Sippasattra, Yutthana Bumrungkit


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The Clever Home Office Restoration of Studio Bikin

The Clever Home Office Restoration of Studio Bikin

/ Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia /

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

/ Photographs: Rithirong Chanthongsuk /

Every teardown has an impact on the look and feel of the environment in which you live. If you find your suburban home outdated, perhaps this renovation of Studio Bikin’s home office is an inspiring way to breathe new life into it.

Studio Bikin

Studio Bikin

This two-story house is the home office of Farah Azizan, co-founder of Studio Bikin. It is located in Bangsar, a residential suburb on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur.

“The house was built in 1950, almost seventy years ago. The structure is solid, and everything else is in good shape,” said Azizan.

“There is a simple, timeless elegance to it. So, I decided to do a complete renovation, combining a home and an office in one.”

Studio Bikin

 

Studio Bikin

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Azizan tried to keep all existing elements and structural integrity intact, making the house capable of withstanding the desired loads for long life.

Metal grilles on the windows and doors and floor tiles were left the way they have always been. To create an airy interior living space, parts of the walls on the first floor were removed.

Meantime, glass louvers were retained to aid in heat dissipation, improve air circulation, and allow plenty of natural daylight.

 

The owner added the loft style to the design by putting in cracked concrete wall textures for a little bit of a grungy, urban feel. Special techniques helped make the ceilings and walls look interesting.

This was achieved by lining the mold with plastic wraps before concrete was poured. Wrinkles in plastic sheets left their marks on concrete surfaces resulting in aesthetically pleasing textures.

Tricky space staircase: The treads may differ in shapes and sizes from one step to the other, but the stairs are safe to use.
Tricky space staircase: The treads may differ in shape and size from one step to the other, but the stairs are safe to use.

Studio Bikin

Studio Bikin

The decorating style is anything but obvious. The interior space of Studio Bikin’s home office boasts a mix-and-match style that goes together well with a modern loft ambience.

This is evident in a set of a teakwood sofa and leather butterfly chairs, and shelving filled with glistening utensils silhouetted against a textured concrete wall.

 

The handsome abode has been home to more than one generation, yet there is a timeless elegance to it. The house of Studio Bikin has undergone complete renovation for comfortable living with modern amenities. Clever home improvement hacks have made it unique, trendy and cool in its own special way.

Studio Bikin

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Owner/Designer: Farah Azizan of Studio Bikin (www.studiobikin.com)


 

Pleasant Box-shaped Concrete Houses in Vietnam

Pleasant Box-shaped Concrete Houses in Vietnam

/ Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam /

/ Story: Skiixy / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Hiroyuki Oki /

Since its opening, an unusual cluster of five box-shaped concrete houses of different heights conceived by the Vietnamese firm Vo Trong Nghia Architects has been a wondrous sight for lovers of architecture.

box-shaped concrete houses

box-shaped concrete houses

These buildings are actually tree planter boxes set up to make a house for a small family. Besides catching the attention of passersby with trees popping up from rooftops, this clever design also won numerous awards in 2014, including the Ashui Award and a world-class award from Architectural Review.

The land was once used for a factory. Though the factory was demolished, it remains close to the hearts of the owners/family members, which is why they wanted to build the house here.

Due to environmental limitations such as a small alleyway for an entrance, an asymmetrical plot, and a lack of greenery, the owners decided to create a courtyard surrounded by gigantic plant containers. The result is a number of box-shaped concrete houses that resided amid a lush atmosphere.

In this way family members, and even nearby neighbors, can live close to nature.

box-shaped concrete houses

Another impetus for the unique design involves the owner’s 50-year-old father. To provide some relief for his depressive disorder, the design team divided the house interior into five sections.

To move from one room to another, the father and other family members have to walk outside. Lush trees, gentle breeze, birdsong, and friendly neighbors can be good mental therapy.

box-shaped concrete houses

“The five buildings are inspired by plant containers, making this place like a compact oasis in a residential area. In various alignments with neighboring walls, each building acts as a house divider,” explained the architect.

“Post-construction, the owners now get to view interesting effects created by the various angles. Each building reflects sunlight to create varying tones and shades all day long.”

Walls are the primary features of each building. An interesting exterior surface is created by bamboo pressed on concrete walls with a technique relying on the skills of bamboo artisans.

Not only bearing the entire weight of each box-shaped building, the walls also support heavily water-absorbent rooftop soil.

Normal topsoil is only 30 centimeters deep, but this extra-thick earth is 1 meter deep, more suitable for a large standing tree. The design was developed in consideration of Ho Chi Minh City’s typical flooding.

box-shaped concrete houses

box-shaped concrete houses

As expected, the box-shaped concrete houses has been successful in cheering up the depressive father, and even more, this architectural design uses nature to the benefit of both people and nature itself, helping them to live together in harmony.

box-shaped concrete houses


Architect: Vo Trong Nghia Architects (vtnarchitects.net)


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A Carpenter’s Home Embraces the Perfect Mix of Wood and Concrete

A Carpenter’s Home Embraces the Perfect Mix of Wood and Concrete

/ Rayong, Thailand /

/ Story: Tawan / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Soopakorn Srisakul /

In the midst of a verdant oasis stands a contemporary home with bare concrete walls and wood decoration. It blends perfectly well with a peaceful country setting in Rayong, a province on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand.

wood and concrete home
The home consists of two buildings rising in perfect harmony with nature, thanks to the raw look of bare concrete finishes.

“I used to live in the house next door. One day this home was up for sale, so I bought it because I liked the design and the decoration,” homeowner Prom Duangkai said with a smile.

“I gave it a complete makeover, turning it into the kind of dream home that I have had for a long time. Old house poles and full-grown trees on the property were left pretty much intact. Upon completion, I sold the old house and then moved over here.”

wood and concrete home
The one-story wing of the house is used as work room and space for entertaining houseguests. The main entryway has folding shutters that open up the entire front façade to connect with the great outdoors.
The hobby lobby: The owner’s favorite hangout is the front porch, where time goes by slowly and is spent working on creative projects. It has all desirable qualities - ease of care, plenty of natural light, and good ventilation.
The hobby lobby: The homeowner’s favorite hangout is the front porch, where time goes by slowly and is spent working on creative projects. It has all desirable qualities – ease of care, plenty of natural light, and good ventilation.
wood and concrete home
Furniture items in dark earth-tone browns blend nicely with the atmosphere inside the welcome area. The homeowner’s woodwork and décor items are on display here.

There are two buildings on the property. The smaller, one-story wing abutting on the street in front serves as work room and space for receiving houseguests. It has a spacious front porch that is being used for hobbies and carpentry work.

Good ventilation paired with plenty of natural light turns the area into ideal workspace. Walk in the door, and you find simple living room ideas and decorative pieces crafted mostly of wood. Every piece fits in well with the raw appeal of naked concrete finishes in the room.

Upfront, bi-fold doors open all the way from one side to the other, making the room feel light, airy and comfortable all day.

wood and concrete home

wood and concrete home
Generous wall openings increase the amount of fresh air circulating indoors, while lush vegetation permeates the landscape to reduce the harsh effects of solid concrete walls.

“I designed everything myself, from the basic structures, to furniture, to décor. I like bike riding and making road trips to reconnect with all that nature has to offer. It is about a longing for good times and going back to the beauty of our natural home,” Prom said.

“I’ve always wanted to incorporate the raw feel of wood and bare concrete finishes in the design. It’s a way to create a living space that syncs with the rhythms of nature. That’s the reason for choosing naked materials. Then, I put in large windows and doors so that the garden can be seen in full view from inside.”

[Left] Awning windows provide better protection form the elements and create a natural ventilation effect. [Right] Big rocks placed one on top of the other make a set of steps that connects the porch to the side yard.
[Left] Awning windows provide better protection from the elements and create a natural ventilation effect. / [Right] Big rocks placed one on top of the other make a set of steps that connects the porch to the side yard.
Prom added that he was a big fan of DIY furniture and handcrafted decorating items. Besides saving a lot of money, they can be custom-made to meet specific everyday needs. Every now and then he created one-of-a kind furniture and décor items in this way. They might look unfinished and far from ideal. But that’s exactly what gives them the power of giving delight.

A twig anchored to a home office desk serves as rack for hanging hats and tchotchkes from a lifetime of carpentry. House and garden publications that are his pastime are kept here.
A twig anchored to a home office desk serves as rack for hanging hats and tchotchkes from a lifetime of carpentry. House and garden publications that are his pastime are kept here.

Move on to the second building. It’s a two-story place of residence that shares the same characteristics as the first building.

The exterior walls are of naked concrete finishes mixed with wood. There’s an element of surprise though. An opening in the second-floor balcony allows a Pride of India tree (scientific name: Lagerstroemia speciose) to rise from the ground up and shoot right through reaching for the sky.

Here, nature has priority. It’s the homeowner’s favorite shady garden nook, where time goes by slowly. It’s a place to sit down sipping coffee taking a break from pruning trees in the yard.

wood and concrete home
The homeowner’s creative space is a patio complete with a set of workbench and stool made out of materials left over from other projects. The coarse bark texture of the house pole in the background harmonizes with the rustic country ambience.
The front porch offers plenty of space for potted houseplants, including miniature succulents and bonsai trees.
The front porch offers plenty of space for potted houseplants, including miniature succulents and bonsai trees.
wood and concrete home
A thriving Pride-of-India tree shoots right through an opening in the second floor balcony. It is the intention of the homeowner to let nature permeate the living spaces where possible.

In retrospect, it’s amazing to think about all the benefits that trees are giving us humans. Particularly at this house, they provide a refreshing change and the inspiration the homeowner needs to satisfy his passion for wood. Needless to say, it’s an enchanting place to live and work.

There is nothing like spending the afternoon riding around on his bicycle looking for new ideas. Oftentimes he runs into something worthwhile to take home. Twigs and other found objects sometimes make great décor materials.
For the homeowner, nothing beats a bike ride around the neighborhood in the afternoon. Oftentimes he runs into something worthwhile to take home. Even twigs and tiny found objects sometimes make great décor items.

Owner: Prom Duangkai


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บ้านปูนเปลือยชั้นเดียวของช่างไม้ ที่ปลูกแทรกไปกับพืชพรรณรอบบ้านอย่างลงตัว


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A Modern Steel Framed Home Holds the Secret to Happiness

A Modern Steel Framed Home Holds the Secret to Happiness

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Story: Ekkarat Laksanasamrit / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham /

A person’s sense of proportion in creating a house to suit his own lifestyle can have energizing results. We recently visited a modern steel framed home in Bangkok’s Viphavadi Rangsit area that illustrated this. Nutt Chenyawanit, owner of Tin Home Toy merchandise, designed this house as a reflection of his identity.

modern steel framed home
A high pitched gable roof and bare concrete surfaces set at varying depths for a modern appeal.

From details of home décor, such as galvanized iron and stylish plant containers, to the overall house design, we saw a modern steel framed home that retained the flavor of Tropical architecture.

Open and relaxed in a traditional house style reduced to essentials, with a high pitched gable roof, extended eaves and awnings for sun and rain protection, this house with a modern appeal looks the epitome of good design, one that holds the secret to what makes people happy in life. An it looks fun to live in, too.

We asked the homeowner for his thoughts on design. He explained: “We like high ceilings; low ones feel cramped. The living room and stairwell area reaches up a full two stories, and elsewhere on the ground floor ceilings are generally three meters or higher. On the second floor, ceilings follow the roof slope, for the most part.”

The exception is the master bedroom, which has a standard ceiling height. “Bedrooms with high ceilings feel too buoyant,” he said.

modern steel framed home
The carport beneath an attractive latticework awning that blocks sun and rain.
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The entry area has eaves overhanging the walls reaching out 4 meters, both aesthetic and practical.

The Tin Home Toy office building next door, built in a similar style, was here before the house and now is separated from it by a swimming pool. Nutt favors architecture with steel-based frames that give it a raw cool modern style.

The metal post-and-beam design for floor and roof here made for rapid construction and quick cleanup. It presents a stylish façade of show brick walls and glass panels.

modern steel framed home
Next to the garden a metal-frame eave filters sunlight above a rest area, keeping it cool and comfortable even in bright sunlight.
modern steel framed home
The walkway around the house is set out in straightforward lines using low-maintenance materials such as concrete patio pavers.

Extended eaves, large doors and windows provide good ventilation and make the house comfortable for living. Metal frameworks minimize the need of support posts for the extended eaves, freeing more space for parking. High ceilings allow warm air to rise and exit through upstairs windows.

modern steel framed home
The different textures of metal, glass, concrete, and wood mix and match well. The swimming pool is a great feature, beneficial for both the home and the office next door.
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The living room with a double height ceiling is open wide on two sides to catch the sun so artificial light isn’t needed.

Usable space on the ground floor holds the living room, stairwell, dining room, kitchen, and service areas like a storeroom and laundry. Upstairs consists of bedrooms and a workroom. Hallways are at least 2.5 meters wide for a spacious feel.

Walking around, a visitor has the sense that each space is made for specific purpose, some for children, some for moving around in comfort, some for convenience.

modern steel framed home
Old-fashioned shelving at the far end of the living room reaches up to the mezzanine.

modern steel framed home

modern steel framed home
Although the ceiling is really high, it has a horizontal dimension, too, as the mezzanine is filled with built-in cabinets and bookcases.
modern style steel home
A small storage space by the stairs for bicycles gives a hint about Nutt’s spare time activity.

A closer look at the details reveals a “set aside” concept that reflects the way good judgements are made. In this particular case, it shows in design innovations such as high ceilings that bring the sort of happiness and contentment we find in this modern steel framed home.

modern style steel home
The master bedroom overlooking the garden is simply decorated in white and wood colors.
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The bedroom with windows opening into the bathroom: open, relaxed, and good ventilation.
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The ceiling follows the roof slope in this relatively large bathroom. An array of wooden shutters opens directly into the bedroom.
modern steel framed home
One side of the dining room is a food preparation area; on the other a line of windows looks out over the carport.

Architect: Nutt Chenyawanit and Jirayut Chaiyajamrunphon


Visit the original Thai article…

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