Quiet framework

The architecture is conceived as a quiet framework that intensifies the relationship between interior space and the natural environment. Rather than competing with the landscape, the building acts as a device that frames views, regulates light, and heightens awareness of external conditions, positioning the house as a precise and deliberate insertion between forest, sky, and terrain.

 

Context Integration

The project is located in a low-density residential area near the Pacific Ocean. The clients requested a residence defined by spatial clarity, privacy, and a close relationship to the surrounding landscape. The site occupies the edge of a residential zone and is characterized by dense vegetation and long-distance views toward the sea. A mandarin orchard extends along the southern slope, while a mature bamboo forest defines the western boundary. The gently sloping plot measures approximately 5,200 m², and the primary design challenge was the precise positioning of the house within this expansive and largely undeveloped landscape.

 

 

Functional Organization

The organizing element of the project is a 20-meter-long swimming pool, 5 meters wide and reaching a depth of 2.5 meters. The pool establishes the main axis of the composition and is aligned directly with the mandarin orchard. All primary spaces are arranged in relation to this linear element, allowing visual continuity across the site and positioning the pool as both a spatial and orientational device. The reflective surface of the water mediates between architecture and landscape and remains perceptible from all major interior spaces.

Access to the house is conceived as a compressed sequence. Entry occurs through a partially enclosed approach that leads to a low-lit gallery. From this transitional space, a set of wide, heavy doors opens into the main living area, where the full length of the pool and the orchard beyond are revealed. This sequence of compression and release, articulated through contrasts in ceiling height, scale, and light, draws from principles found in traditional Japanese architecture. These contrasts are subsequently resolved into a consistent structural grid with a uniform height of 3.5 meters, establishing a clear spatial rhythm across the interior.

 

 

Material Palette

The tearoom is located at the most secluded point of the plan. It is intentionally darker and more enclosed than the surrounding spaces and is oriented toward the adjacent bamboo forest. The room reinterprets elements of the traditional tea house – natural plaster finishes, bark-covered timber, and references to the work of Sen no Rikyū – a through a contemporary lens, emphasizing restraint, proportion, and material presence.

The program also includes a wine cellar, two guest bedrooms, and a fitness room, all integrated within the same structural and material logic. A restrained palette of materials and a high degree of detail control reinforce the minimalist character of the project.

 

 

Prefabricated elements

The project exemplifies an approach to residential architecture in which buildings are conceived as integral parts of their landscapes, while simultaneously advancing sustainable construction methods and future-oriented living models.

 

Design Philosophy

The residence was developed in close collaboration with the clients and explored on screen as part of a nationally recognized architecture and design program, marking a milestone in the adoption of prefabricated residential construction within a mainstream context. Particular emphasis was placed on the clarity and predictability of the construction process, with off-site fabrication allowing for strict cost control, precision, and consistency between design intent and delivery. The approach demonstrated a forward-looking model for self-built housing, in which efficiency, quality, and economic certainty are aligned.

 

 

Spatial Layout

Set within a private rural plot, the single-storey dwelling is organized to support long-term adaptability and contemporary family living. The program unfolds across four bedrooms, generous living, dining, and kitchen areas, complemented by a snug, office, and utility spaces. Additional functions are accommodated within a series of outbuildings, including a garage, gym, and workshop, which are arranged around landscaped garden zones. These outdoor spaces are shaped by the subtle rotation of the floor plan, creating varied orientations, framed views, and sheltered external areas.

 

 

Material & Construction

The building envelope is clad in black charred timber sourced in the UK, allowing the dwelling to visually recede into its natural surroundings. This material strategy balances contextual sensitivity with a strong contemporary presence, reinforcing the relationship between architecture and landscape.

The house was delivered as five prefabricated volumetric modules, installed on site within a single day. This off-site construction strategy enabled high levels of build accuracy, reduced on-site disruption, and minimized embodied carbon. Sustainably sourced timber, integrated solar systems, and a lightweight structural assembly further reinforce the project’s environmental performance.

 

Urban cavern

Building upon post-pandemic public health concerns, the project redefines residential living by emphasizing spatial openness, air circulation, and natural light. The aim was to create a home that offers both protection and psychological relief, combining the solidity of a cavern with the warmth and tactility of natural materials. This approach reconsiders how urban apartments can balance seclusion and connectivity within dense city environments.

 

Design Philosophy

Situated in the dense urban context of Taipei, the apartment becomes a microcosm of retreat within the city. Natural light enters through filtered openings, while ventilation paths ensure fresh air circulation throughout the interior. The project embodies the notion of balance between protection and exposure, redefining how urban residences can nurture both physical and emotional well-being.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The residence is organized as a continuous flowing space where boundaries between rooms dissolve. Curved walls and interconnected volumes encourage natural movement and visual continuity. The central living area acts as the core, connecting secondary spaces such as the kitchen, dining area, and bedrooms. Through this fluid organization, the apartment achieves both privacy and openness without relying on rigid partitions.

Each functional zone was designed to respond to daily rituals while maintaining flexibility. The living area, dining, and kitchen form an interconnected communal zone, while private areas are subtly defined through level changes and lighting. Hidden storage systems and integrated furniture enhance efficiency without visual distraction. Underfloor heating and acoustic treatments improve comfort and environmental quality.

 

 

Material Palette

A restrained selection of materials defines the project’s sensory experience. Smooth plaster surfaces, terrazzo flooring, and curved joinery create a continuous tactile flow. Stone, timber, and bronze accents contrast with soft fabrics and diffused lighting. This material palette reinforces the idea of an ‘urban cavern’ – a sanctuary shaped by texture, reflection, and silence.

 

Environmental catalyst

The new passenger terminal of Kavkaz Airport is envisioned as more than a transport facility -it is designed as a symbolic gateway to the North Caucasus region. The architecture reflects the ambition to create a landmark that blends functionality with cultural and environmental sensitivity. Its form draws inspiration from the surrounding mountains, streams, and forests, translating these natural elements into a dynamic architectural language. The project embodies the idea of a modern infrastructure hub that honors both place and context.

 

Spatial Organization & Context

The terminal is organized around a central spine, ensuring clear circulation and intuitive navigation for passengers. Large open halls provide visual connections between the exterior landscape and the interior spaces, reinforcing the sense of place. The layout prioritizes efficiency while maintaining generous spatial qualities, integrating waiting areas, check-in counters, and circulation zones in a coherent flow. The orientation of the building maximizes natural daylight, creating an uplifting environment for travelers.

In parallel, the design seeks to integrate seamlessly with its broader context -geographical, cultural, and ecological. The architectural form resonates with the dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus, while green roofs and terraces enhance ecological value. The project supports the development of Arkhyz as a tourist hub, providing infrastructure that strengthens accessibility to the region. In doing so, the new terminal positions itself as a catalyst for sustainable regional development, balancing modern needs with environmental stewardship.

 

 

Design Philosophy

The functional program addresses the needs of both domestic and international passengers. Departures and arrivals are clearly separated, while shared amenities ensure smooth passenger experience. Retail and service areas are integrated into the circulation system, offering convenience without disrupting flow. Support areas for staff, security, and operations are discretely embedded into the structure, ensuring safety and efficiency. Flexibility is a key consideration, allowing the terminal to adapt to future growth in passenger numbers.

 

 

Material Palette

The material strategy combines modern construction technologies with references to local traditions. Glazed façades provide transparency and lightness, while natural stone and timber finishes establish a connection with the regional landscape. Green roofs and planted terraces further reinforce the dialogue between architecture and environment. The use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems is central to the project’s environmental performance.

 

Floating box

The project was designed as a floating residence for clients who desired a compact, functional, and contemporary living environment on Lake Union in Seattle. The proposal draws from Seattle’s tradition of floating homes, reimagined through a modern lens that emphasizes efficiency, light, and a strong connection to the water.

 

Design Philosophy

The design is firmly rooted in the cultural and physical context of Seattle’s floating communities. It balances innovation with tradition, embodying the adaptability required for life on the water. The project celebrates the city’s history of alternative housing while embracing modern design principles.

 

 

Spatial Organization

The boat is organized over two primary decks, with open-plan living spaces oriented toward large, glazed openings. The relationship between interior and exterior spaces was a guiding principle, ensuring constant connection to the water and views beyond.

The lower deck accommodates bedrooms and private areas, while the upper deck features a light-filled living room, kitchen, and dining space. An exterior stair leads to a rooftop deck, maximizing outdoor living and providing panoramic views across Lake Union. The layout balances compactness with openness, using efficient planning strategies to ensure comfort within a small footprint.

 

 

Material Palette

The material strategy combines marine-grade steel, durable cladding, and warm timber finishes. Steel construction ensures longevity in the marine environment, while wood elements provide domestic warmth. Large windows and skylights maximize natural light, emphasizing transparency and reflection.

 

Local craftsmanship

Situated at an altitude of 1,650 meters above sea level, just outside Ile Alatau National Park and 25 kilometers south of Almaty, these guest cabins rest on the northern slope of the Trans-Ili Alatau in Kazakhstan. Commissioned by a family wishing to share the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Kazakh Tien Shan, the two cabins were designed as retreats for friends -warm, welcoming spaces that honor and preserve the surrounding nature.

 

Design Philosophy

While global trends often emphasize luxury and high-end finishes, this project draws inspiration from the enduring traditions of Central Asia’s nomadic heritage. It asserts that, for the modern urban dweller, true luxury lies in the ability to experience nature without disturbing its balance.

Selecting the exterior materials was a critical aspect of the design. The façades are clad in reclaimed larchwood sourced from the Altai Mountains in East Kazakhstan -an area steeped in myth and believed by some to be the gateway to the legendary land of Shambhala near Mount Belukha. The planks were salvaged from old, abandoned houses, giving new life to aged timber. Structurally, the cabins are built using timber-framed SIP (Structural Insulated Panel) systems anchored on metal piles, eliminating the need for deep foundations or intrusive construction methods. As a result, the cabins can be dismantled in the future, and the materials reused- further reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability.

 

 

Functional Organization

To maintain the integrity of the landscape, an access road was discreetly constructed, and all utilities were routed underground. Fresh spring water supplies the cabins. Each structure serves a distinct purpose and offers a unique experience.

The first cabin includes two separate bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that face east, allowing guests to wake up to the morning sun. These rooms share a compact but efficient bathroom. The second cabin is organized around a living room and kitchenette, featuring a cozy library and an expansive bathroom with breathtaking views of the western mountain range.

 

 

Material Palette

At the heart of the living room stands a wood-burning metal stove, framed by richly textured emerald and deep blue tiles. The interiors fuse traditional nomadic sensibilities with contemporary comfort. Designed to be flexible, minimalist, and eco-conscious, the spaces prioritize simplicity and function. Except for the bathrooms, all rooms are finished in unpainted plywood treated for water and fire resistance -an understated but durable choice that complements the overall ethos of the project.

 

Fabricated nature

This new destination hotel represents the next evolution in mountain architecture: familiar forms reimagined through a composition of precision-fabricated natural materials for a 21st century solution.

 

Project Aim

Located 1.5 hours northeast of Spokane and set within the Rockies of Northern Idaho at the nexus of two distinct ranges, the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains, the location offers ready access to year-round recreation opportunities. Developing a masterplan for future development, including the hotel and support facilities, the design redefines the mountain experience. Leveraging the properties of mass timber construction -beauty, sustainability, and structural efficiency- the complex brings together tradition and innovative materials in a contemporary, future-forward expression.

 

 

Context Integration & Materials

The 31-unit, 60,200m2 hotel is a ski-in, ski-out hotel that provides on-slope accommodations as well as hospitality and support services to reframe Schweitzer as a year-round destination. Anchoring the Schweitzer village, the bar-shaped hotel takes advantage of the steep site by nestling into a notch cut into the slope, creating space for a covered parking garage. The hotel’s exterior is shaped by an exposed wood structure, board-formed concrete, metal panels, and large expanses of glass. Primary gathering spaces feature exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT), including ceiling planes and glulam beams and columns to evoke a familiar lodge-like aesthetic.

 

 

Interior Design & Layout

The lobby and welcome area are situated atop the below-ground parking area. Inside, the interiors take inspiration from classic ski equipment and fashion, including the bright ski suits of the late 20th century. Guest rooms are arranged over three floors offering views of nearby Lake Pend Oreille. Bracketing the hotel are two amenity areas, the Glass Room -the hotel’s family/living area and a place for guests to relax and play games- and on the opposite end of the building, the Crow’s Bench -the hotel’s signature 50-seat restaurant- where guests are able to make the most of après-ski or -bike, or take advantage of the adjacent 15-seat bar and lounge areas, which cozies up to a grand fireplace. Other amenities include an indoor retreat/co-working space, and a small fitness facility. A third floor outdoor terrace features an oversized hot tub affording views of the surrounding mountain landscape and Lake Pend Oreille below.

 

Uninterrupted facade

The project is one of the first points of contact for visitors to the Rogla sports and tourist resort. Built as the final addition to a group of hotels, it represents perhaps the biggest visual departure from the recognizable expression of the previous interventions, which referenced the local, rurally developed landscape to a larger degree.

 

Design Challenge

Hotel Natura was designed as Rogla’s highest-rated hotel but was never fully realized. Much of the envisioned accommodations remained unbuilt, however the investor now intends to modify its typology and to extend the hotel with the addition of multi-purpose common areas and a recreational swimming pool. As a result, the project’s most challenging aspect was to tackle the expansion through a different design approach, where the new section will stand more “elegantly” next to the distinctive, heavy-weight existing complex.

 

Architectural Approach

Rogla’s romantic landscape imagery greatly informed the extension’s main design: to create a façade that is seamlessly converted into a roof. More specifically, the facade is visually transformed into a timber gable roof, which acts as a historic reference to the context. The timber is freely stacked and uncoated, thus gradually aging and coalescing in sync with the surrounding landscape. The new addition therefore does not reference the existing building as much as it does the surrounding forest and traditional rural development.

 

Functional Organization

The interior organization offers a clear division between the public and the private accommodation sections. The entire public program features taller storeys that open toward the forest to the north, while all the guestrooms are designed with slightly lower ceiling heights and are oriented toward the ski stadium to the south. The difference in floor heights is bridged by a new staircase operating as a “vertical hall”, as well as a new double-sided lift. This strategic layout offers uninterrupted views and allows natural lighting to enter the interior, including in the corridors as well as all the public spaces.