A. RESIDENCE (GROUND FLOOR)
An elderly-friendly retreat in a two-story tropical house designed to foster family connection with elderly members at the center
Client:
Ms. Apple R.
Location:
Suksawad Road
Bangkok, Thailand
Completion Date:
August 2023
Scope of Service:
Residential Interior Architecture & Design
Furniture Design
Nestled within a private residential compound surrounded by greenery, this two-story tropical house features an indoor-outdoor flow designed to welcome frequent family visits. Programmatically, the ground floor is dedicated to the homeowner's elderly parents as a vacation retreat, offering a space for multi-generational connection. In contrast, the upper floor is reserved for the homeowner and her partner, providing a space for privacy and concentration. Each floor is carefully zoned with distinct public and private areas tailored to the specific needs of different generations.
The interior architecture is crafted in a harmonious juxtaposition with the building’s architectural elements. While the exterior is characterized by exposed concrete slabs, red brick, and slatted facades, the interior introduces a gentle, refined aesthetic that reflects the homeowner's sensitivity to daily interactions. This approach creates a visual interplay between tactile, finely finished surfaces and the raw architectural structures.
In the ground-floor public zone, custom low-profile furniture complements the understated aesthetic, maintaining an uninterrupted spatial flow. In contrast, the private zone is warm and intimate, accented by decorative elements with intricate detailing. A muted color palette provides a serene backdrop, intentionally contrasting with the vibrant personal styles of the parents, whose presence truly brings the space to life.
The Juxtaposition of Raw and Refinement:
While certain exposed structures are intentionally preserved, the interior architectural elements and furnishings are carefully selected to achieve a refined aesthetic, creating a balanced juxtaposition of the raw and the refined.
The exposed edges of the ceiling feature a knife-edge detail to emphasize the contrast between the heavy beam structures and the light ceiling planes. The MEP systems are integrated with attention to detail, ensuring visual appeal and indoor environmental comforts for users.
Embracing the Grace of Aging:
Inspired by the unique styles of the homeowner's parents, the master bedroom features a muted color scheme accented by a lustrous fabric mural, slivers of gold patina, and a soft color palette. The contrast between light and dark surfaces adds a subtle layer of sensory stimulation.
The ensuite master bathroom presents a bright, naturally lit space with elderly-friendly features, such as a shower seat and handrails discreetly integrated to enhance safety and comfort.
Comprehensive Design & Construction Coordination:
A thorough design and construction planning ensures cohesive integration, especially in areas with exposed architectural structures. Regular site visits from the early stages of construction help prevent discrepancies between design and execution, proving both cost-effective and time-efficient in the long run.
