A. RESIDENCE (GROUND FLOOR)
An elderly-friendly vacation retreat in a two-story tropical house designed to foster family connections 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 green spaces, this two-story tropical house embraces an indoor-outdoor flow and frequent visits from family members. Programmatically, the ground floor is dedicated as a vacation retreat for the homeowner's elderly parents, aiming to foster family connections and create a welcoming gathering space for multiple generations. In contrast, the upper floor is reserved for the homeowner and her partner, providing privacy and a space for concentration. Each floor is planned with its own public and private areas, tailored to meet the specific requirements of different generations.
The interior architecture is crafted to be in a harmonious juxtaposition with the existing architectural elements. The architecture is characterized by a combination of exposed concrete slabs, red brick walls, and slatted facades, and the interior by a gentle, refined aesthetic that mirrors the homeowner's sensitivity to daily interactions. This design approach creates a visual interplay between tactile, finely finished interior materials and rugged, raw architectural structures.
The design of the public areas on the ground floor is defined by custom-designed, low-profile furniture that complements the understated interior aesthetic, maintaining an uninterrupted flow throughout. In contrast, the design of the private areas is warm and intimate, accented by decorative elements with intricate detailing. The muted color palette is chosen to create a calm backdrop that contrasts with the vibrant, colorful styles of the homeowner's parents, whose presence brings the space to life.
The Juxtaposition of Roughness and Refinement:
While some exposed structures are intentionally preserved, all interior architectural elements and furnishings are carefully selected to achieve a refined, understated aesthetic, creating a balanced juxtaposition of roughness and refinement.
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.
