Minimal Minijai House

Project Name: Minimal Minijai House
Office Name: Step by Step Architect

Office Website: -

Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: Step by Step
Instagram: @stepbystep_architect
Pinterest: @stepbystep_architect

Contact email: stepbysteparchitects@gmail.com, reallygura@hotmail.com

Firm Location: Bangkok

Completion Year: 2023

Gross Built Area (m2): 175 sq.m. (3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms)

Project Location: Bangkok
Detail:

The current trend of younger generations prefer living independently as single-family households. However, the higher price of land and housing has become a limiting factor. Building new homes within existing land provides a solution for those seeking urban homeownership. This aligns with the intentions of the owner of this house, who sought a separate dwelling that accommodates new lifestyles, areas, and functions while maintaining connections with their original family, especially with elderly parents.

The primary design concept is to create an architectural space that meets the needs of the new generation's single-family lifestyle. The focus is on providing privacy while still enabling seamless connections with the original home. This design approach takes into account the distinct ways of living and space utilization between different generations.

The building design is minimalist. The front of the house has open spaces with privacy screens, balancing privacy and visibility. The space between the houses is designed as a courtyard that connects the old and new houses. From this courtyard, there is a staircase that serving as a gathering and hangout area for both sets of residents. This staircase leads to the hallway area, which is the central space of the new house.

The open plan design concept is used inside the house to create connectivity and flow of light, space, and, most importantly, usage between the living room, central area and the upstairs area. It can be used as a dining area, a reception area for guests, a lounge, a workspace, a show kitchen, or even a social gathering space. The design of the area emphasizes spaciousness, with the double volume connecting to the second floor to create an open and airy atmosphere. Sliding partitions can be closed to separate functional areas, accommodating diverse activities of individuals in each space. Large glass openings allow ample morning light and provide a view towards the old house. Despite having different lifestyles, the houses are still connected and visible through this space.

Ventilation blocks are used in building facades to block the line of sight, reduce sunlight and heat, while allowing air and natural light to enter. The light and shadow created by this element vary with time and the sun's direction, creating dynamic movements within the interior, avoiding excessive darkness or brightness. Ventilation blocks are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and create a beautiful yet minimalist architectural identity for the house, reflecting the homeowners' personality.