The Mori House / SHED Architecture & Design

The BAAN O+O floating courtyard house in Khao Yai, designed by Jun Sekino, exemplifies a modern architectural approach that harmonizes with its natural environment. This family vacation home is situated within a lush, sloped landscape, utilizing a sophisticated steel framework to create the illusion of a structure hovering above the terrain. This elevated design minimizes the house's environmental footprint by avoiding extensive landscape alterations, showcasing how contemporary architecture can integrate respectfully with existing topography. A prominent feature of the design is the cantilevered upper living level, extending approximately 15 feet beyond its supports. This architectural element, while visually striking, serves practical purposes crucial for Thailand's tropical climate. The flat, overhanging roof with clean edges creates strong shadow lines that contrast with the vertical black steel columns, which are spaced at roughly 20-foot intervals, establishing a rhythmic architectural order. The cantilever creates significant covered outdoor spaces beneath the main living areas, effectively extending the interior while offering protection from the weather. At night, integrated lighting transforms the cantilever into a glowing horizontal plane, emphasizing the structure's defiance of gravity and creating a visible landmark. The house features expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls that blur the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces. These glazed surfaces, interrupted minimally by black steel structural columns, provide unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding forest. The interior layout, including the living and kitchen areas, is designed to maximize visual connection to the landscape, giving occupants the sensation of living within the forest canopy. The honest expression of the steel structure is maintained throughout the interior, with the black steel framework celebrated as an integral part of the aesthetic. This transparency and the clear structural logic enhance the occupant's appreciation of the design. At the core of the house is a central courtyard, a double-height space that introduces natural light deep into the plan and serves as a focal point for circulation. This courtyard uniquely incorporates a mature tree, likely preserved from the original site, underscoring the architect's commitment to natural features. Glass walls enclose the courtyard, creating an indoor-outdoor experience, while timber decking around the tree provides a warm material contrast to the concrete and steel. The arrangement of living areas and other functions around this courtyard facilitates logical circulation and promotes natural ventilation through a stack effect, allowing hot air to escape and cooler air to enter. The courtyard also acts as a living sundial, with the tree's canopy creating shifting patterns of light and shadow that animate the interior spaces throughout the day. The material palette balances industrial precision with natural warmth. Concrete elements are used in both raw and finished forms, providing a neutral backdrop that highlights the steel structure and natural materials. The thermal mass of the concrete contributes to passive climate control, moderating interior temperatures and reducing reliance on air conditioning. Timber, specifically a warm-toned hardwood, is selectively incorporated in kitchen cabinetry and courtyard decking, adding natural texture and complementing the neutral palette. Leather furniture in the living areas introduces another natural material that ages gracefully, contributing to the interior's character over time. This thoughtful material selection supports both aesthetic and functional goals, fostering a strong connection between the house and its natural setting. #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernArchitecture #SteelConstruction #SustainableDesign #FloatingHouse #KhaoYai #CourtyardHouse #TropicalArchitecture #JunSekino

This article discusses the design and construction of a new guesthouse by Hariri & Hariri Architecture, commissioned by entrepreneur Cliff Schorer, for his property in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The property is home to a significant 20th-century architectural masterwork, the former residence of Carl Murchison, designed by The Architects Collaborative, led by Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius, and completed in 1959. Gropius was a strong advocate for modernist design, famously urging the U.S. government to adopt contemporary architectural styles for the Cape Cod National Seashore's visitor centers, rather than resorting to "reviving revivals." Despite Provincetown's history of embracing progressive ideas and diverse communities, modern architecture remains uncommon. However, Schorer and the Hariri sisters, Gisue and Mojgan, shared a vision inspired by Gropius's philosophy, viewing his Cape Cod National Seashore letter as a call to push the town's architecture into the 21st century. Schorer, described as a "very inspired client," sought a design that would be both "revolutionary yet livable," driven by his passions for architecture, furniture, and art. The resulting 2,400-square-foot guesthouse presents a fresh and captivating appearance, envisioned by Gisue Hariri as reminiscent of rocks washing off the nearby breakwater and landing on the beach. While distinct, the design thoughtfully incorporates and adapts Gropius’s signature rectilinear forms and neutral materials. The Hariris used a palette of grays, taupe tones, and dark wood, mirroring the original house's aesthetic. Charcoal-colored stucco covers the retaining walls, polished concrete flooring features on the lower level, and aluminum frames the windows, all contributing to the gray scheme. Brazilian ipe wood is a prominent material, wrapping the upper level's exterior and lining its interior, creating a sense of warmth and continuity. The guesthouse's roofline, with its hairpin shape and broken pediment, serves as a transitional element, addressing the pre-existing gabled gatehouse on the property. A Gropius-inspired clerestory adds height to the master bedroom's window wall, while a smaller, ipe-clad window in the master bathroom is strategically placed to block views of a neighboring motel. Inside the master bathroom, ipe continues for flooring and faceted paneling, evoking a carved, cavelike feel, or a warm Swedish sauna, as described by the Hariri sisters. Emulating Gropius's architectural approach, a portion of the guesthouse's lower level is buried, capitalizing on the site's elevation change. This design choice makes the guesthouse appear as a modest single story from the approach, with the living and dining areas revealing themselves down the slope. The double-height living area features a soaring fireplace wall, surfaced with the same gray stucco used on the exterior, echoing the Gropius house's fireplace. The Hariris expressed their profound respect and excitement in working with Gropius's architectural principles. The project serves as a testament to honoring the architectural heritage of a place while simultaneously advancing contemporary design, a philosophy that will guide future guesthouse proposals for the property. #BauhausArchitecture #GuesthouseDesign #HaririAndHariri #CapeCod #ModernArchitecture #ArchitecturalRenovation #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

Meandre, a Russian architecture firm, has developed a novel single-family house called 'Shelldom' located in the northern countryside of Spain. This design redefines traditional house layouts by inverting the typical space-planning approach. Instead of rooms branching off a central common area, the 'Shelldom' features a common corridor that encircles all rooms, which are conceptualized as separate, shell-shaped dwelling cells. This innovative layout ensures enhanced privacy for the bedrooms, as their windows open exclusively into an internal garden space. The transparent design of other rooms, such as the living and dining areas, incorporates glazing on all sides to maximize natural light. The orientation of the suites is specifically engineered to receive morning sunlight, while the living and dining areas are designed to capture evening sun. A key aspect of this layout is that while the common corridor offers direct access to a central courtyard, individual rooms do not, further contributing to the privacy of the internal spaces. The architectural design of 'Shelldom' arises from a blend of functional requirements and bioclimatic considerations, resulting in a distinct and memorable aesthetic. The exterior facade is characterized by a geometry of simple lines and arches, visually articulating the internal functions of the house. Each room is topped with a dome roof, which serves multiple purposes: it expands the internal volume, allows for increased penetration of natural light, and contributes to the unique silhouette of the structure. This project was submitted through Designboom's 'DIY submissions' feature, highlighting its innovative nature in residential architecture. The design philosophy behind 'Shelldom' prioritizes privacy, natural light, and a unique aesthetic derived from its functional and environmental integration. The house's distinctive form and innovative space-planning layout offer a fresh perspective on contemporary living in a countryside setting. #MeandreArchitecture #ShellShapedHouse #SpainArchitecture #InnovativeLayout #ResidentialDesign #BioclimaticArchitecture #NaturalLight #DomeRoof

This article discusses the new Bondi Beach House, a residential project designed by MPR Design Group, which showcases a sophisticated architectural approach to beachfront living. The design emphasizes a strong connection between the interior spaces and the expansive ocean views, seamlessly integrating the natural beauty of Bondi Beach into the living experience. The house features an open-plan layout that promotes natural light penetration and cross-ventilation, essential elements for a coastal environment. Material selection plays a crucial role in the house's aesthetic and functional performance, with a focus on durable, low-maintenance materials that can withstand the harsh coastal climate while maintaining a luxurious and contemporary feel. Large expanses of glass are strategically employed to maximize the panoramic views, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living areas. The architectural concept for the Bondi Beach House centers on creating a tranquil oasis that responds to its immediate surroundings. MPR Design Group has meticulously crafted a dwelling that not only offers breathtaking vistas but also provides privacy and comfort. The exterior facade is characterized by clean lines and a modern aesthetic, with a palette of natural finishes that harmonize with the sandy shores and blue waters of Bondi. Landscaping around the property is designed to complement the architectural style, incorporating native plants that are resilient to coastal conditions and enhance the overall visual appeal. The interplay of solids and voids in the building's massing creates interesting architectural forms and provides shaded outdoor spaces, essential for enjoying the Australian climate. Inside, the house exudes a sense of understated elegance and functionality. The interiors are characterized by a refined material palette, including natural stone, timber, and high-quality finishes, contributing to a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere. The spatial arrangement is carefully considered to optimize flow and functionality, with living areas seamlessly transitioning into dining and kitchen zones, ideal for entertaining. Bedrooms are strategically placed to offer privacy and capture specific views, ensuring every inhabitant can enjoy the stunning surroundings. State-of-the-art home automation systems are integrated throughout the house, providing modern conveniences and enhancing the living experience, from climate control to lighting and security. Sustainability principles are also subtly incorporated into the design, reflecting a commitment to environmentally conscious architecture. Passive design strategies, such as orientation, shading, and natural ventilation, are employed to minimize energy consumption for heating and cooling. Water-efficient fixtures and fittings are installed, and consideration is given to rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling systems to reduce water usage. The long-term durability and lifecycle of materials are also key considerations, aiming to reduce the environmental impact over the building's lifespan. The Bondi Beach House by MPR Design Group stands as a testament to contemporary coastal architecture, offering a harmonious blend of luxury, functionality, and environmental consideration. In essence, the Bondi Beach House represents a sophisticated response to its prime beachfront location, delivering a residence that is both visually stunning and highly livable. MPR Design Group's attention to detail, from the overall massing to the selection of interior finishes, creates a cohesive and exceptional architectural statement. The design successfully balances the desire for expansive views with the need for privacy, crafting a home that feels both open and intimate. It exemplifies a modern Australian lifestyle, characterized by a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a desire for high-quality, sustainable living spaces. This project contributes to the architectural landscape of Bondi Beach, setting a benchmark for contemporary residential design in coastal areas. #BondiBeachHouse #MPRDesignGroup #CoastalArchitecture #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialDesign #OceanViews #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign

The 'Dance Floor' project by Archidivision introduces a distinctive residential design in Tokyo, characterized by its split-level platforms. Situated at the end of a tranquil cul-de-sac, the property, despite its lower market value, benefits from the scenic backdrop of a large mansion's garden. The architectural placement thoughtfully integrates views of the surrounding trees between the house's steeply pitched roof and the adjacent property. Archidivision's design approach emphasized a playful combination of materials and finishes, aiming to reinterpret the split-level architectural style. This reinterpretation culminates in an open-plan, continuous interior space that fosters a fluid living environment. The dwelling's internal structure is conceived as a series of layered objects and spaces, creating interconnected scenes that contribute to an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. The entrance to the Dance Floor house is deliberately discreet, marked by a simple opening that leads into a spacious porch. Upon entering the ground floor, occupants and visitors are enveloped in a softly illuminated environment, with light filtering through the louvered floor of the staircase landing. As one ascends through the residence, the urban landscape of Tokyo gradually becomes visible, re-establishing a connection with the city. On the interior side of the facade, the building's structural elements are intentionally exposed, drawing a parallel to the backstage of a theater. This design choice aims to achieve a harmonious balance between the private interior and the public urban surroundings, all while ensuring occupant privacy. The design team meticulously considered various architectural strategies, including shielding, opening, closing, transparency, and reflection, to define the character of each space. Further demonstrating this detailed attention, elements such as walls with exposed pillars and beams, carefully selected fixtures, custom furniture, staircases, landings, and illuminated ceilings were individually crafted. Each of these components features distinct materials and finishes, contributing to the overall aesthetic and functional coherence of the Dance Floor house. The project was designed between 2020 and 2021 and constructed from 2021 to 2022. Located in Tokyo, Japan, the house covers a site area of 85.95 sqm, with a building area of 43.79 sqm and a total floor area of 96.63 sqm. The leading architects were Yuki Shioiri and Ryota Yazaki, with structural engineering by Takuya Tsuji of DIX, and photography by Katsu Tanaka. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #SplitLevelHouse #TokyoArchitecture #Archidivision #JapaneseHomeDesign #UrbanLiving #InteriorArchitecture