The contemporary bungalow is situated on a plot of land measuring 1,187 sqm with sloping terrain against the picturesque forest backdrop and overlooking a valley basin, within the golf resort of Meru Valley. While the emphasis on fostering close family relationships was defined within the scope, the owners’ penchant for design exploration desired a residence which would stand out from the conventional dwelling, with a degree of design variation as they navigate the spaces all contained within a 14.4-metre-high double-storey structure with a recorded build-up of 8,166 sqft.
The residence was crafted based on the intention to house several generations within an enclosure with an added touch of explorative spirit via the incorporation of a bold design approach while skirting, and at times exceeding the confines typically associated with dwelling spaces located within the tropical region. Thus, emerges a dwelling structure which houses playful spaces with rooms offering unique individual experiences.
Situated on a sloping terrain against the backdrop of picturesque forest and overlooking a valley basin, the crafted residence sits deep within the serene golf resort of Meru Valley, Ipoh exuding a distinct carefree vibe. Its physical form features unmistakably bold cuboid forms which are juxtaposed and staggered across conjured to capitalise its topography and incorporate natural elements within. A split-level approach was adopted coupled with a deep ground-level recess which allowed for the building to be visually elevated while also allowing greeneries to be carried inwards and throughout. Being a multi-generational friendly residence, ramp and liftaccess are also provided for ease of access by the elderly.
An atrium sits within which houses the family hideout space, surrounded by a prominent staircase boasting its bold sculptural quality. The towering helical flight of stairs spans three stories and vertically culminates with a circular skylight that appears precariously perched over a seemingly razor-thin surface imparting a tense reaction which gradually dissipates as the reflective pond counteracts and conveys a calming sense, further accentuated by an island of the curated landscape. Beyond its visual prowess, the atrium functions to illuminate the central space resulting in varying characteristics of light throughout the day and was designed with porous and lightweight confines via the introduction of large recessed fenestration allowing for a constant uninterrupted flow of cool breeze throughout the spaces within. In addition to the central skylight, a continuous row of skylights is also designed with a deep ceiling space in which vertical wall surfaces are utilised to reflect and diffuse natural daylight within the atrium. Fittingly, the spaces within are finished with in-situ terrazzo giving a seamless look complementing the voluminous space. Beyond that, ventilation slits and perforated aluminium screens are introduced throughout the space to address privacy concerns stemming from external thoroughfare along the front elevation.
The core family spaces consisting of the living room, dining area and kitchen are laid out over an uninterrupted rectilinear space fronting the patio and lawn allowing visual continuity and the convenience of organizing both indoor and/or outdoor activities under close supervision by its inhabitants. A guest suite is located conveniently on the ground floor preserving an air of privacy from the multitude of bedrooms on the first floor.
The rooms on the first floor each features different spatial experience via the introduction of individual private courtyard facilitating cross ventilation and an abundance of natural daylighting. Located on a separate wing across the atrium which features dedicated living and sleeping spaces, the main bedroom houses the owner’s parents and features a generous garden terrace with vertical greeneries adorning the wall across the bathroom, separated by a rustic path and a ribbed glass partition allowing an uninterrupted stream of daylighting. On the opposing side of the wing and connected via a bridge, there resides the bedrooms of the owners and their daughter alongside a hobby room housing musical equipment which is fitted with warm timber flooring to reduce echo within. The spatial variation is further accentuated via a cosy rooftop garden space suitable for small-scale gatherings.
Rainwater harvesting features and photovoltaic panels are also introduced to reduce reliance on the existing power grid and complement the philosophy of sustainable development.
