This vibrant and dynamic house, designed with BIM architecture principles, reflects the owner’s vision while making the most of a spectacular steeply sloping site. Overlooking a botanical garden recognized as a World Heritage site, the project embodies an organic design process. As the design evolved, the number of rooms increased, challenging the coherence of the overall concept. To address this, continuous refinement of spatial organization and building volume was essential throughout the development.
Feng Shui principles significantly influenced key design elements, including the cylindrical elevators and the angle of the front doors. The site is situated along the busy Clooney Road and faces the entrance to the botanical garden. The terrain slopes sharply from the road to a plateau several meters above, limiting vehicle access and shaping the project’s overall approach.
To reduce the height difference between the building’s first-floor platform and the road, an underground floor was introduced. This level features a lightweight, ventilated entrance, a sunken courtyard with a landscaped pool, and a waterfall, highlighting the project’s connection to nature. Although this design requires winding, steep lanes, it enhances the integration with the natural environment.
Given the site’s unique elevation and the building’s prominent position overlooking the road, the design aims to create a light visual impact. This is achieved through a large cantilever structure composed of slender components, giving the impression that the building is “floating” and thereby reducing its perceived mass from the street view.
The building’s lower floors use reinforced concrete, while the upper levels combine reinforced concrete with steel to support the expansive cantilever. The attic is constructed entirely with steel framing and features an aluminum roof outfitted with numerous photovoltaic panels, emphasizing sustainability.
▲ First floor plan
▲ Second floor plan
Project Information
Architectural Firm: Guz Architects
Location: Singapore
Category: Independent Residential Buildings
Lead Architects: Guz Wilkinson, Chayanit Boonma
Building Area: 1,308 m²
Year Completed: 2018
Photographer: Patrick Bingham Hall
Manufacturers: Novelis, Stion
Structural Engineer: Tenwit Consultants
Mechanical & Electrical Consultant: FCL Engineering Consultants
Landscape Design: Nyee Phone Flower Garden
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