This project is a row house situated in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The client, a young family, desired a design that was as simple and uncomplicated as possible. The architect responded by crafting a building form well-suited to street corner cottages, while reorganizing the functionality of the living spaces all on one floor.
Compared to typical suburban residences in tropical regions, this project adopts a simpler and bolder form. On the ground floor, the living room runs parallel to the site boundary, creating a triangular “gap” between the original building and the new structure. This space acts as a natural and secure ventilation shaft, delivering cool air to the main rooms on either side.
▲ First floor plan
The residence features an arched roof that extends outward, with the lower arch space functioning as the living room. This extension creates spatial continuity, as both the floor and ceiling are constructed from concrete. The consistent material choice emphasizes the feeling of flow and connection. Two large storefront windows open toward the garden, further enhancing the sense of expansiveness. From inside, the outdoor views remain unobstructed, highlighting a strong connection between the architecture and nature.
The second floor showcases dramatic, exaggerated curves and layered spaces that create a dynamic sequence. From the study area, you can look down into the living room below and the adjacent platform designed for leisure. The bedroom behind the study also overlooks the lower level. Remarkably, the master bedroom connects to an open balcony via a bridge, extending to the outermost edge of the building.
To balance the mass of the concrete arches, the designer carefully crafted the openings on the second floor. For example, the arched windows on the side align with the arched openings at the front to create a continuous “S” shape. This continuity is repeated throughout the second floor wherever openings meet the arches, producing a rhythmic pattern of light and shadow on the heavy concrete structure. The effect evokes the sensation of walking through a deep tunnel toward sunlight at the end.
Night View of the Building
Project Drawings
▲ Second floor plan
▲ Front view
▲ Side elevation view
▲ Sectional view
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Architectural Design: Fabian Tan Architect
Area: 3,700 sq ft
Year: 2020
Photography: Ceavs Chua
Lead Architect: Fabian Tan
Engineer: Projurutek Consulting Engineers
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