01 A Home Built Brick by Brick
▲ Entrance © Local Architecture
▲ First Floor Interior © Local Architecture
The project is rooted in the traditional folk houses located near the Pearl River in the old urban area. Though it was once a typical old brick house, the renovation does not aim to replace the old with the new. Instead, it breathes new life into the historic structure by preserving the vintage exterior walls. The simple textures of the original materials extend into the interior, harmonizing with the straightforward concrete framework.
▲ First Floor Interior © Local Architecture
After removing the original double-sloped tiled roof, a skylight was introduced to flood the interior with natural light. This raised ceiling allows sunlight to reach each floor at different times throughout the year, while promoting vertical airflow that enhances spatial convection. The result is a rich, layered spatial experience.
▲ First Floor Interior © Local Architecture
▲ Original Building Condition © Local Architecture
▲ Post-Renovation © Local Architecture
Just a year prior, this small building was a dark, old rental with weathered red brick walls, rusted doors and windows, and a makeshift canopy, reflecting years of neglect and decay.
02 Shifting Focus from Creator’s Vision to Natural and Spatial Experience
The design philosophy emphasizes encouraging visitors to engage more deeply with nature within the architectural space. Small-scale urban residences present a contrast to high-rise apartments—offering smaller living spaces but enhanced connection to land, sky, and natural surroundings, which can create more comfortable living environments.
▲ Second Floor Interior © Local Architecture
▲ Roof Balcony © Local Architecture
The structural frame and floor slabs of the One Stack Residence are built from reinforced concrete. A simple steel staircase with solid wood steps connects the floors, creating a sense of transparency and openness. The second floor includes a bedroom, study, and bathroom. To ensure ample daylight in the first floor below, a hollow section is left in the second floor slab, covered with a protective net, forming a cozy and inviting resting space.
▲ Kitchen Counter © Local Architecture
▲ Bathroom Features: Washbasin, Niche, Bathtub © Local Architecture
The kitchen countertop, washbasin, bathtub, and niches in the bathroom were all custom cast on site using reinforced concrete. While some modern homes favor industrial brand products, these cement elements appear to naturally emerge from the original walls, offering a unique warmth and authenticity that mass-produced items cannot replicate.
03 Unity in Simplicity and Complexity
The renovation of One Stack Residence aims to foster a meaningful connection between occupants and nature within the architectural space, encouraging self-awareness. This was achieved through several approaches: first, a careful restoration preserved the brick house’s relationship with its surroundings, minimizing the impression of a “new build.” Second, the interior features multifunctional spaces with blurred boundaries that can evolve over time to suit changing needs. Finally, the design integrates indoor and outdoor living, creating a welcoming spatial experience.
Bricks and tiles are the most basic building materials, with stacking representing endless repetition of a single element. Yet, the most remarkable architectural achievements in human history are built from these simplest natural materials.
However, a building’s completion doesn’t mark the end of its creation. As we live within it, interact with the space, and connect with nature, we gradually weave unique stories and memories into our daily lives. Through this ongoing process, architecture becomes a living, dynamic creation—a true way of life.
Project Drawings
Project Information
Project Name: One Stack Residence
Project Type: Architecture / Interior Design
Location: Guangzhou, China
Design Team: Local Architecture
Website: buntai.fun
Principal Architect: Kong Lingyan
Design Team Members: Liang Huayong, Xue Derui
Year Completed: 2021
Project Area: 80 m²
Materials: Reinforced Concrete, Red Brick, Micro Cement
Photography: Local Architecture
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