The Layered House
Welcome to Sommerville! This semi-detached house started off as a renovation project but soon turned into a complete rebuild just weeks after work start. Sitting on a land area of 3,400 sq ft, it was re-designed into a modern 2.5 storey abode with a gross floor area of 5,600 sq ft with split levels.
The crux of the design intent revolves about being one with the nature especially at the common spaces in level 1. Large panels of glass sliding doors not only allow ample light and air flow into the house but also encourages a sense of openness to allow a bird’s eye view of the garden. To blur the line between the exterior and interior, the wood deck between the living/dining space and the side corridor was intentionally raised and flushed with a seamless track installed for the large glass sliding doors. The wood deck is sheltered by the side roof eaves which is also a part of the mezzanine floor. This not only creates a seamless transition to the garden but the raised ground also routes rainwater away during heavy rainfall.
To “bring the outside in”, finishes in this area were selected to suit this intent. Slabs of marble span across level 1 with natural flowy patterns resembling soothing water flow to bring about a sense of elegance. The same grey hues were employed on the columns, metal staircase and the building facade. The double volume wall beside the staircase is finished with micro cement giving it a smooth yet raw look to go with the theme. This is enhanced with the indoor pond, an indoor tree and a rabbit enclave to fill the atmosphere with natural elements, enhancing the experience of being in nature.
On the mezzanine, a reading corner sits quietly at beside the entertainment room where the family bond through a relaxing time of music, movie, games and fun. It also leads to the balcony garden atop the carporch roof at the front of the house.