A series on remarkable structures in Southeast Asia while highlighting their sustainable built environments.
Originally published in Bluprint on July 25th, 2021 by Maria Rebecca Abaya
Southeast Asia has been known for two distinctive features. First, most of the countries within this region are situated near and/or along the equator line making them tropical countries. Because of this geographical location, these countries offer pristine beaches, lush greeneries, and just naturally beautiful environments. The second feature is its cultural diversity. Having a rich history of a mixture of western and other eastern colonization has produced exceptional ways how the locals adapt to its environment, not only the diverse way of living but as well as how these are translated in their architecture and design.
When we say the development of architecture, it is not anymore limited to the inter-city or inter-island influence, it’s even beyond it, it’s going out in the regions extending to the farthest places the influence can reach. Currently, the major architectural movements that are truly evident in Southeast Asia are tropical architecture, applying sustainability and green design, and incorporating the latest building systems while not forgetting to inject own cultural influence – a diversified architecture. Here are some examples of the region’s recent wonders that are worth mentioning.
J House in Sidoarjo, Indonesia
The overall aesthetics of the J House in Indonesia can be summed up in three words, clean, simple, and modern. These were also the very specific requests of the owners to y0 Design Architect who made the owner’s visions tangibly possible. Situated in a corner lot, the architects made sure not to waste every opportunity to create an exquisite façade while addressing the direct sunlight heat from the west. Also, the Zen Garden outside seems to be an organic layer that wraps around the house and is being showcased more with the carefully thought lighting design.
Inside, one can see and feel the outcome of the well-mixed concepts of tropical and minimalist architecture. Spaces are being linked together seamlessly with harmonious transitions of the interior and exterior spaces. Finished in 2021, the J House truly exudes elegance in a subtle manner that is very timely for today’s call for healthy living spaces.
