7th Avenue Housing

When the chance came to design a ‘boutique’ housing development in Kuching; 24 terrace units & 6 semidetached units, we realized of the wider frontage 7.0 metres instead of the usual 6.7 metres. The additional 300mm allows us to explore a new typology in housing; although the unit layout is much rooted in tropically sensitive design principles.

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The exterior architecture is approached from a different direction – in order to create a new tropical modern language for local mass housing. Whilst the interiors are instilled with passive tropical sensitivities, the exterior architecture chooses to be more flamboyant- perhaps this is a reaction against the stale local housing prototypes.

 

By using steel for the structure and roofing – the main roof is able to soar 2.0 metres beyond the building face – making for a dramatic silhouette. The built form is further articulated by projecting balconies and window boxes; all these are further devices to extend the living spaces on the first floor.

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The scheme appears to have succeeded – units are sold and the home owners have fused into their new living environment.