Silver Architecture, Building and Structure Design · 2025
Terra Cascade Residential House
by Jimmy Yung
- A' Design Award 2025 Silver Winner in Architecture, Building and Structure Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: Happystudio
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 21,214
- Verification code 9372E1A017 · Verify this award
About Terra Cascade Residential House
Terra Cascade is a five story detached house built on a hillside in Taipei, Taiwan. The design uses interlocking volumes and rotating balconies to guide natural light and support interaction between floors. Low carbon stone and renewable timber form the layered facade, while steel staircases and reinforced concrete columns provide strength. Inside, flexible rooms and smart glass allow the plan to adapt to multi generational needs. A rooftop terrace offers wide views of the surrounding forest.
Terra Cascade Residential House by Happystudio emerges as a compelling meditation on the expressive possibilities of volumetric composition within contemporary residential architecture, demonstrating how the strategic aggregation of discrete rectangular masses can achieve both sculptural dynamism and domestic scale, the work participating in ongoing architectural conversations about the articulation of program through external form while maintaining clear dialogue with regional building traditions through its material choices and contextual sensitivity, the stone cladding establishing permanence and gravitas while timber louver systems introduce warmth and human scale at the threshold between interior and exterior living spaces, the compositional strategy of cascading cantilevers appears to reference the stepped agricultural terraces found throughout mountainous regions, reinterpreting vernacular landscape intervention as architectural gesture, technically the work demonstrates sophisticated understanding of structural expression where cantilevered volumes create dynamic overhang conditions requiring careful engineering coordination that remains elegantly concealed within the seamless stone envelope, the fenestration strategy balances practical considerations of light and view with compositional restraint, avoiding the excessive glazing that might undermine the tectonic presence of the masonry masses, particularly noteworthy is the open steel framework crowning the composition, which functions simultaneously as rooftop amenity enclosure, solar shading device, and formal gesture of incompleteness that suggests the building as living system capable of future adaptation, the integration of planted terraces and proximity to mature vegetation indicates sensitivity to biophilic design principles and environmental responsiveness, the work invites consideration of how contemporary residential architecture might achieve monumentality appropriate to its domestic purpose while respecting neighborhood scale, and viewers may find themselves contemplating the balance between individual architectural expression and contextual responsibility that defines thoughtful contemporary practice.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- This residence embodies the philosophy of harmonious coexistence between architecture and nature. Its interlocking volumetric design redefines vertical spatial possibilities, incorporating rotating balconies that refine natural light while enhancing interaction across floors. The interior prioritizes flexibility and adaptability, allowing dynamic adjustments for evolving residential needs. It integrates forested views, fostering a deep connection to nature and exploring future living concepts.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The project is a five story, detached residence with a total area of 105 square meters. It includes five bedrooms, two living rooms, and six bathrooms, distributed across its thoughtfully designed vertical layout.
- Tags
- Interlocking Volumetric Design, Connected Privacy, Multi Generational Adaptability, Dynamic Spatial Flexibility
- Production Technology
- The building integrates low carbon stone and renewable timber, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and natural harmony. Its interlocking volumetric design, emphasized by linear textures, creates a cohesive and layered facade. Steel staircases with RC columns balance lightness and strength, while balconies transition from opaque to transparent materials, enhancing spatial flow and connection to the environment. Inside, magnetic track lighting and smart glass ensure adaptability, with nighttime reflections adding a soft, modern elegance.
- Design Challenge
- The breakthrough lies in applying interlocking volumetric design to meet multi generational needs while addressing the challenges of steep terrain and strict regulations. Layered volumes with transitional zones balance privacy and interaction, perfecting natural light and functionality. This innovative approach supports remote work and flexible living, redefining adaptability in residential architecture to harmonize family dynamics and environmental demands.
- Project Duration
- The project commenced design in September 2021 and was completed in August 2022. It is located in the Neihu District of Taipei City, Taiwan, nestled in a hillside environment surrounded by nature.
- Operation Flow
- This project responds to the diverse needs of the residents through flexible spatial planning, balancing functionality and aesthetics in multilayered space. Each floor is uniquely designed for adaptable use, integrating multifunctional living for larger households. The rooftop features a spacious terrace offering panorama views, allowing residents to transition between open, social settings and private retreats. It fosters a dynamic and connected living environment that flows from private to open, static to active.
- Research
- The research focused on integrating architecture with nature and addressing modern family needs. Objectives included refining spatial adaptability, enhancing natural connections, and ensuring sustainability. Methodologies involved aerial analyses for views, compliance with terrain and regulations, and material testing. Data collected from simulations and resident feedback informed the design. The results highlighted enhanced spatial flexibility, energy efficiency, and user satisfaction, revealing a sustainable living model.
- Inspiration
- Rooted in nature, the design explores how light, materials, and spatial flow can recreate natural rhythms within architecture. Large windows and open balconies blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, seamlessly integrating seasonal transitions into daily life. Balancing privacy, interaction, and scenic views, the concept reflects an innovative approach to coexistence, making living spaces a harmonious dance with nature.
- Image Credits
- All images: Yi-Hsien Lee Photography Studio
- Patents
- Happystudio