House 4x4x4 Kay

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The owner of the house, who conducted business abroad for years, is now retired and has returned to his hometown. We convert an old house in an old community into a 3-story building that is highly functional, energy efficient, and full of sunlight and fun. The entire space is divided into 4 connected sections based on their functions. Its accurate structure and layout enables a family of four to share such public areas as the courtyard, the living room, the dining room and the kitchen.

Dimensions & Packaging

Single house
205 square meter/floor

Tags

House 4x4x4, Architecture Design, Space solution and design

Production Technology

The space is created using simple geometric forms and proportions. The different needs of each family member are satisfied. For example, the luminaires on the walls of the staircases are arranged in the order of Cancer, the star sign of the lady of the house. The wide balcony with openwork further extends the view from the living room, so much so that, whether seen from the outside or from the inside, there is fun in spatial variety. In the owner’s studio, his life-long collection is displayed freely. The space at the center of the third floor is so spacious and open that it can serve as a space for flying drones freely. On account of the beams, the passageway is connected with the windowsill by means of a movable spiral stairway that can be safely put away. The rooftop drainage and transom windows are installed to enhance energy effectiveness. This is a life that is meant for one to return to nature.

Design Challenge

Redundant parts of the design are removed, and the vaulted ceiling of the second floor is elevated to the third floor at the sacrifice of the 3-floor public area. In so doing, natural light can come pouring in, and in different times of the day one can greatly enjoy the beauty offered by nature. The skylight on the top floor can be concealed with curtains, which helps retain practicality and privacy.

Research

With the play of light and shadow, its unique pure white exterior looks like a Light box. Hence in the old community stands the house, like a lighthouse that watches over our hometown.

Inspiration

The house is built centering on the concept of unfolding the space and letting the light in. Bright colors are chosen for the exterior walls and the entire space in order to extend the transmittance of the building, thereby making the house act as a container for natural light. Redundant parts of the design are removed, and the vaulted ceiling of the second floor is elevated to the third floor at the sacrifice of the 3-floor public area.

Project Duration

October 2019 Changhua, Taiwan

Operation Flow

Looking out from this quiet residence gives a sense of being secluded and isolated. Retirement is like a seafaring knight retreating to a reclusive place. At a different phase of life, owning a nice Light-box house hidden in a small alley is both distinctive and private, without sacrificing modern convenience. One can enjoy the clouds and the sunlight in the daytime while watching the moon and the stars in the night, living in perfect harmony with heaven and earth. When a knight sheds his armor and settles down in a quiet place, such an isolated retreat can offer great peace and comfort.