CHANG architects creates stepped garden on the roof of this house in singapore

‘cornwall gardens’ by CHANG architects is created to accommodate a family of four generations in singapore. the concept behind the project looks to enhance livings spaces within a tropical climate through the implementation of well-designed communal spaces, connecting family members. the resulting house creates a tropical haven, bringing greenery and light into every space.

all the bedrooms center around the natural rock-edged bio pool, the heart of the house

all images albert lim k.s

the house commands a large site of 1494 sqm which the client intended to become a ‘tropical paradise’ for the entire family, from the retired parents to future generations of children. in response to the brief, the original L-shaped plan was extended to form a U. in order to create a harmonious living environment, CHANG cleverly incorporated a combination of private and public spaces, to facilitate both quiet moments and interaction between family members.

view from across the planter bridge

the architecture is characterized by the use of natural, darker finishes, which was preferred by the client as it reduces glare from the harsh tropical sun. an abundance of greenery is also implemented at every opportunity, creating a house that directly connects to nature and brings a certain vibrancy to the indoor and outdoor spaces. the central pool space is framed by cascading planters and green stepped decks. these plants and pool of water are part of the overall planning and are used for passive cooling to create a healthier living environment.

the house interior is a sanctuary for nature

the street facing front façade is composed of charcoal logs that serve as filter from noise and air pollution. upon entering the foyer, you are greeted by an old retaining wall that has been transformed into a waterfall feature. materials such as timber, old light fittings, window and door panels have been recycled from the client’s former home to construct the new house. the use of these materials connects new with old and brings past memories to the new dwelling.

view of the terraced roof garden

the house steps and falls with the terrain, forming an amphitheatre at the heart of the plan

an existing retaining wall transformed into a waterfall

view from the games room, the pool flows into one of the bedrooms overlooking the games room

the entrance space with the library to the right

view of the entrance, visitors are greeted by the lush greenery and sounds of the waterfall

view of one of the bedrooms

a conserved malayan banyan tree becomes the backdrop of this passageway to the children’s room

front façade from the street, concealing an inner sanctum and an undulating terrain

project info:

project name: cornwall gardens

project location: singapore

architect: CHANG architects

photography: albert lim k.s

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