geometric blocks shape tessera house in kuala lumpur
Tessera House is a dwelling in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, that captures nature as a centerpiece. Realized by Fabian Tan Architect, the home is defined as a singular rectangular block with projecting volumes, featuring double volume living spaces and unadorned surfaces. The elements within, outside, and above the house are activated, utilizing all of the space available as per the client’s wishes.
This spatial activation is achieved through intermediary elevated deck spaces that frame the periphery of the house and highlight selected architectural functions. The main entrance opens to the concrete-finished living spaces that face a swimming pool and garden with a mature rambutan fruit tree, overlooked by a large black-paneled sliding window on the second story.
all images courtesy of Fabian Tan Architect
fabian tan invites glimpses of nature into the concrete home
Tessera House is nestled in an affluent neighborhood with a built-up area of 6,000 square feet on flat land spanning 12,000 square feet. It features a minimalist, geometric form across which an interplay of light and views of nature create a serene ambience for the residents. Along the upper facade, a vast sliding window measuring 10 meters long and 4 meters high creates a dark ambiance, infusing only hints of light, when closed, When open, it is intended to create a stark contrast — an unobstructed view that extends the spatial perception through the framing of nature as a centerpiece.
The team at Fabian Tan Architect positions an open staircase beside the living area that blends into the first floor, where the bedrooms are situated. Beside it is an open study area with a day bed overlooking the side garden. Ascending the staircase again leads to an open ‘activated’ rooftop deck for entertaining and enjoying panoramic views over the neighborhood.
Tessera House is nestled in an affluent neighborhood in Kuala Lumpur
defined as a singular rectangular block with projecting volumes
concrete framed opening of living room
the living room opens out to the pool

a framed main entrance opens to the concrete-finished living spaces
the sliding screen can be adjusted to provide as much shade or light as needed
double volume living spaces and unadorned surfaces
an open staircase beside the living area blends into the first floor
frames nature as a centerpiece

double volume of stair and rooms on floor above
geometries define the spatial concept
open upper level corridor

an open ‘activated’ rooftop deck for entertaining and enjoying panoramic views over the neighborhood



project info:
name: Tessera House
architect: Fabian Tan | @fabiantan.architect
location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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edited by: ravail khan | designboom