simple projects architecture designs light-filled micro housing complex in indonesia

simple projects architecture has built a low cost micro housing complex in surabaya, indonesia, with a clever façade design that incorporates as much natural daylight and greenery as possible for its limited lot size. located within one of the most densely populated villages in the eastern suburbs of the city, ‘R micro housing’ sits on 12 m x 29.8 m land, comprising only five units available in two different types. the layout of each house incorporates a good sized courtyard, which allows for a cross-ventilation system within each unit.all images by mansyur hasan

‘most of the people in the metropolitan cities, especially in surabaya, dream of an urban living, where they can own a decent home within proximity to the CBD (central business district) with an affordable price tag,’ explains simple projects architecture. ‘in response to this issue, we carefully designed R micro housing to provide a functional yet comfortable landed house which is suitable to be applied in a limited size of land and located in one of the most densely populated areas in surabaya.’

‘R micro housing’ features a geometric-shaped mass and monochromatic color scheme, which contribute to its distinct appearance amidst the existing neighboring houses. due to the nature of the area, the complex is developed with solid and introvert masses as a response to the safety and convenience issues around the location. each unit is complete with a private parking lot and an inner courtyard.

together with the inner courtyard, strategically-placed openings throughout allow for cross ventilation within the homes. ‘considering its location within one of the most densely populated areas in surabaya, having greeneries and courtyard within this tight plot land can be considered as a bonus,’ adds the studio. ‘ultimately, R micro housing can be considered as a precedent that a unique façade design with a reasonably good quality building materials and finishes is definitely feasible regardless of the limited space and budget available.’