sweeping staircase wrapped in books punctuates library house's atrium in singapore

ehka studio designs luminous atrium filled with books

Designed for a family that loves reading, Da Silva House in Singapore — nicknamed Library House —  celebrates books and bonds. EHKA Studio has drawn inspiration from classic library spaces, conceiving a central luminous atrium encircled by a symphony of sweeping timber bookshelves. A curving facade, sculptural staircases, and arched entry portals enhance this sense of fluidity which continues throughout the home in its circulation. Being an intermediate terrace house, this four storey high atrium space brings much needed light and air into the central parts of the home, while allowing the abundant presence of books to create its distinct atmosphere. 

all images by Kevin Siyuan, Shiya Studio

library house embraces curves, arches, and fluidity

EHKA Studio positions the communal family dining hall right at the center of Da Silva House, while semi-private spaces surround them at each level, promoting social interaction. On the second floor, the grandparent’s family living area overlooks the atrium, while at the attic level a mahjong and activity area with windows offers views of the core space. The bedroom spaces are located furthest away from here to ensure as much privacy as possible.

The Singapore-based studio also echoes arch motif on the facades, which when combined with the curves of the elevation with those of the plan, differ from traditional facades. The arches curve in three dimensional motions, creating the illusion of being effortlessly contorted. Additionally, the car porch features a vaulted ceiling the culminates on an arched entry portal. While maximizing the built space for the home owners, the facade is broken down into a smaller overlapping forms to create a more human scale. Wrapped in white, it allows the simple beauty of the sculptural forms to stand out in contrast to its eclectic surroundings.

EHKA Studio completes Da Silva House

an organic curving facade

EHKA Studio has drawn inspiration from classic library spaces for the home

dining area in the central atrium space

bookshelves with hidden storage

arched portal into kitchen space

the abundant presence of books to create the house’s distinct atmosphere

bedrooms are positioned furthest away for privacy

attic area overlooking central atrium

nicknamed the Library House after the family’s love for books

project info:

name: Da Silva House (Library House)
architect: EHKA Studio

location: Singapore

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom