To complete in 2022

By definition, Bonsai refers to “tray planting”, a Japanese Translation of the traditional Chinese art Penzai. The owner is a bonsai enthusiastic who love green and wood surrounding the house. A sweet love story of both husband and wife has begun during their work-travel in Japanese, which he would like to infuse the Japanese architecture in his modern bungalow.

栽-佳院 is the name given to his new house. 栽 refers to the bonsai plant in Chinese, while 佳院 refers to the garden and courtyard meant for the people he cares about. The central theme for the entire proposal is to create a harmonious living environment surrounded by green bonsai plants infused with the raw texture of solid wood that the owner loves.

The existing bungalow unit is rated at 247sqm in the built-up area. With the extension proposal, the built-up has been increased to 394sqm. The bungalow is designed with the modern touch of a single pitch roof and simple exterior finishing. The extension is done using a modern gable roof infused with seasoned solid wood structure with timber cladding to elevate the uniqueness. Apart from that, the circular opening on the newly extended tea garden is the focal point and the “main” reception to their house.

Upon arrival in the living hall, the occupants are greeted by the arch opening behind the bonsai display area. The interior uses a combination of Muji-style laminated timber on the built-in cabinets, while the solid seasoned wood planks are mainly used for loose furniture. The dining area is finished with a translucent glass roof and slide-fold doors to maximise the shading advantage and create seamless connectivity to his bonsai park. Towards the upper floor, tatami is key to the spatial design. The owner prefers an elevated floor for both the family area and bedrooms to create a sense of Japanese residence. In short, light wood vinyl furnishing with egg-shell white walls is the key colour combination in creating a harmonious living environment. This experience is even enhanced more by the greenery through the large windows opening.

Proposed Floor Plans

Stay tune for more actual photograph...