Equatorial Immersion | SS15 Terrace House by Atelier Alan Teh Architect

Harmoniously blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces through sustainable and strategic means is a completely revamped terrace house in Subang Jaya, standing proudly as an ode to the power of human-nature interaction

TEXT KIM LEE
IMAGES COURTESY OF ATELIER ALAN TEH ARCHITECT

Defying the traditionally constricting design elements of typical terrace houses seen in bustling Malaysian neighbourhoods is a transformative residential project in SS15. A true game-changer, the architects at Atelier Alan Teh Architect seamlessly reconfigured the existing 2, 200 sq ft space to connect it to Mother Nature and her surroundings by infusing it with abundant natural light, cross ventilation and calming views. Staying on brand with this nature theme is a soothing palette of bright and earthy hues, while the furniture is kept simple but modern for an elegant, uncluttered feel.

Blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces, two main design features of the SS15 Terrace House take centre stage. A glass patio is introduced at the back, creating a transparent buffer zone that invites natural light to flood the dining area; this unique feature not only bathes the interior in warm sunlight but also allows residents to maintain a visual connection with the outside world.

A key aspect of the remodelling project is the introduction of a green pocket landscape area at the main entrance, welcoming visitors with its lush greenery. Here, a concrete bench seating arrangement creates a warm and inviting gesture, offering a serene spot for residents and guests to relax and connect with nature. This carefully curated green space not only beautifies the entrance but also instils a sense of peace and harmony from the very first steps into the home.

To accomplish the desired design objectives, several special materials were thoughtfully selected. The aforementioned double-glazing glass roof skylight allows ample natural light to permeate the space while insulating it from external heat. Clay bricks were utilised for the decorative fencing wall at the back, providing a visually appealing and durable solution. Lastly, fully adjustable louvre windows with opaque aluminium panels were installed in the master bathroom, ensuring optimal air ventilation and privacy for the occupants.

Similarly at the back, a semi-outdoor dining room is adorned with a skylight, illuminating the space with a gentle glow. This clever addition not only enriches the dining experience but also heightens the sense of openness and connection to nature. Further enhancing the linkage among the different environments are the strategically incorporated, fully openable folding aluminium doors, installed at both the front and back elevations.

Despite a modest budget of RM400,000, the project has successfully reimagined the conventional Malaysian terrace house, transforming it into a harmonious abode that not only celebrates nature and its surroundings but also reinforces its importance to modern living. Simply put, the SS15 Terrace House stands as an inspiration for future endeavours in the rapidly growing field of sustainable architecture.