Radiatrium Residence
This passive solar residence is designed around an atrium that harnesses radiant energy, serving as the central hub for natural light and heat distribution throughout the space. Eco-friendly materials like wood framing, rammed earth, and cellulose insulation enhance the resource efficiency of the net-zero design. The exterior wood cladding and louvers are strategically positioned vertically to reduce the impact of direct sunlight, addressing the building’s east-west exposure.
The space planning concept is inspired by the 9-square diagram, paying homage to Rudolph Wittkower’s seminal 1949 book “Architectural Principles in the Age of Humanism”. This diagram traces the evolution of architectural thought from Palladio’s villas to Hejduk’s Texas houses. In the late 20th century, it emerged as an alternative to Le Corbusier’s Dom-Ino diagram. While Dom-Ino represented a universal approach to architecture, the 9-square diagram was initially conceived by and for elites. In our design, we reinterpret this diagram to create spatially efficient and cost-effective buildings affordable for everyone. Our approach explores the variations within these nine squares on each floor, with each square uniquely defined by its own dimensions (width, length, height) and designated function.
In metropolitan architecture, every inch matters. Circulation areas can transform into functional rooms, improving spatial efficiency and enhancing real estate value. The landing space of this residence evolves into semi-private family gathering areas, strategically positioned between the lower living room and the upper bedrooms.
Users journey through distinct spatial configurations evoking different sensory experiences. A corridor could be open-to-above/below or semi-enclosed by the intimacy of the wooden louvers filtering light and creating a sense of enclosure and privacy. This transitional space serves as a calming buffer before they emerge into the expansive dining area. Here, the ceiling soars upwards, opening the space dramatically and drawing the eye all the way to the roof. The change from a confined, human-scaled corridor to an open dining space emphasizes the shift in scale and the contrast between intimacy and openness, offering users a dynamic spatial experience.
Despite the east-west orientation of the building, the skylights are strategically oriented to the south to maximize solar gain, directing sunlight onto the rammed earth wall. This functions as a natural thermal mass, absorbing solar energy during the day and releasing it gradually into the interior as temperatures drop at night, effectively acting as a natural chimney and enhancing passive heating during the winter months.
The floor plan features two static squares - the stairs and the atrium - anchored by L-shaped earthen walls, while the remaining squares vary in size, function, and connectivity. This configuration fosters dynamic spatial relationships throughout the building’s sections.
This design ensures that the surrounding environment and sky are integral to the user experience throughout the residence. This connection is further highlighted by the seamless integration of exterior wooden elements into the interior spaces.
Program Summary
9.5 m (31 ft) frontage
Main Unit | 319 sqm (3433 sqft) | 4bd, 3bath, wc, office, kitchen, dining, living room
Basement Unit | 134 sqm (1442 sqft) | 1bd, 1bath, kitchen, living/dining room
Mechanical room + 2 Garages + 1 Surface Parking