Terraluma Residence
This bioclimatic building is centered around a prominent vertical rammed earth wall (Terra) that functions as a natural chimney. Its substantial mass absorbs and distributes solar energy from the expansive opening in the sunroom (Luma) beneath the roof. This wall also plays an important role in the residence's spatial organization, with all rooms accessible from both sides via adjacent stairs. The front elevation faces north and is designed with highly insulated walls featuring strategically placed openings to capture engaging neighborhood views while ensuring natural light and ventilation.
The spatial arrangement is planned to maximize real estate value on a notably narrow lot. The program includes an independent basement suite featuring a large opening to a semi-grounded patio, accessible from both the interior and exterior. The main residence comprises a spacious living and dining area connected to the kitchen, a home office, three bedrooms, and a generous multifunctional sunroom.
Another key consideration for this project is finding ways to enhance the dynamic quality of the tight circulation areas. Jim Jarmusch offers an insightful perspective on this in his film Night on Earth, where he focuses on the often-overlooked stories that unfold during simple taxi rides (trajectories). Unlike conventional cinema, which tends to reserve significant storytelling for locations (destinations), Jarmusch highlights the importance of these transient moments. Similarly, in architecture, we believe that not only should the destination (rooms) be meaningful, but the trajectory (circulation areas) should also offer a significant journey. These areas can serve as spaces for study, brainstorming, and audiovisual engagement.
The concept of "Russian dolls" or "box within a box" is another key element of the design process. The timber-framed building envelope must be unwrapped to reveal the treasure of the interior earthen wall. This approach pays homage to various artistic reflections, from the "mise en abyme" - frame storey vs. second narrative - in visual arts and literature, such as One Thousand and One Nights and Neil Gaiman's The Sandman; to the concept of “film within film”, as seen in Godard's Band of Outsiders, Truffaut's La Nuit américaine, and Mokri's Careless Crime. It also resonates with John Portman's notion of "Interior Urbanism" and Oswald Mathias Ungers’ designs in architecture.
The backyard elevation is configured with large openings to embrace the southern sun and accommodate outdoor family activities. The upper roof features a setback that creates a semi-covered terrace, allowing direct sunlight to reach the interior rammed earth wall.
Program Summary
6m (20 ft) frontage
Main Unit | 206 sqm (2217 sqft) | 3bd, 3bath, wc, sunroom, office, kitchen, dining/living room
Basement Unit | 74 sqm (796 sqft) | 1bd, 1bath, kitchen, living/dining room
Mechanical room + 1 Garage + 1 Surface Parking