black wooden house in thailand blends contemporary and traditional tectonics

The Essence of Baan Dam lies in Material Exploration

Baan Dam by Housescape Design Lab introduces new perspectives on living by harmonizing commonplace materials into unconventional architectural forms. The project employs material exploration, embedding elements derived from studio experiments. This approach results in a residence that blurs the boundaries between past and present, embracing the spirit of Chiang Mai while harmonizing with modern living and minimizing external resource usage. Beyond conventional selections, the project aims to foster community-led material practices that address environmental considerations.

The architectural layout weaves through a series of courtyards, each carrying distinct meanings and functions. The ‘landscape yard’ forms an inviting U-shape around an outdoor activity area. The ‘housescape yard’, characterized by traditional baked clay flooring, welcomes visitors and leads to semi-public spaces like the ‘Tern’ and the communal dining space that acts as a connection point to other functional spaces within the house. Positioned to integrate with the outdoors, this design fosters a dynamic and engaging experience. Lastly, the ‘corridor yard’, a small private screened space, serves as a pathway leading to the main bedroom, separated from the main house.

Thai Traditions fuse with Contemporary Comfort

The design team follows the philosophy of ‘Happening Craftsmanship’ that focuses on the creation of objects within their temporal and spatial context. An example of this practice is the entrance door handle, invoking the surrounding landscape while fulfilling its functional role. Aspects from Thai architectural traditions, including ‘indented corners’, have been incorporated and adapted to enhance comfort and convenience. The foot-washing tap, blending contemporary steel materiality with traditional ornamentation, embodies this approach. Illuminated by sunlight, these black-finished features transform throughout the day, offering a dynamic visual narrative. Baan Dam serves as a conduit for conversation between architecture and the environment, celebrating cultural fusion within a modern living realm.

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project info:

name: Baan Dam
architect: Housescape Design Lab

location: Chiang Mai, Thailand

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