housescape design lab reuses dismantled dwelling pieces in thai glass-walled guest residence

Housescape Design Lab extends residence with recycled glass

Housescape Design Lab extends an existing residence with Rebirth Materials House, a guest house in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Blending into the surrounding garden landscape, the design incorporates recycled glass edges, a concept previously used in their Gimme Shelter project. In an effort to use local and sustainable materials, the design team integrates leftover tempered glass, plastic waste from bottle caps, and broken wine bottles, assembled within a steel structure. The gaps between the materials allow wind to pass through, making the building more resistant to local conditions. Additionally, the design adopts a Domestic Turn approach, utilizing materials sourced within a 10-kilometer radius, including components from a dismantled dwelling repurposed as doors and windows.

all images by Rungkit Charoenwat, courtesy of Housescape Design Lab

Rebirth Materials House adopts traditional Thai elements

One of the primary design challenges Housescape Design Lab faced was addressing the Rebirth Materials House’s orientation, which faces intense afternoon sunlight. To filter the light and harmonize the structure with its natural surroundings, the Thai architecture studio sourced glass from a factory in Saraphi district. The reuse of traditional Thai elements, such as ‘lòok klûng ban-dai’ stair balusters, further emphasizes the integration of old and new. These balusters are incorporated into the plywood wall alongside the original security bars, reinforcing the structure. This creative reuse of familiar materials not only reduces waste but also pays homage to local craftsmanship.

glass edges reflect sunlight

recycled materials, including tempered glass and plastic, form the walls of the guest house

balusters from an old Thai house are repurposed as decorative elements

a close-up of the recycled glass used to filter light and reduce glare from the afternoon sun

gaps between glass panels allow wind to pass through

view from the garden shows how the house integrates into the natural landscape

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the orientation maximizes natural light

recycled wine bottles are embedded in the glass walls

large eaves provide shade

the recycled glass glistens as it catches the sunlight, softening the edges of the house

plastic waste is upcycled into decorative components of the house

the open terrace offers a peaceful space for outdoor activities

shadows cast by the glass edges create dynamic patterns on the floor

traditional Thai craftsmanship meets modern design

the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces is blurred by the open design

local materials and labor define the community-focused approach

the use of tempered glass panels minimizes environmental impact

the final design emphasizes sustainability and local craftsmanship

stair balusters from a dismantled house are transformed into structural reinforcements

inside-outside living is encouraged through large windows and open terraces

a minimalist approach to furniture complements the clean lines

the plywood wall is supported by reused security bars

the reuse of old doors and windows reflects the design’s commitment to sustainability

the blend of tempered glass and steel provides structural stability

Housescape Design Lab recycles glass

Rebirth Materials House showcases upcycled materials

wooden doors, salvaged from a local house, are integrated into the design

The structure is built using a Domestic Turn approach

project info:

name: Rebirth Materials House 
architect: Housescape Design Lab | @house.scape.design.lab
lead architects: Peerapong Promchart
design team: Panuwat Donthong, Pimprutti Pruttichote, Puttipong Penthong

location: Tumbol Mae Ram, Aumphur Mae Rim, Chiangmai, Thailand

clients: Khun Vi Janvilai

landscape: Housescape Design Lab

collaborators: C.Wiruj, C.Sant, C.Cha, C.Mod, C.Tull, C.Lung Boon, C.Zarm, C.Mongkol, C.Somporn 
area: 50 sqm (538 sqft)
photographer: Rungkit Charoenwat

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom