HYLA architects wraps house in singapore in operable façade of timber screens
the timber screen becomes less dense towards the top of the building to allow plants to thrive.
HYLA architects has wrapped this house in singapore in a crafted array of timber strips, which form a screen around the building to provide privacy and protection from the tropical climate. situated nearby the city’s botanic gardens, the residence incorporates a denser timber screen at its base, which slowly diminishes towards the top purposefully to allow plants to thrive. 
all images by derek swalwell
in designing this house, HYLA architects has explored the relationship between nature and architecture, seeking ways to combine the two without compromising the living quality of its inhabitants. built around the residents’ experience, the house blurs spatial boundaries to embed natural light and greenery into their daily lives. the architects have designed a timber screen that wraps the house on its exterior and varies in density to provide privacy when needed. the screen purposefully becomes less dense towards the top to allow plants to grow through the open terrace in the attic.
kebony, a treated timber product from norway, has been specifically chosen for the operable screens due to its natural graying characteristic, which further builds on the narrative of celebrating nature within architecture. the house is green not only in design and spirit, but also in its operation. it comes equipped with a rainwater harvester and solar panels on the roof top that sustain everyday needs yet have a light impact on the environment. ‘contrary to resisting the elements of nature, the house pursues this idea of when the building stops, nature takes over,’ notes HYLA architects.
project info:
name: fade to green
architect: HYLA architects
type: 2 storey semi-detached house with attic
principal architect: mr han loke kwang
assistant architects: chong wen jin, thomas ong
location: jalan harom setangkai, singapore
site area: 293 m2
gross floor area: 406 m2
main contractor: emma groups construction pte ltd
structural engineer: GCE consulting engineers
landscape: nyee phoe flower garden pte ltd
