residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing

two double-slope volumes, separated by a yard, create a dynamic interplay of spaces.

Cheng, Zhi edited by christina vergopoulou November 9, 2023 3 min

Chaoffice’s House on the Slope offers a unique living narrative

Chinese architecture studio Chaoffice builds House on the Slope, a residence that artfully accommodates three generations within a family of nine. Situated in Heizhai Village, north of Beijing, the design draws from the gentle mountain slope. The structure seamlessly integrates into the landscape, capturing the essence of varied scenes akin to paintings by Peter Bruegel. The aim is not a singular imposing structure but a spatial manipulation that unfolds through staggered sequences, offering a unique living narrative. The architectural concept plays with elevation changes and embraces the natural slope, resulting in a building that follows the topography. Two double-slope volumes, separated by a yard, create a dynamic interplay of spaces. The central courtyard becomes the focal point, featuring varied levels, an integrated maple tree, and an ensemble of multi-tiered living spaces.

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 1 — all images by Zhu Yumeng

flexible spatial design weaves a tapestry of intricate corners

Chaoffice‘s strategic design facilitates natural light and ventilation, with two primary volumes to the north and south, forming an open-air courtyard at their core. This layout allows for private bedrooms on the ground floor and communal areas on the first floor, accommodating the diverse needs of family members. A grand kitchen, a partitioned dining area, and a sunlit living zone contribute to the multifunctional character of the home. The heart of the residence, a spacious family room on the second floor, boasts a high ceiling and a south-facing glass facade, transforming into a vibrant playground for children. Suspended staircases, a study room, and a balcony further enrich the spatial experience. The design, characterized by its fine-grained details, weaves a tapestry of intricate corners, reflecting a specific flexible lifestyle.

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 2 — the house, nestled in Heizhai Village, north of Beijing, embraces the gentle mountain slope

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 3 — two double-slope volumes, separated by a yard, form a dynamic interplay of spaces

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 4 — the residence captures the essence of varied scenes offering a unique living narrative

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 5 — House on the Slope accommodates three generations in a family of nine

house-on-the-slope-the-narrative-of-staggered-sequences-chaoffice-designboom-1800-3 — the design manipulates space through staggered sequences, for a nuanced spatial experience

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 6 — the architecture plays with elevation changes, creating a building that follows the topography

residence by chaoffice unfolds an array of staggered sequences on sloping plot in beijing - 7 — a central courtyard features varied levels and forms around a maple tree

house-on-the-slope-the-narrative-of-staggered-sequences-chaoffice-designboom-1800-2 — the sunlit living zones are connected to the open yard contributing to the multifunctional character of the home

dining room entrance hall - kitchen kitchen staircase living zone family room

project info:

name: House on the Slope – the narrative of staggered sequences
architect: Chaoffice | @chaoffice

location: Heizhai Village, Beijing, China

photography: Zhu Yumeng – Coppak Studio | @yumeng_zhu_coppakstudio

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