this 'salient house' in thailand is surrounded by a glass block fence

salient house: a residential landmark in thailand

Salient House, designed by Ayutt and Associates Design, is a standout family home commissioned by a gas distributor in Thailand. Set in a local seaside market, the brief from the beginning was straightforward — the house needed to be a landmark that could serve as a reference point for giving directions within the area. Surrounded by an old block filled with timber shophouses and aged tin-roof structures, the design of Salient House addresses both aesthetic appeal, with its glass facade and practical safety concerns.

images © Chalermwat Wongchompoo | Sofography

ayutt & associates’ design process

One of the key considerations in Ayutt and Associates’ design of Salient House was the potential hazards posed by the nearby gas canisters and timber structures. To mitigate these risks, the house is set back by two meters from the property line, and extended eaves were added around the structure. This design feature not only provides better access for firefighters in case of an emergency but also helps protect the house from potential fire hazards in its densely built surroundings.

The architects include a newly designed extension that functions as a controlled environment. This area is equipped with steel blast doors and aluminum facades, which act as smoke screens in the event of an accident. Fire-retardant materials are strategically used throughout the perimeter of the house, balancing the need for safety with cost-effectiveness and aesthetic appeal. The entrance porch, for example, utilizes cinder blocks arranged in a pattern that creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, harmonizing with the aluminum facade.

Salient House stands out as a landmark in a local seaside market in Thailand

connection with community

On the ground floor, Salient House incorporates the existing gas shop and adds a kitchen and dining area. A small backdoor leads to a narrow alley, connecting the house to the neighborhood and emphasizing the owner’s strong ties to the community. A glass block fence alongside this alleyway provides illumination at night, enhancing both safety and the experience of neighboring residents.

The porch adjacent to the gas shop extension serves several purposes. During business hours, it acts as a loading bay for gas delivery trucks. At other times, it transforms into a community boxing ring, a driveway, or a space for local events, reflecting the house’s role as an integral part of the neighborhood. Small landscaped areas are distributed throughout the house and shared with neighbors, promoting views and embodying the principles of tropical living.

the house incorporates a two-meter setback and extended eaves to mitigate fire hazards

Salient House continues the eaves line along its exterior, creating a sheltered walkway that blends seamlessly with the surrounding architecture. The first-floor facade aligns with the roofline of neighboring houses, creating a visual harmony. Black steel shutters unify the house’s appearance, while a pristine white ceiling and overhanging eaves brighten the space below. Half of the shutters open to reveal a driveway, a courtyard, and a small yard complete with palm trees and a koi pond.

Inside, the house offers a light-filled living room furnished with earth-toned pieces, a dining table, and a light pantry. Large windows provide abundant natural light and views of the backyard, creating a tranquil living environment. The main staircase, featuring timber treads and a glass balustrade, leads to the first floor, where a family snug opens onto a terrace with an aluminum facade. This space overlooks the fishpond and garden, offering a serene setting for relaxation.

equipped with steel blast doors and aluminum facades, the house uses fire-resistant materials