Problem Analysis and Limitations 

The south-facing house is located on a site of 100 square wa, the expanded area was facing south and west; surrounded by 

exterior spaces facing south and east. After survey and measurements, we found that the structure of the expanded area and original area were separated, both for the interior and roof. The structure of the expanded part obstructed spatial connections between original and added areas. Moreover, there was a general low quality of space in the expanded areas resulting in several deep floor plans, that could not be naturally illuminated. Further there was a significant lack of windows for natural ventilation or  visual connection with the exterior spaces. Lastly, there were leaks between the old and new roofs which had different degrees of pitch and shape. 

Design Concept and Application 

The project designer studied the possibilities of optimal usable space sizes according to the owners’ requirements which focused on reducing underutilized spaces for increased usability and lower maintenance. The zoning was prioritized with differing requirement levels for improved quality of space as follows:  

a) Zoning with high requirements for quality of space included Front of House and Common Areas that are normally used for long periods of the day. 

b) Zoning with moderate requirements for quality of space included the Bedroom which was normally used only at night and some functions could be solved by equipment such as air conditioning and artificial lighting. 

c) Zoning with low requirements for quality of space included the Back of the House which normally used for a short duration as well containing functional elements such as building equipment. 

The design process started from limitations of the project, possibility of usage duration, and requirement for quality of space (White, 1983). The designer reduced the size of the parking space and turned it into a garden area. Since the original plan was a square which resulted in a deep floor plan at the center where natural light could not reach – the main entrance was relocated to the middle of the house to bring in natural light. Glass blocks were used to bring natural light while retaining privacy. Walls were used to connect the obstructive poles inside the house. The living, dining, and working areas were combined into a large open plan on the east side of the house. Connecting external areas were developed into a courtyard to further enhance the quality of space. Expansive sliding glass doors open to the courtyard, allowing natural light into the house. The western and the northern sides of the house consist of the kitchen, washroom, laundry area, and storage room. The washroom was situated in its original position, but the sanitary wares were relocated, and windows were added for sunlight and ventilation. Finally a corridor connects east and west to allow cross functionality of both sides and to enhance cross ventilation.  

On the second floor, some areas were demolished to create open voids, and skylight was added to illuminate the stairwell and the first floor. Smaller areas were opened and combined to form larger rooms for more convenience and usability including  three bedrooms, one common area, and two washrooms. The master bedroom is now located on the east side; using medium-sized windows to bring in sunlight yet retain the privacy of the room; and also features a light the original wooden floor structure. Junior bedrooms are located on the west side with windows repositioned to allow for more sunlight. The ceiling of the common area was opened and the roof outline reshaped, to achieve a more spacious interior and create a distinctive roof profile from the outside.