A L A M FA M I LY R E S I D E N C E (Jakarta, Indonesia)

The open frontage of the Alam Family Residence contrasts with neighbouring houses,most of which are surrounded by large fences and contain guard booths. The highly articulated concrete wall acts as a ‘breathing’ brise-soleil, preventing overheating of the building skin and filtering abstract light patterns that transform the interior space throughout the day and night.
The roofscape geometry maximizes roof accessibility by connecting the second-storey to the third-storey portion of the house, culminating in a spectacular view of an historical marina to the east of the site. The roof deck serves as an alternative outdoor space for
play and interaction, or simply a place to enjoy the sunrise, while the extensive rooftop garden contributes to the urban ecosystem.

The E-shape plan creates two inner voids that bring light and fresh air deep into the house. Generous use of skylights and extensive vertical glazing around the inner courtyards dispense with the need for artificial lighting during the day while creating a constantly-changing light display that activates and enlivens internal spaces.

The interior of the house consists of a series of continuous, free flowing spaces that foster a supportive, interactive family lifestyle. The consistent minimal white palette in the common area gives visual dominance to the bold red prayer niche – representing the family’s traditional beliefs in a modern setting – the bold yellow aquarium located in the heart of the dining–living areas, the dark wood ‘rolling carpet’ of the staircase, the abstracted Borneo jungle water wall with native natural stone and the vertical garden in the courtyard.