A stark white, geometric, 1,259-square-foot home that is reminiscent of a birdhouse, rises tall, above the residential rooftops of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 7.
This dwelling called the “Villa City” was designed by Story Architecture to provide a comfortable sanctuary to a young couple with two children at the height of the pandemic.
Project: Villa City
Architect: Story Architecture
Location: Vietnam
Exterior Area:
The house was hierarchized based on the spaces that would be most important for the frequent occupants of the house – the mother and their kids.
As the pandemic had induced a situation of social isolation, the parents desired a home where they could relax and reset, and their children could play freely and stay active.
Interior Area:
In response to the design brief and budget constraints, the Vietnam-based firm created a playful atmosphere that incorporated green elements, ample rooms, and multi-functional spaces.
On the ground floor, the wide landing platform created by the stairway functions as a spacious play area with a neutral color palette, where the kids can draw, build, and play.
At the same time, the parents can keep an eye on their children while cooking in the kitchen, or dining at the large wood-clad table.
Center Atrium Area:
The most charismatic feature of the house is perhaps the light-filled atrium. The unique indoor playground is defined by a tree that towers to the house’s third floor, some indoor plants, and a net ladder.
The lounge adjacent to this space is minimally furnished with a lotus tea table, that was specially designed as a cozy nook, for the husband to wind down in.
Upper Floor Area:
The principal suite on the second floor has connecting doors that create a transition space into the children’s shared bedroom. The windows of the bedrooms look down into the central atrium.
The master bedroom opens out into a semi-enclosed, spacious balcony adorned with plants that can also be used as a play area or lounge.
The children’s bedroom is characterised by floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors that create a bright and airy ambiance in a room that’s only furnished with bunk-style beds.
On the third floor, an indoor swimming pool takes the place of one of the dwelling’s existing bedrooms, therefore, creating another tasteful option for entertainment without leaving the confines of the dwelling.
Villa City is a beautiful amalgamation of strategically spaced greenery both in the interior and exterior areas, and spaces with alternative uses.
The playful additions, such as the verdant balcony, the treehouse with climbing frames, provide plenty of options for entertainment and bonding within the living space.
The house is therefore a fitting antidote to the density of Vietnam and offers a respite from the city’s humid tropical climate. It helps its residents feel closer to nature, and cope with the effects of isolation caused by pandemic lockdowns.
All images are taken from Story Architecture unless otherwise stated.
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