Courtyard House 39: A Harmonious Blend of Raw and Modern

Transforming a Semi Terrace House into a Personalized Dwelling

When approaching the design of Courtyard House 39, Diana Lee aimed to create a home that perfectly suited the needs and lifestyle of its owners. Through careful consideration of the site conditions and the owners' requirements, the house underwent a transformation that personalized the space and turned it into a warm and inviting dwelling.

The ground floor plan of the house was completely altered, with walls being partially torn down to achieve an open-plan concept. The addition of a light well, an extra bedroom, and a functional kitchen further enhanced the spatial qualities of the house, making it a perfect fit for a family.

One of the key features of Courtyard House 39 is the use of renewable materials such as timber, red bricks, and concrete. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the house but also align with the principles of sustainability and environmental consciousness.

With its land size of 33' x 67' and a total built-up area of approximately 250 square meters, Courtyard House 39 offers ample space for comfortable living. The clever use of natural cross ventilation and strategically placed openings ensures a constant flow of fresh air and natural light throughout the entire space.

A standout feature of Courtyard House 39 is the common leisure corner, which serves as a neutral ground for family members to interact and spend quality time together. A dark wood cabinet acts as a partition, leading to a raw concrete platform adorned with red bricks, vent blocks, and ample skylights. The specially designed skylights allow sunlight to fill the space in unique ways, creating a dynamic and ever-changing atmosphere.

The integration of raw wood-inspired furnishings in the dining area, coupled with modern chandeliers and natural lighting from the pocket garden, blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces. This seamless connection with the outdoors adds a sense of continuity and tranquility to the overall design.

Courtyard House 39 was completed in January 2021, following a three-month project duration. Throughout the design process, Diana Lee conducted extensive research on the challenges faced by semi-terrace houses in Malaysia. The lack of natural daylight, poor ventilation, and limited connection with nature were among the main issues addressed in this project.

Recognizing the importance of a well-ventilated and naturally lit living space, Diana Lee reconfigured the internal spatial planning to introduce more daylighting, natural ventilation, and elements of nature. The result is a residence that not only meets the functional needs of its occupants but also enhances their overall well-being.

Courtyard House 39 has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is a testament to the innovative and practical nature of the design, as well as its contribution to creating a better world.

With its harmonious blend of raw and modern elements, Courtyard House 39 stands as a testament to the timeless luxury of well-designed and thoughtfully executed architecture. Diana Lee's meticulous attention to detail and her ability to seamlessly integrate natural elements into the design make this residence a true masterpiece.