Hillside House: A Modern Home Embracing Nature

Architects Hom Liou and Bruce Wang Redefine Residential Spaces in Taiwan

The Hillside House was conceived for a successful entrepreneur seeking a serene, nature-filled retirement in a valley. The design concept was to create a modern yet nature-infused single house that would harmoniously interact with the hillside. The house, a basic form of architecture, was designed to address the complexities of daily life in a unique way.

The house was divided into four rectangular boxes, each interacting differently with the land, creating diverse spaces to meet various functions along the sloping contour. This design allows nature to flow into the house, creating a seamless blend of man-made geometry and framed nature. The boxes, though seemingly independent, are interconnected through ramps, stairs, and pathways, offering a constantly changing and overlapping view of the interior and exterior.

The Hillside House, with an interior space of approximately 660 m2 and a ground floor parking lot, was constructed using RC structure, steel, and glass. The design process, which took place from March 2014 to October 2017, was executed in Hsinchu, Taiwan. The design team, including Hom Liou, Bruce Wang, Austin Lin, Hsueh Chih, Isan, and Sean Hsiao, played a significant role in realizing this architectural marvel.

The design of the Hillside House was inspired by the client's desire to maintain the same living quality as in the city, but with an added touch of nature. The design allows sunlight, wind, rain, and greenery to be felt in many ways, reminding the inhabitants of the passing time and the cycle of life. This project challenged the traditional home concept in Taiwan, providing a new vision for residential spaces.

Wooyo Architecture, the firm behind the Hillside House, is interested in exploring the significance of human existence, especially in relation to nature. They believe that good architecture, in addition to satisfying firmitas, utilitas, and venustas, should have metaphysical meanings in the contemporary era and provide experiences of a spiritual dimension. The Hillside House is a testament to this belief.

The Hillside House is not just a residential space; it is a unique architectural project that redefines the concept of home. It is a testament to the creativity and innovation of its designers, Hom Liou and Bruce Wang, and a shining example of modern architecture that embraces and respects nature.