AB House

The project is located in a field in Koloni. To the north resides the only neighbour, sitting higher than the project. The house is surrounded by a row of mature conifer trees overshadowing the road to the east of the plot.

The concept was born of the combination of two materials often found near this location: concrete tube pipe sections and metal sheets. The materials are interpreted here in the residence’s two separate envelopes: a metal structure clad in metal and glass, and the two walls of stacked concrete pipe sections running along the north and south facades of the residence.

The first envelope comprises the load-bearing structure of metal beams and columns sitting on a concrete slab foundation. The second envelope of concrete tubes is heavy, earthy and low-tech. It provides additional sheltering from the environment, specifically the sun and air, and filters views from and towards the house.

The open plan living area is to the east, providing a dining area, kitchen, and sitting area. Three bedrooms and a study are placed along a corridor-gallery that runs the length of the house. Huge glass doors slide open to the deck veranda which is dispersed with garden pockets that contain 3D trees and fragrant plants.

The interior benefits from a high degree of thermal insulation thanks to the Envelop system. In the winter the south façade enjoys passive solar gains. An awning above the glass provides shade in the summer to prevent overheating, whilst the concrete tube walls shelter from strong winds.
The Envelop 3D system used here is an integrated system with modules for different functions: fixed external walls, sliding and fixed windows, entrance door, all are provided by the system. It is installed in a single continuous track, 76 metres long, without the need for extra framing.