The Bamboo House designd by Design Unit Architects in Kuala Lumpur makes a bold statement on sustainable living and the potential for modern architecture to exist in harmony with nature. Like its namesake, bamboo plays a starring role in the choice of materials, beautifully complemented by a series of well-designed features. Throughout this home, the boundaries between the built environment and the natural world are subtly dissolved to offer the owners a masterfully crafted abode to celebrate life amid nature.
Upon entering the Bamboo House, visitors are greeted with an understated front elevation that belies the expansive and nature-integrated spaces within. The surprise unfolds as one moves through the water garden and tree-filled courtyard, with the design allowing for a layered experience of space, light, and shadow, all framed by the lush greenery of the existing tree belt at the property’s edge.
Constructed predominantly from bamboo, a material revered for its strength, flexibility, and eco-friendliness, the Bamboo House is a three-story marvel set against the backdrop of a sloping terrain. This unique positioning led the architects to design an innovative layout, placing the carport and main entrance on the second floor, thereby optimizing the use of space and natural contours of the land.
One of the most striking features of the Bamboo House is its elongated roofed hallway, stretching over 15 metres and linking the various rooms. This architectural element not only unifies the space but also incorporates small intervals between the roof and the building, allowing sunlight and rain to gently penetrate, adding to the home’s natural charm.
Ventilation is effectively managed through gaps between the main roof and adjacent rooms, coupled with passageways and bamboo lattice gaps that facilitate the flow of fresh air. This design choice negates the need for air conditioning, making the most of Malaysia’s tropical climate to maintain a comfortable living environment.
The house’s design philosophy extends to its single roof plane, which unifies all spaces—be it external covered areas, open terraces, or internal rooms—blurring the lines between the indoors and the garden. This concept not only promotes outdoor living but also maximises the interaction with the elements—greenery, water, breeze, light, and sound.
Inside, The second floor serves as the heart of the home, housing the dining room, kitchen, TV room, and an expansive balcony that offers stunning views of the swimming pool below. This arrangement fosters a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, encouraging residents to engage with the surrounding tropical landscape.
Descending to the lower floor, one finds a thoughtfully designed space comprising a home office, living room, storage room, and a maid’s quarter. This level further emphasizes the home’s connection to nature, providing a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life.
The private sanctuaries of the house are perched on the third floor, offering residents a secluded haven away from the communal areas. This separation not only ensures privacy but also maintains the uncluttered and serene ambiance that pervades the entire home.
