Kwong Von Glinow‘s “House, Some of This, Some of That,” a New York retreat nestled within a tranquil forested clearing, is a compelling exploration of fluidity and openness in residential architecture. The project’s name itself acts as a key to understanding the design philosophy, hinting at the varied experiences and spatial arrangements within.
The house’s ingenious layout hinges on nine T-shaped volumes. These Ts, far from being mere structural elements, are the building blocks of the entire spatial organization. Each T houses utilities, storage, and wet spaces, allowing the remaining areas to breathe and open up. Strategically positioned on a grid and rotated relative to one another, these volumes define distinct yet interconnected zones for family life – from the family room and dining area to the kitchen, office, library, reading room, and bedrooms. This clever arrangement achieves spatial differentiation within a larger open plan, fostering both individual retreat and communal interaction.
The placement of the Ts is crucial not only for creating distinct spaces but also for maintaining visual continuity. The open plan allows for sightlines across the entire house, seamlessly connecting interior spaces with the surrounding forest views. This deliberate visual permeability dissolves the boundaries between inside and out, creating a sense of spaciousness and connection with nature. The Ts, in essence, become the organizing principles, replacing traditional walls and defining spaces through their sculptural presence.
This connection to the landscape is further emphasized by the cast-in-place concrete floor. Following the natural slope of the land, the floor subtly ascends, creating a gentle topography within the house. This subtle shift, achieved through incremental steps, blurs the lines between interior and exterior, inviting residents to experience the house as an extension of the natural landscape.
The material palette reinforces this dialogue between architecture and nature. The exterior cinder-block facade continues inside, wrapping the T-shaped volumes and strengthening the visual and tactile connection between the two. The surrounding greenery is framed by the circular base of the house and the continuous circular canopy of the roof, creating a picturesque backdrop for daily life. The sloping corrugated roof extends beyond the interior spaces, forming sheltered patios that encourage outdoor living and interaction with the elements.
Adding another layer of architectural interest, distinctive volumetric skylights punctuate the monolithic roof. These strategically placed openings carve out geometric forms, bathing the living areas in natural light and creating unique atmospheres throughout the day.
“House, Some of This, Some of That” transcends the traditional notion of a single, prescribed way of living. Instead, it celebrates the interplay of architectural elements – the Ts, the floor, the roof, the light – to foster a dynamic and open environment, one that adapts to the rhythms of family life and celebrates the beauty of its natural surroundings.