In fact, the visual impact of these structures emerges from the constraints of the site itself.

Chong shares: "A split level approach coupled with a deep ground-level recess allowed for the buildings to be visually elevated."

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There was ample room to stretch out on this location: Light Box occupies 7,070 sq ft of built-up space, while Helical Pearl has a recorded built-up of 8,166 sq ft.

Both have core family areas that are adjacent to the extensive shared lawn. According to Chong, this allows for visual continuity and provides the convenience of organising both indoor and outdoor activities.

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The structures and the setting also interact to address issues of privacy. Both houses present more solid, opaque fronts to the main thoroughfare. However, in the rear, wide fenestrations with deep recesses open up to sweeping views of lush greenery. 

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The individuality of each house is clearly indicated by their respective names. As far as design is concerned, Light Box is the more understated of the two. By day, Light Box counteracts the harsh glare of the sun by diffusing daylight through rows of vaulted ceilings that adorn the underside of its roof. The result is a gentle glow throughout the day.

By night, it becomes a translucent light box that casts its lantern-like luminosity onto the surroundings. Lighting was actually such an important consideration so much so that the design team specially engaged local carpenters to install several bespoke pendant light fittings.

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Helical Pearl is more experimental in the way that it features a truly spectacular flight of stairs in its atrium. This spiralling helix swoops vertiginously up three stories. The dramatic curves impart a dynamic sense of movement to the atrium and define this space as a place to gather and make memories.

At the top of the flight of stairs is a circular skylight which Chong describes as "precariously perched over a seemingly razor-thin surface imparting a tense reaction which gradually dissipates as the reflective pond counteracts and conveys a calming sense."

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Sustainability is at the very centre of A3 Project’s practice, and it shows. Chong notes: "Both houses feature extensive yet thoughtful passive architectural design strategies."

A major concern was that the residence should feel cool, open and airy. Both houses feature large window openings and high-level apertures which encourage effective cross-ventilation. The double-cavity brick walls applied throughout the external skin also mitigate the worst effects of the tropical climate by preventing excessive heat gain.

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Interior courtyards feature prominently in both houses, promoting air circulation and thus regulating the internal environment.

Ventilation slits and perforated aluminium screens were introduced throughout to allow uninterrupted breezes while also creating a shifting display of light and shadow. "Decorative glazed tile of varying tones give pixelated-styled reflections of the environment," Chong adds.

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Ultimately, Light Box and Helical Pearl succeed in bringing together the different perspectives that make up this family. There was a coherent design approach but it still expressed the personality of each family.

Chong shares that he was happy to be able to inject the different expressions to the families. "One with its inner explorative spirit and the other that wanted a cosy and homely setup," he concludes.

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