Located in the midst of a dense residential area in Yogyakarta, Santhree House emerges as a dwelling that conceals warmth behind its closed façade. The owner desired a place of rest that feels safe and tranquil, yet still allows family and friends to gather comfortably. The concept of “open–closed” forms the foundation of the design: from the outside, the house appears simple and private, as if shielding itself from the bustle of the surroundings. Yet once one crosses its threshold, the interior spaces are interspersed with pocket gardens that bring in natural light, ever-changing shadows, and refreshing airflow.
The family room and main bedroom are positioned adjacent to a shaded garden, allowing selected light to enter without compromising comfort. Meanwhile, a guest area is placed at the outer section of the house, serving as a filter—a welcoming transition space before reaching the private core. The ceiling treatment becomes a key feature: its direction contrasts with the roof’s angle, creating dynamic visual layers. The surface seems to cut across the roofline, generating unexpected shadows and reflections that enrich the spatial experience.
On the upper floor, a curved corridor merges seamlessly with the wall, forming a fluid and organic spatial flow. The curve is not merely an aesthetic gesture, but also evokes a sense of movement between rooms—as if walls and ceilings converse in a single continuous line. Material choices reinforce this duality: solid walls define the façade, while timber screens and vent blocks (roster) articulate the garden voids, complemented by a lightweight roof with concealed skylights that diffuse illumination.
Located in the midst of a dense residential area in Yogyakarta, Santhree House emerges as a dwelling that conceals warmth behind its closed façade. The owner desired a place of rest that feels safe and tranquil, yet still allows family and friends to gather comfortably. The concept of “open–closed” forms the foundation of the design: from the outside, the house appears simple and private, as if shielding itself from the bustle of the surroundings. Yet once one crosses its threshold, the interior spaces are interspersed with pocket gardens that bring in natural light, ever-changing shadows, and refreshing airflow.
The family room and main bedroom are positioned adjacent to a shaded garden, allowing selected light to enter without compromising comfort. Meanwhile, a guest area is placed at the outer section of the house, serving as a filter—a welcoming transition space before reaching the private core. The ceiling treatment becomes a key feature: its direction contrasts with the roof’s angle, creating dynamic visual layers. The surface seems to cut across the roofline, generating unexpected shadows and reflections that enrich the spatial experience.
On the upper floor, a curved corridor merges seamlessly with the wall, forming a fluid and organic spatial flow. The curve is not merely an aesthetic gesture, but also evokes a sense of movement between rooms—as if walls and ceilings converse in a single continuous line. Material choices reinforce this duality: solid walls define the façade, while timber screens and vent blocks (roster) articulate the garden voids, complemented by a lightweight roof with concealed skylights that diffuse illumination.
Located in the midst of a dense residential area in Yogyakarta, Santhree House emerges as a dwelling that conceals warmth behind its closed façade. The owner desired a place of rest that feels safe and tranquil, yet still allows family and friends to gather comfortably. The concept of “open–closed” forms the foundation of the design: from the outside, the house appears simple and private, as if shielding itself from the bustle of the surroundings. Yet once one crosses its threshold, the interior spaces are interspersed with pocket gardens that bring in natural light, ever-changing shadows, and refreshing airflow.
The family room and main bedroom are positioned adjacent to a shaded garden, allowing selected light to enter without compromising comfort. Meanwhile, a guest area is placed at the outer section of the house, serving as a filter—a welcoming transition space before reaching the private core. The ceiling treatment becomes a key feature: its direction contrasts with the roof’s angle, creating dynamic visual layers. The surface seems to cut across the roofline, generating unexpected shadows and reflections that enrich the spatial experience.
On the upper floor, a curved corridor merges seamlessly with the wall, forming a fluid and organic spatial flow. The curve is not merely an aesthetic gesture, but also evokes a sense of movement between rooms—as if walls and ceilings converse in a single continuous line. Material choices reinforce this duality: solid walls define the façade, while timber screens and vent blocks (roster) articulate the garden voids, complemented by a lightweight roof with concealed skylights that diffuse illumination.
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