Nature's way to soothe the senses in the home

Maria Endah Hulupi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Inspired by the soothing power of nature, natural elements have been incorporated into a newly built, modern row house, offering its owners a sanctuary where they can escape their routine.

Designed by architect Irianto P.H. who was assisted by Nunuk Nulasetiawan, the house's concept optimally captures various natural elements -- sunlight, trees, the fresh breeze and even birds' chirping -- all simple things but a luxury in the fast- paced capital city.

"By incorporating natural elements into the house, the adult owners can enjoy the atmosphere, untangling their minds, while the children can learn to appreciate nature as well," Irianto said.

The two-story house in Cinere, South Jakarta, is shielded by a perforated fence, giving a solid impression while allowing a glimpse into the yard and avoiding a "fortress" look.

Apart from creeping vines reaching to the carport top, there is also a tall yang liu tree, or weeping willow, in the front yard, slightly obscuring the specially designed floating mass on the house structure's upper right wing.

The main entrance is a wooden door that opens to a tranquil side garden, surrounded by three terraces -- one of which is the "main" terrace where family and dining rooms as well as a small yet compact kitchen can be found.

"Since the function of the living room is slowly diminishing, the front terrace can also serve as a reception area. Unfamiliar guests can be received there, while the owners' friends and colleagues can be led straight to the family room in the main or rear terrace," Irianto said.

The side garden is simply planted with another weeping widow. The plant acts as the garden focal point with its drooping branches moving graciously when the wind blows, intensifying the atmosphere of serenity in the area that also serves as a playground for the owners' three children.

The main terrace is shielded to the side garden with a sliding glass door that can be fully opened to let fresh air flow.

The rear terrace is simply furnished with an old bale-bale (a large traditional multipurpose wooden chair), as well as a wooden table and two chairs. Twin modern lamps with white caps flank the bale-bale. The lamps were chosen as their creased texture is in harmony with the rough surface of the bale-bale and table.

From the rear terrace, the owners can enjoy the pleasant sound of water trickling from a small pool.

"This terrace has become the owners' favorite spot since they can smell the plants and the grass, listen to the sound of drizzling water, watch the sky and green surrounding while enjoying the breeze," Irianto said.

Tall surrounding walls are specially designed to contain the desired view and screen the occupants' view of the outside.

As well as three terraces, the house also has a media room and five bedrooms -- consisting of a master bedroom, a guest room and three children's bedrooms. The master and guest bedrooms have their own bathrooms while the children share one.

The service area and storage room are located at the front side, adjacent to the garage with special access to the main terrace and the second floor.

Instead of using a staircase, Irianto created a ramp that leads to the second floor. It has an Asmat wooden statue at one end, and to enable proper air circulation, the area is also equipped with hidden ventilation.

During the day, the ramp receives adequate sunlight while during the evening, the lighting arrangement provides a gallery- like ambience.

Lined with parquet flooring, the second floor is a private area in a minimalist style. The lighting panels are discreetly positioned or concealed behind a wall that also hides a service area.

"We just wanted to spare the owners from unnecessary details," Irianto said.