- Project: Y/A/O House
- Architect: WARchitect
- Location: Thailand, Bangkok
- Year: 2019
- Area: 1300 m2
- Photography: Rungkit Charoenwat
A Vision Rooted in Freedom and Individuality
The Modern Courtyard House in Bangkok by WARchitect, known as the Y/A/O House, began with a singular brief from its owners: to design a one-of-a-kind residence with complete creative freedom. With a thriving fashion business behind them, the homeowners were ready to build a tranquil sanctuary on a cherished plot of land they had owned since their early years of success.
Their dream was simple yet ambitious—an airy, open space infused with natural light and seamless views of greenery and water. A minimalist, modern structure unlike any other, designed to evoke the peaceful atmosphere of a luxury resort. The home needed to cater not only to everyday living but also to frequent social gatherings and overnight guests, requiring clearly defined zones for owners and visitors.
Architecture in Dialogue with Nature
Rather than creating a singular monolithic block, WARchitect chose to break the house into three distinct volumes—a main residence, a guest pavilion, and a garage—all arranged around a central courtyard with a pool. This strategic spatial organization enhances privacy, promotes natural ventilation, and visually connects every part of the house to the calming presence of water.
Though generous in size, each building remains human-scaled, ranging from 120 to 320 sq.m, and positioned thoughtfully to preserve open space while ensuring easy access and optimal solar orientation. Glass walls facing the courtyard invite daylight in and offer continuous visual connections, while thoughtful positioning protects interiors from harsh afternoon sunlight.
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Architectural Language with Depth and Intent
Freed from contextual constraints, WARchitect explored a refined architectural language. Drawing from the rising trend of oblique angles where walls and ceilings intersect—a motif typically reserved for exteriors—the firm expanded the concept to inform the entire spatial and structural logic of the house.
This design language begins with the floor plan and continues through to the structure, walls, ceilings, and roofing, creating a harmonious and expressive spatial experience. At the heart of the residence, a courtyard open to the sky becomes the house’s anchor, welcoming light and rain, and allowing a waterfall-like cascade to fall from the higher roofline into the courtyard below.
The Courtyard: A Lush, Tranquil Core
The courtyard is more than a design element—it’s a sensory experience. With angular rooflines directing water flow, and the inner volumes hugging this natural oasis, the house fosters a retreat-like ambiance. The courtyard blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, fulfilling the client’s desire for a serene, vacation-like atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: A Masterclass in Spatial Freedom
The Modern Courtyard House in Bangkok by WARchitect stands as a testament to what can be achieved when visionary clients meet innovative architects. By embracing natural elements, unconventional geometries, and user-centric spatial programming, WARchitect has crafted a residence that is both sculptural and functional—a true architectural gem in suburban Bangkok.
