The Brutalist House, Sri Lanka
Tadao Ando is renowned for his brutalist approach and for showcasing concrete not only as a structural element but also as a finishing material, making the tactile experience of materiality both palpable and subtly refined. In his projects, his affection for concrete and the philosophical concept of how he perceives it come to life. This is why he asserts that “Concrete is an abstract material. It is not the surface appearance of concrete that interests me, but rather its deeper essence.” The most illustrious of his works, celebrated for their essence and his approach to concrete material, have been realized in Japan, such as the Benesse House Oval, Hill of the Buddha, Chichu Art Museum, Church of the Water, Water Temple, among others. But his success does not stop there. Ando’s mastery extends beyond these shores. One of his signature masterpieces is a brutalist villa perched on the edge of a cliff in the south of Sri Lanka.
The house was designed for a pair of artists, a three-story dwelling that encompasses ample and functional spaces for the couple. Concrete and wood are prominent, and together they create an optimal use of natural light that filters into the interior.
The interior is characterized by a double-volume space that enhances the feeling of openness and grandeur. The linear staircase, with its clean and simple lines, connects the levels, accentuating the verticality of the space. Materials play a pivotal role in the design, with smooth concrete walls in varying shades of grey and steel railings contributing to a modern and industrial aesthetic. Natural light filters through the space, highlighting the texture of the concrete and the stark contrasts created by the steel elements. The overall composition speaks to a minimalist yet dynamic environment, where the interplay of light, material, and structure defines the architectural experience.
The treatment throughout the spaces is monochromatic, extending the structural material into the furnishings as well. The presence of terraces, or an infinity pool, amplifies the entire spatial sensitivity and connects the indoor environment with the outdoors.
All around the house the architect tries to create a serene and inviting space where the sequence of areas has been thoughtfully arranged to bring the external environment inside. Through the use of transparent facades, the division between the outside world and the interior is blurred, allowing nature to become an integral part of the living experience. This design choice fosters a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere within, encouraging occupants to connect with the landscape beyond the confines of physical walls. The simplicity and clarity of the space, accentuated by the openness and transparency, create a dialogue between architecture and the natural world.
A large square window framed by raw concrete walls offers a framed view of the lush greenery and distant water body, with a balcony extending into the natural environment. The design creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere, blending the indoors with the surrounding landscape through stark, geometric lines and an open vista.
This space exudes a minimalist elegance, where despite its monochromatic palette, significant attention has been given to artificial lighting. The strategic placement of lighting creates a warm ambiance that complements the overall atmosphere. The furnishings are sleek and sophisticated, with the inclusion of a singular yellow chair that introduces a burst of colour, breaking the monochrome and adding a focal point within the interior. This carefully considered use of colour amidst the grey tones adds depth and interest to the space, demonstrating how a splash of colour can transform the feel of a room.
In this project, eventhough concrete dominates the space, yet the architect introduces wooden parquet flooring as a natural material to impart warmth and offset the coldness of the grey, brutalist concrete. The juxtaposition of these materials creates a balanced environment that feels both modern and inviting. The wooden elements infuse a sense of organic warmth, softening the industrial feel of the concrete without diminishing the clean, architectural lines. This thoughtful material interplay enriches the space, providing a tactile and visual contrast that enhances the overall aesthetic.
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