Local Thai architecture studio IDIN Architects has completed an innovative single-story residential project that combines modern concrete construction with traditional Thai design principles. The 300-square-meter W House II in Nakhon Ratchasima features curving concrete walls and an elevated design that allows the client's pet cows to graze freely in the garden below.
The new home sits on a large tree-filled plot directly across from W House I, a previous project by the same studio that the client's family had outgrown over time. Rather than expanding their existing residence, the owners decided to convert W House I into a guest house and commission IDIN Architects to design an entirely new family home with all living spaces contained on a single level.
To meet the client's requirements while preserving ground space for the cows and maintaining scenic views, the architects drew inspiration from traditional Thai houses, known as "ruean thai." These historic structures were typically elevated on stilts to prevent flood damage and create usable space underneath. "The design requirements were translated into a single-story house elevated seven meters off the ground in reference to traditional Thai houses, with a modern interpretation of the space underneath for the lawn garden," explained studio principal Jeravej Hongsakul.
The elevated design serves multiple practical purposes beyond accommodating the grazing animals. "The decision to lift the house solves multiple issues at once, leaving the ground untouched and usable as a natural grazing area for the cows, while providing 360-degree panoramic views and ventilation without any obstacles," Hongsakul continued. The entire structure is supported by an innovative engineering solution consisting of two planes of load-bearing concrete walls and an extra-wide waffle slab, eliminating the need for multiple supporting columns.
Access to the home is provided through a metal staircase positioned between two sections of concrete wall on the western side, leading up to a wraparound balcony that extends around the entire perimeter. The balcony features adjustable slatted timber screens that can be folded open or closed to control both shading and privacy levels throughout the day.
The interior layout follows an efficient L-shaped configuration, with living, dining, and kitchen areas occupying the western half of the floor plan. The eastern section contains another L-shaped block housing the master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and two children's bedrooms that share a central bathroom facility.
The architectural team employed a distinctive material palette throughout both exterior and interior spaces. Exposed, board-marked concrete defines the primary aesthetic, creating structural and visual continuity from outside to inside. This raw concrete foundation is softened in residential areas through the strategic use of maple timber carpentry and a striking green India marble kitchen island. "Material choices were driven by a desire for honesty, warmth, and contrast," Hongsakul noted. "Since the structure is cast concrete, the finishing surface is left as bare concrete to show the texture of the wood imprints from the mold."
The design philosophy extends beyond mere aesthetic choices to encompass environmental integration. "Moreover, raw concrete was chosen for structural and aesthetic continuity, flowing from exterior to interior, while maple wood adds warmth and balances the coolness of concrete with its natural grain and light tone," the architect added. The home also includes a swimming pool that complements the elevated design concept.
IDIN Architects, founded by Hongsakul in 2006, takes its name from the acronym "Integrating Design into Nature," a philosophy that permeates all of the studio's work. Previous notable projects include a Bangkok cafe featuring mirrored ceilings that reflect the surrounding garden and a Chonburi cafe designed around a large baobab tree growing through its center, demonstrating the firm's commitment to harmonious relationships between built environments and natural landscapes.
