One storey home inspired by the plot and the movement of the sunlight

Architects: Kadarik Tüür Arhitektid
Location: Koidu tee, Harju maakond, Estonia
Year: 2016
Area: 2.314 ft²/ 215 m²
Photo courtesy: Tõnu Tunnel
Description:

“One storey high private house is located in Koidu village, Estonia in a private housing area. The geometry of the building is inspired by the plot and the movement of the sunlight. The building is a shape-shifter offering different views from every angle and changing its form to catch as much warm southern and western sunlight as possible.

The main building was erected on the western side of the plot while the grill house stands on the east side inside a small hill and acts as an echo of the main building. Between these two volumes an inner rectangular courtyard is created with golden ratio proportions. The landscape protects the yard from the traffic noise and offers privacy.

Spacious living room, with a height up to 6 meters, is located on the western side of the building and opens into both south and west. The living room is tightly connected with the terrace outside. The shape of the patio is also created to follow the sun and open to the south and west. The main part of the terrace is covered with the edge of the roof protecting it from the rain.

The wide overhang protects the living room from the sharp and hot summer sun. In the winter when the sun is lower, the light passes under the eave to warm the building. There is a chance that a neighbouring house will block the western sunlight in the future. To maintain the access of the valuable evening light into the living room, a special sun window was created higher from the eye level.

Main parts of the constructions are made out of stone and laminated wood. The facades are covered with painted larch wood. The natural tree sap in the wood protects the material and holds is appearance for decades without any artificial additives.”