LESS & MORE . a prototype of future living

project dialogue - story behind architectural housing
event organised by the gentry hub

as urbanisation takes place in an unprecedented speed worldwide, and in cambodia in particular, putting our heads around how to build our cities of tomorrow, so they are conducive for men and not abusive of nature, is an imperative. martin aerne with his team at AA&A developed a conceptual model for residential buildings in a tropical climate, that draws from qualities and wisdom found in traditional, rural housing of cambodia.

the proposal suggested a vertically stacked village in reference to James Wines + SITE’s “High Rise of Homes”, creating identity, minimising the development’s footprint and maximising the potential for natural ventilation and views.

different to the ordinary high-rise projects, the model creates an open, double-story tall inner “village square”, where neighbours meet naturally, kids play together and the elderly can sit in front of their homes and observe surrounding life unfolding.

around this core gather 7 to 12 duplex-units per story. Large, well greened, private verandas envelope and extend the minimal, air-conditioned indoor spaces. while privacy can be adjusted for all rooms based on one’s desire, the lower floor encourages interaction with neighbours whereas the upper floor offers space to retreat.