NOOK Magazine

𝗔 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗼𝘄: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗝𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this contemporary bungalow by Wuuu Studio demonstrates how thoughtful restraint can create spaces of remarkable warmth and sophistication. Inspired by the quiet principles of Japanese design, the residence embraces minimalism not as an aesthetic trend, but as a philosophy that prioritises clarity, comfort and purposeful living.
A carefully curated palette of warm timber, natural stone and softly sculpted ceilings establishes a calming atmosphere throughout the home. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the interiors celebrate the beauty of honest materials, refined craftsmanship and the subtle interplay of texture, light and shadow.
Spatial planning lies at the core of the design. Every room flows effortlessly into the next, creating an intuitive sequence that enhances both functionality and tranquillity. Bespoke furniture has been thoughtfully integrated into the architecture, reinforcing the home's clean visual language while responding perfectly to the lifestyle of its occupants.
Gentle contrasts between light and dark add depth without disrupting the overall sense of serenity. Expansive openings invite natural daylight to animate the interiors throughout the day, while carefully framed views strengthen the connection between the home and its surrounding landscape.
The result is a residence that feels both contemporary and timeless—an elegant interpretation of modern tropical living where simplicity becomes the ultimate luxury. Rather than demanding attention, the architecture encourages slower living, mindful routines and a deeper appreciation for everyday moments.

Project: Modern Minimalist Bungalow
Interior Design: Wuuu Studio
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

𝗕𝗠𝗧 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲: 𝗔 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

Some homes are designed to impress, while others are created to preserve a way of life. BMT House, conceived by AD9 Architects in collaboration with K.A Studio, is a deeply personal residence that transforms childhood memories into a contemporary architectural experience. Located in Buôn Ma Thuột, Vietnam, the 600-square-metre home celebrates the enduring relationship between people, landscape and tradition.
Inspired by the owners' fond recollections of tiled roofs, flourishing gardens, birdsong and flowing streams, the residence is shaped around the belief that nature should remain an inseparable part of everyday living. Rather than treating the garden as an external feature, the architecture allows it to become the very framework through which the home is experienced.
The spatial arrangement unfolds as a series of interconnected living environments where privacy and openness coexist with remarkable ease. Functional volumes are carefully positioned amongst generous green spaces, creating a rhythmic sequence of indoor and outdoor experiences that encourages movement, discovery and quiet reflection.
One of the home's defining architectural features is its expressive roofscape. Varying roof heights respond naturally to the organisation of interior spaces, producing a layered composition that recalls the character of traditional vernacular architecture while presenting it through a refined contemporary lens. From a distance, the cascading roofs establish a distinctive silhouette that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern.
Natural light, cross ventilation and carefully framed garden views enrich every room, dissolving the boundaries between architecture and landscape. Each transition through the house becomes an encounter with greenery, reinforcing a sense of tranquillity and connection to the surrounding environment.
More than a family residence, BMT House is a thoughtful exploration of how architecture can preserve memory while embracing contemporary living. It reminds us that the most meaningful homes are not simply built—they are shaped by stories, enriched by nature and designed to endure across generations

Project: BMT House
Architecture: AD9 Architects & K.A Studio
Location: Buôn Ma Thuột, Vietnam
Area: 600 m²
Photography: Hiroyuki Oki

𝗜𝗡𝗚-𝗦𝗨𝗞 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆

Set against the lush landscape of Ob Khan National Park in northern Thailand, ING-SUK House by Yangnar Studio is a compelling reminder that architectural excellence is often born from limitation rather than abundance. Designed within the realities of a modest budget and a remote site, the project transforms constraints into opportunities for innovation, craftsmanship and environmental sensitivity.
Inspired by the traditional Ka-Nham garden shelters of southern Thailand, the timber residence is gently elevated above compacted earth, allowing it to sit lightly within its natural surroundings. This elevated platform not only protects the structure but also creates a flexible living environment where architecture and landscape exist in quiet harmony.
A generous linear terrace forms the heart of the home, connecting the kitchen, bedrooms and service areas while encouraging movement, interaction and uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest. More than a circulation space, the terrace becomes an outdoor living room—an adaptable extension of daily life that celebrates the tropical climate.
Material honesty defines the architectural language. Rather than relying on expensive finishes, the architects embraced locally available timber, reclaimed doors, recycled windows and repurposed steel elements to create a home rich in character and authenticity. Antique architectural fragments and reclaimed timber columns are thoughtfully integrated throughout the project, proving that sustainability can also be a powerful design expression.
Every construction detail reflects the enduring value of traditional woodworking techniques. The natural texture of timber is preserved without unnecessary chemical treatments, allowing the materials to age gracefully while strengthening the home's connection to its environment.
ING-SUK House is more than a secluded woodland retreat—it is a thoughtful exploration of resource-conscious architecture. It demonstrates that meaningful design is not measured by budget, but by imagination, craftsmanship and a deep respect for place. In an era increasingly focused on sustainability, this project offers a timeless lesson: the most memorable architecture often emerges from doing more with less.

Project: ING-SUK House
Architecture: Yangnar Studio
Location: Nam Phrae, Thailand
Photography: Rungkit Charoenwat

𝗢-𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

At O-Tree House in Thailand, nature is not treated as an afterthought—it is the very heart of the architectural experience. Designed by Junsekino Architect and Design, this 670-square-metre residence demonstrates how contemporary architecture can embrace the landscape rather than simply occupy it.
Centred around the presence of mature trees and lush greenery, the home unfolds through a sequence of courtyards, skylights and transitional spaces that blur the distinction between indoors and out. Every movement through the house is accompanied by changing light, gentle breezes and carefully framed views of the surrounding garden, creating an atmosphere of quiet elegance and everyday serenity.
The design encourages natural ventilation and abundant daylight, allowing the landscape to shape both the visual character and environmental performance of the residence. Trees become more than ornamental features; they contribute to the home's microclimate while enriching the emotional connection between its inhabitants and the natural world.
Defined by clean contemporary forms softened by organic elements, the architecture achieves a refined balance between structure and landscape. Expansive openings dissolve conventional boundaries, ensuring that every room feels intimately connected to the outdoors. The result is a home where architecture and nature coexist in complete harmony.
O-Tree House is a thoughtful expression of tropical living—one that proves the most enduring homes are those that celebrate their surroundings rather than compete with them. It is a place where light, landscape and architecture come together to create a timeless sanctuary for modern life.

Project: O-Tree House
Architecture: Junsekino Architect and Design
Location: Thailand
Area: 670 m²
Photography: Spaceshift Studio

𝗛.𝗔 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲: 𝗔 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

In an age where everyday life is increasingly defined by speed and constant connectivity, architecture has the power to offer something profoundly valuable—stillness. Set within the tranquil countryside of Cam Lâm, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam, H.A Garden House, designed by Pham Huu Son Architects, embraces this philosophy through a refined dialogue between built form and landscape.
Designed as a private weekend retreat, the 600-square-metre residence invites its occupants to step away from the pressures of urban living and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Rather than imposing itself upon the site, the house unfolds gently across the landscape, creating a seamless relationship between architecture, gardens and the surrounding environment.
A carefully considered open-plan layout allows daylight, fresh air and greenery to permeate every corner of the home. Courtyards and landscaped gardens are thoughtfully interwoven with the interior spaces, dissolving conventional boundaries between indoors and outdoors. This fluid spatial experience enhances both comfort and wellbeing, ensuring that nature remains a constant companion throughout the day.
The architectural language is intentionally understated. Clean lines, generous openings and an honest material palette create an atmosphere of calm sophistication, where simplicity becomes the defining luxury. Every space is designed to frame views of the gardens, encouraging moments of quiet reflection and effortless relaxation.
More than a holiday home, H.A Garden House is an exploration of contemporary tropical living—one that demonstrates how architecture can nurture both physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. It is a place where light, landscape and carefully crafted spaces come together to restore balance, offering a timeless reminder that true luxury often lies in simplicity.

Project: H.A Garden House
Architecture: Pham Huu Son Architects
Location: Cam Lâm, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam
Area: 600 m²
Photography: Oki Hiroyuki

A House That Belongs to the Valley
By NOOK Editorial Team

There are homes that occupy a site, and then there are homes that quietly become part of it. Nestled within Kerala's verdant Pamba Valley, this thoughtfully composed weekend retreat by Rare Earth Architects is a compelling example of architecture that favours dialogue over dominance.
Conceived as a sanctuary for a multi-generational family, the 2,250-square-foot residence replaces an older dwelling while preserving the emotional connection the owners have long shared with the landscape. Rather than reshaping the terrain, the architects embraced its natural contours, allowing the building to emerge gently from the hillside as though it had always belonged there.
An elegant L-shaped plan frames a semi-open courtyard, creating a sheltered microclimate that encourages natural ventilation and strengthens the relationship between interior and exterior spaces. The living and dining areas extend effortlessly onto a generous verandah, where uninterrupted views across the valley become an integral part of everyday life. Private bedrooms are carefully positioned to maximise both seclusion and panoramic outlooks, with the principal suite opening directly towards the lush landscape beyond.
Environmental responsibility is woven seamlessly into the project's architectural language. Existing slopes were retained to minimise excavation, while locally crafted brick masonry, a lightweight steel roof structure and traditional terracotta tiles work together to reduce heat gain and promote passive cooling. Deep verandahs, recessed openings and carefully considered orientation ensure year-round thermal comfort with minimal reliance on mechanical systems.
Inside, restraint defines the design approach. Earth-toned materials, integrated storage and an intentionally muted palette allow natural light, changing shadows and the surrounding greenery to become the home's true decorative elements. Rather than competing with its setting, the interiors recede gracefully into the background, creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation.
More than a weekend retreat, this residence represents a sensitive interpretation of tropical modernism—one that respects climate, landscape and memory in equal measure. It is a reminder that the finest architecture does not seek attention through excess, but through its ability to listen, respond and belong.

Project: Weekend House in Kerala
Architecture: Rare Earth Architects
Location: Pamba Valley, Kerala, India

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 | 𝗔 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶

Set within a generous 2,500-square-metre site in southern Bali, The Alia Residence by Axial Studio is a refined interpretation of contemporary tropical living. Designed as a private family estate comprising a main residence and an exclusive clubhouse, the project balances architectural elegance with the relaxed character of its tropical surroundings.
The design embraces a restrained palette of timber, natural stone and exposed brick, creating a warm and timeless aesthetic. From the moment of arrival, a striking entrance canopy establishes a welcoming sense of grandeur, whilst semi-transparent materials provide privacy without compromising natural light, allowing the foyer to feel both intimate and inviting.
The residence is thoughtfully organised into clearly defined service, private and public zones. At the heart of the estate lies a generous living space that seamlessly extends towards the swimming pool, establishing the pool courtyard as the visual and social centre of the home. This carefully planned arrangement encourages fluid movement and uninterrupted connections between the various indoor and outdoor spaces.
The bedrooms are positioned to maximise comfort and privacy. Most are located on the upper floor, while two luxurious master suites occupy the ground level—one overlooking the tranquil pool and the other opening onto its own secluded garden, offering residents distinctly different yet equally peaceful experiences.
The Alia Residence demonstrates how modern tropical architecture can combine openness, natural materials and intelligent spatial planning to create a home that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to its environment.

Location: Bali, Indonesia
Credit: Architecture: Axial Studio
Lead Architect: Ferdy Tan
Photography: © Mario Wibowo, Indra Wira

𝗔 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿-𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

Originally built more than five decades ago, this thoughtfully renovated residence demonstrates how existing homes can be reimagined to suit contemporary lifestyles without losing their original character. Set on a generous 100-square-wah site with approximately 200 square metres of living space, the project was carefully transformed into a comfortable home for two owners and their beloved dogs.
Rather than beginning with cosmetic alterations, the design team at PH/AD first carried out a thorough study of the existing structure, allowing the renovation to respond intelligently to the building's strengths while addressing the evolving needs of its occupants.
The design celebrates the close relationship between the homeowners and their four-legged companions. Every space has been carefully considered to ensure both people and pets can move freely, comfortably and safely throughout the house. Functional planning, generous circulation and thoughtfully connected living areas create an environment where everyday life is shared naturally by every member of the household.
More than a simple renovation, the project is a reflection of modern living—where architecture embraces the emotional bond between humans and animals, creating a home that is warm, practical and filled with everyday joy.

Location: Thailand
Credit: Architect & Interior Designer: PH/AD
Main Contractor: The Constructionteam
Landscape Design: Banyen Landscape
Photography: SkyGround Architectural Film & Photography