Wo house by matter of something: contemporary elegance and natural materials in the heart of indonesia
In the Indonesian contemporary architectural landscape, new projects are emerging that demonstrate how urban regeneration can transform forgotten spaces into extraordinary homes. WO House, designed by the studio Matter of Something, stands as a virtuous example of how contemporary tropical architecture can embrace sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics in a single design solution.
from garage to family home: smart regeneration in a tropical climate
The transformation of WO House stems from the need to convert an abandoned industrial structure into a family residence able to meet the demands of modern living in Indonesia’s equatorial climate. The original building, defined by compact volumes and limited openings, faced the typical challenges of industrial spaces: scarce natural light, poor ventilation, and a rigid internal layout that did not encourage family interaction.
Matter of Something approached the project with a radical vision, strategically demolishing internal partitions to create a fluid, interconnected spatial system. The vertical reorganization of the interiors made it possible to redistribute functions across multiple levels, optimizing the use of available space. The new layout privileges the living area on the mezzanine level, where kitchen and dining merge into a bright open space, while the main living room occupies the upper floor to take full advantage of zenithal light.
The boldest intervention was the complete removal of a section of the intermediate floor slab, creating a diagonal connection between levels that transforms the spatial perception of the entire home. This solution not only improves the upward circulation of hot air—crucial in a tropical climate—but also allows sunlight to penetrate deep into the interiors during the evening hours.
natural materials and neutral palette: warmth and modernity in perfect balance
The material choices for WO House reflect a sustainable approach that prioritizes local resources and traditional building techniques reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. The original brick walls were left exposed and treated with limewash, a finish that not only naturally protects surfaces but also lends interiors the soft, warm texture typical of Indonesian vernacular architecture.
The architects skillfully balanced raw and refined elements through a neutral color palette ranging from the earthy tones of brick to the warm grays of polished concrete. Light resin floors elegantly contrast with the brick walls, creating a visual dialogue that highlights the temporal layering of the building. Steel beams, a legacy of the site’s industrial past, were integrated into the new design as both structural and decorative elements, supporting artificial lighting systems and suspended greenery.
The outdoor terrace is a masterpiece of architectural upcycling: reclaimed wooden beams from the internal demolitions were repurposed to create a shading canopy supported by metal profiles. The perforated steel sheet flooring not only ensures effective natural ventilation but also gently filters sunlight into the spaces below, producing ever-changing shadow plays throughout the day.
interiors that speak of continuity and character
The interior design of WO House demonstrates how material continuity can create spatial coherence without sacrificing the functional character of each area. The double-height kitchen becomes the beating heart of the home, where exposed brickwork interacts with contemporary inserts of steel and natural wood.
Natural light, a crucial element of the project, is managed through a system of strategic openings that follow the sun’s path and prevailing breezes. Ribbon windows on the main façade capture morning light, while zenithal openings distributed across the levels guarantee diffuse illumination throughout the day. This bioclimatic approach significantly reduces dependence on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling.
Spaces for domestic work were harmoniously integrated into the overall concept, demonstrating how contemporary architecture can support new ways of living and working. WO House represents a replicable model of sustainable urban regeneration, where technological innovation and local building traditions merge to create living spaces that respond to the climatic and social challenges of our time.
Photo Credits: Steven Sundjaja, Oktobianto Dwi Prasetyo – archdaily.com