A Layered Residential Design Balances Hospitality, Privacy, and Architectural Clarity to Create a Contemporary Home Centered on Human Connection

Wahana Architects has unveiled EL House, a 1,158-square-meter residence on a 730-square-meter site in Jakarta. Conceived as more than a private dwelling, the project was designed to accommodate an extended network of family members, friends, and professional associates, reflecting a growing demand for homes that function as both personal retreats and social destinations.

Photo credit:
Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

At the heart of the residence is a large open-plan living and dining area that serves as the primary gathering space. Positioned as the social core of the home, the expansive setting is designed to support a wide range of activities, from intimate family meals to larger events and celebrations. A professionally equipped kitchen is seamlessly integrated into the space, reinforcing the home's emphasis on hospitality and interaction.

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

The architectural organization of EL House is guided by the concept of layering. The residence is divided into two distinct volumes connected by a narrow transitional zone that acts as both a physical and experiential threshold. This elongated space takes the form of a reflective pond, introducing moments of calm while strengthening the relationship between the architecture and its natural surroundings.

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Materiality plays a significant role in defining the building's identity. The right wing of the house is enclosed by a brown-toned secondary skin that functions as both environmental protection and architectural expression. The layered facade introduces texture and depth while contributing to a broader composition of solid forms, open voids, water elements, and overlapping surfaces.

Photo credit: Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Throughout the project, spatial clarity and continuity are used to encourage movement and interaction. Rather than separating communal and private functions through rigid boundaries, the design establishes a fluid sequence of spaces that promotes openness while maintaining comfort and privacy.

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

Photo credit:Mario Wibowo

With its emphasis on togetherness, EL House presents a contemporary interpretation of domestic living. Through a careful balance of generous social spaces, layered architectural elements, and a welcoming atmosphere, Wahana Architects has created a residence that places human connection at the center of everyday life.

Wahana Architects

Led by Rudy Kelana, Wahana Architects is an architectural consulting firm based in Jakarta, Indonesia, that provides specialized architectural design services to both commercial and residential clients. The firm's team of architects is passionate about creating unique experiential spaces for their clients and for establishing strong relationships between nature and the built environment.

Beyond just designing buildings, Wahana Architects strives to understand the physical, social, and organizational needs of a building's users. They work closely with their clients to help realize their unique visions, and they handle all phases of a project, from concept through design, development, and construction supervision.