Char Yong Competition Entry – The Courtyard

Can an inward looking courtyard opens itself up to be part of the streetscape?

Drawing inspiration from the traditional Hakka Tulou houses, the design scheme attempts to encapsulate the timbered galleries found within these rotunda houses where a light-filled courtyard dramatically opens up as you enter these massive communal dwellings.

The scheme maximizes its outer footprint forming a rectangular massing following the site layout but carves out a circular void at the corner of the site. Intentionally, a small section of the courtyard opens up to the streetscape providing a glimpse of the internal spaces. This gesture acts as an invitation for passers-by to enter & explore the spaces while most parts of the courtyard remains inward facing.