The selection of materials in architecture plays a pivotal role in shaping the ideas and inspiration behind architectural design. Natural materials such as white marble, real timber, and raw concrete not only influence the visual appearance and tactile experience of a space but also significantly impact the energy and ambiance it exudes.
The Majestic Marble Quarries of Northern Italy ( Published 2017)
– New York Times
WHITE MARBLE :
White marble, known for its timeless elegance and luxurious appeal, can evoke a sense of sophistication and grandeur in architectural spaces. Its inherent qualities of luminosity and purity make it a preferred choice for creating a sense of openness and lightness. The cool, smooth surface of marble can imbue a space with a sense of calm and serenity, enhancing the overall ambiance and functionality of the structure.
Marble House, Bangkok (2017)
Marber House ; The initial idea is to allow habitant’s behavior to carve a dwelling space into a monolithic piece of marble sculpture. The main piece appears so solid, yet so light it floats to defy the gravity, while external landscape space flows underneath through the center courtyard. Residual marble pieces fell onto the ground to become part of the landscape features, isolated, yet visually related so boldly, as they use to be part of the marble boulder.
Marble finishes are, in fact, a large scale, light-weight, wall tiles with marble pattern print. As an external finish applied over a layer of an internal brick wall, it also acts as weather cladding, shielding the house from direct Sunlight, and external heat of Bangkok summer, and therefore helps to cool down the interior during the day.
REAL TIMBER :
Main Staircase : Marble House (2017)
Real timber, with its warmth, texture, and organic feel, can introduce a sense of natural beauty and harmony to architectural designs. The use of timber can create a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, inviting occupants to connect with nature and experience a sense of comfort and tranquility. The unique grains and patterns of timber add a layer of richness and character to the space, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and creating a dynamic interplay between light and shadow.
Main Entrance House III : Grove Residence (2023)
RAW CONCRETE :
Raw concrete, characterized by its raw and unfinished aesthetic, can lend a sense of industrial chic and modernity to architectural spaces. The minimalist and utilitarian qualities of concrete can contribute to a sense of solidity and durability, instilling a feeling of strength and stability in the structure. The raw, exposed nature of concrete can create a bold and expressive architectural statement, eliciting a sense of authenticity and raw beauty in the design. In conclusion, the thoughtful selection and integration of natural materials like white marble, real timber, and raw concrete can transform architectural spaces into immersive environments that not only look and feel visually appealing but also radiate a distinctive energy and ambiance. By harnessing the inherent qualities of these materials, architects can sculpt spaces that inspire and elevate the human experience, creating a harmonious synthesis of form, function, and emotion in architectural design.
Hilltop House, Khao Yai (2010)
Materials selection in architecture plays a pivotal role in shaping design concepts and inspirations. Natural materials such as white marble, real timber, and raw concrete transcend mere aesthetics, deeply influencing the ambiance and energy of architectural spaces. White marble exudes sophistication and brightness, timber adds warmth and a connection to nature, while raw concrete symbolizes modernity and industrial elegance. These materials not only define the visual aspect but also evoke emotions and facilitate the interaction between occupants and their environment. The deliberate choice of materials thus becomes a fundamental component in the creation of memorable and impactful architectural experiences.
