Oro Editions The Space Between

The Space Between explores the concept of architectural spaces that mediate between the user and the environment in the tropics, using the single-family dwelling as the vehicle of experimentation Each project is different, which gives the reader 25 unique ideas on how to interpret tropical living through contemporary expressions and simple materials Showcases how the perennial issues that come with living in the tropics can become sources of delight, comfort, and genius loci Provides an easy read for the design enthusiast, but also sows the seeds for more in-depth discussion on modern tropical design for architecture students and industry players In Room Without Roof, the archetypal gabled form of a house takes on a twist to envelop both interior and exterior spaces. In A Tale of Two Courts, a semi-detached house shuts itself from the street but reveals on the inside a thoroughly tropical, open environment. These are but two examples of HYLA Architects’ rigorous and sensitive methods of creating liveable and comfortable homes through new expressions and creative datum. Key to the firm’s approach is found in the title The Space Between. It defines architecture as the space between the user and the environment and speaks of the architect’s important role in modulating this relationship according to context and climate. The 25 case studies in the book also reflect the five key values the works are designed upon: honesty, simplicity, clarity, strength, and dynamism. Derek Swalwell, Masano Kawana and Daniel Koh contribute to the visual compendium through photographs that capture the beauty of form, space, light, texture, and nature. Architectural writer Luo Jingmei provides thoughtful descriptions that take the reader through the homes and the ideas that ground them.