Silver A' Design Award Winner 2025
Charcoal grey stone cladding dominates the vertical thrust of Happystudio's Terra Cascade Residential House, where stacked rectangular volumes create a sculptural composition of extraordinary dynamism against a cerulean sky punctuated by gentle cumulus formations, the architectural mass rising approximately five stories through an asymmetrical aggregation of cantilevered boxes that project and recess in rhythmic counterpoint, establishing a visual dialogue between solid and void that recalls the spatial investigations of Metabolist architecture while maintaining an unmistakably contemporary material sensibility, the primary facade organized through a diagonal cascade of projecting balconies clad in warm chestnut-toned timber louvers that introduce organic warmth against the cool mineral surfaces, glass balustrades with minimal steel posts creating transparent horizontal bands that lighten the substantial masonry presence, the uppermost level crowned by an open steel framework forming geometric portals that frame sky views and establish the composition's vertical terminus with deliberate incompleteness suggesting growth or expansion, fenestration distributed asymmetrically in rectangular punched openings of varying proportions that animate the stone surfaces while maintaining the overall tectonic legibility, the building base grounded by a recessed entry zone and garage portal in darker tones that create visual lift for the hovering mass above, mature deciduous trees with spring-green foliage softening the left margin and providing biophilic counterbalance to the geometric rigor, the surrounding context visible as lower-scale residential structures nestled against verdant mountainous terrain that establishes a dialogue between built intervention and natural topography, afternoon sunlight raking across the projecting volumes to create pronounced cast shadows that emphasize three-dimensional depth and volumetric articulation, the chromatic palette restricted to a sophisticated harmony of cool greys ranging from dove to graphite, warm timber in sienna and umber tones, crisp white accent panels, and transparent glass creating an elegant restraint that allows formal complexity to command attention, the overall composition achieving dynamic equilibrium through asymmetrical balance where projecting elements on one side find visual counterweight in recessed passages opposite.
This residence applies interlocking volumetric design to create a dynamic living space tailored to multi generational needs. Inspired by natural rhythms, the project uses layered volumes oriented to optimize light, functionality, and privacy. It addresses the challenges of steep terrain and regulatory constraints with a thoughtful arrangement of adaptable spaces, balancing communal and individual needs while supporting modern living demands such as remote work and flexibility.