Living in Rugged Terrain
Located in the rugged landscape of Nukht, just outside Ulaanbaatar, this development reinterprets terraced housing for contemporary living. The design blends tradition with innovation while respecting the terrain, conceived on two levels to integrate harmoniously with the surrounding hills.
The project centers on unity in diversity. Five independent dwellings form a cohesive ensemble, yet each unit is uniquely designed to offer varied experiences. Eschewing a monotonous facade, the design embraces differentiation through variations in scale, texture, and form, reflecting the complexities of modern life and the diversity of the natural environment. The five units are united into two distinct volumes with contemporary lines, representing a challenging and innovative design for the Mongolian suburb at the time.
Careful planning of access and circulation ensures each dwelling maintains its own secluded environment while benefiting from communal connectivity. This balances communal interaction with individual privacy.
Building in a rocky Mongolian valley demands respect for the environment. Material selection, building orientation, and natural element integration are guided by a commitment to sustainable design, mitigating climate challenges and preserving the valley's rhythm.
By crafting individual yet interconnected dwellings that blend into the landscape, the project achieves an architectural dialogue where modernity and nature coexist. This thoughtful reinterpretation of terraced living balances communal engagement and private solace, rooted firmly within its cultural and natural context.