2025 | Professional

MUSE Design Awards Gold Winner

X house

Entrant Company

junfu cui

Category

Architectural Design - Tiny Houses / Compact Living

Client's Name

Country / Region

United States

The architectural typology of this residence is distinct from conventional homes, as it is designed to accommodate two artists and their families, incorporating an art studio. To balance privacy and communal living, we employed an "X" layout that effectively divides the space into two distinct areas while delineating interior and exterior environments.

The "X" configuration naturally separates the home into two portions dedicated to rest and activity. One family’s living spaces are located on the first floor, while the other occupies the second floor, both offering picturesque views of the lake. The shared spaces face the greenery, with the first floor serving as a communal gathering area for both families, and the loft functioning as a small gallery showcasing their artistic works.

On the third floor, the layout features two dedicated studio spaces for the artists. The design transitions from expansive areas on the lower levels to more intimate and private work zones above, with a clear shift from communal interaction to personal privacy.

The entrance to the interior is defined by the "X" cut, leading visitors into the space through a small porch that serves as an entry point. Each family enjoys independent and dynamic circulation within the "X," allowing for seamless movement through the various functional areas of the house. The intersection of the "X" not only facilitates the flow of natural light into the circulation areas but also provides glimpses into the daily lives of the residents.

As natural light pours in, the materials used—concrete and wood—create a harmonious blend of heaviness and lightness, openness and separation. This interplay contributes to a cohesive architectural experience, with the interconnected spaces fostering a sense of mutual dependence and culminating in a unified volume.

Credits

Baiyang Kong
Jingyi Xu
Zhaoxuan Yang
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