The project comprises of five villas developed on a hilltop site for entertaining esteemed guests in great privacy and security. Conceptual reference is drawn on traditional Chinese courtyard residence where spatial organisation is structured by internal “alleys” for linking up to different quarters of the house. The layering of space answers the pragmatic need for privacy, which in turn transcends to elaborate spatial articulation.

The design for the villa is a blend of different programmes organized on two layers: on the lower level, a series of rectilinear volumes reflects the more timid traditional courtyard configuration. This strategy mutates on the upper level to become a more fluid-shaped linear block. The two forms interact to create a series of interlocking and punctuating courtyards each with a framed view to a designated garden. An indifferent fairface concrete exterior manifesting exclusivity in character elaborately dresses up the building envelope. The stark contrasts of the traditional arrangement and the modern architecture, open and enclosed, work and relaxation, established a dialogue between form and be-formed in an interesting weaving of spaces.