As machines designed for exploring the outside world, cars aren't really meant to make an appearance indoors. Japan's Harley in da House project turns this expectation around completely in its union of the garage and the sitting room.
THREE.BALL.CASCADE. Architects is responsible for this unusual residential layout that has the inhabitants' automobile featured prominently as part of the interior design. A broad wall of sliding glass doors separates the living space from the covered carport, enabling the occupants to open up the two rooms into one.
The benefit of this design decision makes the expansive area of the garage accessible for domestic overflow. After all, Harley in da House designates a quarter of its square footage to the car's particular home.
Open-Plan Garage Abodes
Harley in da House Lures Vehicles into the Living Room
Trend Themes
1. Inside-out Living - The integration of outdoor elements into interior living spaces creates opportunities for new hybrid products and designs.
2. Multi-functional Space - Designing spaces that serve multiple purposes can create more efficient and effective use of limited real estate.
3. Garage Conversion - Trends towards open-plan designs that include car storage areas create new opportunities for residential and urban architecture.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate - Designing and marketing open-plan properties with innovative and unique features creates opportunities for higher value sales and rentals.
2. Automotive - Designing vehicles with multi-functional features and aesthetic appeal for indoor and outdoor use expands the market potential.
3. Architecture - Incorporating innovative features into building designs that meet the changing needs of urban and suburban living creates prospects for architects and builders alike.