The Terracotta Breath house is a multigenerational home in Da Nang, Vietnam, designed on a narrow urban plot measuring approximately seven by twenty-two metres. The project is arranged as two separate residential units connected by a shared open courtyard. One unit is positioned at the front of the site and the second at the rear, allowing both households to receive daylight and ventilation. The courtyard functions as a circulation space and introduces airflow between the two buildings. Floor levels and room layouts are configured to maintain privacy while sharing common outdoor space.
The structure is built using terracotta brick walls that incorporate perforations and operable panels. These elements allow air to pass through while filtering sunlight into the interior. Additional materials include timber, bamboo, and clay-toned finishes used throughout floors and walls. Large openings and skylights support cross ventilation. Interior spaces are organized to support daily living across multiple generations within a compact footprint.
Image Credit: Live Out Studio
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Multigenerational Living
- Increasing demand for homes designed for multigenerational families offers opportunities in shared living spaces that balance privacy with communal areas.
- Sustainable Building Materials
- The use of terracotta bricks and other natural materials in construction is gaining traction as a sustainable building solution that enhances indoor air quality.
- Compact Urban Design
- Innovative architectural designs for narrow urban plots are emerging, allowing for efficient utilization of available space in densely populated areas.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Residential Architecture
- The residential architecture industry is increasingly focusing on designs that accommodate multiple generations within a single home, providing both privacy and shared living areas.
- Sustainable Construction
- This industry is adapting by incorporating environmentally friendly materials, like terracotta and bamboo, that promote energy efficiency and natural ventilation.
- Urban Planning
- Urban planning professionals are exploring strategies to maximize livable space on narrow plots, catering to growing urban populations with limited land availability.
