R Micro Housing is a compact housing complex consists of only five units and is available in two different typologies. Designed by Simple Projects Architecture, it sits on 12m x 29.8m (518sqm) land located in one of the most densely populated villages in the eastern suburbs of Surabaya, Indonesia.
Considering its location which is just off a crowded main traffic, street accessibility and safety, and also current neighboring houses, the architects decided to have a refreshed façade concept in combination with a simple yet compact mass, thus the construction process would take less time with efficient costs.
They settled on modern minimalist design approach with a basic geometric shaped mass and monochromatic color scheme. They developed solid and introvert masses as a response to the safety and convenience issues around the location. This approach distinguishes the housing complex from the existing neighboring homes, creating a simple, functional and efficient residence with an integrated open plan interior layout. This is especially desirable for most of the people in areas like Surabaya. They want to experience urban living owning a decent home within proximity to the CBD with at an affordable price tag.
A Maximized Mini House Typology
Limited land area is often a major issue when it comes to designing a healthy home. R Micro Housing overcomes this encumbrance by incorporating as much natural daylight as possible by strategically positioning a number of sizable openings as well as an inner courtyard. This also ensure effective cross ventilation. Considering its location within one of the most densely populated areas in Surabaya, these elements along with integrated green spaces, a private parking lot for each unit and a selection of crafted yet easy-to-maintain material finishes all work together to complete the unique spatial experience that these homes have to offer. Ultimately, R Micro Housing can be considered as a precedent that a unique façade design with a reasonably good quality of building materials and finishes is definitely feasible regardless of the limited space and budget available.
