byrdhouse

Vale House

Services

Architecture Design , Interior Design

Project Information

Location

Portland, Jamaica

Category

Residential

Samma Studio Team

Daf Ashari

Gerry Surbakti

Visualization Artist

Dyangga Yureztyo

Vale House draws inspiration from the rich heritage of traditional Jamaican architecture, specifically the wattle and daub houses.

Synergizing Human, Space, and Nature

By reinterpreting these timeless construction techniques within a contemporary framework, the design embodies a rustic yet sophisticated aesthetic. The vision for Vale House is to celebrate the natural beauty of raw materials, creating a home that is deeply connected to the cultural and environmental roots of its locale, while providing a modern living experience that is both functional and visually captivating. 
 
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Vale House stands as a refined reinterpretation of the traditional Jamaican wattle and daub houses, bridging the gap between the past and present. The use of wattle and daub, a construction method rooted in Jamaican history, forms the core of this design. Wattle, composed of intricately woven branches or twigs, creates a robust framework that is filled and sealed with a daub mixture made of natural materials like clay, straw, and mud. This method, traditionally used for its practicality and accessibility, is given a contemporary twist in Vale House. The walls, with their natural, unrefined texture, not only enhance the home’s rustic charm but also embody sustainable building practices, utilizing locally sourced, eco-friendly materials. 
TEXTURED WALL
WOOD
LIMESTONE
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The tactile quality of these walls brings the exterior and interior spaces to life, offering a sensory experience that is both visually and texturally engaging. As light interacts with the uneven surfaces of the wattle and daub, it creates dynamic shadows and a warm ambiance that shifts throughout the day, adding depth and character to the home. This natural interplay emphasizes the house's connection to the environment, making it feel as though it is a natural extension of the land on which it stands. 
In addition to the wattle and daub, the design features shuttered windows, a distinctive element of Jamaican architecture. These shutters, crafted from sturdy wood or metal, are more than just functional; they are a statement of style and cultural heritage. The shutters serve a dual purpose—providing security and protection against the tropical climate, while also allowing for natural ventilation, a crucial aspect in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment in the region's warm, humid conditions. Painted in vibrant colors, the shutters add a lively contrast to the earthy tones of the walls, injecting a touch of the island’s exuberant spirit into the design. 
The layout of Vale House is thoughtfully planned to maximize the use of natural light and to enhance cross-ventilation, ensuring that the home remains cool and comfortable even in the hottest months. Large openings and strategically placed windows frame views of the lush surrounding landscape, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The integration of nature extends beyond the use of materials; it is ingrained in the very structure of the house, which is designed to blend harmoniously with its environment. 

The interior of Vale House continues the theme of simplicity and raw elegance. Furnishings are carefully selected to complement the organic aesthetic of the architecture, featuring clean lines and natural materials such as wood and stone. The open-plan living spaces are designed to facilitate easy movement and interaction, reflecting the communal lifestyle that is central to Jamaican culture. Spaces flow effortlessly from one to another, creating an environment that is both welcoming and intimate, ideal for family gatherings and social events. 
In essence, Vale House is more than just a home; it is a celebration of Jamaican heritage, craftsmanship, and the beauty of natural imperfection. It embodies a design philosophy that values the authenticity of raw materials and the harmonious integration of architecture with nature. Through its thoughtful use of traditional techniques and contemporary design principles, Vale House offers a living experience that is deeply rooted in cultural significance while providing all the comforts and conveniences of modern living. 

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