Windows

In previous projects the window was a beginning place when exploring Sway for the first time. The act of viewing something or someone through a window was an important aspect of the project that has been transferred into this one.

With the idea of the different generations living amongst each other and forming a more integrated there needs to be a balance between the public and private realm. The design has developed from a more traditional housing scheme to one that has small private spaces and a larger communal garden, meaning the relationship between inside and outside needs to be a mixture of private and public.

Light Room

The large window in the common room at Casa Barragan breaks the barrier between inside and outside by extending the internal walls outside and hiding the perimeter window frame. If it were not for the presence of the crossed window frames, the window would become invisible with just the change in floor materials denoting the inside and outside spaces.

Window with a Breeze

The living room window at Asplund's summer house is made up of a variety of layers that transform it from a glass window to a screen window. The window slides up into the wall above the window, opening up the aperture to the outside. The inclusion of a screen, which slides down and locks into the frame, is a response to the surroundings of the house, made up of wetlands harbouring mosquitoes.

Window in the Garden

Le Corbusier's design for his mother's house includes a window that has been formed in the garden wall. Overlooking Lake Leman, the table attached to the wall provides a perfect spot framing lake and giving the viewer a sense of intimacy outside.

Seating Windows

The window seat at Blackwell White Room provides a natural gathering spot for people. Depending on the arrangement of the seating, a number of different seating positions can be taken; looking out of the window, looking into the room, facing another person. By sitting next to a window the perception of inside and outside is changed, allowing the person sitting next to the window to connect with both spaces whilst the view is framed by the building.

Observing Windows

An observing window allows for views over external spaces, in the past used for looking ahead, now it is a place to observe passing people and cars on the streets. It can be both an internal and external space, jutting out like a bay window, or forming an external space.

Reference:

Yoshiharu Tsukamoto Libary, Tokyo Institue of Technology (e.d) (2010) WindowScape: Window Behaviourology. Singapore: Page One Publishing Pte Ltd.