In the current climate of high inflation and rising land costs, there is a need to find ways to lease new life into homes while also being cost-effective and sustainable. Opting for an A&A (Additions and Alterations) build is one of the most effective ways to renovate a home to a client’s desires without incurring the substantial expenses associated with total demolition and reconstruction of a new structure.

The defining feature of this residence lies in its architectural finesse, particularly showcased by the minimalist façade screens adorning the second storey. These screens not only allow ample natural light but also ensure complete privacy, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. Being an inter-terrace unit with an east-facing orientation, the design initially faced challenges such as direct sunlight exposure and limited natural light in the heart of the home.

To tackle these issues the original roof tiles were replaced with a steel roof featuring skylights, carefully designed to filter out 70% of the heat while flooding the stairwell with natural light. Adjacent to the car porch, a yucca tree was strategically planted to shield the home from the morning sun, its growth planned to eventually integrate with a specially designed hole in the porch's slab. This slab, serving also as a balcony for the master bedroom on the second floor, is complemented by adaptable powder-coated steel screens that can fully open or close as desired. Further enhancements include a skylight above the shower, which bathes the top-floor bathroom in natural sunlight.

Instead of conventional partitions, a metal-and-glass screen door separates the kitchen, promoting airflow throughout the home. This integration not only addresses climatic considerations but also enhances natural ventilation, crucial for maintaining a comfortable living environment. In reconfiguring the ground-floor, the location of the bathroom was swapped with a previously dark, windowless back room. This transformation not only improved the room's functionality but also infused it with natural light and a view of the small garden, enhancing its ambiance and livability.

The addition of a third floor was meticulously planned to ensure it harmonizes with the existing structure, purposefully set back from the façade to maintain visual harmony with neighboring units and prevent overshadowing.

Overall, through meticulous design choices and strategic interventions, this residence exemplifies how thoughtful design solutions can transform challenges into opportunities, creating a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.