APS concept nestles wooden villa into the vietnamese countryside

Villa of The Star by APS Concept blends with Dalat pine forest

Design practice APS Concept takes over the renovation project of the resort Villa of The Star, a residence nestled in the Dalat pine forest, Vietnam. As part of the Mo Stay plan, the house is built around three main factors, connectivity, locality, and sustainability. The space merges with the surrounding forest landscape prompting a human-nature relationship. Designed to endure in time and suit the natural context, the structure uses locally sourced sustainable materials such as stone, pine wood, concrete, steel, and bricks. The plot stands alongside a low ‘taluy’ river bank, therefore the construction of stone steps forming a natural wall was needed both to not affect the natural state and avoid landslides and heavy rain sweeping rocks into the house.

all images by Quang Tran

two wooden volumes shield private zones under pitched roofs

The structure forms three main volume blocks, two roofed units, and a lower connecting part that shapes the ground floor. The solid ground mass sets up a clad with tangled stone and supports the two components with pointed roofs. Each one of the housing units is made of natural pine wood in two different colors. Modified pine wood, known for its moisture resistance, mildew resistance, termite resistance, heat resistance, stability, durability, and environmental friendliness, is chosen by the design team as the main material for the structure, paneling the ceiling, walls, and floors. Natural tones vary from light to dark according to each area adding depth to the space and avoiding monotony. Large glass windows are selectively arranged to provide good views of the forest and natural light. Grinding concrete floors are used in the common zones, such as the living room and kitchen, separating public to private functions. The space expands through large glass doors leading to the outdoor area in a flexible open layout that connects indoors to outdoors. The team opts for a design that brings users close to nature, and forest scenery, but, also, ensures privacy and comfort.