The design intent of House of Arc is to transform a challenging site condition into an architectural opportunity, creating a home that is both a sanctuary and a seamless extension of its natural surroundings.

Situated at the convergence of Lornie Highway, the Bukit Brown and MacRitchie Forest Reserves, and an exclusive Good Class Bungalow (GCB) enclave, the site enjoys a unique relationship with nature. However, despite its tranquil setting, the persistent noise generated by the adjacent highway presents a significant environmental challenge. The primary objective of the design was therefore to create a dwelling that preserves the serenity of the forested landscape while shielding its occupants from the intrusion of traffic noise.

The house is composed of two complementary volumes: a shorter linear block addressing the street frontage, and a longer curved block that arcs along the site boundary facing both the neighbouring residences and Lornie Highway. The defining arc is more than a formal gesture; it is the project’s central architectural strategy. By embracing the irregular geometry of the land, the curved form establishes a protective acoustic barrier that deflects and mitigates unwanted noise, safeguarding the inner living spaces and enhancing the quality of everyday life.

At the same time, the arrangement of the two blocks creates a sheltered courtyard at the heart of the home. This protected outdoor space acts as a transitional buffer between architecture and landscape, allowing the interior to open generously towards the surrounding greenery. Large openings, framed views, and interconnected spaces dissolve the boundaries between inside and outside, inviting natural light and cross-ventilation deep into the home. The result is a residence that not only responds intelligently to its environmental constraints but also celebrates its unique setting, fostering a calm, light-filled, and immersive living experience within nature.