Set against the harsh conditions of a very busy road, with a condominium looming behind and at the side, Sanctuary Shell is conceived as both refuge and retreat. The house is enveloped by a monolithic concrete shell, its surface stained dark like burnt timber, giving it a quiet strength and resilience amidst the noise and bustle of its context.

Every room in the house opens onto a landscaped terrace suspended between interior and shell. These terraces are staggered between the shell and the house, overhanging the pool below. They create layered gardens that buffer against the busy road, filter views, soften sound, and ensure privacy. More than passive green edges, the terraces act as a shared semi-public zone where family members can see and communicate with one another across levels, transforming thresholds into spaces of connection.

The terraces cascade down toward the lap pool, where water, landscape, and architecture merge into a tranquil sequence. At the heart of the home, a soaring double-volume living and dining space anchors family life. This light-filled interior opens directly to the swimming pool, blurring the line between indoors and out, while the overhanging terraces above provide shade and intimacy.

The front elevation is defined by a finely detailed timber screen, shielding the interior from the public street while allowing light and ventilation. Behind it, the stained concrete shell and terraced gardens combine to form a layered sanctuary — an architecture of protection, retreat, and repose in the midst of an urban landscape.

Name: Sanctuary Shell
Type: 3 storey semi-detached house with attic, mezzanine and swimming pool
Location: Joo Chiat Place, Singapore
Site Area: 365.9 m2
Gross Floor Area: 719.7 m2
Status: Completed 2022
Architect: HYLA Architects
Principal Architect: Mr Han Loke Kwang
Assistant Architects: Tiffany Ow, Coco Goh
Main Contractor: : Praxis Contractors Pte Ltd
Structural Engineer: GCE Consulting Engineers
Landscape: Nyee Phoe Flower Garden Pte Ltd
Interior: Graceful Décor Pte Ltd
Photographer: Derek Swalwell