Context and Challenges
ARA Studio Office stands as a unique architectural anomaly within the bustling shophouse complex of Surabaya City. Measuring a mere 2.3 x 12 meters, this slender structure defies the conventional norms of shophouse typology prevalent in the area. Situated deep within the complex, accessing the office involves navigating through a narrow alley flanked by towering shophouses, adorned with protruding service equipment and accessories, encroaching upon public space.
Design Approach
In response to these challenges, ARA Studio Office adopts a strategy of subtlety and integration with its surroundings. Unlike its vibrant neighbors, the facade of the office is coated in black texture paint, blending seamlessly into the urban fabric. Setbacks in the building’s facade create space for concealed service items, camouflaged by lush vegetation. This design intervention serves to mitigate public interference while establishing a visual pause amidst the bustling streetscape.
Functional Adaptations
Despite its constrained dimensions, ARA Studio Office is meticulously designed to meet the functional requirements of an architect studio. The interior layout eschews conventional floor plans in favor of irregular zoning, optimizing space allocation for various studio activities. The ground floor features a streamlined circulation path, separating working spaces from circulation areas. Vertical circulation is facilitated by continuous stairs, with activity pockets strategically positioned to foster interaction and engagement.
Environmental Considerations
Ventilation emerges as a critical concern in the design of ARA Studio Office. Leveraging its position within the shophouse alley, the building maximizes cross ventilation to ensure a comfortable working environment. Large openings at the front of the building frame views of neighboring shophouses while allowing for the influx of fresh air. Similarly, openings on the backside facilitate airflow, creating a continuous cross ventilation system throughout the building.
Conclusion
ARA Studio Office exemplifies a paradigm shift in shophouse design, challenging conventional typologies with its innovative approach. By harmonizing with its context and prioritizing functionality and environmental performance, the office transcends its physical constraints to emerge as a beacon of architectural ingenuity. In redefining the possibilities of urban infill projects, ARA Studio Office sets a new standard for responsive and sustainable design in dense urban environments.
