Cool Spaces: Henlock House by Chioco Design

WORDS Cheri Morris IMAGES Casey Dunn

Henlock House by Chioco Design is an architect’s vision of his own home: a harmony of fresh air, open space and contemporary finishes that appear the tangible form of what it feels like to sit down after a long day.

First, the 70 sqm 1950s home that was on the property had to be relocated. Next, Jamie Chioco, principal at Chioco Design in Austin, Texas set out to realise the design of a two-bedroom residence for him and his wife. Having already lived on the property for over a decade and had ample time to consider the inadequacies of the previous home, Henlock House was born a vision of contemplation and certainty.

What was once shuttered off is now pooled in natural light. Four custom fabricated four-metre-tall corner windows welcome views into every corner of the home. Lines between indoors and outdoors are further erased by ground concrete floors. Outdoor scenes are transient within; framed by geometrics afforded by the home’s plan of two overlapping rectangles that connect in the corners.

Here, at the rectangular connection, the main entry point takes the form of two sets of sliding doors. Instead of entering at the front façade, guests meander through a private courtyard. The front door is actually at the centre of the home. Upon approach, the transparency of the sliding door systems reveals a layering that ripples through the house and into the entertainment and pool area at the back.

Looking for more architectural inspiration? Check out this inner-city Vredehoek Home.

h/t: archdaily.com