This is definitely a house where dream are fulfilled, especially for the family of four who lives in this unique residence. Having spent several years in the New York and New England areas, the owners of this house have developed a particular fondness for the New England style home. With that preference as a staring point, the design aims at capturing the New England spirit and re-creating it within the tropical climatic constraints-ones very different from those of the Northeastern United States.

The result is unmistakably New England-the stately proportion, sense of rhythm, and strategic placement of simplified signature elements such as wall siding and wood shutters are but a few examples. The use of white and light shades of grey in both the exterior and interior space lends the place a calm and cozy atmosphere typical of a fine New England estate. Yet the house is also 'tropical' in its own way-subtle as it may seem. The windows, for instance, are not simply flushed on the wall as would have been the case in an original New England house, but pushed back slightly into the wall to allow for possible sun and rain protection. The covered veranda by the pool is another tropical intervention, one which provides the family with a space to entertain with natural comfort.

As the house is built on a relatively compact plot of land with a klong on one side, its indoor living spaces are organized into an L-shaped volume, leaving the outdoor area to be fully enjoyed as one large semi-enclosed space comprising of a swimming pool and greenery. Approaching the house from the bridge over the klong, one feels embraced by this lively open space, with the New Englandish signature volume-one housing the veranda, living room and master bedroom-standing proudly at the far end of the pool. Such a sense of warm welcome also characterize the entering sequence. Having entered the front gate, one finds oneself in a semi-outdoor entrance hall, loosely sheltered by a louvered canopy and green shrubbery on one side, which subtly yet effectively shields the swimming pool from view. As one moves further along the walkway from that intimate entryway, the space suddenly opens up granting a full view of the pool and garden, before reaching the front door. Such a casual and relaxing sequence is melodious nonetheless.