NOOK Magazine

04/08/2026

𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗦 | 𝗔 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

Nestled within the farmlands of Jaspur, Baroda, India, House Under the Trees by Doro is a remarkable example of architecture shaped by the land rather than imposed upon it. Carefully positioned beneath a dense canopy of mature Neem trees, the residence embraces the site's natural contours, allowing the surrounding landscape to define both its character and spatial experience.
Designed as a peaceful retreat for a couple pursuing a slower, agriculture-focused lifestyle, the home celebrates simplicity, sustainability and a profound respect for nature. Earthen walls, timber elements and an elevated roof create a contemporary interpretation of vernacular architecture, while preserving the existing ecosystem with minimal intervention.
The elongated linear plan frames uninterrupted views of the surrounding greenery, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. A generous wooden deck appears to float above the natural ravines, offering tranquil spaces for relaxation, reflection and gatherings beneath the trees. The elevated canopy enhances natural ventilation, provides shelter from the tropical climate and creates the feeling of sitting beneath a second forest canopy.
Rather than altering the landscape, the project evolved through careful observation across changing seasons, allowing architecture to respond thoughtfully to climate, topography and the rhythms of everyday life. House Under the Trees is an elegant reminder that the finest architecture often begins by respecting what already exists.

Project Information
Project: House Under the Trees
Location: Jaspur, Baroda, India
Building Type: Private Residence
Architect: Doro
Design Approach: Earth Architecture | Climate-Responsive Design | Nature-Integrated Living
Architect: Doro
Project Team & Credits: Naomy Parikh, The Fishy Project, Stavan Bhagora, ADCE & Babubhai
Original Text: Courtesy of the Architects

04/08/2026

𝑷𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝑯𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆: 𝑨 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝑬𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒔 𝑶𝒏𝒆

Set within the lush cloud forests of Mindo, Ecuador, Pitaya House by Taller General and José María Sáez presents a refined vision of contemporary tropical living. Conceived as a holiday retreat, the project embraces the surrounding landscape, encouraging a seamless dialogue between architecture and the rich biodiversity of the Andean rainforest.
Rather than separating the built environment from nature, the house acts as a living framework where flora, fauna and everyday life coexist harmoniously. Its carefully organised layout creates multiple layers of indoor and outdoor experiences, offering privacy where needed while maintaining uninterrupted visual and physical connections to the forest.
Constructed primarily from Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), the residence demonstrates an innovative yet sustainable approach to contemporary architecture in Ecuador. Elevated structural elements protect the timber from ground moisture, while modular living capsules and generous transitional spaces provide remarkable flexibility for family life and leisure.
Pitaya House is more than a holiday residence—it is an architectural statement on sustainable living, where modern comfort is thoughtfully balanced with ecological responsibility. The project illustrates how intelligent design can celebrate local climate, natural beauty and material innovation without compromising on elegance.

Project Information
Project: Pitaya House
Location: Mindo, Ecuador
Building Type: Holiday Residence
Architects: Taller General + José María Sáez
Primary Material: Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Architects: Taller General + José María Sáez
Photography & Project Credits: José María Sáez, Martín Real, Florencia Sobrero & JAG Studio
Original Text: Courtesy of the Architects

#𝗟𝘂𝘅𝘂𝗿𝘆𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 NOOK Magazine

02/08/2026

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘 𝑯𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆: 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒊𝒆𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒑𝒔 𝑨𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆

Nestled on the tranquil hills of Ban Pong in Chiang Mai, The Shadow House is a thoughtful interpretation of architecture that celebrates restraint rather than dominance. Designed by Studio Sifah, the residence embraces the philosophy that a home should enhance its natural surroundings instead of competing with them.
Its gentle curved form follows the mountain's contours, allowing the building to merge seamlessly with the landscape. Expansive openings invite fresh mountain air, abundant daylight and ever-changing shadows into the interiors, creating living spaces that evolve beautifully throughout the day.
Natural materials and a calm, understated palette reinforce the connection between the home and its environment, while every room frames carefully curated views of the surrounding forest. Rather than becoming the focal point, the architecture quietly recedes, allowing nature itself to define the living experience.
The Shadow House demonstrates how contemporary residential design can achieve elegance through simplicity, proving that the most memorable architecture is often the one that listens to its surroundings.

Project Information
Project: The Shadow House (Baan Phaeng)
Location: Ban Pong, Hang D**g District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Building Type: Private Residence
Area: 160 sq.m.
Architect & Interior Designer: Studio Sifah
Credit Line
Architect & Interior Design: Studio Sifah
Photography: Pran Maneerat & PotoArchitects

31/07/2026

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗩𝗔𝗟: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

The most memorable homes are those that respect the landscape rather than reshape it. THE VAL, nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Khao Yai, Thailand, is a remarkable residential development where architecture is guided by the rhythms of nature instead of competing with it.
Rather than imposing itself upon the landscape, the masterplan carefully studies the movement of sunlight, prevailing winds, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Fourteen exclusive residences are thoughtfully positioned to preserve natural views while ensuring privacy through beautifully landscaped green corridors that serve as living boundaries between each home.
At the heart of THE VAL lies a philosophy of timeless living. Designed as a retreat for generations, the development recognises that true luxury is found in peace, openness, and an enduring connection with nature. By placing the project's lush green spaces under shared community stewardship, the landscape will continue to flourish for years to come, preserving both its beauty and ecological value.
Material honesty further defines the project. Natural finishes, generous glazing, and open-plan interiors encourage daylight and fresh air to flow effortlessly throughout every residence. The seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces creates an atmosphere of calm, comfort, and wellbeing, where every moment feels connected to the surrounding forest.
More than a collection of homes, THE VAL represents a refined architectural vision—one where sustainability, privacy, and nature coexist in perfect balance. It is a place where architecture quietly steps back, allowing the landscape to become the true protagonist.
Project Credits
Project: THE VAL Khao Yai
Category: Luxury Residential Development
Location: Khao Yai, Thailand
Developer: THE VAL
Landscape Concept: Nature-led Master Planning
Featured by: NOOK Magazine
Text: Adapted and edited by the NOOK Magazine Editorial Team.

31/07/2026

31/07/2026

𝗡𝗵𝗮̀ 𝗧𝗵𝗼̂𝗻 Đ𝗶̀𝗻𝗵: 𝗔 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆

The finest homes are those that reflect not only architectural ambition but also the lifestyle and memories of the people who inhabit them. Nhà Thôn Đình, designed by H.2, is a compelling example of contemporary Vietnamese architecture that celebrates openness, family life, and a profound connection with nature.
Conceived as a weekend retreat where generations can gather, the house prioritises shared experiences over enclosed private spaces. Sunlit communal areas, lush greenery, and generous play spaces encourage children to explore freely while creating meaningful moments with their grandparents. The result is a home that feels both welcoming and deeply personal.
Natural light forms the essence of the design. Open-plan living spaces flow effortlessly into gardens and terraces, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. Every level has been carefully planned to enrich daily life—from family gatherings and quiet reading to gardening and outdoor dining beneath the open sky.
Materiality is equally significant. Bluestone, grey laterite, exposed aggregate concrete, timber, and abundant planting create a warm, tactile atmosphere that recalls the owner's childhood memories while harmonising beautifully with the surrounding rural context. Rather than relying on luxury finishes, the project demonstrates how honest materials and thoughtful craftsmanship can produce architecture of lasting character.
Nhà Thôn Đình is a reminder that contemporary design can remain deeply rooted in tradition, creating a home where architecture becomes a bridge between generations, nature, and everyday living.

Project Credits
Project: Nhà Thôn Đình
Category: Private Residence
Location: Hữu Bằng, Thạch Thất, Hanoi, Vietnam
Building Area: 165 m²
Design & Project Description: H.2
Photography: Hoang Le
Featured by: NOOK Magazine
Text: Adapted and edited by the NOOK Magazine Editorial Team.

31/07/2026

𝗕𝗮𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗮 𝗡𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗸: 𝗔 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱’𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲

Modern architecture is at its finest when it honours the memories of a place while embracing contemporary living. Baan Sala Nong Chok, designed by Pomelo Studio, is a thoughtful interpretation of this philosophy, creating a residence that feels deeply connected to its suburban waterside setting.
Designed as a two-storey gabled house, the project separates its primary functions into distinct volumes linked by open walkways. This arrangement enhances natural ventilation, introduces spatial depth, and creates a fluid dialogue between indoor and outdoor living. A generous waterside terrace provides a peaceful setting for relaxation, while a central courtyard welcomes daylight into the heart of the home and nurtures a vibrant connection with nature.
The material palette is intentionally restrained yet highly expressive. Exposed concrete, steel, timber, and traditional clay brick are combined with remarkable sensitivity. The patterned brick façade lends texture and warmth, allowing the house to blend naturally into its surroundings rather than compete with them.
Beyond its architectural refinement, Baan Sala Nong Chok reflects a lifestyle rooted in simplicity, tranquillity, and environmental awareness. Every design decision contributes to a home that is both timeless and contemporary.
Recognised for its architectural excellence, the project received the Golden Pin Awards 2025 – Mark Winner in the Spatial Design category, further affirming its outstanding contribution to residential architecture in Asia.

Project Credits
Project: Baan Sala Nong Chok
Category: Private House / Residential
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Year: 2024
Interior Architect: Pomelo Studio
Award: Golden Pin Awards 2025 – Mark Winner (Spatial Design)
Images & Project Information: Pomelo Studio
Featured by: NOOK Magazine
Text: Adapted and edited by the NOOK Magazine Editorial Team.

29/07/2026

𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆

In contemporary residential architecture, true luxury is no longer defined by grandeur alone—it is measured by how seamlessly a home belongs to its surroundings. River Hills Residence, designed by Miró Rivera Architects in Austin, Texas, is a remarkable demonstration of this philosophy.
Rather than dominating the landscape, the residence gently emerges from the natural terrain, allowing architecture and topography to become one. Two partially embedded wings embrace a tranquil courtyard, while an elegant glass pavilion connects the living spaces, creating uninterrupted visual links between indoors and the surrounding landscape.
Materiality plays a defining role in the home's timeless character. Weathering steel, reclaimed long-leaf pine, limestone, and expansive glazing are thoughtfully composed to deliver warmth, durability, and authenticity. Every material has been selected not merely for its aesthetic appeal but for the way it enhances the experience of light, texture, and place.
The heart of the residence is an impressive great room, where floor-to-ceiling glazing dissolves the boundary between architecture and nature. Deep roof overhangs provide environmental protection from the Texas climate while framing carefully curated views of the surrounding trees and lakeside setting.
Throughout the project, one discovers a refined balance between sustainability, craftsmanship, and understated elegance. The architecture celebrates natural light, carefully framed vistas, and the quiet luxury of thoughtful spatial planning rather than unnecessary ornamentation.
River Hills Residence is a compelling reminder that exceptional residential design is not about creating a monument—it is about creating a meaningful relationship between people, architecture, and the environment. It is this quiet confidence that makes the project truly timeless.

Project Credits

Project: River Hills Residence
Category: Residential Architecture – House
Location: Austin, Texas, United States
Architect: Miró Rivera Architects
Completed: 2022
Built Area: 7,120 sq ft (661.5 sq m)
Structural Engineer: Architectural Engineers Collaborative
MEP Engineer: Bay & Associates
Lighting Design: ArcLight Design
Photography: Casey Dunn, Bud Franck & Paul Finkel
Featured by: NOOK Magazine
Text: Adapted and edited by the NOOK Magazine Editorial Team.

28/07/2026

𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗮 𝗔𝗸𝗶́𝗴𝗮: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲, 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱

In an age where luxury homes often compete for attention through size and spectacle, Casa Akíga offers a refreshingly different vision. Designed by Studio Saxe in the tropical landscape of Costa Rica, this remarkable residence demonstrates that exceptional architecture is not about dominating nature—it is about becoming part of it.
Rather than revealing itself at first glance, the house unfolds gradually through a carefully choreographed journey. Every pathway, framed view and open space strengthens the connection between architecture, lush rainforest and the distant Pacific Ocean, creating an experience that feels both serene and immersive.
The project is a thoughtful response to climate, topography and local culture. Passive cooling strategies, natural cross-ventilation, deep roof overhangs, locally sourced stone, responsibly selected timber and integrated solar technology combine to create a home that is as environmentally responsible as it is visually compelling. Sustainability is not an afterthought here—it forms the very foundation of the design.
Equally impressive is the dialogue between contemporary architecture and traditional craftsmanship. The use of natural materials and climate-responsive design principles reflects a deep respect for place while delivering a refined, modern lifestyle that feels timeless.
At NOOK Magazine, we celebrate projects that redefine the future of architecture through innovation, environmental responsibility and enduring beauty. Casa Akíga is a powerful reminder that the finest homes are not those that stand above the landscape, but those that belong to it.

Project Credits
Project: Casa Akíga
Architect: Studio Saxe
Location: Cabo Velas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Project Year: 2025
Category: Private House
Building Area: 1,347 m²
Photography: Thibault Cartier