A long intermediate terrace house conceived for a multi-generational family unfolds across five floor plates, organized around a continuous central void. Numerous rooms and shared spaces overlook this vertical heart, fostering visual connection, orientation, and an abundance of natural light throughout the home.

Reflective surfaces are integrated into the main bar and central furniture, bringing fragments of the ceiling down into the field of view. As guests approach, sit and move around the bar, the architecture appears again in reflection—sometimes whole, sometimes abstracted.

This giant roof is a key idea for many things: It integrates an old house with new spaces for the family, protects the family from the elements and prying eyes, and create spaces for nature within.

The design of Alma House is deeply rooted in its historical context. Situated on the grounds of the former Nan Chiau High School, our vision pays homage to this legacy. We drew inspiration from the past, reflecting on the concept of returning to one's roots—hence the name "Alma House."

At the heart of the collective building lies a connecting spine—a common corridor that threads through the different shophouses. A Living Room for the neighbourhood—welcoming all, from families and youth to staff and visiting delegates, and fostering incidental encounters and shared experiences.