As the effects of climate change paired with rapid urbanisation change the face of our cities, people are increasingly on the hunt for spaces that bring them closer to nature. Structures that are not just surrounded by greenery, but also include them as living breathing parts of the spaces are becoming increasingly important. This is why biophilic homes are on the rise. These homes bring together beauty and functionality to connect their habitats to the environment they occupy.

The Jomthong Raintree House, located in the heart of Chom Thong district in Chiang Mai, Thailand, does just that. It is a unique example of residential architecture that emerges from the embrace of a lush Chamchuri forest. Designed by Chiang Mai-based studio Sher Maker, this residence epitomises the harmonious coexistence between human habitation and the untouched wilderness surrounding it. Alongside a clear commitment to ecological stewardship and a reverence for local craftsmanship, the home stands as a testament to sustainable forest houses.

At first glance, the Jomthong Raintree House appears as if it has emerged organically from its verdant surroundings. Positioned on the edge of a three-acre plot, the house serves as a nature observatory—a space designed not merely to inhabit but also to engage with the ecosystem. The architectural design approach is rooted in simplicity. It features a gabled roof and reinforced concrete structure, executed with local expertise. The building's walls are crafted out of locally sourced Shorea wood encased in timber battens and coated with repurposed engine oil. These design features become a showcase of the sustainable ethos deeply ingrained in the region's building traditions.

The home is planned to reflect a thoughtful balance between privacy and connectivity with nature. A central hallway leads through the residence and culminates in private living spaces strategically positioned on the sloping terrain. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted vistas of the Chamchuri forest and the majestic Doi Inthanon mountain range, creating a seamless visual transition between indoor comfort and outdoor splendour. The observatory, nestled at the far end of the house, provides a tranquil space for contemplation, particularly during the enchanting moments before sunset.

One of the defining principles of the Jomthong Raintree House is minimal intervention in the environment it sits in. The sustainable design respects the natural topography, ensuring the continued flow of the community stream and preserving access for local residents. The elevated structure, supported by sturdy stilts and a concrete foundation, minimises disruption to the forest floor and simultaneously uses the sloping landscape to its advantage. Walls that act as a division fence also serve as permeable boundaries, allowing the exchange of air, wind and the sounds of the surrounding environment.

In addition to these nuanced residential design interventions, the choice of materials used underscores the project's commitment to sustainability. Local Shorea wood, known for its durability and weather resistance, forms the primary building material. Timber battens, a hallmark of traditional Northern Thai architecture, envelop the structure, providing protection as well as aesthetic continuity. The innovative use of repurposed engine oil as a wood preservative not only enhances longevity but also reflects resourcefulness and a deep connection to local practices.

The Jomthong Raintree House is very clearly more than a static dwelling; it's a dynamic space that evolves with its inhabitants. Particularly interesting is the observatory which acts as a multifunctional area and is designed to accommodate various family activities, ensuring its relevance and functionality for years to come. This adaptability mirrors the resilience of the natural ecosystem it inhabits—a place where flexibility and sustainability converge.

More than a private residence, the Jomthong Raintree House embodies a philosophy of sustainable living. By integrating architectural innovation with environmental consciousness, Sher Maker has created a home that speaks to a broader ethos of coexistence—a reminder that human habitats can seamlessly integrate with, rather than impose upon, the natural world.

In a rapidly changing world, the Jomthong Raintree House can act as a blueprint for responsible architecture that celebrates the language of the forest while nurturing a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. As we navigate the complexities of modern living, this home is a reminder of the profound beauty and resilience found in living in harmony with our surroundings.

Project Details

Name: Jomthong Raintree House
Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Completion: 2023
Architects: Sher Maker
Lead Architect: Patcharada Inplang, Thongchai Chansamak
Contractor: P27 Architecture