House of Cluster by YD Architects: Harmonizing Family Living with Nantou’s Mountain Landscape

Nestled at the foot of a serene mountain in Nantou, Taiwan, the House of Cluster by YD Architects reimagines family living through a thoughtfully designed settlement of interconnected homes. Inspired by the natural slope of the terrain, the site rises gently from west to east, granting the eastern section panoramic views over the surrounding village and lush mountain scenery.

Site-Responsive Design for Mountain Living

YD Architects approached this project with a vision of integrated yet private family spaces. The design disperses multiple architectural volumes across the terrain, responding directly to the site’s natural contours. Each building forms part of a cohesive cluster while creating distinct outdoor courtyards, blending seamlessly with the local topography and existing vegetation. This multi-layered approach allows residents to enjoy both communal interaction and personal retreat.

The layout incorporates lush courtyards, interconnecting corridors, and strategic openings that maximize natural light and ventilation. The flow between indoor and outdoor spaces encourages a harmonious coexistence with nature while maintaining a sense of intimacy within each family unit.

Materiality and Climate Adaptation

The buildings employ steel structures paired with layered exterior walls and insulated roofing systems, ensuring durability and thermal comfort. To address Nantou’s variable climate, the architects included staggered eaves and canopies, providing shade during sunny days and shelter during rain, enhancing the overall livability of the residence.

Balancing Privacy and Community

While the House of Cluster spans a generous 776 m², it avoids overwhelming the site. Instead, it integrates naturally into the surrounding village and mountain landscape, giving the impression of a familiar neighbor. The design promotes family cohesion while offering private retreats, allowing members to live collectively without sacrificing personal space.

The project’s thoughtful interplay of architecture, landscape, and climate demonstrates how contemporary family homes can harmonize with natural settings, providing a blueprint for sustainable, community-oriented living in mountainous regions.

All photographs are works of Yu-Chen Chao