An ingenious architectural solution has transformed a compact home located deep within a narrow alley in Da Nang City, Vietnam, into a sunlit haven through the strategic use of vertical lighting and creative design elements. The house, which faced significant challenges due to its awkward location and irregular shape with only one open side, now serves as a showcase for innovative residential design that maximizes natural light and creates an open, welcoming atmosphere.
The architect, Bui Dang Khoa from design firm 90S, addressed the property's challenging constraints by implementing a comprehensive vertical lighting and ventilation strategy. Two strategically placed skylights—one positioned in the middle of the house and another at the back—create three continuous zones for optimal sunlight penetration and airflow throughout the structure. These zones include the front facade, the middle skylight area, and the rear skylight section, ensuring that natural light reaches every corner of the home.
To maximize the effectiveness of the lighting solution, the architect incorporated thoughtful design elements throughout the structure. The stairs and flooring sections directly beneath the skylights feature carefully planned cut-out designs that allow light to flow seamlessly from the upper levels down to the spaces below. The thin metal staircase not only creates a light and minimalist aesthetic perfectly suited to the narrow space but also allows the filtered sunlight to create beautiful, dramatic sunbeam effects throughout the day.
The home's irregular shape presented additional design challenges, which the architect solved through the use of soft, flowing curves that create visual continuity and effectively conceal any structural imperfections. This approach gives the interior a seamless, harmonious feel despite the awkward proportions of the original space.
The first floor houses all the main living areas, including a thoughtfully arranged living room, an integrated kitchen-dining area, a practical parking hall, and a full bathroom. The compact living room showcases neutral-toned furniture that creates a calm, serene atmosphere, while the distinctive TV wall features a unique folded design that serves as an eye-catching focal point.
The dining area demonstrates the architect's attention to both form and function, featuring a smooth, curved dining table that appears to lift organically from the floor, creating strong visual connections throughout the space. A carefully positioned tree adds a natural element that complements the abundant natural light streaming in from above. The kitchen area has been cleverly positioned next to the staircase, ensuring seamless connectivity with the main living spaces while maintaining an appropriate degree of separation for practical cooking activities.
Ventilation was a key consideration throughout the design process. The kitchen includes a dedicated window that provides essential ventilation to eliminate cooking odors and maintain air quality. This attention to airflow, combined with the vertical lighting strategy, ensures that the home feels fresh and comfortable despite its compact footprint and challenging location.
Privacy concerns were addressed by positioning all bedrooms on the upper floors, where residents can enjoy maximum privacy while still benefiting from the innovative lighting design. Even the bathroom, strategically located next to one of the skylights, benefits from excellent natural ventilation and abundant daylight, creating a bright and airy atmosphere typically difficult to achieve in narrow urban homes.
This project, designed and constructed by architectural firm 90S under the leadership of architect Bui Dang Khoa, demonstrates how creative problem-solving and innovative design approaches can overcome significant spatial and environmental constraints. The transformation proves that even the most challenging urban properties can be converted into comfortable, light-filled living spaces through thoughtful architectural intervention and strategic use of vertical lighting solutions.
