Header: Mario Wibowo
El House by Wahana Architects was designed to serve both as a residence and a relaxing oasis for extended family, close friends and colleagues. The 1,158 m2 home, built on a 730m2 site in Jakarta, features a welcoming design aimed at nurturing connections across generations and hosting numerous intended gatherings.


The social heart of the house
To set the atmosphere of ease and comfort, the architects turned the spatial order of the structure outwards. Living and dining areas present the central core of the house, which serves as the social heart of the house. The core’s open design provides plenty of flexibility, allowing for accommodation of both intimate dinners and large social gatherings. The skilfully integrated professional-grade kitchen provides a sense of connectivity and sophisticated hospitality.

A two-volume structure
The spatial hierarchy of the El House is shaped by the concept of layering. The residence is divided into two separate volumes, divided by a lean, elongated transitional space. Executed as a linear reflective pond, the space leaves room for contemplation and pause while at the same time creating a connection with the natural landscape surrounding the house.


El House’s protective envelope
Secondary skin in brow hues wraps the right wing of the El House. Both a protective veil and aesthetic layer, the envelope creates depth, adds texture and a distinct visual identity to the façade. The elaborate elements thus become part of the broader architectural dialogue taking place between layered surfaces, solid masses, water and transitional voids.

Architecture centred on togetherness
At the same time, restrained and expressive, the latest project by Wahana Architects presents a contemporary vision of a space for domestic life and social gatherings. Material palette, spatial clarity and design rooted in hospitality define an architecture centred on togetherness. The intuitive continuity of design fosters interactions while strengthening a notion of openness and inclusivity.

Wahana Architects
Wahana Architects, spearheaded by Rudy Kelana, is a Jakarta-based architectural consulting firm. Known for their designs that create a strong bond between architecture and the natural landscape, the company specialises in both residential and commercial clients. By understanding the physical, social, and organisational needs of its clients, the company creates buildings that respond to the needs of humans who occupy them. Wahana Architects takes ownership of every part of the project from concept through design, development and supervision of construction.


El House living space welcomes families and friends into a comfortable environment designed for engagement. The exterior facade builds a protective second skin of the building that draws attention while connecting the residence with the natural surroundings.
Technical sheet
Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
Site area: 730 sqm
Built Area: 1,158 sqm
Principal Architect: Rudy Kelana
Design Team: Ruth Connie Rajagukguk, Gloria Gracia
Contractor: HansLala Contractor
Photographer: Mario Wibowo
Source: v2com-newswire