No_2_1956 — Page 15

Dr. CAREY-HUGHES' RESIDENCE

Architect: Mr. A.V. J. Alvares

Photograph from the model looking towards the main entrance on the north side.

In theory a circular house is the succeeded in taking full advantage ing is set on the side of a hill facing most economical construction requir- of this design and yet avoided the due south, this terrace, which over- ing the minimum amount of walling, awkwardness arising from the seg- looks Kai Tak Airport and the har- foundation and roof for the area en- mentation of the circle for the ar- bour beyond. provides a magnificent closed, In practice, however, advan- rangement of the rooms.

unobstructed view of the whole vista. tage cannot be taken of this fact be- cause of the difficulty of arranging

The device of imposing a second The circular stair hall, set in the partitions 50 as to avoid awkward circle partially intersecting the one exact centre of the main building, is shaped rooms. and the fixing of enclosing the main building to form of sufficient diameter to provide a doors and windows.

the living and dining room combina- truly imposing stairway and. at the tion, is a particularly happy one and same time. eliminates any awkward Such a shaped house, however, is results in an unusual shape for these angles in the rooms surrounding it. being built in Hong Kong to the plans rooms which avoids all acute angles On the ground floor, the western side of Mr. A. V. Alvares, and it is inter- and, in addition, provides a very fine is reserved for servants' rooms and esting to note how this architect has terrace extension. Since the build- covered service area, and the eastern

South elevation showing the terrace.

part for the dining room with a very large kitchen immediately adjoining it. The living room and the dining room, although forming one unit. are distinguished by the different floor levels and the flower box ar- rangement. The setting of the win- dows in the north and south walls allows complete through draught and ample light.

The position of the garage and the study, which are extensions on the east side, adds to the convenience of the layout and balances the de- sign.

Only the main building is two storeys in height, the upper floor comprising the master bedroom with huge built-in closets on one side and a bathroom on the other; a guest room also with attached bathroom: and two children's bedrooms with a bathroom between. These are form- ed naturally and logically around the central hall, provided with all ameni- ties, yet in no way eccentric in shape.

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