Striking terraced house was made for family gatherings

Architect Lew Joeson rebuilt his family’s home in the mountainous city of Chongqing, China, and it’s a study in how to use terraces to dramatic effect.

Commissioned by Joeson’s father, who wanted a house for his mother and to host family gatherings, Joeson designed a striking residence that feels right at home with its hilly surroundings.

E-Jay

The home embraces the landscape’s natural incline with a layout that steps upward in wide terraces, which are filled with potted plants, garden beds, and seating. The house has an entrance on both ends: The one in the back features a set of stairs that cuts directly through the roof, while the one in the front is reached by a paved exterior pathway leading from the bottom of the house to the top like a maze, creating little moments of pause at each terrace.

Meanwhile, the interior was built for housing large gatherings. The main family spaces fill the first floor, including a serene living room, dining area, and kitchen. These central spaces are surrounded by bedrooms, which include two rooms with three beds each to really maximize sleeping space.

Chong Wang

Chong Wang

Chong Wang