Amento: the relationship between geometry and nature.

Photography: James Retief
Project by James Gorst Architects

Amento, a single-family residence designed by James Gorst Architects, reinterprets the relationship between geometry and nature and the material limits of space.

“The contraposition between the imposing walls and the inhabited monoblocks seems to connect them to a different scale of architectural order. The extension of the walls beyond the inhabited quadrants further emphasizes their conceptual autonomy. They extend like lines into space.”

Architecture and structure

The structure is based on the intersection of two perpendicular walls that form a broken cross in plan, built with white clay bricks and lime mortar. These walls, 700 mm thick, rise imposingly against the surrounding tree line, creating a sculptural presence that dialogues with the environment.

The quadrant layout resulting from this geometric configuration assigns each section a specific function: the northwest houses the master bedroom and a study; the southwest, the common areas of kitchen, dining room and living room; the southeast, the children’s bedrooms and bathrooms; and the northeast, the garage, machine room and laundry room. This organization not only optimizes the use of space, but also offers framed views of the garden from each quadrant, integrating the interior with the landscape.

Inside, the palette of materials and colors is reduced to a minimum to allow the vitality of the natural world outside to predominate.

Amento’s interior features a neutral material and color palette that allows the vibrancy of the natural surroundings to take center stage. An ochre-toned polished concrete floor contrasts with pale brick and lime mortar walls, complemented by Douglas fir paneling for subtle texture. This serene ambiance is strategically interrupted by flashes of intense color in the furnishings and artwork, adding dynamism to the space. The extension of the axial walls into the landscape also gives each residential quadrant its own particular, framed perspective into the surrounding garden.

Amento’s construction has been recognized for excellence, winning the RIBA Suffolk Craftsmanship Award in 2024 in the new construction category.

This award highlights the quality craftsmanship and innovative design that characterize the home.

“True to its original intent, Amento is a home that offers simple, minimalist living. As sunlight penetrates the rooms through large windows, the spaces are imbued with a sense of warmth, while connecting the interior to the garden throughout the day and seasons. With ergonomic design, the practicalities of living are managed seamlessly and effortlessly throughout the house. This has the effect of making home life at Amento a harmonious and deeply pleasurable experience.”