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We all know the Seven Wonders of the World. The mathematically stunning Great Pyramid of Giza. The astonishing Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The magnificent statue of Zeus at Olympia. Each represents remarkable ambition and architectural brilliance, inspiring architects for centuries.
But what does wonder mean today, in a world governed by regulations and practicality rather than emperors and divine authority? Is awe now merely a tourist attraction, something to observe rather than experience?
Not necessarily. While it may not manifest in grand monuments, wonder is often found in subtle details that surprise us. A window that frames a tree like a traditional print. A bathtub poised on a cantilever, offering an unobstructed view of the sky. A ceiling elevated just enough to allow morning light to dance across a concrete floor during breakfast. These moments arise from thoughtful design choices, prompting us to pause, notice, and feel.
Though they may not be monumental in a historical sense, these instances of wonder are significant. The following five projects exemplify extraordinary design choices that create moments of wonder in everyday life.
The Grand House
By Km Architecture Office, Vĩnh Phúc, Vietnam
At The Grand House, light captivates you. Filtered through a terracotta brise soleil, it creates shifting patterns on white walls, functioning like a sundial. This screen not only mitigates heat and glare but also compels attention.
This effect is especially pronounced at the staircase, the central feature of the design, where light and shadow play dramatically throughout the day. This simple yet purposeful design elevates a transitional space into a memorable experience.
Dyes Inlet Farmhouse
By SHED Architecture & Design – Modern Architects Seattle, Silverdale, Washington
At Dyes Inlet Farmhouse, wonder is experienced at dawn. The bedroom windows, while not oversized, are perfectly positioned. From the bed, the view frames the inlet within a minimalist design, making the landscape feel like a painting. The home was redesigned to respect its history and rural context, creating a sanctuary that feels both expansive and inspiring.
ATTO Suites
By Pedevilla Architects, San Candido, Italy
At ATTO Suites, wonder arises not just from the views but from how the architecture immerses you in the surroundings. The suites feature regional spruce and stone pine, selected for their natural qualities. Terrazzo floors and tinted concrete echo the geology of the nearby Sesto brook, while drop-shaped motifs reflect local craftsmanship. Each room opens to multiple views, with a private loggia offering an intimate connection to the Haunold peaks. This commitment to place makes the experience unforgettable.
The Green House
By S^A | Schwartz and Architecture, Palo Alto, California
For many, a deep soak in a tub might be the greatest wonder, and at The Green House, the bath truly offers that pause. Positioned against a large window, the freestanding tub frames a lush patch of greenery, integrating nature into the space. This sanctuary, designed with precision, is filled with thoughtful details, including a terrace surrounded by wildflowers and perfectly placed windows that invite light.
Originally designed in 1966 by Aaron Green, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, and recently expanded with care, the house captivates from every corner.
Split House
By NAJAS ARQUITECTOS, Quito, Ecuador
Split House is named for its clear division between public and private spaces, but its most remarkable feature is the living tree that remains untouched. Najas Arquitectos designed a spiral staircase around the trunk, allowing it to rise through all three levels in Tumbaco Valley.
A linear skylight above traces the bark, capturing changing daylight throughout the day. The tree is visible through large windows on the ground floor, creating an immersive experience as you ascend. Preserving nature in this way transforms the home, creating a moment of wonder that influences the way you interact with the space.
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