Large concrete boxes filled with edible plants form the facade of this house in Kuala Lumpur by locally based studio Formzero.
Planter Box House is a three-storey house that celebrates sustainable living and self-sufficiency.

Designed by Formzero for a retired couple who grow their own foods, the house provides planting space for more than 40 types of edible plants within a series of cascading concrete boxes.
The architects refer to the house as "a redefinition of the contemporary tropical house", prioritising light, natural ventilation and plants.

In addition to housing a wide array of plants, each concrete planter provides stormwater retention, becoming small irrigation reservoirs connected to a system that allows the control of the water level in each box. "This project serves as a valuable opportunity and experience not only for the client to learn about farming in a tropical setting, but also for the surrounding community," said the team.
"The life of the building is expected to continually improve, develop and grow organically along with the married couple."

Upon entering, a large living space leads through to a double-height kitchen and dining area, with a full-height, openable glass window. Above, a bedroom and study sits on the first floor, with another bedroom and lounge at second floor level, opening onto a terrace.
The house is topped by a roof accessed by a spiral staircase, enclosed by planters but also covered ...