Project Overview

This interior design embodies a Japanese-inspired style while emphasizing a sense of ease and leisure. The concept of “Wabi-Sabi” serves as the central design theme.

"The way a space looks influences how a person grows"
　 　
This residence, the home of a designer couple with two daughters—is a place to genuinely enjoy family time. Located on the second floor, facing a park, it provides a view that transforms with the seasons, capturing the changes from spring to winter. Situated in the outskirts, the residence allows one to enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing rivers and birdsong.

The energy within the space is remarkably comfortable and pleasant. Even when unoccupied, the interior radiates a sense of relaxation, eliminating the need for excessive embellishments.

This dwelling, positioned in harmony with its natural surroundings, not only reflects the principles of Wabi-Sabi aesthetics but also offers a haven for the family to unwind, connect, and relish the simplicity of life.

Organisation

Ning Design INC.

Team

Designer: Tina Hsu

Project Brief

The elliptical shape of the foyer is purposefully directional, guiding towards the entrance pathway, gracefully slanting towards the living room. The aesthetic appeal of the curved arc instills a sense of harmony in individuals. Upon entering the home, a tranquil atmosphere settles in, dispelling one's tense energy.

Spanning an interior of 152 square meters, the spatial arrangement comprises well-lit public spaces and subtly shaded private rooms, with metal partition walls in between. Initially featuring four separate rooms, a strategic decision was made to eliminate one, transforming it into an open-concept study.

The dining area serves a dual purpose as a functional study, with a lower design to ensure a relaxed sitting experience conducive to reading. When hosting numerous guests, the area effortlessly transforms into distinct zones for adults and children, maintaining its original functionality while allowing for flexible uses. As the kids age, the formal dining table becomes a hub for meaningful conversations, free from the distractions of electronic devices. Post-meal, the table seamlessly transitions into a space for board games.

The bar counter accommodates up to ten people, catering to the homeowner's love for entertaining friends, neighbors, colleagues, and camping buddies. The lattice design effectively divides the space without obstructing natural light, simultaneously blocking views toward the TV wall. Children at the counter can engage in conversations with their parents in the kitchen, facilitated by a small window opening for lively exchanges.

Project Need

The design philosophy prioritizes family interaction by allocating a significant portion of the space to common areas. The rooms, primarily intended for relaxation, take up a smaller proportion. The emphasis remains on shared activities and reading in the common spaces.

There are two dining tables, with the informal one doubling as a bar counter. Raised to a height of 96 centimeters, it is more suitable for extended sitting, accommodating around 10 people due to its length.

Italian Marmorino plaster was used on the TV wall as its original material, allowing for a stacked and three-dimensional facade. This choice made it easier to create the Wabi-Sabi aesthetics.

Design Challenge

To maintain a serene atmosphere in the space, deciding on the right amount of decorations presented a challenge. The designer carefully blended the "Wabi-Sabi" style with a cozy, family-friendly vibe using wavy, amorphous shapes to create a secure and elegant yet spiritual ambiance.

In order to meet the owners' goal of emphasizing family interactions, the designer thoughtfully planned the layout, ensuring a balanced connection and separation within the space. This vision materialized through the design of the movable bar counter and strategic use of metal lattices.

Sustainability

Opting for a Japanese-style furniture selection, the bar stools are crafted from natural wood and woven rattan, emphasizing texture and natural elements. Additionally, due to the construction occurring during the pandemic, the use of a new type of latex paint was implemented. This paint not only provides resistance against COVID-19 but is also formaldehyde-free, prioritizing family health.

The space itself faces southeast, receiving ample afternoon sunlight. With excellent natural light and ventilation, the need for daytime illumination is minimized, reducing reliance on air conditioning during Taiwan's often warm summers.