The client envisaged a minimalistic and warm 2,000-sq-ft living space for a family of four, and, as such, ample storage is needed.  We frame the space with natural materials such as wood and bamboo, and instill Japanese zen elements such as neutral, calming hues and subtle nuances, reflecting the purity of nature and clarity of modern living.  Different areas are connected by lyrical details, inviting the natural flow of visual beauty and family activities while massive storage is discreetly installed without interrupting the space movements.  In maintaining both privacy and the openness of the original layout, multi-functional screens displaying modern craftsmanship are meticulously designed to strike such balance while providing innovative storage solution.    

 

In sync with the tranquility and harmony in the common area, the client would like to have their children enjoy solitude in their own private and playful domains.  Anchored by selected colours, the respective bedrooms are designed to ignite the children’s imagination via special geometric expression.  The master bedroom serves double functions as a bedroom and also a family theatre – the parents enjoy intimacy yet stay connected with the children. 

 

The overall design offers the client a middle way to enjoy a refined, serene interior rooted in natural sensibility.

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The interior presents a geometric setting blended with visual codes of Japanese zen, which is reflected in the use of understated materials and textures alongside simplistic lines and symmetry.  Such organic and subdued design is achieved with very primal and simple means – wood and bamboo.  Light-coloured wood is applied on the floor, the walls and even the ceiling, complemented by soothing purplish grey padded walls which lend a tactile softness to the general design.  The wooden details across the padded walls seamlessly and rhythmically extend the space through to the dining area and the hidden door leading up to the bedrooms. 

 

Added sensory experience is created by the use of bamboo sticks on a wall near the balcony.  The linearity presented on the rest of the walls mirror the patterns of bamboo, offering an orchestrated visual concerto.  Bamboos are also aptly applied on the wall against which a dark-coloured piano is placed, blending harmoniously with the rest of the interior.

 

The transition between different rooms is punctuated by two screens to define the clarity of modern living – one is positioned between the entrance and the communal area, and another one is installed in the middle of the communal area. This featured screen is storage-screen-décor-in-one, foregrounding form as well as function.  Designed exclusively for the client, this piece of refined work of art is painstakingly made of 5-mm planks to avoid intrusive bulkiness.  A vivid display of three-dimensionality and artistry, the screen thoughtfully features compartments of different depth, breadth and length and in hanging and standing positions. Statically dynamic, it provides privacy and artistically hidden storage without discouraging the flow of light, dialogues and interactions. 

 

The design of the children’s rooms are colour-based – blue and yellow (lime?) for the boy and pastel colours for the girl.   Geometric lines blossom from the walls, the wardrobes to the ceiling, optically mimicking a cave to sparkle the boy’s joyous imagination, the style of which is lasting as the boy grows.  Massive storage is built underneath the girl’s bed, which also serves as literally a social platform for the girl to share with her friends.  Featuring warm, muted mauve and earthy pink, the room a perfect den to enjoy girlie solitude.

 

Instead of a standard bed, we suggest Japanese tatami for the master bedroom to celebrate Japanese aesthetics and storage brilliance.  While enjoying peaceful intimacy, the couple can also connect with their children here as a family theatre.

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** AWARD **

DEZEEN Awards 2019, United Kingdom

FRAME Awards 2019, Amsterdam 

Best Of Year Awards 2018, INTERIOR DESIGN, New York

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