隱川

Located in the basement of a residential building, the design of this furniture showroom strives to create a friendly and unneighborly atmosphere, building on the community spirit already present. The project title "Hidden River" refers the unique location as well as the overarching aesthetic that creates a harmonious movement that flows from within the interior to the outdoor spaces. The challenge of breathing new life into an existing 'container' has brought about a design approach that is literary in its conception but grounded in the ideals of openness and freedom to create a beautiful environment that complements the objects on display.

In order to overcome the limitations of the original design of the ageing building, and at the same time add fluidity, softness and depth to the project, we incorporated elements of ancient Chinese poetry, specifically the line, "The moon surges through the water. " The word "chuan" means river, and the written character consists of three vertical strokes. Similarly, we created three "zones" or virtual rivers within an open plan within, which not only divide the space, but guide visitors visually and gracefully through the showroom in a way that elevates the furniture and design objects on display.

Throughout, a grey-scale tonal palette is implemented to serve as a base and to accentuate the curves and contours. Instead of using walls or dividers, three-dimensional sculptures were used to divide the space into distinct areas. The suspended arc-shaped plates in the reception area and VIP room, and the use of circular arc compartments invite a freedom of movement. Conceptually, the three 'virtual rivers' finally converge in the counter area, with an inverted disk-shaped zenith. A clean, lightweight white metal grid with top-to-bottom spot lights, represents the floating image of undulating waves, echoing the theme of flowing water.

3D sculptures permeate the large open plan to provide structure and shape to a space that is largely modular. The layout and atmosphere are easily customizable through infinite combinations of furniture, flooring, light fixtures, and other design items to bring a sense of freedom to display possibilities. Theatrical lighting with the interplay of light and shadow add a sense drama to create an invigorating experience for the visitor as the space invites movement and exploration. The addition of a bar adds an element of relaxation and sociability that further extends the possibilities of the space.

At Guru we believe that buildings and designed spaces should lend themselves to openness and freedom, and enhance people's lives. With this project, we set out to construct a space, inspired by poetic ideas, that stimulates the imagination of the visitor through a unique range of sensory experiences. On the other hand, the space functions as a theatrical setting that lends itself to the actualization of the furniture and design objects on display. Visitors enter an environment that is connected to the outside world, but at the same time provides an autonomous escape into beauty and a life well lived.

Furniture plays a pivotal role within interior design. It provides designers as well as users with objects that exist on the one hand as pure aesthetic objects, and on the other hand providing use-value and function in everyday life. The role of the designer is to facilitate and promote an enhanced, ideal view of life. The aesthetics of beautiful living through good design methods and narratives stimulate an outward movement to include urban design and communal life. Adopting and sharing principles of responsible design practices, in turn injects beauty and possibility into the world.