型‧而上

Applying fine geometric design as a metaphor for sustained growth and an abundance of energy

Design Origin:
As the owner recently started a family and his/her business has reached a phase in which it is stable and starting to take off, the designer utilized a spatial concept rooted in rhythmic vertical lines coupled with 30-degree angled crosscuts; these two main elements form a thread that runs throughout the design. The designer’s interpretation of space as a series of layers was the catalyst for the emergence of this design theme, and inspired this distinctive aesthetic vision.

1. Layout and Flow of Movement
This case involved a new apartment, and being able to start planning from its bare beginnings was a big advantage. Through meticulous analysis of the interior, the designer was able to derive maximal use of the space in a manner best suited to the needs of the owner and household members.

2. Design Concept
Between the entrance and the living room, a metallic divider pierced with vertical slits which draw the eye upward was installed to act as a metaphoric blessing for both business and family to steadily grow and develop. As one steps into the common area, the open-concept living, dining, and bar areas form an expansive, multi-functional shared living space. From the area above the snack bar to the floor-to-ceiling window, the designer installed triangular plates of different sizes to create wing shapes that spread across the ceiling and extend down onto the wall. Alternating between wood, thin slate, and metal, and highlighted with backlighting, this design radiates an energy that feels on the verge of taking flight. Furthermore, the different components that make up the open common area can be mixed, moved around, or separated at will.

3. Lighting as Enhancement
Lighting has always played a role akin to that of a make-up artist, or seasoning for spaces. This case applies a variety of lighting interpretation techniques, one example being the band of white ribbing above the TV which produces an illusion of brighter and darker layers of light thanks to the contrasts produced by the wall wash lighting. In addition, the indirect lighting at the back of the bar area and the flying machine shaped decorative lamps above the dining table create a focal point and add to the ambiance.

4. Customized Design
The entrance is not furnished with the usual high cabinets, but rather uses a hidden design technique to integrate a storage room, shoe cabinet and guest washroom into the long wall that stretches around the corner from the entry foyer. The bar area near the entrance contains features which allow for a variety of dining and social functions, including a glass cooktop stove and thermostatic wine cabinet installed under the snack bar, and the two-tiered bar counter itself, all of which are very practical for the sociable owner who enjoys playing host. In addition, a convenient, user-friendly electric door separates the snack bar from the neighboring kitchen area. The master bedroom features an audiovisual wall beyond the foot of the bed which acts as a divider to separate room areas. Besides creating a space that can be used as a dedicated changing room, the front of the audiovisual wall is upholstered in soft leather with vertical seams to complement the three dimensional wooden panels covering the wall at the head of the bed.

5. Use of Materials
1. The simple, unadorned cement board siding used on the wall of the entryway and extending down to the hallway expresses a unique personality and taste. 2. The distinctive patterning and texture, similar to modern splash ink painting, of the large natural stone tiling on the TV wall complements the furniture and audiovisual equipment, with its big personality, in the living room. 3. Made from steel inlay on stone sheets, the 30-degree beveled wall panel between the two windows draws the eye vertically downwards from the winged ceiling, helps to frame the window view, and also serves as a wall recess to hide the curtains. 4. The snack bar uses a large amount of reflective materials such as titanium and gray mirror and its exquisite workmanship shows off its luxurious details. In particular, the strong contrast created by the recessed lighting that wraps around the stone bar counter serves as fuel for the imagination. 5. The children’s room takes safety and growth into consideration, and uses soft blue, off-white, gray, and brown leather that extends down the walls to the floor, with one lively wall inspired by a city skyline silhouette.