琳瑯閣敘

This project involved a luxury apartment offering great views of Taipei City. In addition to adapting and revamping the space to suit their lifestyle, the client also requested that his residence be a sociable space, suitable for large family gatherings, including guest accommodation. The concept of Hygge is central here, and plays a major role in our design approach. In this project, we strived to create a human-oriented space that fulfils spiritual needs and invokes a sense of belonging. The name Mansion of Treasures was inspired by the owner’s extensive collection of artworks and antiques, which naturally informed the design process.

We chose a narrative design approach to make the design more meaningful and unique. Using biographical elements of the owner, a major player in the textile industry as well as a collector with a vast collection of antiques and art objects, we appropriated a Tang Dynasty song and dance masterpiece Neon Clothes and Feather Clothes. This court song is known for its lavish costumes and elegant movements. A wrinkled, multi-section, three dimensional large-span wall, serves as the metaphor that connects the beauty of fabric and the softness of performance, with the business that sustains the family. In this case, fabric creates space.

The design details produced in the space cannot be considered without taking into account three-dimensional vectors. It is also closely related to the choice of materials, and how they connect to the artefacts and objects in the owner’s collection. In combining these elements, a unique expression of individual taste is achieved. Throughout the design process and furniture placement, the large window with its magnificent view of the city skyline was a major protagonist, ensuring that its dominance was not undermined. Instead of highlighting specific spots and features, the overall space presents itself in the beauty of harmonious interplay.

The use of a rough, rock background in the entrance, lowers the colour temperature to create a grand but serene atmosphere. This effectively heightens the expectations of visitors, but also serves as a stark contrast to the main space. In accordance with Hygge lifestyle principles, Guru has implemented the “Long Table Theory” into residential living. A long, solid wood table in the living area brings about a sense of real life and daily ritual. It creates a corner of warmth, shared happiness, and family cohesion.

Spatial memory is a way to reflect and look back on one’s life. Our approach to so-called narrative design aesthetics is an attitude and methodology that values the artistic process of creation over form. Spatial design, including single elements, should be informed and inspired by themes and aspects of the owner’s background and life story. In other words, design does not exist in a vacuum, there is no design for design’s sake. Once design as a living object, connected to real life is achieved, artistry can follow.

This project was fulfilled in the spirit of achieving the essential elements of a modern home: health, comfort, temperature, technology and art. The criteria for choosing the relevant materials entailed sustainability, weather resistance, and providing a constant comfortable temperature in a sub-tropical climate. The walls are coated with diatomaceous soil that effectively regulate indoor humidity and absorb odours. This in turn improves physical health and increases live ability and comfort. The home exudes extraordinary taste in art and design, as every piece and detail speaks to phenomenal quality and practicality.