Sunshine Home: A Design Transformation Enhancing Ventilation and Lighting

Residence with Innovative Patios and Aerodynamic Principles

Sunshine Home is a special-shaped residential unit located in Poly Villa, Jiangbei District, Chongqing. The project, designed by Wanxiao Zhang and his team at Odes Design Studio, stands out for its innovative use of patios and aerodynamic principles to transform the interior space and enhance the living experience.

The main challenge of the project was the poor lighting and ventilation in the basement and the first and second floors, which were closed on three sides. To address this, the designer implemented a three-step approach to optimize the space.

Firstly, structural adjustments were made to improve ventilation and lighting. Four lighting patios were built in the basement, connecting it with the first level. The staircase was redesigned to run obliquely and linearly through the three floors, creating the best air circulation motion line in the vertical and horizontal directions. This not only solved the lighting problem in the basement but also increased the use efficiency and living comfort of the entire interior space.

Secondly, the spatial layout was carefully planned to separate dynamic and static areas and establish logical motion lines. The second floor, with its abundant natural light, was designated as the main bedroom and children's room, separated from the public activity area. The living space on the first floor was completely open, with no barriers from the outdoors, ensuring maximum lighting efficiency. The negative first floor was transformed into a study, tea room, and fitness space, creating a conducive environment for family members to interact and communicate.

Thirdly, the design language employed throughout the space is characterized by light tones, creating a bright and concise impression. The patio on the negative first floor follows the Japanese patio design technique, exuding tranquility, Wabi-sabi, and Zen. This patio allows for the flow of breath, transparent vision, and natural harmony within the entire home.

The transformation of Sunshine Home resulted in a living space with good lighting, a comfortable environment, and multiple functions. The interior area of 290 square meters is now a testament to the successful integration of design aesthetics, aerodynamics, and innovative spatial planning.

Wanxiao Zhang, the design director, expressed his satisfaction with the project, stating, "By reimagining the interior structure and incorporating aerodynamics, we were able to create a living space that not only addresses the challenges of poor lighting and ventilation but also enhances the overall value of the house."

The Sunshine Home project, completed between March 2017 and May 2018, has garnered recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.

With Sunshine Home, Wanxiao Zhang and his team at Odes Design Studio have demonstrated their commitment to pushing boundaries in interior design, creating spaces that prioritize functionality, aesthetics, and the well-being of its inhabitants.