Sapphire: A Sophisticated Loft Residence in Taipei

A Gentleman-like Home Style with a Touch of Blue

The Sapphire residence, designed by Shih-Ming Liu and Shih-Ming Lo, is a unique and sophisticated loft-style home located in the vibrant metropolitan area of Taipei, Taiwan. Inspired by the calming qualities of blue and the elegance of fair-faced concrete, this residence offers a spacious and comfortable living environment for its owner.

The design team behind Sapphire aimed to create a home that exudes a restrained and low-key lifestyle. The dominant use of blue and cold water motifs symbolizes tranquility and relaxation. To complement this, dark wooden furniture is incorporated throughout the space, adding a touch of warmth and texture. The overall design concept is centered around clean lines, spacious areas, and customized furniture, creating a gentleman-like home style.

One of the unique features of Sapphire is its use of cold colors to create a Loft American style residence. The design is characterized by clean lines, smooth circulation, and hidden storage configurations. From the moment one steps into the house, the carefully planned layout provides a sense of spaciousness and comfort. The specially customized furniture adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to the overall visual perception.

The materials used in the realization of Sapphire include oak wood, teak wood, wooden veneer, tiles, metal, and fair-faced concrete. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the space but also enhance its functionality.

The residence spans approximately 83 square meters and features a well-thought-out layout consisting of an entrance, living room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The design team made adjustments to the original three-bedroom layout, transforming it into a two-bedroom configuration. By doing so, they were able to expand the entrance area, creating a more spacious and social space for the client to entertain friends and relatives.

The Sapphire project was completed in January 2019 in Taipei, Taiwan. Throughout the design process, the team conducted extensive research to ensure that the final result aligned with the client's preferences. The combination of calm blue tones, fair-faced concrete, warm wooden materials, and delicate furniture reflects the client's high standards and unique taste.

One of the main challenges faced by the design team was expanding the overall activity area of the residence. The client desired a space that not only met their personal needs but also allowed them to showcase their personal charm to guests. Through effective communication and the use of 3D rendering, the team was able to create a design that fulfilled the client's requirements and created a comfortable and inviting environment through bold color choices.

The Sapphire residence is a testament to the client's steady and delicate qualities, combining their personality and character with a rational and warm spatial dialogue. It is a truly unique and sophisticated living space that offers a retreat from the bustling city life of Taipei.

Image Credits: Andy Zhang

Awards and Accolades: Sapphire was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Sapphire's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world earned it this esteemed recognition.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Shih-Ming Liu
Image Credits: Andy Zhang
Project Team Members: Shih-Ming Liu Shih-Ming Lo
Project Name: Sapphire
Project Client: Shih-Ming Liu


Sapphire IMG #2
Sapphire IMG #3
Sapphire IMG #4
Sapphire IMG #5
Sapphire IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant