Unfolding: A Cozy and Flexible Residential House

A Unique Design Concept by Chienting Chen

A moderate combination of flexible study rooms into a courtyard-like space that extends depth from exterior to the four sides of the interior is the design concept of Unfolding, a residential house designed by Chienting Chen. This unique project prioritizes the creation of a graceful and elegant aura in the public spaces, while also providing a sense of unconstrained freedom for adults, children, and even pets.

Unfolding is located on the 23rd floor, offering an excellent panoramic view. The design responds to the condition of the design axis, making it the main entry point. The wide-area public spaces serve as a hall highly appreciated by both guests and hosts, but more importantly, it is a place where one can meditate on the essence of life.

The design team utilized a combination of stone, iron, wood, glass, leather, and textile to bring Unfolding to life. With a total design plan dimension of 150 square meters, the project showcases the perfect harmony between cozy and flexible living spaces.

Chienting Chen and Harry Chou worked closely together to fulfill the client's request for a cozy aura, durable tectonics, and a mature warm style. The reading room was unfolded into a flexible connection, extending the living core zone where the master and guests can enjoy various activities while immersing themselves in this undefined circumvented boundary. The client was extremely satisfied with the outcome, thanks to the mutual trust and smooth construction process.

The Unfolding project started in October 2017 and was completed in June 2018 in New Taipei City, Taiwan. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to achieve a cozy style in the real core living space while harmonizing an endurable physical environment with a low-profile yet luxurious aura. The team focused on studying different materials such as metal, leather, wood, glass, and more, resulting in intricate details that were not only designed on paper but also embodied on the construction site. This attention to detail elevated the craftsmanship and brought Mies van der Rohe's famous quote, "God is in the details," to life.

The challenges faced during the design process included combining details with several kinds of materials, achieving a harmonious tone of proper proportion, and considering ergonomic factors based on post-occupation evaluation experiences. Despite these challenges, the Unfolding project successfully created a multi-defined living space where all activities can seamlessly blend together.

Unfolding showcases the designer's response to the context and environment, with the design axis serving as the entry point. The wide living space was transformed into a multi-defined area where all activities can be combined. The incorporation of appropriate furniture styles and colors displays the client's good taste, resulting in a cozy and comfortable environment that users can truly enjoy.

Unfolding has been recognized for its outstanding design and has been awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the A' Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Unfolding's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contributes to a better world.