Doctors of Design: Embracing Wabi-Sabi in a Multi-Residential Space

Award-winning design that balances openness and privacy

The Doctors of Design project, led by Hua Cheng and Hsiao-Li Lo, takes its inspiration from the concept of wabi-sabi, a Japanese aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and transience. The designers aimed to create a space that would optimize light and space while ensuring privacy and energy efficiency. The result is a multi-residential design that not only enhances the functionality of the space but also evokes a sense of tranquility and harmony.

The key strength of this design lies in its ability to remove physical and emotional barriers. By tearing down walls and creating an open floor plan, the designers have united previously compartmentalized spaces for reading, working, cooking, and relaxation. This openness contributes to a sense of freedom and allows for a seamless flow of light and energy throughout the space.

One notable feature of the design is a glass accordion-style door in the dining room, which provides privacy when needed without compromising the sharing of light and space. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that the design remains versatile and adaptable to the residents' needs.

The realization of the Doctors of Design project involved the use of blushing wooden veneer, laminate flooring, pattern glass, tawny glass, and pine solid wood paneling. These materials were carefully selected to create a warm and inviting atmosphere while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

With a total area of 76 m2, the design optimizes every inch of space to create a functional and visually appealing environment. The transformation of the dining room into a dual-purpose space for dining and reading, with a built-in bookshelf, demonstrates the designers' attention to detail and their commitment to maximizing the potential of each area.

The Doctors of Design project was completed in New Taipei City between January and July 2019. Throughout the design process, the team faced the challenge of transforming a two-bedroom studio apartment with poor space utilization into a harmonious and inviting living space. By removing unnecessary walls and partitions, they successfully opened up the space and created a more balanced and cohesive layout.

This design has received widespread recognition and was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges the creativity and ingenuity of the Doctors of Design project, which seamlessly combines art, science, design, and technology to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

The Doctors of Design project is a testament to the power of embracing imperfection and finding beauty in simplicity. By incorporating the principles of wabi-sabi, Hua Cheng and Hsiao-Li Lo have created a multi-residential space that not only optimizes light and space but also fosters a sense of tranquility and harmony.