Balance: A Multifunctional Residential Workspace with Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

A Blend of Home and Office in a Modern Apartment

The main inspiration behind Balance was to create a living and workspace for a couple who are both designers. The designers aimed to preserve private spaces while opening up a public work and meeting space, resulting in an open layout that promotes collaboration and creativity. To merge the indoor with the outdoor space, translucent blinds cover large windows that open onto balconies adorned with greenery. The integration of accessible open shelving and other cat-friendly features was also a requirement to provide ample exploration for the client's cat.

What sets Balance apart from other designs is its emphasis on both form and function. The apartment features floor-to-ceiling glass windows throughout, allowing for abundant natural light and a greater sense of space. The cat-friendly furniture, shelving, and other spaces ensure that the needs of the clients and their furry friend are met. The low-backed and unobtrusive furnishings, combined with the expansive windows, create a clean and inviting atmosphere that is both professional and comfortable.

The realization of Balance involved the use of minimalist design elements to maximize space efficiency. A low-backed sofa welcomes guests without disrupting the line of sight, while patterned echoes of the lattice bookshelf unit unify the public space. The apartment's finishes and furnishings draw on a palette of dark browns, light grays, and white, complemented by stone and imported tile, brushed metal, and baked enamel finishes. Built-in shelving and workspaces are seamlessly incorporated into the living room and bedrooms, further enhancing the functionality of the space.

With a total area of 168m2, Balance offers 125m2 of indoor space and 40m2 of outdoor balconies surrounded by greenery. The layout includes a master bedroom with an en suite, a yet-to-be-furnished guest or kids room, a half bath, and an open kitchen, living room, and dining room area. This multifunctional space is designed to accommodate both work and leisure activities, providing a seamless transition between professional and personal life.

Balance is a testament to the designers' meticulous research and attention to detail. The layout and design were carefully planned to create a multifunctional residential workspace that meets the unique needs of two designers. Extensive research went into selecting lighting fixtures, such as the imported copper entryway wall lamp that projects eclipse-like shadows, and cat-friendly wall units and furnishings.

The design of Balance was not without its challenges. Maintaining floor-to-ceiling glass walls throughout the residence while optimizing wall space for storage and furnishings required careful consideration. The positioning of the kitchen along the main public space was another challenge, but the designers successfully created a boundary between the spaces with a breakfast bar. The bedrooms, although limited in space, were thoughtfully designed with a short hallway separating them, providing a sense of separation and privacy.

Balance is a testament to modernity, longevity, and stability. Its sleek lines, minimal design elements, and neutral color palette project a sense of elegance and professionalism. The integration of nature through the floor-to-ceiling windows and greenery on the balconies adds a touch of tranquility to the space, creating a harmonious environment for work and relaxation.

Balance was completed in April 2020 in Taiwan, showcasing the designers' commitment to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. This design has been recognized with an Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2021. This prestigious award is a testament to the design's practicality, innovation, and ability to meet professional and industrial requirements.