The Osmanthus Grace: A Harmonious Blend of Architecture and Nature

WJ STUDIO's Award-Winning Design Fuses Traditional Chinese Aesthetics with Modern Functionality

The inspiration for The Osmanthus Grace came from the desire to create an ideal residence that would allow visitors to feel the calmness of time and interact with nature. The design journey takes visitors from dark to bright spaces, creating a sense of walking through great mountains within a confined space. This unique approach to spatial design sets The Osmanthus Grace apart from other architectural projects.

WJ STUDIO's design strategy involved defining a series of sub-spaces that interact harmoniously despite their varying scales. This approach allowed the architects to create an atmosphere of simplicity and tranquility, blurring the boundaries of architecture and nature. The result is a project that resonates with the aesthetics of traditional Chinese gardens.

The linear shape of the building, with a part slightly reaching the water, and the inclined ceiling design guide visitors' sights towards nature. The façades, designed like long paintings, are crystal clear, eliminating the boundaries of indoor and outdoor spaces. This design choice allows nature to become the main theme of the project, with the changing seasons and the alternating days and nights revealing the flow of time.

The materials used in the project include wood, stone, and plants, chosen for their natural elements. Art pieces reflecting regional history and humanity themes serve as spatial markers, adding a layer of cultural significance to the design. The project, which started in April 2020 and completed in September 2020 in Wenzhou, China, also demonstrates flexibility for future renovation and reserves space for a kindergarten.

The Osmanthus Grace faced the challenge of integrating the building into the surrounding scenery, a characteristic of traditional Jiang Nan gardens. The architects designed the entrance to be relatively narrow to create a calm atmosphere and highlight the natural surroundings. This design strategy allows visitors to interact with nature and become part of the landscape.

The Osmanthus Grace was recognized with the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021, a testament to WJ STUDIO's innovative approach to design. This award is granted to creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.