Cloud: A Vacation Apartment Designed by Jui Min Chen

A Subtractive Approach to Loft-Style Living

The unique properties of the Cloud design lie in its integration of functionality and aesthetics. By incorporating living functions into the space's aesthetics, Jui Min Chen has created a loft-style vacation apartment that is both visually appealing and practical. The use of simple lines and primary colors to cover the supporting structure of the building adds a touch of minimalism to the design.

To reduce the sense of confinement in small spaces, permeable building materials are used throughout the project. This not only extends the visual space but also allows for better airflow and natural light penetration. The lightweight staircase, made of thin steel panels and pine plywood, serves as the visual axis of the design. A twine staircase adds a unique touch and increases the penetration of the space.

One of the design's standout features is the perforated shape of the staircase. This design choice allows sunlight to filter through the holes, creating a rhythmic play of light and shadow that adds visual interest to the space. Additionally, the external wall of the mezzanine dressing room features a light strip that links the structure between the old and new walls, providing a buffer space for deformation when temperatures change.

The Cloud design measures 40 square meters in total, with a full interior height of 380 cm. The lower part of the mezzanine floor stands at 120 cm, while the upper part measures 163.5 cm. A balcony of approximately 5 square meters and a dressing room of 3.3 square meters complete the layout. The use of a subtractive mindset and clever utilization of available space has resulted in a functional and visually appealing vacation apartment.

The Cloud design project began in October 2019 and was completed in January 2020 in Yilan, Taiwan. Throughout the design process, Jui Min Chen conducted detailed ergonomic measurements to maximize the use of space. By opening a partition in the wall above the bathroom, a simple dressing room was added, utilizing the previously unused space in the duct room.

One of the design challenges faced by Jui Min Chen was strengthening the structure of the mezzanine. To overcome this, the designer extended the skeleton from the inner edge of the wall for external support. By using a hole-cutting technique on the facade wall, the external wall of the bathroom, the staircase, and the dressing room were connected, increasing the structural strength. The result is a visually floating floor that adds a sense of lightness to the overall design.

The Cloud design has received recognition for its innovative approach and practicality. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is given to well-designed creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics.

With its unique blend of functionality, aesthetics, and connection to nature, the Cloud vacation apartment designed by Jui Min Chen offers a refreshing and inspiring living space for those seeking a vacation-like experience in a small footprint.