White Forest: A Blossoming Retreat

A Unique Residential Design by Po Chuan Kao

White Forest draws inspiration from the Language of Flowers, a concept that uses flowers to convey emotions and messages. Po Chuan Kao has masterfully translated this language into a design that evokes a sense of serenity and infinity. Through the interplay of light and shadow, the design showcases the ever-changing beauty of nature, with different appearances and colors revealed over time.

What sets White Forest apart is the meticulous calibration of design elements. The seamless integration of abstract and concrete elements creates a visual depth of field that is both mesmerizing and harmonious. The terrazzo base, with its shades of gray, draws parallels to the unique formations found in forests, while the entryway marble facade and glaze-fired artworks by Taiwanese artists add a touch of concreteness to the space.

White Forest is brought to life through a combination of special paint, marbles, jet glasses, hardware, aluminum light bands, painted solid wood, mirrors, glass tiles, grindstones, and stretch cloth. These materials are carefully selected and utilized to realize the designer's vision and create a truly immersive experience.

The design encompasses various areas, including the entryway, kitchen, dining room, living room, study, master bedroom, and bathrooms. The flow of traffic within the space has been carefully considered to enhance both practicality and emotional connection. Unnecessary walls have been removed, allowing for a more open and fluid layout. The placement of furniture, such as the sofa and study desk, creates a hidden border that subtly divides the living room and study, while still maintaining a sense of openness.

White Forest was completed in June 2021 in Taichung. The design process involved extensive research and experimentation to overcome the challenges of transforming the original space. The designer's use of metaphorical elements, such as the light bands and textured materials, creates a progressive depth of field that brings the space to life.

Lights and shadows play a crucial role in the design, creating different moods and atmospheres reminiscent of blooming flowers. The indirect lighting from the aluminum light bands provides a balanced and soft light-shadow effect, while vertical LED lighting creates a more focused and dramatic ambiance. The use of special paint on the walls further enhances the transformative nature of the space, reflecting the ever-changing sensations of time.

White Forest has been recognized for its exceptional design and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award honors designs that exhibit technical and creative excellence, contributing to the improvement of quality of life.