The Eclipse: A Modern Wabi-Sabi Residential Apartment

Embracing Imperfection and Simplicity

The Eclipse stands out as a modern Wabi-Sabi apartment with an old soul, showcasing the art of simplicity. The design demonstrates that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. By incorporating the theme of an eclipse, the space utilizes layering techniques with deep and light hues, creating a natural and harmonious look. Carina Lin, the designer, skillfully connects time, space, and human elements through three dimensions: Carrier, Energy, and Expression.

The entire space of The Eclipse is adorned with mineral painting, showcasing irregular shapes and enhancing the overall Wabi-Sabi atmosphere. The natural concave and convex surfaces add depth and character to the design. The living room, themed with natural ochre colors and featuring natural oriental oak wood flooring, provides occupants with a cave-like experience, evoking a sense of tranquility. The bedroom utilizes different mineral painting methods, creating a diverse and visually captivating wall surface, ensuring extreme comfort for a restful sleep.

Carina Lin's commitment to sustainability is evident in The Eclipse's furniture, which is made from recycled wood sourced from Taiwan. By incorporating recycled materials, the design reduces the need for new wood cutting and aligns with the overall concept of the apartment.

The Eclipse spans 82 square meters and is located in Hsinchu, Taiwan. The project commenced in January 2021 and was completed in July 2021. Throughout the design process, Carina Lin collaborated with various entities, including participants, painters, and electricians, to bring her vision to life.

One of the notable challenges in The Eclipse's design was the implementation of mineral painting throughout the entire space. This painting technique, relatively new in the Taiwanese interior design industry, was used in a three-dimensional manner, particularly on the surface of the living room's cabinet, adding depth and visual interest.

In The Eclipse, spaces are stacked layer upon layer around the main axis, creating a sense of volume and painted in light and dark tones to resemble nature's interplay between lightness and heaviness. The curved ceiling, reminiscent of floating clouds and eclipses, allows filtered light to permeate the space. Sustainability is at the core of the design, with recycled wood furniture telling stories and adding a touch of natural forest-like ambiance. Occupants can enjoy the gentle breath of woody phytoncide, relieving the fatigue of the day in moments of tranquility.

The Eclipse is a testament to Carina Lin's dedication to creating spaces that encourage introspection and contemplation. By returning to the essence of space and allowing light, air, and people to interconnect naturally, this design provides a sanctuary free from external distractions. It invites occupants to reflect on the essence of life and embrace the uncertainties that come with it, ultimately finding contentment and inner peace.

Carina Lin holds the copyrights for The Eclipse, and the design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.