The Surround residence, designed by Yi Ju Liao, breaks away from conventional design norms to create a unique and harmonious living space. The innovative layout prioritizes natural light and privacy, with the living room strategically positioned at the rear of the house. This unconventional approach allows for a seamless flow throughout the home, starting from the entrance that features an aerial yoga space adorned with a large wall mirror.
One of the standout features of Surround is the use of a giant wall mirror in the entrance yoga space. This not only enhances the spatial perception but also reflects sunlight, illuminating the area. Additionally, the central partition acts as the primary division, ensuring a smoother and more fluid flow throughout the residence. The overall common space is designed to be semi-open, allowing for ample natural lighting.
The design of Surround also incorporates tinted glass display shelves, adding a sense of transparency and guiding the visual focus to hidden corners within the space. The careful attention to detail ensures that each transition within the residence is seamless and clean, with the yoga space serving as the central hub connecting different areas.
With a total area of 114 square meters, Surround offers a spacious and functional living environment. The project was completed in December 2021 in Taichung, Taiwan, showcasing the designer's commitment to creating a modern and stylish interior.
Yi Ju Liao's research and attention to detail are evident throughout the design. The combination of the yoga space with the wardrobe into a closet creates a mature vibe, with a gray palette on the wall and wardrobe. The arrangement also provides the owner with a display shelving area for their bag collection, reminiscent of shopping in a boutique. Additionally, the second-floor bedroom offers glimpses of greenery, creating a calm and serene atmosphere for the resident.
One of the challenges faced during the design process was selecting eco-friendly and sustainable building materials. The use of heat insulation anti-UV glass materials contributes to energy efficiency, while the careful selection of air-conditioners, electronic appliances, and LED lights minimizes electricity waste. The water piping system was also renewed to prevent leaks, and the faucet design reduces water waste by shortening the opening and closing time.
Surround's unique design and attention to detail have garnered recognition in the industry. The project was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2023. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of Surround, which meets professional and industrial requirements. The design integrates industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world.
Surround is a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating a harmonious and functional living space. By reimagining traditional layouts and incorporating unique features, Yi Ju Liao has crafted a residence that not only meets the needs of its occupants but also provides a visually stunning and inspiring environment.
Project Designers: YI JU LIAO
Image Credits: Chiu Chuang Hsi
Project Team Members: YI JU LIAO
Project Name: Surround
Project Client: YI JU LIAO