More Design Office's "Joy Hill": A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Exhibition Center Design Inspired by Dongguan's Urban Symbols and Local Craftsmanship

More Design Office, directed by Justin Bridgland and Jaycee Chui, embarked on a journey of exploration with the Joy Hill project. Their aim was to create a ceremonial community lounge that could trigger emotional resonance. The design, inspired by Dongguan's urban symbols and local intangible cultural heritage, uses modern techniques to portray Lingnan culture. The interplay of light, color, and sequence provides a beautiful and smooth rhythm to the space, making it a unique piece of art.

The hanging installation, a key feature of the design, is inspired by the undulating silhouette of the roof of the Wok Ear House. Bamboo, a material with high plasticity, was chosen as the raw material. The bamboo strips were rearranged, combined, and intertwined using the local Knitting Technique of Dongguan’s Straw, creating a rhythmic movement from the simple to the complex. This technique manifests a uniquely artistic atmosphere in the space.

The design also incorporates the use of red stone, inspired by the traditional building material red sandstone. This provides a unique collage of textures for each column, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the space. The Ingo Maurer Yoruba Rose lamp, placed on the reception desk, greets visitors in a light and elegant manner.

The furniture in the space, designed by MDO and TIWU & Zhao Yun Studio, connects traditional paper folding and paper cutting art with geometric interface and the mortise-and-tenon structure. This design conveys the elegance, kindness, and independence of the sculpture-like furniture, which is interconnected with the natural environment.

The Joy Hill project, which started in April 2021 and finished in October 2021, was a successful exploration of the connection between oriental aesthetics and modern design, traditional images, and modern symbols. It was a respectful and reasoned refinement of the urban culture of Dongguan, transforming forgotten memories into new material elements through a continuous fusion of modern design. This project was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2023, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.