Cozy Life: A Nostalgic Shared Space in the Heart of the City

Preserving the Traces of the Past while Embracing Creativity

The Cozy Life project is a testament to the beauty of repurposing and revitalizing old spaces. The three-story house, over 40 years old, posed both challenges and opportunities for the designer. Its long and narrow layout allowed for the creation of distinct areas to meet the client's needs. However, the lack of natural light made the interior feel dark and confined.

To address these limitations, Fei-Lung Huang embarked on a journey to reshape the space. By altering routes, removing partitions, and introducing a patio, the designer transformed the house into a brighter and more functional environment. The strategic placement of windows and the insertion of large glass panels allowed natural light to flood the interiors, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

One of the key design decisions was the use of recycled wood, glass, and tiles to maintain the nostalgic ambiance of the old house. The designer's choice to echo the era of the building through the materials used not only added character but also aligned with the client's desire to preserve the traces of the past. The incorporation of glass and tiles not only reinforced the vintage style but also eliminated visual barriers, fostering a sense of connection and togetherness in the shared areas.

The Cozy Life project spans four floors, with each level serving a specific purpose. The first floor houses a cozy café and seating area, while the second floor features a photography studio and private rooms. The third floor provides a separate work area and additional private rooms, and the top floor boasts a yoga studio that can also double as an exhibition hall or lecture venue, complete with a terrace.

Functionality and aesthetics were carefully balanced throughout the design process. The layout was meticulously planned to encourage interaction and collaboration among artists and freelancers. Each floor was thoughtfully curated to facilitate networking and creativity, ensuring that the space truly served its purpose as a shared haven for artistic minds.

Overcoming budget constraints, the designer successfully transformed the traditional narrow streetside building into a bright, experimental, and captivating space. The first floor, with its old-fashioned bar and distinct styling, immediately catches the eye of passersby. The facade and entrance were revamped with new windows, brick walls, and signage, creating an inviting and unique atmosphere that draws customers in.

The Cozy Life project, completed in May 2021 in Taiwan, stands as a testament to the power of design to breathe new life into old spaces. Fei-Lung Huang's meticulous attention to detail, use of recycled materials, and strategic lighting choices have transformed this once-dark interior into a vibrant and inspiring shared space.

As the recipient of the Iron A' Design Award in 2023, the Cozy Life project has been recognized for its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach. This award acknowledges the project's ability to meet professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world through its integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics.