Leafing Page: A Unique and Artistic Residence Design by Shih-Ping Chen

Infusing the Essence of Books and Leaves into a Family Home

The design team behind Leafing Page drew inspiration from the idea of a giant's library, where the pages of books are brought to life in every corner of the space. Books, known for carrying memories and recording the family's life, echo the presence of a library within the building. The family's lineage, much like the leaves of a tree, branches out and shines in their respective fields.

One of the standout features of Leafing Page is the incorporation of book imagery between the cabinets, space, and function. In the public area, cabinets staggered like huge books create a visually striking display. Glass sliding doors on the bookcase facing the TV wall reveal an interplay of light and shadow, transforming storage into a work of art. The open plan of the public area and the leaf veins symbolize the close relationship between family members.

The realization of Leafing Page involved the use of various building materials, including solid wood veneer, glass, marble slate, Spanish ceramic board, imported wallpaper, tawny mirror, laminate flooring, and baking paint. To create a spacious effect in the narrow space, the design team utilized penetrating materials to facilitate lighting. Glass partitions and sliding doors were strategically placed to allow natural light to flow through the living room and storage cabinets. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in the direction of each piece of wood grain, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.

The site of Leafing Page is located on the third floor of a new apartment in Taiwan, with a total area of 115.7 square meters. The original layout, consisting of four rooms, was reimagined by removing the study room partition and integrating it with the public area, resulting in a more functional and spacious 3 plus-1 room layout. The design team took advantage of the front balcony, which offers a view of the canopy of trees connecting to the sky, and the private area features a spacious balcony.

Leafing Page creates a harmonious and comfortable atmosphere through its overall color tone and carefully selected furnishings. The interior exudes a sense of tension and rhythm, with delicate textures and just the right amount of color. The storage cabinets, with their sliding doors, add a multifaceted effect to the space.

Completed in July 2021, Leafing Page is a testament to the creativity and technical prowess of Shih-Ping Chen. The design concept draws from the concept of a giant library, translating storage cabinets into large books that symbolize the passage of time. The careful selection of color tones, from earthy hues in the public area to various shades of green in the private area, adds depth and meaning to the space.

The Leafing Page project presented its own set of challenges. As the space was originally planned as real estate, the design had to strike a balance between the builder's aesthetics and the functionality of living. Additionally, the construction timeline was tight, requiring the team to execute the assignment and select materials efficiently.

Leafing Page is a testament to the power of design to transform a living space into a work of art. With its unique concept, attention to detail, and harmonious atmosphere, this residence truly stands out. Shih-Ping Chen's exceptional design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2023, showcasing the project's outstanding creativity and resourcefulness.