Secret Land: A Masculine Retreat Crafted by Tien Wan Li

Private Reception House Merges Openness with Intimacy

The design of Secret Land is a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty of natural materials. Tien Wan Li's approach strips back the unnecessary, allowing the essence of the materials to speak for themselves. The house is designed to be a gathering place, with a layout that encourages interaction and connection. The open-plan public domain is centered around a triangular movement pattern, seamlessly connecting the kitchen, living room, and dining room. This design choice ensures that guests can move freely and engage with one another without barriers, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.

Upon entering Secret Land, guests are greeted by a glass brick screen that subtly obscures the view into the inner sanctum of the house. This feature not only adds a layer of privacy but also addresses Fengshui considerations by veiling the direct line of sight to the kitchen. The interior is a harmonious blend of warm woods and cool metals, with a dining table and olive arc sofa inviting guests to relax and indulge in the space's tranquility. Indirect lighting and the natural patina of cast iron elements further enhance the atmosphere, creating a balance between warmth and industrial chic.

Cast iron plays a pivotal role in the design narrative of Secret Land. Tien Wan Li has skillfully incorporated this material into screens, shelves, and cabinets, allowing the natural rusting process to add character and depth to the space. This choice not only brings a raw aesthetic to the house but also allows the passage of time to be visibly recorded, as the changing patina of the metal reflects the evolving stories within.

The design's strength lies in its ability to facilitate interaction. The equal proportions of the living, dining, and kitchen areas, combined with strategic color choices and furniture placement, create a highly interactive environment. The space is designed not just for visual appeal but for practical use, accommodating the host's hobbies and social gatherings with ease. Whether it's watching a game or enjoying a glass of wine, Secret Land offers a perfect backdrop for making memories.

Completed over a span of three months, from November 2022 to January 2023, Secret Land is a testament to Tien Wan Li's dedication to creating spaces that resonate with the client's desires. The project involved a meticulous process of material selection and spatial planning, ensuring that every element aligned with the vision of a modern masculine retreat. The design's success is also reflected in its recognition with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, a prestigious accolade that celebrates exceptional design and innovation.

Secret Land stands as a beacon of design excellence, where Tien Wan Li's creative prowess has crafted a space that is both a personal haven and a social hub. It is a place where natural materials, thoughtful design, and the art of gathering come together to create an experience that is both exclusive and universally appealing. Moore Design, the creative force behind this project, has once again proven its ability to transform spaces into works of art that are both functional and inspiring.