Window View: A Modern Sanctuary for Semi-Retirement

Kun-Han Yang Transforms an Old Apartment into a Minimalist Haven

As the children leave the nest, many couples find themselves reimagining their living spaces to suit a new, quieter phase of life. This was the case for a Taiwanese couple who sought to revitalize their long-time home. Kun-Han Yang, an innovative designer, approached the project with a vision to harmonize the apartment's interior with the surrounding natural landscape, aptly naming the project 'Window View.'

Yang's design philosophy for 'Window View' centered on simplicity and enlargement. By exposing the original ceiling beams and employing a single curved ceiling, the space was opened up, creating a seamless flow between the dining and living areas. The choice of saturated colors and natural materials, such as teak flooring and walnut cabinets, complemented the client's high-fidelity stereo system, ensuring an aesthetic continuity throughout the residence.

The technical realization of 'Window View' involved meticulous material selection and a minimalist design approach. The use of solid teak, walnut veneer, and stone slabs, among other materials, allowed for a clean visual effect. The light gray TV wall, accented with wood, served as a canvas reflecting the outdoor greenery, thus integrating the building with its natural surroundings.

Spanning 112.3 square meters, the apartment's redesign focused on creating a fluid and accessible space, with large windows serving as the focal point. These windows not only blurred the boundaries between inside and out but also facilitated a dialogue with the green landscape, a feature the designer identified as the home's most significant asset.

Yang's design faced several challenges, including addressing the water leakage issues inherent in the aging building. The renovation required a foundation overhaul within a constrained timeframe, a testament to the designer's commitment to both form and function. The result is a space that balances minimalism with warmth, meeting the clients' needs while providing a serene backdrop for their semi-retirement.

'Window View' has not only provided a fresh start for its residents but also earned recognition as an Iron winner in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024. This accolade affirms Yang's ability to merge practicality with innovation, creating a space that resonates with tranquility and invites a closer connection with nature.