Meridiana: A Symphony of Light and Shadow

Revolutionizing Space with Tsu-Wei Chang's Innovative Design

Meridiana stands as a testament to the transformative power of design, where conventional spatial planning is eschewed in favor of a dynamic interplay between light and structure. Tsu-Wei Chang's vision for this residence is rooted in the challenge of harnessing natural light that streams through a single expansive window. By introducing three-dimensional layers, Chang crafts a space where light becomes an ever-changing participant, carving out layers within the residence's solid and void.

The design's uniqueness lies in its three-pronged approach to manipulating light. Curved walkways are strategically positioned to alter the occupant's relationship with light, creating a vivid dance of shadows. Reflective materials at the walkways' ends amplify the light's reach, while concave and convex walls with precise grooves capture its trajectory, giving life to the space with each passing hour.

Meridiana's realization is a symphony of materials, from marble to brushed steel wood veneer, each chosen for its ability to texture light. Artistic paints and Benjamin Moore selections coat surfaces that play with illumination, while bespoke lighting fixtures, like moon and feather lamps, accentuate the residence's thematic solid and void. The meticulous selection of lighting complements the natural light, ensuring a harmonious balance between the two.

Spanning 185.1 square meters, the duplex is a canvas for luxury and functionality. The layout caters to both social gatherings and private retreats, with extended walkways doubling as galleries for art. A half-height TV wall equipped with a B&O system adds a multifaceted dimension to the interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the space's aesthetic appeal.

Meridiana offers an interactive living experience, where a moonlit staircase leads to a private sanctuary upstairs. The executive suite and master bedroom boast linear lighting that underscores the client's sophisticated lifestyle. Advanced climate control, noise reduction, and electric doors and mattresses ensure a living experience that is as comfortable as it is stylish.

Chang's design overcame significant challenges, including a square site layout with a central entrance and cross-shaped beams that risked creating a claustrophobic atmosphere. Through meticulous planning and an understanding of light's relationship with materials, Chang transformed these challenges into opportunities, crafting a space that celebrates the ephemeral beauty of light and shadow.

The Meridiana project, completed in April 2023, is a striking example of how design can capture the essence of time through space. It stands as a retrograde sundial, where each turn and texture invites a new interplay of light, offering a unique experience at every angle. This innovative approach has earned Meridiana the Iron A' Design Award in 2024, a recognition of its practicality, innovation, and contribution to a better world through design excellence.