Forest Living: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Comfort

Ali Mountain Abode Marries Wood and Light for Serenity

Embracing the concept of 'back to the roots,' the Forest Living project by Wei Zhih Chen and An Ting Liu stands as a testament to the timeless bond between humans and their natural environment. The residential house, nestled at the base of Ali Mountain, utilizes wood as its core material, establishing a seamless integration between the home's interior and the lush exterior landscape. The design's strength lies in its ability to evoke a sense of homecoming, a sanctuary where one can retire and reconnect with the essence of their origins.

The unique properties of Forest Living are not just in its material choice but also in its narrative. The design tells a story of returning to one's roots, a journey back to the hometown that remains imprinted in the heart regardless of time spent away. The retirement home is more than a structure; it's a space that celebrates the homeowner's deep love and longing for their origins, enhanced by the warmth of sunlight on natural elements like fair-faced concrete and wood, complemented by sleek iron parts.

Realized through the use of art paint, painted iron parts, system cabinets, marble countertops, wooden ceilings, and raw concrete, the house spans 166 square meters of open-plan design. The strategic placement of floor-to-ceiling windows allows for a dance of light throughout the day, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that accentuates the home's architectural features. The design's technical specifications are a testament to the thoughtful consideration of natural light as a central element of living space.

Interaction with the space is a sensory experience, where ample lighting is crucial, especially for reading. The large windows invite an abundance of natural light, while the triangular plates and sky corridor on the second floor encourage a dialogue between the interior and the surrounding nature. The metal skeleton structure serves not only as a support but also as an artistic medium to filter light, crafting a living canvas of illumination within the home.

Completed in December 2023 in Chiayi County, Taiwan, the Forest Living project faced the challenge of reducing carbon emissions through material choice and design. The use of wood and strategic window placement minimizes the environmental impact while maximizing the aesthetic appeal. The design research incorporated Japanese style elements, with fair-faced concrete walls and wood bookshelves that extend vertically, creating a serene and stable atmosphere.

Forest Living's design philosophy of returning to one's roots is evident in every aspect of the house, from the material selection to the interplay of light and shadow. This project, recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, showcases the designers' ability to create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant. Chenghe Interior Design Co., Ltd. holds the image credits for this award-winning design, which stands as a beacon of innovation and a celebration of the unbreakable bond with one's heritage.