Chen Home: A Revitalized Abode Harmonizing Old and New

Chun Nan Chen's Award-Winning Residential Design Masterpiece

Chen Home, a project that breathes new life into a 50-year-old brick dormitory, exemplifies the delicate dance between heritage and modernity. The renovation preserves the building's original allure, while seamlessly integrating contemporary features, striking a balance that enriches the aesthetic experience. This juxtaposition of eras not only pays homage to the past but also embraces the comforts and styles of the present day.

The facade, a 12-meter-long canvas, is crafted from square cement hollow bricks and dark gray aluminum grilles, creating a modern yet private residence that resonates with its environment. This architectural approach is not merely aesthetic; it represents a broader vision to rejuvenate the urban fabric of old cities, enhancing both the visual and living quality for the community.

Inside, the design philosophy is clear: simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. The interior space is a celebration of life's true desires, eschewing ostentation for a design that is both relaxed and secluded. The ground floor serves as a communal hub, where the dark wood veneer walls and beige stone bar set the stage for family and social gatherings, all within an open and inviting atmosphere.

Chen Home's material palette is a conscious choice, favoring local resources like aluminum, stone, and sustainably sourced lumber. These materials not only showcase local character but also reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. The natural and harmonious tones throughout the home are a subtle nod to the desire for authenticity in design, providing a sanctuary where one can live elegantly in tandem with nature.

Spanning two stories and 225 square meters, Chen Home is more than a structure; it's a dynamic environment where the exterior and interior interact seamlessly. The courtyard, reimagined with square cement bricks, introduces greenery that softens the facade, while the second-floor railing doubles as an architectural feature, offering both transparency and privacy.

Completed in December 2022, Chen Home stands in Taipei as a beacon of sustainable renovation. The design incorporates energy-efficient solutions like a heat pump water heater system, addressing the energy needs of a region beyond the reach of municipal utilities. This project not only overcame the challenges of modernizing an aging structure but also set a precedent for revitalizing urban landscapes, contributing to a vision of a better city and a better life.

Chun Nan Chen's Chen Home has been duly recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award category for 2024. This accolade celebrates the project's well-executed design, practicality, and innovation, all of which align with professional and industrial standards, ultimately enhancing the human experience and contributing to a more harmonious world.