Spirit of Stillness: A Harmonious Blend of East and West

Chewen Chou and Hsaio Yin Lin Craft Urban Tranquility

The Spirit of Stillness project by designers Chewen Chou and Hsaio Yin Lin is a testament to the power of cultural synthesis. Drawing inspiration from the equanimity of Su Shi's "Ding Feng Bo," the designers have created an apartment that is not merely a living space but a contemplative experience. The design's strength lies in its ability to merge traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics, fostering a dialogue between the past and present that is both seamless and profound.

Distinct from its contemporaries, the Spirit of Stillness apartment embodies a unique tripartite philosophy termed SPIRIT, which emphasizes a balanced lifestyle encompassing work, recreation, and rest. This philosophy is materialized through a design that prioritizes calm and poise in the midst of urban chaos, offering residents a refuge of peace and balance.

Chou and Lin's commitment to sustainability is evident in their choice of materials and construction techniques. The primary wall, adorned with stone fragments, not only exudes an aura of natural beauty but also promotes resource recycling. The application of Italian eco-friendly paints on the art wall further underscores the designers' dedication to environmental responsibility. The incorporation of thermal insulating materials and hidden metal supports for the Bodhisattva sculpture exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail that ensures the design's functionality and sustainability.

Spanning 120 square meters, the apartment features an art wall capable of supporting a 30-kilogram Bodhisattva sculpture, a symbol of peace and mindfulness. The design's technical specifications are carefully crafted to enhance the living experience, with energy-efficient LED lighting and optimized ventilation systems contributing to a comfortable and eco-conscious environment.

The intuitive design of the Spirit of Stillness apartment maximizes natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting, and integrates air-purifying greenery to maintain a fresh and vibrant atmosphere. These elements, combined with the thoughtful layout, ensure that the space is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally superior.

Conceived in March 2023 and completed by August of the same year, this project stands as a beacon of sustainable and aesthetically pleasing urban living. The design team's rigorous qualitative research, including literature reviews, material testing, and user interviews, has culminated in a space that is both tranquil and culturally rich, setting a new standard for modern urban sanctuaries.

Chewen Chou and Hsaio Yin Lin's Spirit of Stillness faced and overcame significant challenges, such as the integration of contrasting aesthetics and the adherence to strict sustainability regulations. The result is a space that not only meets the highest standards of design excellence but also provides a model for future sustainable living spaces. This dedication to harmonizing various design elements has earned the project the prestigious Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, a testament to the designers' exceptional skill and innovation.