Endless Life: A Dialogue with Seasons Through Design

Li-Hsuan Chen's Award-Winning Residence Merges Nature and Architecture

At the core of Endless Life is the concept of time and its natural progression, as seen through the lens of the surrounding landscape. The residence's design philosophy is deeply rooted in the natural world, with materials such as wood grain architectural concrete and marble playing pivotal roles. These elements not only reflect the external environment but also create a harmonious color palette that evolves with the seasons, allowing the interior to act as an extension of the outside world.

The design's most striking feature is its open plan, which turns potential spatial limitations into strengths. The central staircase, a sculptural amalgamation of terrazzo and marble, stands as a serene and sensible focal point. It bridges the living and dining areas with the outdoors, as the interplay of iron and marble in the openwork staircase frames the large floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting the seasons inside.

Realization of this project involved a meticulous selection of materials, including marble, tile, gray glass, and wood grain, all harmonized within a grayscale color scheme. The warmth of wood grain softens the space, while linear lighting strips add a contemporary touch. The staircase and entrance walls, adorned with marble, and the lively terrazzo, contribute to the residence's modern yet timeless appeal.

Spanning over 297.5 square meters, Endless Life is a three-story structure with social areas on the first floor, designed to foster natural connectivity between the living room and dining room. The private quarters are located above, creating a clear distinction between communal and personal spaces. The openwork design ensures a light and airy feel throughout, while details such as linear lighting and composite cabinets add layers of modern sophistication.

Chen's design encourages interaction and adaptability. The open shelves, for instance, can be curated seasonally, offering occupants a canvas for personal expression. The unobstructed layout and retained ceiling height eliminate any sense of confinement, while the openwork design lends a sense of weightlessness to the space. These elements, combined with the changing seasonal decor, enhance the living experience by providing a backdrop for family interaction and connection.

Endless Life's design journey was not without its challenges. The construction of the wood grain architectural concrete wall, a feature behind the sofa, required precision and meticulous attention to detail to prevent cracking and ensure uniformity. Despite the complexities, the result is a richly textured wall that adds depth and character to the space.

Li-Hsuan Chen's Endless Life is more than just a residence; it's a celebration of time and nature, a place where each season is welcomed and savored. The design's success is recognized with an Iron A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, a testament to Chen's ability to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply connected to their environment and the people who inhabit them.