Elegance in Movement: Redefining Urban Living Spaces

Cheng Han Chan crafts a sensory-rich, modern apartment in Kaohsiung

In the heart of Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, “Elegance In Movement” stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful interior design within limited urban footprints. Conceived by Cheng Han Chan, this 67-square-meter residential project reimagines apartment living by prioritizing mental tranquility and sensory engagement. The design unfolds through meticulously planned spatial layers, each telling the story of its residents and reflecting their understated personalities and passions.

Central to the project’s uniqueness is its seamless integration of the couple’s interests—wine tasting, baking, and piano—into everyday life. Rather than reserving elegance and ritual for special occasions, the design weaves these qualities into the fabric of daily routines. Lighting and spatial flow are meticulously considered, with non-load-bearing partitions removed to enhance openness and invite natural light. The male homeowner’s keen eye for lighting played a pivotal role, resulting in refined, atmospheric effects that elevate the living experience.

Materiality and color are used strategically to shape mood and function across the apartment. Upon entry, deep brown wood and black iron in the kitchen and dining area create a calming, intimate bistro ambiance. Moving further in, the palette shifts to neutral gray-whites in the living room, fostering a sense of harmony and openness. Sustainable materials such as natural wood veneer, thin tiles, and wood flooring not only enhance visual appeal but also reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility, blending natural and artificial elements seamlessly.

Functionality is maximized through clever spatial reconfiguration. The apartment now includes a kitchen and dining area, living room, storage room, study, master bedroom, and two bathrooms—each zone defined yet visually connected. The wine display cabinet, a technical highlight, was engineered with three slender iron pipes and ultra-thin lighting fixtures precisely embedded in wood, achieving both structural integrity and minimalist elegance. This solution required extensive collaboration and innovation, exemplifying the project’s resourceful spirit.

“Elegance In Movement” addresses the urban challenge of creating spaciousness in compact settings. Through skillful use of color, material, and lighting, the design eliminates any sense of confinement, delivering a visually captivating and functionally optimized home. Awarded Bronze in the 2025 A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award, the project is recognized for its creative ingenuity and contribution to quality of life improvements, setting a new benchmark for modern residential design.

Cheng Han Chan’s approach demonstrates that with thoughtful planning and innovative solutions, even the most compact urban apartments can become sanctuaries of elegance, comfort, and personal expression.