The Circadian Home: A Sanctuary of Light and Simplicity

Camille Chung’s high-rise residence redefines wellness through natural rhythms

Located on the 29th floor of a Shanghai high-rise, The Circadian Home is a 310-square-meter residence that embodies the evolving needs of contemporary urban dwellers. Inspired by the profound lifestyle shifts brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Camille Chung envisioned a retreat where natural elements and daily rhythms foster relaxation, rejuvenation, and a sense of fulfillment. The design prioritizes the seamless integration of living, working, and social spaces, allowing residents to instinctively inhabit their environment.

One of the project’s most distinctive features is its response to pandemic-era challenges. Travel restrictions and health protocols required the construction process to be reorganized, with a focus on minimizing on-site pollution and unnecessary travel. Factory-produced finishes and cabinetry reduced environmental impact, while the use of 6mm marble panels with aluminum backing exemplified a commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency. This approach not only streamlined installation but also set new standards for eco-friendly high-rise interiors.

The home’s layout reflects the client’s desire for flexibility and intuitive functionality. Open-plan living and dining areas are designed for effortless entertaining, while private zones support focused work and restful sleep. Clutter is minimized through concealed storage and integrated technology, ensuring that no wires or controls disrupt the visual harmony. An open bar adjacent to the kitchen, separated by a sliding door, enhances the space’s adaptability for both everyday use and special gatherings.

Chung’s design philosophy draws on the concept of simplicity as articulated by Frank Lloyd Wright, emphasizing clarity, harmony, and the elimination of unnecessary elements. Achieving this apparent simplicity required intricate planning, advanced storage solutions, and the integration of complex mechanisms behind unobtrusive surfaces. The result is a home that appears effortless, yet is meticulously tailored to the rhythms and habits of its inhabitants.

Remote collaboration was essential to the project’s success. The designer, client, and construction team relied on digital tools such as Zoom, 3D modeling, and 360-degree photography to overcome logistical barriers and maintain quality control. Notably, a three-meter cantilevered structure, inspired by the client’s passion for sailing, was realized through this innovative approach, demonstrating the potential of technology to bridge distances and enable creative solutions.

The Circadian Home has been recognized with the Iron A' Design Award for its practical innovation and integration of industry best practices. By maximizing natural light and aligning with the body’s natural cycles, the residence offers a blueprint for future urban living—one where wellness, sustainability, and simplicity are in perfect balance.

The project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in shaping environments that nurture both body and mind, setting a new benchmark for luxury high-rise living in a post-pandemic world.