Verdant Serenade: American Elegance Meets Modern Living

Yiyi Living crafts a refined, light-filled villa in Taiwan

Set within the lush landscape of Qing Shan Sunshine, Verdant Serenade stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of lifestyle and design. Calvin Chen and Emma Lai, the creative minds behind Yiyi Living, drew inspiration from the villa’s natural surroundings and the homeowners’ international experiences. The result is a four-story residence that not only reflects American design sensibilities but also caters to the distinct routines and passions of its inhabitants. The basement’s transformation into a state-of-the-art golf practice room highlights the host’s love for sport, while the open-plan living and kitchen areas serve as the home’s vibrant social core.

What distinguishes Verdant Serenade is its seamless fusion of form and function. The design team prioritized natural light, employing expansive windows and an open layout to create a bright, inviting atmosphere. American-style doors and moldings add character, while the kitchen’s island, pantry, and bar ensure efficient movement and interaction. Outdoors, minimalist landscaping and a sophisticated lighting system extend the living space, offering a tranquil retreat that complements the villa’s refined interiors.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in shaping the villa’s ambiance. The predominance of white, accented by Morandi blue and natural wood tones, establishes a serene backdrop. Light wood-patterned laminate flooring brings warmth, and black iron stair railings provide a contemporary edge. Custom cabinetry and carefully chosen accessories—black in the living room, gold in the dining area—add subtle sophistication. Privacy and comfort are further enhanced by a thoughtful combination of honeycomb and Roman shades, ensuring optimal light control throughout the day.

Technical ingenuity underpins the project’s success. The villa’s circulation is meticulously planned to maximize privacy and ventilation, with each floor serving distinct functions. The basement houses not only the golf room but also a laundry area, while the upper levels accommodate children’s spaces, a music room, a study, and a luxurious master suite. Addressing structural challenges, the design team reinforced fire-resistant materials and installed a large tankless water heater to meet the family’s needs, demonstrating a commitment to both safety and convenience.

Verdant Serenade has garnered acclaim for its ability to balance aesthetic appeal with practical living. The homeowners praise the golf practice area, the luminous kitchen, and the dedicated zones for reading and entertainment. The villa’s pandemic prevention features and privacy solutions have also been lauded, reflecting Yiyi Living’s attention to detail and professionalism. Awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2025, Verdant Serenade exemplifies how thoughtful design can elevate daily life while fostering a sense of well-being and connection to nature.

Verdant Serenade’s achievement lies in its ability to create a bespoke sanctuary that resonates with its inhabitants’ aspirations. Through a blend of American elegance, innovative planning, and environmental sensitivity, Yiyi Living has crafted a residence that not only meets professional standards but also inspires a new vision for modern living in Taiwan.