Baan Citta: Creating a Mythical Paradise on Earth

A Serene Utopia Designed by Catherine Cheung

The key design concept was to create a Shambhala on Earth with a mythical kingdom described as the Pure Land in ancient Buddhist texts. In setting out to do so, the designer took an unorthodox approach; instead of playing with form, space, and objects of the interior, the designer focused on playing with the ambiance and feel of the home to create a flow of positive energy and to build a serene utopia.

The Baan Citta design, created by Catherine Cheung and her team at THE XSS Design, is a residential masterpiece that transports its inhabitants to a mythical paradise on Earth. Inspired by the concept of Shambhala, a spiritual utopia described in ancient Buddhist texts, the design aims to create the ultimate sanctuary for its residents.

Unlike traditional interior designs that focus on form and objects, Baan Citta prioritizes the ambiance and energy flow within the space. The interior expands into an infinitely open space, allowing the homeowners a sense of carefree freedom. The house is leveled with different platforms and staircases, creating partitions that define the different zones in the house while maintaining a seamless connection between them.

One of the most striking features of Baan Citta is the use of color. While neutral colors are often favored in modern homes, the design embraces the joys of color on a neutral palette, harmoniously blending the colors of Earth with vibrant hues. Floor-to-ceiling windows further enhance the integration of the natural and artificial colors, inviting the surrounding environment into the residence.

The design not only prioritizes aesthetics but also focuses on creating a retreat that harmonizes with nature. By immersing themselves in a space filled with pleasure, peace, and a pressure-free environment, the homeowners can experience a profound sense of tranquility. The design seamlessly blends the interior with the exterior, allowing for unobstructed views of the natural surroundings and fostering a deep connection with nature.

Baan Citta, spanning 5000 square feet with a 25m x 10m x 2-level layout, features a 2.5-meter height and a 50-meter standard swimming pool. The design showcases the technical prowess of Catherine Cheung and her team, who successfully translated the concept of Shambhala into a tangible and awe-inspiring living space.

Recognized for its innovative and creative design, Baan Citta was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2014. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, technical skills, and a commitment to improving the quality of life.

Baan Citta stands as a testament to the power of design to create a sanctuary that transcends the boundaries of the physical world. By embracing the concept of Shambhala and infusing it into every aspect of the design, Catherine Cheung and her team have crafted a mythical paradise on Earth that offers its residents a truly transformative living experience.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Catherine Cheung
Image Credits: PHOTOGRAPHER : Bobby Sum Graphic : THE XSS Design Team
Project Team Members: THE XSS Design Team
Project Name: Baan Citta
Project Client: Catherine Cheung


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