Day and Day: A Zen-inspired Residential House in Taiwan

Creating a Peaceful and Multicultural Living Space

Inspired by the symbol of family reunion and the Zen philosophy, Ding-Rui Tai designed Day and Day, a unique residential house in Zhongli, Taiwan. With its blend of traditional and modern elements, this space offers a serene and comfortable living environment.

In Chinese culture, the circle symbolizes family reunion and stability. In Day and Day, the round table in the open dining room serves as the center for family gatherings. The designer drew inspiration from the Chinese Lunar New Year Eve, where family members come together to share their experiences and create lasting memories.

What sets Day and Day apart is its use of colors and materials. The dark green floor represents peace and comfort, while the yellow color, traditionally associated with the emperor in China, adds a touch of nobility. The integration of Zen elements, such as calligraphy and tea ceremonies, creates a sense of tranquility and a refined lifestyle. This fusion of cultures reflects the vibrant multicultural atmosphere of Taiwan.

The realization of Day and Day involved the use of various materials, including wood, marble, iron, stone, glass, plating titanium, stainless steel, and paint. These materials were carefully selected to enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space.

Spanning a total area of 231 sqm, Day and Day offers a harmonious living environment where family members can interact and connect. Next to the round table, chairs in different colors, preferred by each family member, are placed. This arrangement symbolizes mutual care, cooperation, and the transmission of family values to the next generation.

The project, led by Ding-Rui Tai, began in September 2014 and was completed in May 2015. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to understand the true essence of the space and create a meaningful and functional living environment.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was achieving the right balance between the spatial layout and material selection. The designer aimed to create a space that exudes a sense of tranquility and harmony.

Day and Day embodies the simplicity and timeless beauty of day-to-day living. The natural colors of earth, forest, and rocks create a serene and comfortable atmosphere, while the infusion of multicultural elements adds depth and richness to the space. Natural light filters into the room, creating a play of light and shadow that enlivens the calm and quiet environment.

Day and Day was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2016. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. Day and Day stands as a testament to Ding-Rui Tai's technical and creative skills, as well as his contribution to creating a better living environment.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Ding-Rui-Tai Yun-Hsiang-Tsao
Image Credits: LEADER KING INTERNATIONAL CO.,LTD
Project Team Members: Ding-Rui Tai
Project Name: Day and Day
Project Client: Ding-Rui-Tai Yun-Hsiang-Tsao


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