Light - Axis: A New Heritage in Design

Create + Think Design Studio Revitalizes an Institution with Innovative Working Space

The Light - Axis project is situated in a welcoming location, with a plain rectangular building that is endowed with a blossoming flower bed in the front and a lush lawn in the back. The bell tower, decorated with a cross, stands in the left half of the building, signifying the institution's Christian values. However, after more than half a century, the original layout of the administrative building appeared outdated, with high walls blocking the light and making the long corridor gloomy.

The design team, led by Arthur Ho, took on the challenge of revitalizing this space. The first floor of the building is encased with the minimum amount of wall structure, allowing the inflow of light and air. The transparent space is wrapped by the greenery of the outside lawn, creating a serene and inviting environment. The team used a variety of materials, including wood, metal, marble, and stone, to bring their vision to life.

Within the rectangular building, the beam columns define two axes perpendicular to each other. The short one connects the lawn in the front and back of the building, while the long one connects the two opposite spaces on the left and right. By adding a 15-degree angle to the stone wall, it points to the bell tower with the cross, subtly reinforcing the spiritual direction of the school.

The project, which started in January 2015 and was completed in October of the same year, was a challenge in the reuse of public deserted space. However, the design team was able to overcome this challenge and create a space that is minimalist, sober, and natural. The use of subtle materials, such as the purity and rawness of stones, the elegant and calligraphic lines of wood grain, and the 46-year-old original pebble wall, extends the space and time, signifying the start of a new heritage.

This innovative design did not go unnoticed. The Light - Axis project was awarded the Iron A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2016. This award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements and contribute to a better world. The project is a testament to Create + Think Design Studio's commitment to integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics in their designs.