Invisible Logic: A Masterstroke in Residential Design

Exploring the Boundaries of Space and Function in Hong Kong Homes

Unveiling the Invisible Logic, an award-winning residential design by Cheuk Him Ng and Po Tang, that ingeniously maximizes limited space to deliver unlimited satisfaction. This exploration of minimizing furniture and squeezing space reveals a unique aspect of Hong Kong's living culture.

What sets Invisible Logic apart is its unique approach to space utilization. The design concept, Blurred Boundaries, creates an ambiguous space that includes a living room, a dining area, and two bedrooms. The designers have ingeniously used sliding partitions to transform the space according to different needs, providing a variety of spatial experiences defined by semi-transparent panels and curtains. This flexible spatial transition caters to both multi-personalize and multi-functions, making it a perfect fit for compact living.

The design process was inspired by the invisible formless logic of design, with Minimizing, Multi-function, and Scenario Thinking being the major elements. The design implies “Form Follows Function” and “form follows fiction” through the thoughts of Minimizing and Multi-function metaphorically and the thoughts of maximizing the predictions of spatial usages. This approach has resulted in a limited accommodation space that fulfills unlimited satisfactions.

The realization of this design was achieved using white wood veneer extensively to merge the architecture with the cabinetry. It well reflects sunlight with its soften white surface and matches the earth tone materials. All the lighting are minimal subtle light troughs which are made by thin aluminum panels. It maintains plain and the true ceiling height rather than interruptive pendant lamp.

The design faced a challenging project brief that called for 3 bedrooms, sleeping 4-5 people, a home office for the 20s son, hosting 15-20 for dinner, a comfort washroom, and a massive storage, all within 45 sq.m and with a limited budget. The spatial status and occupancy patterns of the flat were affected mainly by the shifting schedule of the 30s sons’ occupation. He needs a sleeping shelter during day time for night-shift schedule and needs a personal private zone for enjoying computer games at night for day-shift schedule.

Invisible Logic was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2017. The Silver A' Design Award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Ng Cheuk Him, Tang Ka Po Po
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Him Ng, Invisible Logic, 2016. Image #2: Photographer Him Ng, Invisible Logic, 2016. Image #3: Photographer Him Ng, Invisible Logic, 2016. Image #4: Photographer Him Ng, Invisible Logic, 2016. Image #5: Photographer Him Ng, Invisible Logic, 2016.
Project Team Members: Ng Cheuk Him Tang Ka Po Po
Project Name: Invisible Logic
Project Client: Ng Cheuk Him, Tang Ka Po Po


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