The Joy of Fish stands out for its unique location, straddling the line between the city's convenience and nature's intimacy. Yung's design approach is minimalistic, with a focus on environmentally friendly materials that reflect the house's natural surroundings. The unconventional floor plan places the living room and dining area on the upper floor, maximizing the enjoyment of the terrace and the stunning 270-degree view.
Yung's design philosophy is deeply rooted in respect for the land and the desire to connect with nature. The house's construction reflects this, with the original concrete floor of the building retained and polished for durability and ease of cleaning. Recycled and raw materials, such as wood and bamboo, are widely used, reducing waste and adding character to the house.
The Joy of Fish is not just a residence, but a home resort. The design prioritizes open spaces for entertainment over storage, fostering a sense of community and relaxation. The upper floor, bathed in natural light and offering the best views, combines the living room, activity room, dining room, and kitchen into one open space. This design encourages interaction and shared experiences among family and friends.
The design's inspiration stems from Zhuangzi's philosophy of Actionless Governance, promoting carefree wandering and becoming one with nature. Yung has transformed this concept into a practical living space devoid of unnecessary decoration, focusing on the basic needs of living and relaxation. Large floor-to-ceiling windows are a prominent feature, inviting the surrounding nature in.
Despite budget constraints, Yung successfully created a space that is both aesthetic and functional, a testament to his design prowess. The Joy of Fish was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2017, a recognition of its outstanding design and innovation. The house is a beautiful embodiment of the joy of fish, a concept from Zhuangzi's philosophy, representing a return to one's origin and a harmonious existence with nature.
Project Designers: Happystudio
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Hey!Cheese, 2015,Image #2: Photographer Hey!Cheese, 2015,Image #3: Photographer Hey!Cheese, 2015,Image #4: Photographer Hey!Cheese, 2015,Image #5: Photographer Hey!Cheese, 2015
Project Team Members: Designer: Jimmy Yung
Team member: Ziyin Huang
Project Name: The Joy of Fish
Project Client: Happystudio