Arthur Ho's Urban Oasis: The Forest and Greenery House

Revolutionizing Urban Living with a Private House that Embraces Nature

The Forest and Greenery House is a unique architectural marvel designed by Arthur Ho. The design inspiration for this private residence was to create an oasis within the city, bringing nature into everyday life to alleviate the stress of urban living. The plant wall, which resembles a vertical forest, is the focal point of all indoor areas adjoining the embedded block, serving as a constant reminder of the beauty of nature.

What sets this design apart is the innovative use of space. A block (L:9m*W:3m*H:6m), built from the east side, is renovated as the new entrance and the spiral staircase leading to the second floor. This renovation turns the space into the hub of circulation and makes the indoor space more spacious and flexible. The materials used in the construction include wood, metal, marble, stone, wallpaper, tile, and carpet, all chosen to enhance the natural aesthetic of the design.

The design team, led by Arthur Ho and including Jo Lan Hsiao and Chang Hao Hsiang, faced the challenge of integrating the inside and outside, borrowing scenery, and creating a penetrating view of layered images. The solution was to design the space for the 1st/2nd stairwell adjoining the open-space collection area and the steel structure. Sky windows were built on top of the entrance so that natural light shines through the windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The design project, which started in September 2012 and was completed in February 2017, was carried out in Taipei. The Forest and Greenery House has been recognized for its innovative design and has been awarded the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and are admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill.

In conclusion, Arthur Ho's Forest and Greenery House is a testament to the possibilities of integrating nature into urban living spaces. The design, with its innovative use of space and focus on natural elements, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and serves as an inspiration for future urban architectural designs.