House in Silverstrand: A Transformation of Innovation and Practicality

An Innovative Residential Space Designed by Michael Liu

Nestled in the mountainside of Silverstrand, Hong Kong, the House in Silverstrand is a testament to the power of transformation and innovation. The owners, who have been living in the house for over 15 years, were keen to enhance their living experience by creating a space that is both practical and innovative. With the expertise of designer Michael Liu, the house underwent a remarkable renovation, resulting in a unique and sophisticated residential space.

One of the key strengths of the House in Silverstrand lies in its careful analysis of the original flow of the house and the owners' habits. Michael Liu tailor-made a new flow for the owners, addressing the shortcomings of the original design. By changing the location of the entrance, the area of the upper part, and the staircases, the designer effectively improved the owners' living quality.

Furthermore, the interior design of the house is a testament to simplicity and sophistication. Light and pale materials were chosen as the main tone, creating a relaxed and serene atmosphere throughout the space. The floating staircase, open kitchen countertops, and benches add a touch of architectural aesthetics, harmoniously blending form and function.

One of the most interesting aspects of the House in Silverstrand is its interaction with its inhabitants. The designer boldly demolished the original kitchen, re-positioned the entrance, and added a foyer, allowing visitors to gradually experience different spaces as they enter the house. By relocating the staircase, redundant corridors in the second level were removed, increasing the utility rate of each room by around 20-45%. This not only evened out the sizes of the children's rooms but also doubled the size of the walk-in closet in the master bedroom.

The House in Silverstrand is a testament to the meticulous research and attention to detail that went into its design. Through meetings and interviews with the owners, Michael Liu gained valuable insights into their habits and needs, resulting in a practical and tailor-made design.

Built among the mountains, the House in Silverstrand presented its fair share of challenges. The original living room and dining room were separated by sublevels, disrupting the practical flow of the space. The dining area in the upper part was the first area to see upon entering the house, which was not ideal. Additionally, the original foyer lacked storage space, forcing the owners to place the shoe closet below the stairs. Uneven sizes of the children's rooms and inadequate walk-in closet space in the master bedroom further deteriorated the living quality of the owners. However, through creative problem-solving and technical expertise, these challenges were overcome, resulting in a design that truly enhances the owners' living experience.

The House in Silverstrand is a testament to the power of innovation and practicality in design. With its unique flow, sophisticated interiors, and attention to detail, it stands as a remarkable example of how a well-designed space can transform the lives of its inhabitants. The House in Silverstrand was awarded the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2018, recognizing its practicality, innovation, and contribution to a better world.

Image Credits: All photo credits to Millimeter Interior Design Limited