The Way We Were: A Quaint British Pub-inspired Apartment Interior Design

Creating a Sense of Belonging and Relaxation

Pei-Chieh Lu, Mei-Ting Chiu, and Yinsu Chieh have designed an apartment interior that draws inspiration from the unique pub culture of Britain. The goal was to create an environment that provides a sense of belonging and relaxation, turning the space into a spatially home-like experience. By using tangible spaces to affect intangible activities, the designers aimed to enhance the emotional connections between the inhabitants.

What sets this design apart is its focus on the lifestyle of the client. In a bustling city, where stress is a common companion, the designers opted for a warm and quaint British pub style. Instead of using luxury glossy materials, they chose to incorporate massive wooden textures, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites people to unwind after a busy day. The apartment's connected public area serves as a kids' playground in the morning, transforming into a hub for families and social interactions during the evenings and weekends.

The realization of this design involved careful attention to detail and the use of specific materials. The designers employed sawtooth pattern solid wood veneer, extinction-treated marble, brick, and wooden flooring with matte textures to maintain consistency with the chosen style. The result is a space that not only looks visually appealing but also evokes a certain mood and ambiance.

With regards to functionality, the designers incorporated sliding doors to divide or connect the public area, allowing for multi-functional usage based on the daily needs of the inhabitants. A beautiful curve around the ceiling and TV wall cabinet metaphorically represents the embrace of parents and their children, providing a space for care and companionship. This design approach aligns with the concept of using tangible spaces to influence intangible activities and strengthen emotional connections within the family.

The project, spanning 120 square meters, was located in Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan. It is a testament to the designers' ability to create a unique and inviting living space that reflects the client's desires and lifestyle.

This design, created by Pei-Chieh Lu and Mei-Ting Chiu, was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that are well-designed, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial requirements. The design is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, ultimately contributing to a better world.