Gerridae’s Waltz: A Unique Interior Design Inspired by Nature

Creating Harmony Between Architecture and Nature

Inspired by the four universal nurturing elements of sun, air, plants, and water, designer Kenneth Wen has crafted a remarkable interior design known as Gerridae’s Waltz. This innovative design seamlessly integrates the image of the gerridae, a water-striding insect, into the architecture, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape.

Motivated by the biological features of the gerridae, with its four stretching legs, Wen has devised a design that advocates for four distinct architectural areas attached to the main building. This unique approach adds depth and character to the space, setting it apart from traditional interior designs.

The realization of Gerridae’s Waltz involved a delicate balance between modern and traditional elements. The exposed concrete facade of the building showcases the structural ingenuity employed in its creation, resulting in a visually stunning and functional space.

Spanning an area of 320 square meters, Gerridae’s Waltz is a testament to the designer's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to creating a space that seamlessly blends form and function.

Located in Tainan City, Taiwan, this project was completed in December 2016. Throughout the design process, Wen and his team, including Anny Liu, Cindy Chen, and Emma Wu, faced numerous challenges. The connection between human beings and nature was a key consideration, and the team successfully incorporated the four basic elements of flowing air, abundant sunlight, greenery, and landscape into the design plan.

The interaction within Gerridae’s Waltz is carefully crafted to enhance the well-being of its occupants. The pool, situated at the southern end of the main building, not only reduces the surrounding temperature but also provides a calming oasis. Windows on both the northern and southern sides ensure optimal indoor air circulation, while emergency escapes cleverly isolate the office from highway noise. The walls adorned with painted glass create a captivating medieval church atmosphere.

Gerridae’s Waltz has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2018. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

With Gerridae’s Waltz, Kenneth Wen has successfully created a space that not only addresses the challenges of its location but also celebrates the harmonious interaction between people and nature. This unique interior design stands as a testament to the power of innovative thinking and the ability to transform spaces into extraordinary experiences.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Kenneth Wen
Image Credits: Soren Wang
Project Team Members: Kenneth Wen Anny Liu Cindy Chen Emma Wu
Project Name: Castletown
Project Client: Kenneth Wen


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