The design of the 'Place of Light' villa is a departure from the usual luxury houses that are often more about style than substance. The design team at Poly Group, led by Kot Ge, has taken a different approach, focusing on creating a space that is meant to be lived in, rather than just admired. The design process involved a careful selection of elements to retain and those to abandon, based on an understanding of function, value orientation, and perception of beauty.
The villa is a five-storey structure, with light entering primarily through the atrium's patio. The first two underground storeys cater to the owner's preferences, while the first storey houses the living space, complete with a front and rear courtyard. The second and third storeys are dedicated to the family's living quarters. The highlight of the building is the 17-meter-high patio used for light casting, creating a unique "light" memory.
The design team faced a significant challenge in decorating this space. Initially, they considered using a seasons theme or other artistic expressions, but when they observed the interplay of light and shadow in the patio, they realized that the changing light, according to time and weather, was the best decoration for this space. With the support of the Poly design team, they decided to make room for light, overturning all previous plans.
The 'Place of Light' villa is not just about aesthetics; it also incorporates innovative technology. The second underground storey features a 7-meter-high and 9-meter-wide LED screen. The design team transformed the original enclosed space into a composite space that can serve as a tea room, cigar room, or wine tasting room, extending the space significantly and allowing for diverse social interactions.
The 'Place of Light' design project, completed in June 2017, has received significant recognition for its innovative approach to residential design. It was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018, a prestigious accolade that recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation.
Project Designers: KOT Ge
Image Credits: KOT Ge
Project Team Members: Soft outfit design of the model room | LSDCASA
Hard outfit design of the model room | T.K. Chu Design Office
Building design | Zhubo Design
Project Name: Place of Light, Poly, Beijing
Project Client: KOT Ge