Valley House: A Unique Residential Apartment Design by Bean Buro

Creating a Harmonious Living Space for Three Generations

The inspiration for Valley House comes from the surrounding natural landscape. The color scheme, particularly the calming green feature wall, pays homage to the lush greenery outside, establishing a connection between the interior and the outside world. This feature wall also serves as a high-density storage unit, cleverly concealing antiques and day-to-day utilities, while seamlessly connecting the entry foyer, dining space, living lounge, and open kitchen.

One of the standout features of Valley House is the social island bar, which acts as the centerpiece of the communal space. Made of white marble, this bar incorporates a biofuel fireplace beneath an artwork by the late architect Zaha Hadid. It serves multiple purposes, functioning as a cooking island, a breakfast bar, and an aperitif area, encouraging social interaction among family members. Frameless glass partitions divide the space, containing cooking smells within the kitchen when necessary.

The private spaces within Valley House are designed as small studio apartments within the larger apartment. A timber-lined corridor separates the private quarters, with concealed doors leading to the individual bedroom suites. The master bedroom suite features a glass-enclosed bathroom with a double sink, shower, and a custom-made Japanese tub. Additionally, a wooden staircase leads up to a small secret study in the attic, which was refurbished from an unused water tank in the building.

Throughout the design process, Bean Buro faced the challenge of balancing the different needs and preferences of the three generations living in Valley House. To overcome this, they conducted workshop-style presentations, using provocative illustrations to encourage all family members to express their wish lists. The result is a space that caters to the unique requirements of each individual while maintaining a cohesive overall design.

Valley House was completed in November 2016 after a year-long project in Hong Kong. The design has received accolades, including the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes the practicality, innovation, and professional standards demonstrated in Valley House's interior space, retail, and exhibition design.

Valley House is a testament to Bean Buro's expertise in creating unique and functional living spaces. By seamlessly integrating art, architecture, design, and innovation, they have transformed a simple apartment into a harmonious and sophisticated home for three generations.