Flow House: A Harmonious Blend of Design and Nature

Peilun Li's Award-Winning Residential Design Embraces Scientific Feng Shui

The Flow House, located in Shanghai, China, is a 20-year old villa that has been transformed into a stunning example of modern residential design. The house is situated at the lakefront, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop. The primary inspiration behind the design was to create physical 'circles', where the inside and outside flow mutually. This concept allows the residents to experience the changing seasons and feel a deep connection with their surroundings.

The unique properties of the design lie in its innovative use of space and structure. The original solid facade in the South has been replaced by a steel-glass structure, creating a central courtyard with a water feature and a cherry tree. This area becomes a dynamic core, where the outside view and the inside void generate a flowing 'circle'. This concept is also applied in the East, where a 'valley' is created, opening up a view for the basement and connecting the inner circulation.

One of the challenges in realizing this design was the heavy, dark concrete stair that originally existed in the house. The new stair, also made of concrete, is designed as a 3-dimensional fusiform with non-parallel steps. The stair is completed by marquetry wood steps with LED lights inside and decorated with leather. This innovative design not only lightens the space but also adds a unique aesthetic element to the house.

The design of the Flow House is based on the principles of Scientific Feng Shui, a traditional Asian philosophy that focuses on harmonizing everyone with their surrounding environment. The structure of the U-shaped courtyard house was maintained, but the exterior walls, windows, doors were partly reconfigured, and the main entrance was placed in the West to reverse the orientation. The courtyard becomes a dynamic core, where sunshine, advection, and circulation are all considered.

The Flow House is a testament to the power of innovative design and the ability to transform an existing structure into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living space. It is a perfect example of how design can enhance our connection with nature and create a harmonious living environment.