The Artist House: A Sustainable Symphony of the Senses

Exploring Craft Beers in a Multifunctional, Eco-Friendly Space

The Artist House, a multifunctional bar and aqua farm, is a unique design concept by Vicky Chan. Inspired by the Belgian farm where craft beer is made, the design translates the process of beer making into a sensory experience. Visitors can touch, see, hear, smell, and taste the process, creating an immersive journey into the world of craft beers. The design is a harmonious blend of culture, sustainability, and flexibility, with the space evolving over time through the unique experiences of its patrons.

What sets The Artist House apart is its commitment to sustainability. It is the first establishment in Hong Kong to adopt a farm-to-table concept, reducing its carbon footprint by sourcing fresh, local ingredients. The design also incorporates reclaimed materials for wall and furniture construction, further minimizing its environmental impact. Moreover, the mechanical equipment is strategically positioned to reduce operational costs and energy consumption.

The Artist House is not just a bar; it's a multipurpose space that includes a brewery, coffee bar, aqua farm, smell station, VR station, bottle customization, and presentation room. The space is also used as the client's headquarters, demonstrating its flexibility and adaptability. The use of movable furniture, customized storage, and creative lighting enhances the space's versatility, allowing it to cater to a variety of needs and events.

The design's realization is a testament to innovative technology and sustainable practices. The on-site aqua farm reduces the carbon footprint by minimizing transportation distances and reducing water and fertilizer consumption. Research has shown that on-site hydroponics, like the one used at The Artist House, uses 90% less water, requires 60% less fertilizer, and yields 11 times more produce on 80% less land compared to conventional farming.

Despite the challenges of creating a scientific farm within a retail zone due to local laws, the design team was able to creatively organize the space to overcome this hurdle. The result is a 3200 ft2 establishment located inside a shopping mall in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, that seamlessly blends retail, dining, and farming.

The Artist House's unique design and commitment to sustainability have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, it was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award, a prestigious accolade that recognizes remarkable designs that exhibit outstanding expertise and innovation. This award is a testament to the design's technical prowess, artistic skill, and ability to evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.