Fuse with Cat: A Small Residential Interior Designed for Harmony

Creating a space that caters to the well-being of both humans and feline companions

With most of the existing partitions torn down, this fifty square meter flat was redefined into an open plan that allows for ample natural light and efficient ventilation. The prime features of this project include resting areas, storage solutions, and cat walks. To maximize the use of space, slanted ceilings were incorporated to house infrastructure, while angled walls were strategically built to induce light and shadows, visually increasing the depth of the space.

The realization of this design involved the use of various materials, including vinyl flooring, wood veneer, plastic laminate, and composite stone. These materials were carefully selected to ensure durability and functionality while maintaining a clean-cut aesthetic.

The open plan layout of the interior creates a warm and family-like atmosphere, with the kitchen serving as a central hub for efficient communication. The dining table, designed for more than eight people, allows for both everyday use by the owner and occasional use by guests. A light well on the side wall serves as a platform for the owner to monitor their cat's movements throughout the space.

The project took place in Macau, with a duration from June 2015 to March 2016. Extensive research was conducted to understand the habits of both the owners and their cat, ensuring that comfort and safety were prioritized in the design. Furniture placement, the TV wall, kitchen layout, and glass partitions were all carefully considered to meet the requirements of both humans and feline residents. Windows were designed to a certain height to keep the cat out of reach while allowing for a dynamic flow of air.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was accommodating a concealed ventilation and air conditioning unit within the limited ceiling height of 2.55 meters. The design team successfully incorporated the necessary infrastructure by utilizing partial inclined false ceilings and slanted vertical plains. This allowed for proper lighting design and the creation of cat walks at ceiling level.

The goal of the "Fuse with Cat" design is to create a living space that seamlessly integrates the habits of a cat while ensuring a pleasant home for the owner. By removing nonfunctional walls and incorporating open shelves and non-full height cabinets, cat spaces were created on both wall and ceiling levels. This not only provides designated areas for the feline resident but also ensures good ventilation and allows natural daylight to penetrate different areas of the interior.

The "Fuse with Cat" design by Mushroom Design Studio Ltd. was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018 in the category of Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The design is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.