Qing House: A Dynamic Canvas of Time, Space, and People

A Residential House Renovation in Shanghai

The Qing House is a two-story villa located at the intersection of two rivers in a residential community in Shanghai. The original building facade was cluttered, and the enclosed fences obstructed the beautiful scenery. Additionally, the interior space was too small for the needs of the new occupants. The project aimed to revitalize the landscape, architecture, and interior to create a harmonious and functional living space.

The renovation of the Qing House focused on preserving the original structure while infusing it with unique features. On the first floor, white terrazzo flooring and textured walls were introduced to balance the low ceiling height. The use of raw dark woods added visual contrast and enhanced the overall aesthetic. This juxtaposition of elements also helped create a sense of horizontal extension, seamlessly connecting the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The spatial layout of the Qing House is a series of carefully crafted narratives that guide the residents through different experiences. From the public spaces to the semi-public areas and private rooms, each transition is marked by a play of openness and enclosure. The design aims to evoke a sense of looseness and tightness, inviting exploration and contemplation.

The entrance of the Qing House features a staggered skylight that reveals glimpses of the message above the lobby. As visitors proceed along the solid wooden corridor, they encounter a void living room and a compressed dining space. The transparent glass wall offers a seamless connection to the outside, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. A curved iron ladder leads to the upper floor, where glazed Buddha statues float in a dark room. Adjacent to the family space is a semi-outdoor glass structure that serves as a pathway to a meditation space and an oblique opening. These spatial narratives intertwine and create a sense of flow throughout the house.

The Qing House project was completed in August 2017 after two years of meticulous design and construction. The site spans 985 square meters, while the interior covers 516 square meters. The design team, led by Peilun Li, prioritized the residents' needs and aspirations, ensuring that the final result reflected their unique personalities and desires.

Peilun Li, the designer behind the Qing House, believes in the pursuit of truthfulness and goodness before beauty. By respecting the original quality of the space and prioritizing user-friendliness, the design achieves a genuine sense of beauty. The aesthetics of the Qing House are derived from the temperament of its owners, resulting in a truly heartfelt display of design excellence.

The Qing House has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2019, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award honors designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and technical expertise, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

With its unique blend of art, architecture, design, and innovation, the Qing House stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful renovation. It serves as a dynamic canvas that reflects the passage of time, the beauty of space, and the essence of its inhabitants.