AD Architecture: Transforming Spaces with Respect and Innovation

Peihe Xie's Award-Winning Office Design: A Fusion of Old and New

Located in Shantou, China, the AD Architecture office is a testament to the city's rapid development and expansion. The old factory, a witness to the city's rise and fall, has been given a new lease of life. The design process involved listening to the space, understanding its essence, and making minimal changes. The result is a space that represents itself, a space that has been respected and revitalized.

The office design is unique in its approach to functional spaces. While meeting the needs of an office environment, Peihe Xie has also created areas for quiet contemplation. The public working area forms the core of the design, around which two functional areas have been created. This innovative approach to space division has resulted in a small attic that adds a sense of intrigue to the tall space. The volumes intersect and penetrate each other, creating an interesting dynamic instead of being absolutely segmented.

The design realization technology used in this project is notable for its emphasis on scale and material composition. Excessive partitions and adornments were avoided to maintain the sense of large space. The fusion of the original space with the new elements was achieved through the careful selection and arrangement of materials. The main materials used include steels, matt black paints, cement floors, technical wood veneers, and transparent glasses.

The project, which began in October 2017 and was completed in March 2018, is a reflection of AD Architecture's philosophy of simplicity and perception. The design of their own office as a 'habitat for soul' is a testament to this. The space, whether experienced in daylight or at night, is full of endless possibilities, offering a perceptual power that the team at AD Architecture strives to achieve.

The project was not without its challenges. The original space was in a state of disrepair, with concrete peeling off the pillars, broken glass shards in the skylight and double-sided windows, and a heavily rusted terrazzo ground. However, these challenges were met with respect for the original space and an innovative approach to design. The result is a space that not only represents itself but also the innovative spirit of AD Architecture.