The Piedmont: A Harmonious Blend of Traditional and Modern Design

Raynon Chiu's Award-Winning Design Celebrates Southern China's Cultural Heritage

Raynon Chiu's inspiration for The Piedmont was drawn from the abundant natural biological scenery surrounding the residence, nestled near the mountains and by the river. The clients' desire was to create a landscape residence that embodies the traditional culture of Southern China, offering a retreat back to nature. This aspiration is beautifully realized in Chiu's design, which extracts and purifies the unique elements of Lingnan landscape, such as black bricks and grey tiles, and incorporates them into a modern, functional space.

The Piedmont's design is distinct and innovative. Chiu reimagined traditional elements like the beam column construction and Chinese sloping roof, infusing them into the interior ceiling and the entire structure. The traditional bookshelf, typically made from bamboo, was replaced with a modern grille with rotating and push-and-pull functions, effectively controlling the illumination ratio. This thoughtful design not only preserves the cultural heritage but also enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the space.

The construction of The Piedmont involved the use of various materials, including marble, metal, wood veneer, hard inclusion, and aluminum rectangular tubes. The design team, led by Chiu, meticulously planned and executed the project, ensuring that every detail was perfectly aligned with the overall design vision. The result is a space that is as visually stunning as it is functional, offering a unique experience for its visitors.

The Piedmont's design process was not without challenges. One of the major obstacles was to avoid the traditional visit entry from the base ground to the negative layer, which could lead to an unreasonable visit route. To overcome this, the designer utilized the original yard of the negative layer and moved the visit entry there. This decision not only improved the visitor's experience but also created a progressive corridor landscape that embodies the Lingnan culture.

The Piedmont is more than just a sales center. It serves as a reception and business center during the project's opening period. The four-floor structure, with two floors each on the ground and underground, offers a variety of spaces for different functions. The design is a testament to Chiu's ability to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and efficient.

In conclusion, The Piedmont is a shining example of how traditional elements can be seamlessly integrated into modern design. Its success is a testament to Raynon Chiu's design prowess and his deep respect for cultural heritage. The project serves as an inspiration for designers worldwide, demonstrating that it is indeed possible to create spaces that honor tradition while embracing modernity.