Simple and Easy Life: A Retirement Residence Blending Nature and Art

A Spacious, Minimalist, and Warm Ambiance for a Retired Senior

The main inspiration behind "Simple and Easy Life" was to create a connection between the interior and the external garden. The design team achieved this by incorporating full-height windows that welcome in the sight of greenery and natural light. The use of natural and original materials, such as timber and slate, adds to the overall aesthetic. The design also features a Big Tree icon, symbolizing the connection to nature.

One of the standout features of this residence is the use of appropriate touches of color and art. These elements create a cultural ambiance and allow the inhabitants to fully immerse themselves in the living fun of art and nature. The overall design area spans approximately 148 square meters, with open-plan living, dining, and recreational areas. The circulation paths and corridors are deliberately widened to ensure a casual, safe, and comfortable living style.

The realization of "Simple and Easy Life" involved the use of various materials, including teak, corkwood, Italian slice stone, metalwork, and art-fabric glass. These materials were carefully selected to enhance the overall design concept and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The external garden, which mirrors the internal space in terms of area and ratio, is one of the main attractions of this residence. To maximize the connection between the interior and the garden, the design team utilized ample natural and warm-tone timber materials for all surfaces. Transparent materials and partitioning methods were also employed to ensure that every part of the space receives ample natural lighting and offers scenic views.

"Simple and Easy Life" was completed in June 2017 in Taoyuan City, Taiwan. The design concept was immediately articulated at the entrance space, with timber volumes, warm lighting layout, and visual focal points such as paintings on cabinet volume door panels and tree patterns on mirrors. The living room features a half-height TV wall, maintaining transparency while designating a separate reading area.

The design team faced the challenge of creating a forest-like interior environment within the modern urban jungle. However, they successfully achieved an unrestricted and relaxing country living style by incorporating creative plays of materials and icon designs that symbolize woods, mist, and forest noises. The result is a special, minimalist, and warm spatiality that offers a unique living experience.

"Simple and Easy Life" received the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements. The design's incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology makes it a true testament to creativity and resourcefulness.

Photographer Chi-Shou Wang captured the essence of "Simple and Easy Life" in stunning visuals, showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of this retirement residence.