Reviving Artistry: Mo Shen's Old House Renovation

Blending Tradition and Modernity in Residential Design

Mo Shen's inspiration for this project stemmed from the works of Southern Song Dynasty painters, who were renowned for their sense of whiteness. The designer sought to encapsulate life, nature, and architecture within the canvas of the old house, thus creating a living, breathing painting. The project's unique properties lie in its ability to preserve the original trees and walls, allowing them to coexist with the renovated structure and form a picturesque landscape.

The Old House Renovation is a testament to Mo Shen's belief in the symbiosis of people, architecture, and nature. The designer employed simple materials such as washed stone and rice paper coatings to recreate the quintessential Jiangnan landscape of white walls and gray tiles. This approach not only preserved the house's traditional charm but also introduced a modern aesthetic.

The technical specifications of the project are equally impressive. The indoor area spans 30 square meters, while the yard covers 70 square meters. The original two houses were connected by a suspended glass box, which enhanced the versatility of the space. A 60-centimeter retreat was made, and the wall connecting to the mountain was removed, effectively addressing issues of lighting, ventilation, and humidity.

Despite the challenges posed by the broken building and the surrounding water system, Mo Shen and his team managed to repair the wall, dredge the drainage system, and utilize the rainwater and springs rationally. The project started in July 2017 in Hangzhou and was completed in August of the same year.

Mo Shen's Old House Renovation is a remarkable example of residential renovation that respects and inherits the artist's ingenuity. The project was awarded Silver in the A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation. The design is not just a renovation; it is a celebration of the coexistence of human, architecture, and nature.