Cat House: Creating a Minimalist Modern Haven for Feline Friends

Award-winning design by Kao Shih Chieh

Designed by Kao Shih Chieh, the Cat House stands out as a unique residential project that seamlessly blends art, architecture, and design. This innovative space offers a haven for both the owner and their feline companion, combining functionality with a minimalist aesthetic.

One of the key features of the Cat House is its open interior design. The living room and master bedroom take center stage, with no partition walls separating the two areas. Instead, an elastic curtain defines the spaces, allowing for a sense of openness and spaciousness. This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal of the house but also enables the owner to keep a close eye on their cat's movements and well-being.

The minimalist modern style is evident throughout the Cat House, with the use of wood grain materials for the ceiling, storage cabinet, platform, and door pieces. These elements create a feeling of simplicity and no decoration, aligning with the overall design concept. The TV wall, made of Italian imported tiles with an imitation sandstone finish, adds a touch of elegance and complements the natural theme of the house.

The functionality of the space is further enhanced by the integration of the kitchen and balcony area. Glass doors separate the kitchen, allowing natural light to penetrate the room and creating a seamless connection with the outdoor environment. The front and rear balconies are equipped with blinds, providing flexibility in adjusting the amount of light entering the space and ensuring a comfortable living experience.

One of the unique aspects of the Cat House is the incorporation of the owner's existing antique furniture, which adds a touch of Chinese style to the overall design. To strike a balance between the old and the new, the designer carefully selected modern lightings made of glass and metal, creating a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

The Cat House project presented several challenges, including the need to create a space that caters to the specific needs of the owner's pet. Additionally, the unconventional layout of the building required careful consideration to ensure a sense of coordination and openness. Through creative problem-solving and meticulous attention to detail, Kao Shih Chieh successfully overcame these challenges, resulting in a stunning and functional design.

The Cat House project, which began in November 2016 and was completed in February 2018 in Taipei, has been recognized for its excellence. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2019. This prestigious accolade acknowledges the innovative and resourceful nature of the design, which incorporates best practices in art, science, design, and technology.

The Cat House is a testament to the power of design in creating a harmonious living environment for both humans and their furry companions. With its minimalist modern style, attention to detail, and thoughtful integration of functionality, this project exemplifies the intersection of art, architecture, and lifestyle.