Home in the Painting: A New Interpretation of Lifestyle

Exploring the Balance Between Appropriateness and Poetry in Living Spaces

The project, completed in November 2019 in Beijing, China, is a testament to Li’s innovative approach to design. The 62 square meter apartment was transformed into a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that caters to the needs of all family members. The designer removed the original partition walls in the living room, expanding the area through reconstruction. The space was then divided into different functional areas, each with its unique color scheme, creating an unconventional spatial form that feels like an integrated whole.

One of the unique properties of this design is the geometric octagon shape of the living room, achieved by cutting the four corners of the space. This not only expanded the activity space but also separated the functional areas originally gathered in one room into the four corners of the space. The oblique corner of the master bedroom became a private space for the parents to drink tea and chat, while the entrance to the kitchen and toilet served as the dressing room for the hostess. The increasing needs of children for space, as they grow, were also properly addressed.

Li’s design philosophy is rooted in the belief that art should intervene in daily living spaces, and there should be a balance between appropriateness and poetry in life scenes. This philosophy is evident in the Home in the Painting project, where the dreamland atmosphere comes not only from the fairy tale world created for children but also from the futuristic sense and spiritual shock brought by the challenge on traditional home furnishings.

Despite the challenges of meeting the physical and mental needs of all family members in a small space, Li was able to create a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The project is a testament to Li’s innovative approach to design and his ability to balance practicality with aesthetics. The design was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, Home in the Painting is a perfect example of how art can intervene in daily living spaces and create a balance between appropriateness and poetry. It is a testament to Xiang Li’s innovative approach to design and his ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that cater to the needs of all family members. The project serves as an inspiration for designers and homeowners alike, encouraging them to think outside the box and create spaces that are not only functional but also stimulate the imagination.