Tranquil Zen: A Serene Japanese-Styled Residence

Bringing the Essence of Zen into Modern Living

With the sense of serene and refined Zen style, the exquisite design of humble and simple nature was created to satisfy functional needs with natural materials amongst reserved timber-color tones in making this residence a true harbor of warmth and meditation. The Japanese styling elements permeated throughout the interior from the delicate tiles, and timber-grille shoe cabinet and the view-piece wall articulating the tranquil beauty of Japanese Zen Style.

Located near Hsinchu Highspeed Rail Station, opposite a green park, Tranquil Zen by designer Derson Chiu is a unique residential project that seamlessly blends the beauty of Japanese Zen style with modernism. The design team aimed to create a relaxing and meditative space that marries natural elements with minimalist aesthetics.

The spatial layout of Tranquil Zen consists of a living room dining area, two bedrooms, and a meditative multi-functional room. The minimalist design theme of Japanese Zen styling with Buddhist influence creates a stress-relieving and mind-purifying alcove with minimal and humble design.

One of the standout features of Tranquil Zen is the use of natural materials. The stylish and functional honeycomb curtain with controllable shading surface and effective insulation effect brings the greenery view and sunlight into the interior. The elevated timber floor in the meditation room, complemented by the humidity and aroma-friendly, and fire-proofing Diatomaceous earth textured wall, creates a serene and delicate spatial expression.

The design team also paid attention to the circulation and visual quality of the space. By revising the partition layout, the circulation areas now enjoy the beauty of window views, with minimal decoration that aligns with the Japanese Zen style. The open plan kitchen and dining area, featuring finished concrete, become a place for gathering of families and friends, while the master bedroom echoes the minimalist styling of the public domain.

Tranquil Zen was completed in October 2018 in Hsinchu County, Taiwan. The design team conducted extensive research to ensure that the interior spaces reflected the principles of Japanese Zen style. The bedrooms, with their simple timber and elegant design theme, provide a refreshing and stress-free space, complete with walk-in closets and ample storage.

One of the challenges faced during the construction of Tranquil Zen was the installation of the genuine cedar ceiling panels in the dining area. The cedar aroma, combined with the timber flooring, creates a soothing atmosphere. However, the panels had to be installed separately before drilling for wiring, leaving little room for error for the on-site craftsmen. Despite the challenge, the end result was a rewarding creative experience.

Tranquil Zen embodies the spirit of Zen enlightenment through its tranquil interior design. By infusing nature into the spatial design, the combination of simple finished concrete and warm timber creates a comfortable and stress-free ambiance. The space and its inhabitants become a poetic and reflective pure existence, embracing the essence of Japanese Zen style.

Tranquil Zen was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding and creatively ingenious design that authenticates experience and resourcefulness. Tranquil Zen exhibits strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Derson Chiu
Image Credits: WJ PHOTO STUDIO(2018)
Project Team Members: Derson Chiu
Project Name: Tranquil Zen
Project Client: Derson Chiu


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