Tranquil Spring: A Renovated Residential Apartment Embracing NatureRevitalizing a 20-year-old Residence with Innovative Design
The master bedroom stays consistent with the designing concept and has a large surface of natural wooden material for its wall. Inside the elderlies’ bedroom, an accessible bathroom is present, where the floor is made of chiseled stone tile to increase safety and as a precautionary measure for all age groups. The whole project emphasized primarily on people’s everyday use and eliminated unnecessary decorations, as the designers delved deep into the relationship between human and nature. And by utilizing intricate arrangements of the beams, circling and lingering of flows in space, and the positioning of straight lines and bevel angles, vitalized visual rhythms were introduced to the space.
The Tranquil Spring residential apartment, designed by Wen-Kai Chen, is a remarkable example of how a renovation can transform an aging residence into a harmonious living space that embraces nature. This project, located in New Taipei City, Taiwan, aimed to address various issues faced by a three-generation family living in a 20-year-old apartment. The designers successfully resolved structural problems, enhanced functionality, and created a serene environment that fosters a connection with the natural world.
One of the key challenges in this project was the beams in the dining room. To integrate the crossbeam into the design, the ceiling was divided into three equal sections. The main beam was flattened and transformed into a groove ceiling, adding a touch of elegance to the kitchen-dining area. The space underneath the beam was cleverly utilized as storage areas, maximizing the apartment's storage capacity. This innovative solution turned a previous design obstacle into a practical advantage.
The design team also focused on incorporating natural elements to evoke a sense of tranquility and rejuvenation. Large amounts of natural stone patterns and wood were used throughout the apartment, creating an ambiance reminiscent of living amidst mountains. The scattered light shadows mimic overlapping tree shades, while the minimalist stone patterns contribute to the overall peaceful atmosphere of the space.
Functionality and practicality were prioritized in the overall planning of the apartment. Wooden closets were strategically placed to shape the elongated entrance area, effectively separating it from the dining room and other functional areas. The living room, located in the long corridor of the public space, features an abundance of wooden storage spaces, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The Tranquil Spring project was completed in June 2019 and has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2020. This prestigious award acknowledges the project's well-designed, practical, and innovative approach, meeting professional and industrial requirements. The Tranquil Spring apartment stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in transforming living spaces and creating a harmonious connection with nature.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Kai-Bo Chen
Image Credits: Image #1 : Photographer Chung-Chen Chen, Tranquil Spring,2019
Image #2 : Photographer Chung-Chen Chen, Tranquil Spring,2019
Image #3 : Photographer Chung-Chen Chen, Tranquil Spring,2019
Image #4 : Photographer Chung-Chen Chen, Tranquil Spring,2019
Image #5 : Photographer Chung-Chen Chen, Tranquil Spring,2019
Project Team Members: Director: Wen-Kai Chen
Project Name: Tranquil Spring
Project Client: Kai-Bo Chen