Transforming Abandonment into Art: Thankusir Neverland

Bo Zhou's Innovative Approach to Renovating an Old Automotive Repair Workshop

The inspiration for the Thankusir Neverland project came from the mottled old walls of the building. Zhou saw beauty in these walls and decided to preserve them, allowing other design elements to highlight their charm. The project stands as a testament to the designer's ability to find beauty in the most unexpected places.

What sets this design apart from others is its innovative use of space and light. Zhou created a skylight on the building and installed a ground-to-ceiling high shelf under it, filled with white clay pots. This design decision allowed sunlight to flood into the ground floor area and basement, creating a visually appealing and emotionally engaging space.

The realization of this project was a feat in itself. Despite a tight budget and a large project area, Zhou and his team managed to create a harmonious space by preserving the building's mottled walls and using rustic materials like wood and cement. The result is a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective.

The technical specifications of the design are as follows: the dining area has a height of 3650mm, the basement bar has a height of 2550mm, the wing building mezzanine floor has a height of 2790mm, and the wing building second floor has a height of 2800mm. These dimensions were carefully considered to ensure the best use of space and light.

The design process was not without its challenges. One of the main difficulties was preserving the beauty of the old house without causing any damage. However, Zhou and his team were able to overcome this challenge through careful planning and execution.

In conclusion, the Thankusir Neverland project is a shining example of how old, abandoned buildings can be transformed into beautiful, functional spaces. It is no surprise that this design was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020. Zhou's innovative approach and attention to detail have truly paid off, resulting in a design that is both unique and inspiring.