The space is tangible, yet also intangible: the former refers to the space that hands can touch and the scenery that eyes can appreciate; the latter represents the feeling in people’s hearts. As time goes on, when things gradually peel off their appearance and reveal their essence, what is left is often beautiful. Place oneself in this kind of space, and appreciate its color and texture, and one can experience a sense of serene melancholy and sublime atmosphere. As the impermanence of life teaches us, there is infinite satisfaction to be had in accepting transience and imperfection.
In space impermanence brings greater excitement. The space and the resident reach a tacit agreement and establish a balance to return to the core of a spiritual world. The owner is a director, whose career leads him pursue life and narrative to the fullest extent—from the rational aspects of creating a world in film to the emotional transformation of time and space—like nature, inclusive and impermanent.
Sense of Ritual Space
A sense of ritual in life depends on ceremony and celebration. The sense of ritual in space requires rational planning, respecting every square meter on the premises. A director, living alone, with few possessions and a high spiritual consciousness—these multiple identities and needs make the spatial arrangement ever clearer. The layout structure maintains the the necessities, leaving one bedroom, while reconfiguring the rest as a walk-in closet and meditation room. One bathroom was removed to expand the dining room area and make space for an entryway, and the living room and dining room were combined to create a large, open space.
The resident is sensitive to direct lighting, so only four anti-glare LED's are concealed in the ceiling, with indirect lighting for the rest. A special arc was sculpted to conceal light strips, disseminate the light, shape its angles, and interact with the in-ground well light and candlelight that reflects on the ethereal wooden wall. The natural light from the balcony and bedroom lamp are warm light that matches the spatial tonality. This soft and gentle ambiance contains great inner strength.
The Rhythm of Space
From the beginning of the entrance to the corridor, to the living room and the bedroom, the wall is shaped in turn as a cabinet or an arc. The cabinet is mostly used for storage at the entrance and bedroom. The arc wall defines the functionality of the space. Different materials, textures and shades, coupled with lighting instigate the impermanent flow of light and shadow, narrating the rhythmic shifts of the space. The design of the wooden grid and sliding door adds to the texture of the space. The divine energy consecrates the space and contributes to its rhythm. The Buddha is peacefully placed in the living room, the glass box constantly converting light sources, each refraction transcending and manifesting divinity.
Sense of Happiness in Space
In harmony with nature, the raised platform on the balcony connects to the living room. The mountain rocks, moon lamp, sunshine, and books are harmoniously integrated, accentuating the owner’s spiritual longing. Time stops and space begins. Zen meditation or leisure reading provide peace of mind and freedom. All rooms use warm light, decorated with green plants, grilles, and blinds to articulate the unique sense of space. Wood, cotton, and linen fabrics—the presence of people, infused with vitality, diversity and change. Living here one practices non-attachment to chaotic daily life and experiences the tranquility of a sanctuary.
What is home? Perhaps it is a journey of self-exploration on building our inner world, which varies from person to person. If you dedicate yourself to this journey, relax and return to your heart. You will know the truth.
- Styling: UNI-X ASSOCIATES
- Photos: Emma Cheng