The garden, becomes more intriguing with each daily walk. 

When discussing the way of nature, it stem from the objective reality, transcends its materiality to reflect individual personality, and leading to an awakening of self-consciousness within the natural landscape of mountains and rivers, revealing the varying aesthetics of nature at each stage. There is an essential difference between nature and the general concept of scenery, through natural images, we embody our ideals, express our feelings, or provoke philosophical thoughts. This effective approach continuously cultivates a spiritual core that is deeply connected to and integrated with nature.

Spring · Blossoms as View 

Cherry blossoms layered like clouds, a distant sound of bells.

At the northern foot of Taibai Mountain, a compound covering an area of about 660 square meters is nestled within the Eastern Xanadu, with an overall rectangular layout enclosed by soft bamboo fences. Centered around the courtyard, buildings of varying sizes are scattered according to their functions, together creating an ideal residence for living, strolling, and appreciating the view. The owner, also a painter, focuses on inner cultivation and the external balance, pursuing an introspective expression of "stillness as deep as the abyss, silence as loud as thunder." Therefore, the residence is named Mo Yuan, the Silent Garden.

Enter from the northwest, the original main gate has been reconstructed in accordance with the Tang Dynasty regulation, elm beams from century-old house were used as the primary components, and topped with custom-made Tang-style tiles. Emulating the robust posture of a memorial archway, it recreates the historical charm and the warmth of ages from the Tang Dynasty. A small pavilion is built in the front yard, serving as a transition space for entering and exiting, which is also conducive to regulating emotions and state of mind. Pines and rocks stand in solitude, alongside groupings of bamboo, offer a distinctive view, above the high branches outside, cherry blossoms layered like clouds in a splendid spring light.

Summer · Cicadas as Rain

Cicadas chant like rain, sound into the deep summer.

The technique of borrowing is often used in gardening , such as borrow the terrain or scenery, and similar approaches can be applied in architecture as well. To meet the size of the living room, part of the courtyard area is borrowed. The space extends outward on three sides with glass or sliding glass doors, recessed into the site, and the material’s transparency blends the interior with the exterior. The beauty of nature, is also a beauty of "substance" , focusing on the original beauty of objects. The furniture and furnishings are all collected from various places, and the antique materials precipitated over time are given new life under the ingenuity of craftsmen.

Strolling through the veranda, the dining room is arranged in a central axis,with Chinese and Western kitchens positioned on one side, creating an interactive view with the outdoor courtyard through circular windows. The round table referring to Eastern dining habits, together with the Western bar serving as an essential functional supplement that meets the daily needs of various life scenarios. The planning of space should not be isolated, instead, it should be interconnected and visually interwoven, establishing a structured sense of hierarchy, akin to "viewing clouds (觀雲)", with layers upon layers.

Autumn · Maple as Scenery

Pure and clear sky, filled with red leaves.

The beauty of garden ,or rather, a courtyard, emphasizes the essence of nature, imitating the true appearance of natural landscapes and reflecting the owner’s genuine life experiences. A functional corridor, or “lang,” is introduced to connect what were originally independent buildings, creating a  negative space capable of sheltering from wind and rain, also connecting the interior with outdoors. Descending the steps, the courtyard with a strong social attribute becomes the focal point. Under the starry night, it serves as a venue for gatherings and sharing, clinking of glasses, and idle conversation. 

On both sides of the courtyard, adjacent to the building, small landscapes are constructed with carefully  placed stones, red maples, evergreen pines, and other plants that vary in height and form, softening the boundary. As the autumn breeze passes, it cast a rhythmic play of light and shadow upon the earth-toned walls, creating a charming mottled effect. At the end of the courtyard, a hot spring is nestled, with the sound of water trickling between the stacked stones. With a thin curtain drawn low, one can immerse themselves in the embrace of nature, enjoying a delightful moment brimming with the freedom and charm of the wilderness.

Likewise, borrowing space from the courtyard, the teahouse that embodies the philosophy of "great skill being simple, great beauty unadorned," is defined by the L-shaped exposed shear walls and divided into a tea-tasting area and a guqin (a traditional Chinese musical instrument) playing area. These two spaces, while connected, maintain their independence. The structure design of the facade integrates the outdoor courtyard landscape, combining the evident with the intangible, creating a harmonious unity of architecture, landscape, and interior space. This integration allows the dynamic seasonal scenery to form an enchanting natural painting within the space. Beyond the strings, the landscape holds its own clear melody.

Winter · Snow as Recluse

Listen quietly through the window, night snow falling.

Gardening is akin to crafting a marvelous realm, the goal is not to replicate existing landscapes, but to represent the ideal scenery of one’s imagination. In this way, the garden serves as an essential medium for our two-way interaction with nature. Composed of elements such as pine, maple, stone, grass, water, fish, and even snow, the courtyard is meticulously arranged to be contrasting yet harmonious, embodying the principle of being "made by humans but crafted by nature." Even beneath a blanket of snow, the garden still teems with boundless vitality.

Upon entering from the outside and passing the fence, one arrives at the main bedroom. Within the square layout, wooden screens are symmetrically placed on either side, with a bed in between, the simple and comfortable spatial form naturally draws the gaze to the outdoor scenery and distant mountains. Sunlight from the courtyard wanders through veranda and interiors, filling the children's rooms and sitting areas with a warm tone. Time stands still, offering the finest gift, a testament to the craftsmanship that transcends mere design and blueprints."

Nature, as a state of “indescribable and beyond expression,” the essence lies in a deep reverence for the authenticity of objects, truly showcasing the beauty of form and the beauty of essence. It endows with the emotional depth of life, the warmth of handcrafted care, and the passage of time, enriching the profound meaning of existence. Landscapes, can be seen as the external manifestation of taste, the projection of inner spirit, and the counterpart of nature itself. It represents the ultimate ideal expression that transcends the material world, an expression we continually seek, allowing us to be free and find enjoyment in the current circumstances.