Page 74 - Designing Ways 260

Penthouse in Chaozhou

Conceived by Xie Peihe

Explores Calmness

above the City

Chaozhou, China

Rationality
Rational aesthetics, advocated by the Bauhaus in the 20th century,
has influenced AD ARCHITECTURE to some extent. Minimalist
functionality, which makes functionalism less mechanical,
emphasises people's senses and experiences as the protagonist in
a space. A state of calmness AD ARCHITECTURE explored in
this project is not only for the space but also for the dweller, which
expresses the practice's attitude towards design and reflection on the
city's evolution.

Background
This penthouse is the home of an overseas returnee who is passionate
about car culture. It is located in Chaozhou, a city with a long
history. Sitting on the top of a tall building, the apartment enjoys a
full view of the river and a 270-degree view of natural landscapes in
Shantou, Chaozhou and Jieyang. The simple residential structure and
favourable natural resources gave the design team much freedom to
conceive the home.

Undefined space — Ice & Fire
In addition to motorcycling, the young owner is also keen on car
racing. He is passionate inside, and looks calm on the outside. AD
ARCHITECTURE hoped to design a dwelling that could represent
the occupant's unique personality. For this, the design team conceived
a natural, harmonious and relaxing living environment above the city,
which redefines luxurious apartments. People are the protagonist in
space, especially in a living space. The designers didn't try to create
a space that everybody likes, but one that suits the user's taste. It's a
tranquil living environment with quietness, nature and sunshine. A
living space truly belongs to the dweller himself.

Openness & Restraint
Open layout, coupled with minimalist restrained aesthetics and large
areas of blank surfaces, reveals a sense of serenity and inclusiveness.
White colour shades produce a background for highlighting the
owner and his hobbies, and also create a calming home that evokes a
restrained state of mind, sensitive yet pure emotions and a minimalist
lifestyle, which cater to the personality of the occupant.

Natural Experience
Dominant white coatings, stainless steel and wooden veneers
embody the combination of hardness and softness, generate a clean
and natural ambience, while also showing the materials’ warmth.
The large solid-coloured sintered stone floorings in open areas give
a natural and peaceful feeling, while wooden floorboards in the
bedrooms create a warm and delicate sleep environment. This kind of
restrained design language results in a comfortable space.

74 Issue 260 • dw