DESIGN NAME: CHI on Jardine's Lookout
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Residential Apartment
INSPIRATION: When ‘CHI’ meets the Contemporary (where Feng Shui is in incorporated with contemporary design)
In traditional Chinese culture, chi (also qi) is an active principle forming part of any living thing. It is frequently translated as 'natural energy flow' and it literally means 'breath' or 'air'. The ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui is an enduring design practice. People believed Chi permeated everything and linked their surroundings together. They likened it to the flow of energy around and through the body and environment, forming a cohesive and functioning unit. By understanding its rhythm and flow they believed they could balance the elements of Chi to make one’s home soothing and comfortable.
With the above understanding and knowledge, a harmonious interaction of Chi enhancing Feng Shui and modern contemporary design was the foundation of this apartment design.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Approaching the Foyer, you would be forgiven if you had found yourself mistaking this as an entrance to a Taoist place of worship.
Based on Traditional Feng Shui, the Main Entrance is a very important space as this is the focal point where Chi is channeled, constantly replenishing and circulating throughout the living spaces, enhancing the well being of its occupants. It is the ‘Mouth of Chi’, as with the human body, the front door is also the way nutrition (energy) enters home. The position of the Main Entrance door has thusly been carefully considered to nourish the house and cultivate the health and wealth of the family.
Further to this, the incorporation of an Ancient Coin patterned finish was a prerequisite element required for the ceiling, of which required interpreting into a more contemporary design. This was achieved by creating dual layers of plywood with laser cut circles, accentuated by the warm luminance of LED lighting.
The striking console table was designed to complement the ceiling feature, along with bronze pendant lamps highlighting the ornaments, creating a welcoming Zen-like ambience.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: A colourful vibrancy of pastel colours was used in the Baby’s Room with the intention to provide stimulation for the infant, yet without being too harsh on the eyes. As with the Study Room, a minimalistic approach was taken with the design to allow for any future change of use as desired.
Upon entering the Master Bedroom, there is an overwhelming feel of masculinity, with a few features catering female needs. The luxurious curved walnut finished backdrop has inset photo frames to add a personalized touch to the room. The overall atmosphere of the room is harmonized by the Forestier Fil De Fer pendant lamps set above the bedside tables.
The en suite bathroom connected to the Master Bedroom is divided by a transparent glass door and window, which visually enlarges the entire space whilst creating a subtle contrast between the masculine appearance of the bedroom and the more feminine bathroom.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project started in Oct 2012 and finished in Sep 2013 in Hong Kong.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Interior Space and Exhibition Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: The small Catellini & Smith PK pendant lamp is intentionally installed where the two different materials join, creating a pattern on the wall and highlighting the contrasting materials.
Progressing along the corridor, one notices each door has a three-dimensional molded façade facing the corridor. Following Feng Shui methodology, this represents the future generation of the residing family. A wall previously dividing the study room and the corridor has been replace with clear glass, allowing natural light to radiate into the corridor space during the day.
The colour palette used for the Study Room incorporates a green and natural tone, generating more Chi, which in turn promotes study and work. Additionally the room was purposely kept to a minimalistic design, allowing for a room use change for any new members to the family.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: 2028 Square Feet.
TAGS: chi, contemporary, Feng Shui, harmonious, modern, apartment, colour palette, family
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: -
CHALLENGE: -
ADDED DATE: 2013-09-23 02:39:51
TEAM MEMBERS (4) : Creative Director Wesley Liu, Project Manager Eric Lau, Interior Designer Rajiv Yuen and Interior Designer KY Chan
IMAGE CREDITS: PplusP Designers Ltd., 2013.
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